Country Inn & Suites By Carlson, Matteson, IL

GOLD COAST. P. J.'s boasts a laid-back atmosphere and a well-rounded tavern-style menu. The menu features American...

GOLD COAST. P. J.'s boasts a laid-back atmosphere and a well-rounded tavern-style menu. The menu features American favorites such as meatloaf, burgers, and steaks; meanwhile, the drink menu includes a long list of wines and both domestic and imported beers on tap. They also boast a single malt scotch collection that's hard to rival. The music is a mix of '60's favorites and old time big-band legends.

Hours: Mon-Fri 11:30am-2am; Sat-Sun 10am-2am

Payment Methods: Visa , Master Card , Discover , American Express , Diner's Club

SOUTH SIDE. This classic bar has been around since before many of its loyal patrons were even born. It's unofficially...

SOUTH SIDE. This classic bar has been around since before many of its loyal patrons were even born. It's unofficially known as "Jimmy's" rather than Woodlawn Tap in honor of a beloved bartender who worked the bar until well into his retirement. The walls are awash in a mix of old and new banners and signs, giving testament to this area bar's longevity. Local college students head here to refresh after grueling exams. They order a beer or two and a hamburger on the cheap.

Hours: Mon-Fri 10:30am-2am; Sat 11am-3am; Sun 11am-2am

Payment Methods: Cash Only

SOUTH LOOP. This sports bar draws a diverse mix of folks, who enjoy meeting up with friends and lingering over...

SOUTH LOOP. This sports bar draws a diverse mix of folks, who enjoy meeting up with friends and lingering over conversation on the outdoor, Olympic-themed deck during warm weather. Friday nights bring out karaoke singers, and nightly drink specials are added enticement. The large interior also offers pool tables.

Hours: Mon-Fri 11am-Midnight; Sat 10am-Midnight

Payment Methods: Visa , Master Card , Discover , American Express , Diner's Club

THE LOOP. This Tex-Mex style bar features a prickly name and a list of interesting drinks. Try the lizard lemonade...

THE LOOP. This Tex-Mex style bar features a prickly name and a list of interesting drinks. Try the lizard lemonade (vodka, lemonade, and a glow in the dark lizard to name just a few ingredients), the swamp water (vodka, apricot brandy, melon liqueur, 7-Up, orange juice, and sour mix), or one of the many martinis that line the menu. Notable martinis include the lemon drop, sparky, or tootsie roll. A hodge-podge of games as well as TVs provide nightly entertainment for the youngish professional crowd.

Hours: Mon-Thu 11am-Midnight; Fri 11am-2am; Sat 11am-11pm Hours May Vary Seasonally

Payment Methods: Visa , Master Card , Discover , American Express , Diner's Club

WEST LOOP. Evoking the ambience of a turn-of-the-century public house, Third Rail offers a great selection of beer and...

WEST LOOP. Evoking the ambience of a turn-of-the-century public house, Third Rail offers a great selection of beer and liquor as well as a solid selection of pub food.

Hours: Mon-Fri 11am-2am; Sat 10:30am-3am; Sun 10:30am-2am

Payment Methods: Visa , Master Card , Discover , American Express , Diner's Club

RIVER NORTH. In the mood for a thick burger and a pile of fries washed down with a cold beer? Head to Boston Blackie's,...

RIVER NORTH. In the mood for a thick burger and a pile of fries washed down with a cold beer? Head to Boston Blackie's, where you won't find a hint of pretension. Here, the friendly waitstaff and bartenders happily serve up potato skins, onion rings, burgers, and bottled and on-tap beer to eager patrons. If you're planning on hanging out later in the evening, get there before 10pm ­ closing times can vary.

Hours: Mon-Fri 11am-10pm

Payment Methods: Visa , Master Card , Discover , American Express

THE LOOP. Sporting a basement location near City Hall, Cardozo's Pub serves as a watering hole for the city's political...

THE LOOP. Sporting a basement location near City Hall, Cardozo's Pub serves as a watering hole for the city's political and legal movers and shakers. Business types come here after a long day to chat with fellow patrons and relax with a drink or two. Daily drink specials are usually a good option. Bar food such as burgers, salads, and sandwiches are at the ready as well.

Hours: Mon-Wed 10:30am-10pm; Thu-Fri 10:30am-11:30pm

Payment Methods: Visa , Master Card , Discover , American Express , Diner's Club

MAGNIFICENT MILE. The Roof lives up to its name with impressive views of the Chicago skyline from the 27th floor of...

MAGNIFICENT MILE. The Roof lives up to its name with impressive views of the Chicago skyline from the 27th floor of theWit Hotel. An outdoor lounge lets patrons soak in the sun on warmer days, while an indoor area (complete with fireplace) offers some respite from the brutal winter winds. The stainless steel and gray accents exude industrial cool, but plush lounge chairs and low tables keep the atmosphere light and enjoyable. Guests can listen to the grand piano or spy on the city below with a telescope.

Hours: Mon-Wed 4pm-2am; Thu-Fri 2pm-2am; Sat 2pm-3am

Payment Methods: Visa , Master Card , Discover , American Express

RIVER WEST. Local artist Suhail's giant steel Buddha marks the entrance to this cool spot. Leather and faux-leopard...

RIVER WEST. Local artist Suhail's giant steel Buddha marks the entrance to this cool spot. Leather and faux-leopard seating areas run the length of the main bar in the dark Moroccan/Middle Eastern-inspired den. Two bars, a cozy VIP section, and a small dance floor are packed nightly. Cosmopolitans are the house specialty. Buddha also has some of the best DJs in town. Check out Jesse de la Pena on Wednesday and Saturday and percussionists Ya Ya and Yamcouba on Fridays.

Hours: Wed 9pm-2pm; Thu-Fri, Sun 9pm-2am; Sat 9pm-3am

Payment Methods: Visa , Master Card , Discover , American Express , Diner's Club

WEST SIDE. The crowd that gathers at Tuman's Tap & Grill is quite diverse, and business folks typically rub elbows with...

WEST SIDE. The crowd that gathers at Tuman's Tap & Grill is quite diverse, and business folks typically rub elbows with hipsters. However, all are here for the same thing: cheap drinks. Boasting over 25 beers on tap, Tuman's also has a kitchen that serves gastropub favorites ­ PEI mussels, salads, roasted chicken, burgers and fries.

Hours: Mon 4pm-Midnight; Tue-Thu 4pm-2am; Fri Noon-2am; Sat 11am-3am; Sun 11am-Midnight

Payment Methods: Visa , Master Card , Discover , American Express , Diner's Club