The best moments in life are often those shared with loved ones. Whether your group is looking for an interactive experience or if you just want to catch up over some good food and tasty drinks, the near west suburbs have a little something for everyone.

If you need some inspo for your next group get-together, we’ve got you covered. Join us as we highlight the top destinations that will ensure memorable moments and shared experiences with your group. 

1 W Harris Ave La Grange, IL 60525

Girl’s night, date night, family day — Bottle & Bottega is a fit for any occasion. Leave your worries at the door and unwind with a guided painting class with step-by-step instructions. No experience is necessary. The courses are designed to meet all skill levels, and who knows? You just may find that someone in your group is a natural Van Gogh!
 
Painting is known to be therapeutic and can be a great way to connect and make lasting memories with friends and loved ones. At the end of the experience, you get to take home your very own masterpiece as a keepsake. Guests 21 years or older can bring beer, wine, champagne, or any non-alcoholic beverages.
 
In addition to their scheduled classes, you can book a private event or drop by during their walk-in hours for a Pop-In and Paint DIY. Select the piece you want to paint; they provide materials and instructions, and you let your creativity flow.
 
Studio hours are Tuesday through Friday from 12 pm to 9 pm and Saturday and Sunday from 11 am to 9 pm. Check their website for event times and registration.
 
Get your creative juices flowing and create colorful memories.

Standout features: BYOB, interactive group activities.

Click here to learn more. 

7930 W 26th St, North Riverside, IL 60546

Located in North Riverside, IL, Chef Shangri La is the ultimate destination for an unforgettable night out. Known for its incredible drinks, fantastic food, and out-of-this-world entertainment, this spot is perfect for grabbing a table with a group and diving into the fun. 

Sip on expertly crafted tiki cocktails surrounded by decor that transports you to a tropical paradise while looking over a menu packed with mouth-watering Asian-inspired dishes. 

The atmosphere is lively, the drinks are flowing, and the impersonators are aplenty, making every visit a memorable experience. Whether you're celebrating a special occasion or just looking for a great time, Chef Shangri La is the place to be for a night of delicious food, fantastic drinks, and unforgettable entertainment.

Standout features: Great impersonators, amazing tiki decor, even better tiki drinks. 

Click here to learn more. 

1128 Lake St Lower Level, Oak Park, IL 60301

Few things bring more joy than laughing the night away with your friends, family, and coworkers. Comedy Plex opened in early 2024 with the intent to extend the high-quality comedy that Chicago is known for out to the burbs. Comedy Plex offers a diverse lineup with stand-up, improv, and sketch comedy shows. Tickets are $25 for the show with a two-drink minimum for either alcoholic or non-alcoholic beverages. Attendees must be 21 or older or accompanied by a legal guardian. The club doubles as a training center for anyone interested in learning comedy. 
 
Light snacks and drinks are available, and the downtown Oak Park location offers quick access to the fantastic restaurants in Oak Park for a bite before or after the show. 
 
Comedy Plex will leave you with laughs that linger and become your own inside jokes for years to come.

Standout features: Live performances

Click here to learn more. 

10159 W Cermak Rd, Westchester, IL 60154

Want to spice up your outing with a little friendly competition? Look no further than Eden Lanes. This classic, no-frills bowling alley is the perfect place to celebrate an event or simply spend a weekend afternoon. 

It has multiple lanes with plenty of space to spread out, and it even offers bumpers for little ones and novice bowlers. Private parties are held in the front bar, and half walls separate the bar from the dining area. 

Their snack bar offers classic pub food, and regulars rave about their wings and pizza. Stop by to bowl, grab a bite, or drink while watching sports. 

Standout features: Arcade games and snack bar, autoscore, bumpers.

Click here to learn more. 

4100 Roosevelt Rd, Hillside, IL 60162

Craving authentic Spanish cuisine? Emilio’s offers an authentic “Taste of Spain” without the transatlantic flight. The atmospheric restaurant, with its colorful, upbeat, casual decor, is perfect for a celebration. The dining room can accommodate private and semi-private events. 
 
The menu is made up of small plates of hot and cold tapas and a variety of paellas inspired by Mediterranean and New World cultures — perfect for sharing with friends. These are Emilio’s own recipes honed over a lifetime, growing up and working his way through restaurants in Spain and coming to the US to share his creations. 

They have live music every Friday and offer special events such as Flamenco performances, wine tastings, plus cooking and wine classes with Emilio himself. 

So grab your friends and go, you don't want to miss it!

Standout features: Live music every Friday. Patio dining is available during the summer.

Click here to learn more.

7728 Madison St, Forest Park, IL 60130

Escape Factor has been dubbed one of the top 5 escape rooms in the USA and for good reason. The puzzle-obsessed owners meticulously developed each puzzle themselves. Unique décor in the rooms makes this a full sensory experience and the interactive puzzles were dreamt up with everyone in mind. From children to grandparents, there is a task for every member of your group to make sure everyone gets involved.

Escape rooms encourage communication and team building in a fun and exciting way and make for a great activity for groups. Whether it’s a date night, birthday party, family gathering, or team-building event, you’ll leave with a newfound bond that comes with solving puzzles together.

Escape Factor is a local, minority-owned small business located in the heart of Forest Park. They offer four carefully crafted rooms. All rooms are private, 60-minute experiences open to all ages 6 years and above. Children aged 6-12 must be accompanied by 1 [aid adult (for every 3 children). You can learn more about each room, see pictures, and book your time slot by visiting their website.

Standout features: Interactive group activities.

Click here to learn more. 

6615 Roosevelt Road, Berwyn IL 60402

If you're looking to gather with live music in a great atmosphere, Fitzgeralds is THE music destination in the near west suburbs. This historic venue has been a place for gatherings since it was built in the early 1900s. Initially used as a hunting lodge and sporting team headquarters, it has continued to evolve into the live music hot spot we know and love today. You'll find an eclectic mix of live music six nights a week. It's best known as a roots rock club, but they regularly book jazz, blues, folk, country & more.

You can order food from the adjacent BabyGold BBQ on the patio. The menu is anchored by traditional American Barbecue and shows subtle nods to Cajun cuisine. On its west side, Fitzgerald's Sidebar is a neighborhood cocktail bar that also moonlights as a space for private events.

To make the most of your visit, check their schedule online and arrive early to snag prime seating. So rally the troops, pick a date, and get ready to rock at your next group gathering!

Standout features: Live music, extensive outdoor patio.

Click here to learn more. 

869 Burlington Avenue Brookfield, IL 60513

Gather your crew and prepare for a craic-filled time at Irish Times in Brookfield. Whether you're celebrating, commiserating, or just looking to grab a cold pint and watch some Euro soccer, this family-owned restaurant is the perfect place to gather with friends and family.

Irish Times has plenty of space for private and semi-private events, and you and your friends! Its outdoor beer garden is charming and inviting. On cold winter days, its indoor fireplace and wood-paneled interiors will make you feel right at home.

With hearty classics like shepherd's pie, fish and chips, and bangers & mash, plus peak Irish hospitality, Irish Times will transport you straight to the Emerald Isle. Many say it's the most authentic Irish pub in the western suburbs. Go see for yourself!

Standout features: Beer garden, indoor fireplace, & TVs inside.

Click here to learn more. 

56 S. La Grange Rd. La Grange, IL 60525

Family-owned and operated since 1983, Palmer Place is known for its impeccable service and for making every group feel welcome. With 15 flat-screen TVs, this is your destination to gather for any sporting event. 

Known for its award-winning burgers, Palmer Place has an extensive menu of classic American food. Its beer selection features local craft brews and international favorites, ensuring there’s a pint for every palate. The spacious interior and welcoming patio provide plenty of space for you to relax and enjoy your company. 

They have 3 private event spaces running from small groups of up to 12 or large groups of up to 95. It's the perfect spot to eat, drink, and gather!

Standout features: Rooftop and beer garden, private event rooms, fireplace, 15 flat-screen TVs.

Click here to learn more. 

9 E 31st St, La Grange Park, IL 60526

Located in La Grange Park, Mattone's Restaurant is a local favorite known for its outstanding Italian food, fantastic patio, and lively atmosphere. The menu features classic Italian dishes made with fresh ingredients, ensuring every bite is a taste of Italy. 

The spacious and inviting patio is perfect for enjoying a meal al fresco, especially during the warm summer months. Mattone also hosts live trivia on Wednesday nights throughout the summer, which is ideal for spending time with your friends. 

Whether you're looking to indulge in delicious Italian food, relax on the patio, or challenge your knowledge at trivia night, Mattone's is the perfect place for a group. 

Standout features: Outdoor patio, trivia, woodfire pizza. 

Click here to learn more. 

7321 Madison St, Forest Park, IL 60130

Robert’s Westside opened in the heart of Forest Park in late 2023 with the intent to bring both national touring and local artists to the near western suburbs. 

Owned and operated by a lifelong Oak Park resident, Donnie Biggins wanted to create a space for families and friends to gather and enjoy live music together. They feature handmade cocktails, craft beers, and premiere non-alcoholic drinks. 

While you're there, check out Bobby’s Eastside next door – Forest Park’s only cocktail bar where you can meet up before or after a show. 

Standout features: Live music, adjacent cocktail bar.

Click here to learn more. 

5000 N River Rd, Schiller Park, IL 60176

For the beer-loving group, look no further than Short Fuse Brewing. With a brewery, taproom, and full-service kitchen, Short Fuse is the perfect place for a casual gathering or a special event. 

With over 20 beers on tap, they offer an array of house-brewed beers from hoppy IPAs to rich stouts. Their menu goes beyond typical pub fare, offering inventive dishes like beer-infused burgers, flavorful tacos, and low & slow BBQ. 

If you're looking for an interactive group outing, check their website for brewery tour availability. You'll be able to chat with brewmasters and get a behind-the-scenes look at how some of their most famous beers are brewed. 

The impressive 7,500-square-foot taproom is one of the largest in Chicagoland and offers plenty of space for groups large and small. In addition to weekly events and special brewery celebrations, it hosts holiday parties, corporate events, weddings, and semi-private events.

Standout features: Patio, tap room, & brewery tours.

Underpass Lounge in Franklin Park is the quintessential spot for those seeking a laid-back atmosphere with top-notch entertainment. 

Known for its friendly vibe and welcoming ambiance, this local gem offers a wide variety of drinks to quench your thirst and delicious bar food, like their jumbo wings, a local favorite.

The lounge frequently hosts live music and karaoke nights, making it a favorite for both regulars and newcomers looking to unwind and have fun.

Underpass Lounge is the perfect place to relax, socialize, and enjoy a night out in Franklin Park.

Standout features: Live music, karaoke nights. 

Click here to learn more.