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Dive Bar Crawl

Cash-only classics, pool tables, jukeboxes, and real Chicago character. No velvet ropes, no attitude, just good bars.

Duration: 4-5 hours
Best Time: 8 PM - 1 AM
Group Size: 10-25 people
Price Range: $600 - $1,000
Quick Answer

What is the Chicago dive bar crawl party bus tour?

The Dive Bar Crawl party bus visits Chicago's authentic cash-only neighborhood bars including California Clipper, Rainbo Club, Old Town Ale House, and Simon's Tavern. Tour runs 4-5 hours from 8 PM to 1 AM. Budget-friendly drinks ($4-12). Prices from $600-$1,000 for groups of 10-25. Call (224) 801-3090.

Dive Bar Rules

1 Bring cash - many dives are cash only
2 Tip your bartenders well - they'll remember you
3 Respect the regulars - you're on their turf
4 Try the cheapest beer on tap - that's the vibe
5 Put money in the jukebox
6 Play pool if there's a table - it's expected

The Route

1

California Clipper

Humboldt Park 8:00 PM - 9:15 PM

Start at this restored 1930s bar with live music most nights. The vintage decor and intimate stage set the tone.

Live Music1930s DecorCraft Cocktails
$8-12 drinks
2

Rainbo Club

Wicker Park 9:30 PM - 10:30 PM

The legendary artists' and musicians' bar. Photo booth, cheap beer, and decades of Chicago history on the walls.

Photo BoothCheap BeerArtist Hangout
$5-8 drinks
3

Old Town Ale House

Old Town 10:45 PM - 11:45 PM

Open since 1958. Cash only, amazing artwork, and regulars who've been coming for decades. A true Chicago institution.

Cash OnlyHistoric ArtLocal Institution
$4-7 drinks
4

Simon's Tavern

Andersonville 12:00 AM - Close

End at this 90-year-old Swedish bar. Try the glögg (spiced wine) if it's cold. The fish tank and taxidermy add character.

Historic SwedishGlöggQuirky Decor
$5-9 drinks

Dive Bar FAQ

What makes a dive bar a dive bar?

Cash-only, cheap drinks, no cocktail menu, maybe a pool table, probably a jukebox, definitely character. No pretension, all authenticity.

Are dive bars safe for groups?

Absolutely! These are neighborhood bars with regulars who look out for each other. Be respectful and you'll be welcomed.

What should I wear?

Whatever you want. Seriously. Jeans, t-shirts, sneakers are perfect. Leave the heels and designer clothes at home.

How much money should I bring?

Bring cash - $50-75 per person is plenty for a full night of drinks. These places are cheap!

Book Your Dive Bar Crawl

Real bars. Real drinks. Real Chicago.