Will's Northwoods Inn Chicago
Wisconsin in Chicago
Will's Northwoods Inn in Lakeview, Chicago is a one-of-a-kind space: it's a Wisconsin-themed bar in Chicago.
There aren't many themed state bars in the city; I'd even argue in the country. You wouldn't see a Chicago or Illinois-themed bar in Wisconsin, for example. Yes, in Chicago, there are bars with affiliated sports teams from around the USA, but Will's brings a slice of Wisconsin to the city. Located on the corner of Racine and Nelson, this tavern is the only one on the block and has a lot to offer for various bar-goers.
While Will's is a sports bar that supports Packers and Badgers football, they are also a neighborhood staple serving nearby residents fried appetizers and burgers, and on non-game days, Will's becomes a cozy dive. Due to its proximity to Wrigley Field, Will's also draws in a lot of Cubs fans before or after games. If none of that grabs your attention, the walls will. Will's Northwoods Inn is covered head to toe with Wisconsin memorabilia, mimicking how bars look in northern Wisconsin, including photographs of fishermen, Packers-themed license plates, and stuffed fish and animal heads.
During summer, they have a large patio with a life-sized moose replica overlooking the sidewalk. Will's has been in business for over 30 years, and they'll continue to be a home for Wisconsinites who've moved to the big city or simply an engaging space for a drink while looking at their menagerie (don't forget to say hi to the fish in the window).
About this spot
Find your way with 116 Insider Tips from our Local Spotters
Nice place right!? There’s so much more to discover:
Discover all other hidden gems in Chicago
Pasta Bowl
Pasta to die for
"Pasta Bowl" in Chicago boasts about being a laid-back restaurant with fresh dishes, but if you're not in the mood for a bite, they also act as a cool bar.
by
Sophie
Amado
Four Moon Tavern
Dive bar with panache
"Four Moon Tavern" in Chicago may seem simple on the outside, but this neighborhood bar has a lot to offer. Make sure to come here hungry!
by
Sophie
Amado
Long Room
A cozy long room bar
"Long Room" in Chicago is as the name suggests: a long gathering room. Or rather, a long tavern. I love the wooden bar, the lack of television & the menu!
by
Sophie
Amado
Chicago Athletic Association
Library bar
The "Chicago Athletic Association" (CAA) is an elite, hidden, and multifaceted space in the heart of the Loop. The gem of this hotel is the drawing room...
by
Sophie
Amado
aliveOne
Cozy music bar
aliveOne in Lincoln Park offers rock vibes, local music, a cozy atmosphere, pool, comfy couches, and the perfect spot to unwind or dance the night away.
by
Sophie
Amado
Side Street Saloon
Dive bar with pizza
Side Street Saloon in Lakeview is the perfect no-frills dive bar with a cozy Italian vibe in back, great pizza, pool, and a quirky neighborhood charm.
by
Sophie
Amado
KOVAL Distillery
Craft distillery
KOVAL Distillery doesn't only produce delicious craft spirits, they're also a city landmark — the first fully operational distillery in Chicago in years.
by
Sophie
Amado
Wormhole
Time-traveling coffee shop
Wormhole in Wicker Park, Chicago is my favorite coffee shop in the city. When you walk in, it feels like you have stepped back in time to the '80s...
by
Sophie
Amado
Dearborn Denim
Made in CHI, custom-tailored jeans
"Dearborn Denim" in Chicago has real, American-made denim jeans. They even lack the hems so you can have final stitches done on-site and custom for you!
by
Erin
Stevens
Chicago Magic Lounge
Serious magic... & cocktails
"Chicago Magic Lounge" is in a large theater, but here they also do magic right at the bar! I recommend staying for several sets: you too will be stumped!
by
Erin
Stevens
Bar Roma
Authentic Roman cuisine
"Bar Roma" in Chicago is my favorite Italian restaurant in the area hands down! This is kind of a big deal, since Italian isn't even my favorite cuisine...
by
Erin
Stevens
Lickity Split
Perfect treats!
"Lickity Split" in Chicago is my idea of perfect. If your favorite dessert is ice cream, as it is mine, you absolutely have to come get a 'concrete'...
by
Claire
Conway
Heading to Chicago?
116 Insider Tips from our local Spotters
Authentic Stories by Real People
Escape the Crowd & Travel Slow 🐌
... for just €9.99
✓ 0 Insider Tips from our local Spotters
✓ 116 Insider Tips
✓ Escape the Crowds
✓ Find Spots nearby
✓ Authentic Stories
... for just €9.99
City guides by those who know the city in and out!
Our Locals' Favorite Bars
Our team loves Chicago
Get to know our other Spotters from Chicago
As featured on:
