Will's Northwoods Inn Chicago

Wisconsin in Chicago

Sophie from Chicago

"Will’s Northwoods Inn brings Wisconsin charm to Chicago with Packers pride, fried appetizers, quirky decor, and a moose-topped patio near Wrigley Field."

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).

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Chicago Spotter Sophie

About me A proud Chicago native and past Fulbright scholar, I hold a BA in English and Spanish from the University of Iowa and an MFA in Creative Nonfiction Writing from Columbia College Chicago. It was during graduate school I really started exploring many of Chicago’s 77 neighborhoods. I occasionally teach English classes but am primarily a copywriter. I also host an open-mic reading series in Lincoln Park (and on Zoom), write essays, and travel in my free time. I'm on the pursuit for the best cup of brew and have been to over 150 different coffee shops in Chicago. ...

About this spot

3030 N Racine Ave

Pint of beer:

USD

Website

7735284400

Social

Nov 10, 2025

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