Thinking of joining one of Chicago’s many exclusive members-only clubs? Whether for business or pleasure, most offer a plethora of benefits. For help deciding which elite club is right for you, we’ve highlighted some of our favorites.
Soho House Chicago
Maybe you’re not an artist per se, but if you appreciate cool and trendy spaces, luxurious lounges to hang out in with friends and Instagram-worthy craft cocktails, this club tailored toward creative types may be up your alley. The swanky brick warehouse-like building houses multiple intimate spaces that are perfect for networking, socializing, and relaxing. The Rooftop, which overlooks the West Loop, has a swimming pool, comfy seating, outdoor fireplaces, and a bar; the Club Bar on the fifth floor is a posh space with a baby grand piano, ambient lighting, and multiple nooks for intimate conversations; lively events happen each month in the Music Room; and there are versatile spaces for watching movies, working out, and getting work done. Accommodations of various sizes are available for rent, with discounts given to members. Enjoy food offerings at The Club, The Allis Bar, Cecconi’s Roof Bar, and Fox Bar. The Cowshed Spa has a full list of offerings as well. Three different memberships are available: Soho House, granting access to everything at all houses around the world; Cities without Houses; and Soho Friends, with limited access to amenities. For the classic membership, Soho House, members under 27 years-old will pay $1,225 per year; members over 27 pay $2,450 annually.
The Cliff Dwellers
If you’re an art aficionado or a professional in the art space, this artists’ haven might be the club for you. The lakefront facilities, located on the 22ndfloor penthouse at Michigan Avenue and Adams Street, overlook Millennium Park and, aptly, the Art Institute of Chicago. This private, nonprofit club provides opportunities for art enthusiasts, art supporters and artists to convene and engage in a social environment. The Cliff Dwellers are also involved in many amazing philanthropic endeavors including an arts foundation that donates grants to art-forward organizations, individuals, and events like concerts, films, and performances. The club has an Artist-in-Residence program to assist young local artists and performers in a one-year program that allows, among other benefits, free membership. Membership is granted to anyone over age 25, however, new members require a sponsor and co-sponsor. For $250, members can enjoy privileges for a three-month trial.
East Bank Club
Ideal for fitness buffs, the East Bank Club in Chicago’s River North neighborhood has it all: pro shop, spa, children’s activity center, salon, business center, dry cleaners, rehearsal space, physical therapy and even a car wash. In addition to a full state-of-the-art workout facility with racquet sports and four indoor and outdoor pools, the East Bank Club also organizes social events including live music, a summer deck party and wine-tasting events. Members can network at the onsite restaurant or bar as well. Initiation membership dues are between $300 and $700 and monthly dues range from $190–$390.
Entrepreneur’s Organization (EO)
If you’re an entrepreneur with an eye on business growth, individual development and community engagement, this large and ever-growing global peer-to-peer system of more than 12,000 business owners in 54 different countries may be the association for you. To be granted membership, applicants must be an owner, founder or majority stakeholder of a company that earned at least $1 million in the most recent fiscal year. EO Chicago annual fees are $4,500, with a one-time new member initiation fee of $3,500.
The Chicago Club
A business/social hybrid with a strict dress code, The Chicago Club offers membership by invitation only, but once granted, members receive access to space for private board meetings, a superb rooftop terrace, fitness center and a luxurious venue for private events. The stunning club has a full-service, full-time catering staff to customize events.
University Club of Chicago
This exclusive club requires a university or college degree from a four-year institution, a nomination form completed by an existing member and three letters of recommendation from existing members for admission. However, upon admittance, members are given the chance to join special-interest societies that offer activities focused on everything from photography to sailing to beer. In addition to access to top-of-the-line facilities, members of the UCC also gain entrance to the club’s nationally renowned squash program. The club has also expanded their offerings to include two modern dining venues, the Living Room and the Parliament.
Union League Club of Chicago
Housed in a 23-story clubhouse on Jackson Boulevard, this organization boasts an impressive membership largely made up of investors, financiers, attorneys, physicians, insurers and politicians. Perfect for those who want to socialize and network, this club offers access to a variety of activities and facilities, including nearly 800 works of art on view, three dining options, multiple event spaces, 180 guestroom accommodations, and athletic facilities with a swimming pool and yoga and Pilates studios. It also provides a number of family-friendly events, such as a family halloween party, a children’s holiday party, a Saturday family program, a father-daughter dance, a children’s summer camp, and so much more. Membership details are offered upon request.
The Arts Club of Chicago
Another option for those who are in the art field or who have a deep appreciation for the arts is The Arts Club of Chicago. The organization offers six different classes of membership: Visual, Performing & Literary Artist, Curator & Academic, Arts Professional, Architect, Designer & Applied Artist and Patron. In addition to the opportunity to network and socialize with art lovers, the club also offers exclusive events such as gallery exhibitions, live critiques and panel discussions. Dues and initiation fees vary by class of membership, and applications require one letter of recommendation and three signatures from members of the club in good standing.
Commercial Club of Chicago
375 active civic-minded business leaders are part of the Commercial Club, a private membership organization that represents business, education, cultural, and philanthropic endeavors in the Chicago region. Members can network and get involved at nine annual lunches, which unite business, government, and civic leaders, working with Civic Committee, Civic Consulting Alliance, Kids First Chicago, and P33-affiliated organizations.
The Economic Club of Chicago
With a history that dates back to 1927, the Economic Club of Chicago’s 2,400 civic-minded members learn and grow through events that feature top global thought leaders with diverse perspectives. Past events included keynote speakers like Dara Khosrowshahi, CEO of Uber; Gwynne Shotwell, president and COO of SpaceX; Martin Scorsese; Jørgen Vig Knudstorp, executive chairman of LEGO Brand Group; Former President Barack Obama; Bill Gates; and Bono. Membership requirements include the sponsorship of two current members, with letters of recommendation, in addition to Club Meeting attendance, an application review, and a methodical selection process.
The Chicago Network
With the core mission of empowering women of diverse backgrounds to lead, The Chicago Network has 500 members in over 50 different industries who connect, mentor, and partner with each other to advance women in their fields. Local universities host leadership events; Ask Me Anything sessions are held for young leaders to learn from seasoned professionals; and an annual Women in STEM series engages young women involved in science, technology, engineering, and math. The Executive Women’s Mentorship Initiative partners with the Executives’ Club of Chicago to link mentors with mentees. Listen to member stories on the popular HerStories podcast and attend the annual Women in the Forefront Luncheon. Membership, limited to top female leaders, is invite-only and candidates must be nominated by a current member and supported by two other members before accepted into the club.
Woman’s Athletic Club
Well located along the Magnificent Mile, the exclusive Woman’s Athletic Club—the first athletic club for women in the U.S. and a historic landmark—is a private members-only club established in 1898 (operating in the current location since 1929). There’s a large and elegant ballroom as well as multiple intimate spaces for mid-sized and smaller groups, a large gym and workout studios, a swimming pool, and a spa. Guests are invited to enjoy the spaces with sponsoring members.
The Metropolitan
This modern social and business networking club, located in Willis Tower, is for diverse professionals and leaders who want to connect with others in similar industries over co-working spaces, a meal, cocktails, a round of indoor golf, or special club events. Connect, host, work, and play are the general aims here. Schedule a tour and explore membership options onsite to get a feel for the space and overall professional-yet-fresh vibe.
BIÂN
For something a little different from all the other social and networking private clubs in Chicago, BIÂN has a spa-like wholistic care atmosphere with distinct amenities like a vinyl listening room; life coaching; a private nap room; a gym, steam room, and cold plunge pool; a well-designed social lounge; a spa; strength, yoga, Pilates, and meditation classes; and an on-site restaurant. Health and fitness classes, social and educational programming, and the locker rooms with steam room and cold plunge pool are all included in membership. Annual membership is $4,000, with a one-time initiation fee of $1,000. This private club allures the health and wellness crowd in spades.
Chicago Yacht Club
The organizing authority for the annual Chicago Yacht Club Race to Mackinac, this club is intended for those who love on-water activities, social events, and youth programming. Founded in 1875, the CYC is one of the longest-running yacht clubs on the planet. Enjoy more than 125 racing events each year and connect with more than 1,400 active members. The Monroe Station includes a dining room, bar, and seasonal patio. Members have access to docking slips at Monroe Station as well. The northside clubhouse, Belmont Station, has a Sailing Activities Center and meeting and private event spaces. Regular, Associate, and Junior memberships are available; however, prospective members need a sponsor from a current member, seconded by an additional member.
Saddle & Cycle Club
Members and sponsored guests may enjoy the facilities at the Saddle & Cycle Club, a country club on the north side of Chicago in the Edgewater neighborhood. Amenities include an event space (numerous weddings are held here annually), golf course, dining options, athletic facilities, and a skating rink—with instruction—for recreational skating, figure skating, or hockey.
Woman’s Club of Evanston
For over 125 years, the Woman’s Club of Evanston, located on Chicago Avenue, has been giving back to the community through philanthropy and volunteering. Open to all women, members can take part in community events like the Holiday Bazaar and the Spring Benefit. This social club includes 250 members where friends meet up to catch a movie, test their skills at trivia, and attend a theme-based party or summer porch crawl. Annual dues are relatively affordable at $200, which helps maintain the historic building, supports membership programs, and compensates staff.
Birch Road Cellar
For “a new kind of social club,” check out Birch Road Cellar, where everything is BYOB and members can store wine and spirits in a climate-controlled wine cellar and locker. Chicago locations include Roscoe Village and Lincoln Park. Book a tour, meet with a club manager, and join to meet new friends and neighbors. Dues are $125 per month, with no annual commitment, and members have private admittance to the shared spaces from 8:00 a.m.—1:00 a.m. Take advantage of the co-working space with free Wi-Fi, join a mixer or special event, and utilize the private meeting room for your work or social needs.
Other clubs that are tops for networking:
Chicago is home to numerous other elite business clubs that provide excellent networking opportunities and access to industry events. Some are very selective and cost a pretty penny — membership at the American Club Associationin Elk Grove Village, for example, is by invitation only and subject to approval by all existing members. Once in, though, members have access to training, advising, education, marketing and social benefits.
Other business clubs that aren’t as difficult to get in to include The Chicago Council on Global Affairs, the Chicago Loop Allianceand the City Club of Chicago, which are open to all.
FAQs
Should You Join One of Chicago’s Most Sought-After Members-Only Clubs? ›
Members: About 1,700 from Chicago's largest employers and civic and academic elite. Entry rules: Invitation only; new members nominated by current members. Annual membership fee: Varies by membership type, but averages $800 to $1,200 per person.
How much does it cost to join the Executive Club of Chicago? ›Members: About 1,700 from Chicago's largest employers and civic and academic elite. Entry rules: Invitation only; new members nominated by current members. Annual membership fee: Varies by membership type, but averages $800 to $1,200 per person.
How much does the Arts Club of Chicago cost? ›Free and open to the public. Since 1916, The Arts Club of Chicago has been a preeminent exhibitor of international art, a forum for established and emerging artists, and a celebrated venue for performers from around the world.
How do you become a member of The Chicago Club? ›Membership in The Chicago Club is by invitation only. Members of The Chicago Club enjoy many benefits, through both our services and facilities.
What happened to the Standard Club in Chicago? ›But the club closed its stately 13-story home at 320 S. Plymouth Court for good in March 2020, an event hastened by COVID-19 but independent of it. The Standard Club had been losing members and revenue, and repair bills on the 1926 building by Detroit architect Alfred Kahn were piling up.
How many Executive Club members are there? ›The Executive Club is British Airways' customer loyalty programme. It's free to join and has more than thirteen million Members worldwide. Members collect reward points called Avios when they fly with British Airways and its oneworld® partner airlines.
Who is executive member club? ›Club Executive means the office bearers elected by members of a Student Society at a club general meeting to act as the entity's executive (including a president, treasurer, vice-president and/or secretary) and includes any member acting in a leadership role or who has decision making power in the Student Society.
How much is membership at Beverly Country Club Chicago? ›Initiation fees for a full golf member are $25,000, with monthly dues of $700. The Club has a $1,700 annual minimum charge. Approximately 15,000 rounds of golf are played annually.
What is the most valuable piece of art at the Art Institute of Chicago? ›Home to the Art Institute of Chicago and the Museum of Contemporary Art, it's home to Monet's 'Meules' and 'Meule,' paintings, which are estimated to be worth $114.7 million and $89.9 million, respectively.
Is the Art Institute of Chicago worth going to? ›This impressive Chicago museum located in Grant Park is one of the largest and oldest art museums in the world, and is also one of the best things to do in Chicago. Famous works like The Bedroom by Vincent van Gogh, American Gothic by Grant Wood, and so many others can be found here.
What club do celebrities go to in Chicago? ›
The Club at Joy
With the hottest local DJs, themed parties, and bottle service, Joy District has become a dance party hotspot for local and visiting celebrities.
...
Union League Club of Chicago.
| Logo of the Union League Club of Chicago | |
|---|---|
| Formation | December 19, 1879 |
| Location | Chicago, Illinois, United States |
| Coordinates | 41°52′40.75″N 87°37′48.13″W |
| President | Thomas F. Karaba |
| Date | February 17, 2003 |
|---|---|
| Location | Epitome (E2) Nightclub 2347 South Michigan Avenue South Loop, Chicago, Illinois, U.S. |
| Coordinates | 41.8496433°N 87.6233322°W |
| Cause | Panic ensued by patrons after the use of pepper spray by a security guard during a fight. |
| Deaths | 21 |
Chicago is a city known for its vibrant nightlife, and it's home to some of the best nightclubs in the world. Whether you're into electronic dance music, hip-hop, or rock, a club in Chicago will suit your tastes. From small intimate venues to massive dance clubs, the city has it all.
Where was the Bad Girls Club in Chicago? ›Make that Highland Park. The tony northern suburb is where you'll find the mansion that housed the next crop of blinged-out, big-mouthed brawlers in the cast of “Bad Girls Club” Chicago.
Do you have to pay for BA Executive Club? ›Earn and save Avios for your next holiday by joining the Executive Club. It's free to join. You can collect Avios to help pay for upgrades on your next holiday.
How many tier points do you need to get Gold? ›Gold: 1500 Tier Points.
What is the responsibility of a club executive? ›- Assist the President and oversee the running of your Club, as well as in representing the organisation to other groups and external organisations. - Support other committee members to achieve their goals and perform their roles to the best of their ability.
What are the different levels of club membership? ›- Free, Premium and All-Access.
- Bronze, Silver, Gold and Platinum.
- Garnet, Ruby and Diamond.
- Basic, Basic Plus, Donor's Circle and Lifetime Member.
How many tiers does the Executive Club have? ›
There are four Executive Club tiers: Blue, Bronze, Silver and Gold. Your Executive Club membership begins at the Blue tier and Tier Points help you climb the tiers. You collect Tier Points when you fly. The amount you earn depends on your ticket type and fare class.
What do you call the leader of a club? ›The critical leadership positions are the President, Vice President, Secretary, and Treasurer. The club's officers and various event and committee chairs usually comprise the Board of Directors, which establishes policy and provides overall direction for all club activities.
How much is Carlton club membership? ›It closed in 1958. A full history of the club was published by historian Lord Lexden to mark its 175th anniversary in 2007. As of 2022 the club had around 1500 members and membership cost upwards of £1700 per year.
How much does it cost to join Beverly Hills Country Club? ›The club has about 1,500 members. Monthly dues range from $175 to more than $350.
How much does membership to the Alaska Club cost? ›Membership Options
The Alaska Club also provides members with personal training, fitness consultations, health and nutrition education, youth programs, and more. For just $38 per month, Fitness Members receive these great additional benefits: Child Care: Free for up to 2 children, 2 hours per day.
- Starry Night and the Astronauts, 1972. Alma Thomas.
- The Bedroom, 1889. Vincent van Gogh.
- Many Mansions, 1994. Kerry James Marshall.
- Untitled, 1964. Tanaka Atsuko.
- Paris Street; Rainy Day, 1877. Gustave Caillebotte.
- A Sunday on La Grande Jatte — 1884, 1884/86. Georges Seurat.
- Weaving, 1936. ...
- City Landscape, 1955.
If you love art and prefer to get into the details, you will need three to four hours to explore what's on display at the Art Institute of Chicago. Some visitors are known to complete their tour in just 60 minutes, and some even extend it to six hours.
How much time should I spend at the Art Institute of Chicago? ›Create your guide on your home computer in advance of your visit. Depending on the age of your child, a 45- to 90-minute visit can be plenty of time to enjoy the museum.
What is the Art Institute of Chicago controversy? ›The former payroll manager at the Art Institute of Chicago allegedly defrauded the museum out of more than $2 million by siphoning funds intended for other current or former employees into his own bank account for more than a decade.
Is it hard to get into Chicago Institute of art? ›The acceptance rate at School of the Art Institute of Chicago is 48.6%. For every 100 applicants, 49 are admitted.
Why should I visit the Art Institute of Chicago? ›
About the Art Institute of Chicago
Founded in 1879, the Art Institute houses the largest collection of Impressionist and Post-Impressionist art on the planet outside the Louvre. It's also home to more than 300,000 pieces of art, including some of the world's most revered masterpieces.
Congress Plaza Hotel Chicago (from USD 161)
Located near the Millennium Park, the legendary offers lovely views of Lake Michigan. Ever since 1893, its rooms have been called home by top celebrities and US presidents.
- Oprah Winfrey.
- Kanye West.
- Barack Obama.
- Jennifer Hudson.
- Ben Savage.
- John Cusack.
- Jenny McCarthy.
- Kristin Cavallari.
#1 River North
This neighborhood is definitely a hot-spot! Known for its lively nightlife, River North has become the destination for many celebrities — for a great night out, and also a place to call home. Many athletes from the Chicago Blackhawks to the Chicago Bulls live in the area.
But history, music, and sports aren't Clark Street's only attractions. With over 203 bars, Clark Street has the most places to grab a drink in all of Chicago. This means that bar-hoppers can go drinking every night for over 6 months and never visit the same watering hole twice.
What is the longest bar in Chicago? ›BIG Bar - Chicago. The Hyatt Chicago bar boasts the longest freestanding bar in North America, plus more than 1,400 beverage choices.
What is the most historical bar in Chicago? ›Opening in 1907, The Green Mill is easily the most famous bar on the list. It's been featured in classics like The Untouchables, High Fidelity and Ocean's Twelve. As a hotspot for mobsters and Al Capone's favorite joint, the bar ran openly during Prohibition with cops on its payroll.
How many members are in the Economic club of Chicago? ›The Economic Club of Chicago's membership is a curated composition of business and civic leaders that reflects the diversity in the city and state. With 2,400 members representing every industry in Chicago, 70 percent of our members are C-suite executives.
How many members does Wentworth Golf Club have? ›Wentworth's membership across all categories currently stands at around 4,000, but only 888 full memberships are being offered by the clubs new owners. Although described as 'debentures', the memberships come with no shareholdings in the club.
How many members belong to Oakland Hills Country Club? ›Oakland Hills Country Club has about 550 members, and some of them have the full golf membership for which they paid the membership initiation fee of at least $72,000.
What is the Limelight Night club in Chicago? ›
The Limelight in Chicago was housed in the former home of the Chicago Historical Society; the building itself is a historic structure. It was opened in 1985, and became Excalibur nightclub in 1989.
Where did Frank Sinatra hang out in Chicago? ›The Pump Room, Chicago
The entrance and lobby, for example, were used for the opening shots of Alfred Hitchcock's North By Northwest, while Sinatra himself namechecked the drinking establishment in 'My Kind of Town (Chicago Is)', singing the line “Chicago is… the jumpin' Pump Room”.
Located at 1024 West 119th street, this structure is the largest firehouse ever constructed in the city proper at 27,000 square feet. Engine company 115 will house 2 Engines, 1 Tower Ladder, 2 Advanced Life Support Ambulances, an OEMC communications monopole, an EMS Field Chief and a Deputy District Chief.
Is Chicago good for singles? ›Chicago is one of the best cities for singles to find love, Wallethub study reveals. See the top 5 U.S. cities for singles to find love, according to a new study from WalletHub. CHICAGO (WLS) -- Chicago singles have a great chance at finding love, a new study found.
What is the best side of Chicago? ›What is the nicest area to live in Chicago? The Loop, River North, Gold Coast, and Streeterville are safe and vibrant areas with easy access to downtown. If you're looking for something further from the center of town, check out West Ridge, North Park, and Forest Glen.
What is the hipster city in Chicago? ›Wicker Park is known as Chicago's hipster enclave. Many creatives and young professionals are drawn to this neighbourhood, which has plenty of art galleries, hip cafés, innovative restaurants and vintage stores.
Do they pay the Bad Girls Club? ›What is Bad Girls Club's salary? Each cast member received approximately $500 weekly.
How long do the girls stay at the Bad Girls Club? ›They were featured on the show as "charismatic tough chicks." The cast, deemed "bad girls," would enjoy a luxurious lifestyle in a mansion for three months, during which they obeyed specified rules. Their lives inside and outside of the house were recorded by a production team.
Do they still do Bad Girls Club? ›When was the recent season of Bad Girl Club aired? The last season of Bad Girls Club was aired in 2017.
Does it cost to join the Executive Club with British Airways? ›Unlike the loyalty programs of some U.S. airlines, there is no spending requirement to earn status in the Executive Club program. Provided you earn the Tier Points and take four qualifying flights on British Airways each membership year, you will earn the status.
Is it free to join the BA Executive Club? ›
It's free to join. You can collect Avios to help pay for upgrades on your next holiday. A bit like a holiday fund. Once you have joined, create a Household Account and combine your Avios with others, including your children to get rewards faster.
How to get into the Economic Club of Chicago? ›- Acquire Two Sponsors. For an individual to be considered for membership, two current members must serve as sponsors for that candidate. ...
- Biography & Application. ...
- Letters of Support. ...
- Attend a Club Meeting. ...
- Interview. ...
- Committee Selection.
You must be at least 18 years of age to apply for Executive Club membership. If you are under 18, you may join a household account.
Do British Airways sit you together? ›While we will try to seat your group together, we cannot always guarantee it, particularly if your group travel is split across separate bookings. To ensure your group is seated together, or if you would like specific seats, you can pay to reserve your seats in advance (for groups booked in the UK and Ireland only).
Can Executive Club members use BA lounge? ›Lounge access is available to: British Airways customers flying on a scheduled flight in Club or First. Silver and Gold Executive Club Members on scheduled flights operated by British Airways or one of our oneworld® partners.
Is it worth joining an airline club? ›Depending on your travel plans, buying a membership can be well worth the expense, as long as you consider the various caveats and regulations. Another option to consider is Priority Pass, which is an independent company and not an airline. Priority Pass provides access to more than 1,300 airport lounges worldwide.
Is food in BA lounge free? ›Is the food free in British Airways lounges? Yes, all of the food and beverages, including alcohol, are free in British Airways lounges.
Who gets access to BA lounge? ›The lounges are available for customers who are: flying on a scheduled British Airways flight in First or business (Club World or Club Europe) a Silver or Gold Member of the British Airways Executive Club on a scheduled flight operated by British Airways or one of our oneworld partners.
How many points do you need to get Silver on British Airways? ›Silver: 600 Tier Points or 50 eligible flights.
How many members are in The Economic Club of Chicago? ›The Economic Club of Chicago's membership is a curated composition of business and civic leaders that reflects the diversity in the city and state. With 2,400 members representing every industry in Chicago, 70 percent of our members are C-suite executives.
What do you do in an economics club? ›
We work to bring together all the economics and business enthusiasts inside and outside the campus together to discuss and debate the major economic events of the world to foster new ideas for the future.
How old do you have to be to go to a club in Chicago? ›In most cases, a night out dancing with friends is limited to those 21+, but some clubs in Chicago offer entry to those 18+. The same clubbing experience can be had without buying the drinks.
How much discount do BA staff get on flights? ›Whether you are commuting to Heathrow, or heading off on holiday you'll be entitled to buy Express Saver Tickets with a 75% discount.
How do I become a BA Gold member? ›- Bronze: 300 Tier Points and two eligible flights.
- Silver: 600 Tier Points and four eligible flights.
- Gold: 1,500 Tier Points and four eligible flights.
Is available for your children to join, regardless of age. Allows any member over 18 years of age spend Avios from the Household Account. Allows you to add seat and meal preferences to everyone's profile, so we know what you like.