What to Know Before Visiting Howl at the Moon Chicago in Chicago, IL
If you’re heading to Howl at the Moon Chicago, you’ll want more than just an address and an Uber drop-off. This River North dueling piano bar has its own rhythm: timing matters, the dress code can trip you up, and the way song requests work can make or break your night. Add in giant drink buckets, weekend cover, and group packages, and there are a few smart moves you should know before you step inside.
When exploring lively Chicago nightlife, some visitors also consider Exchequer Restaurant & Pub while comparing downtown bar experiences.
Location, Hours, and Best Times to Go
At 26 W Hubbard St in River North, Howl at the Moon sits in the center of Chicago nightlife.
It’s near steakhouses, cocktail bars, the Chicago Riverwalk, and House of Blues.
For more space, go on weeknights; Fridays and Saturdays peak after 10 p.m.
Doors open in the early evening and stay open late. Check the calendar for specials and hours.
CTA is easier than driving, though nearby garages are within walking distance.
Dress Code and What to Bring
Image: Howl at the Moon Chicago
Dress smart-casual for Chicago nightlife—no gym gear, flip-flops, or baggy clothes. Dark jeans, cute tops, and clean sneakers or boots work well.
Avoid overly revealing or sloppy outfits, and don’t show up intoxicated.
Bring essentials: a valid ID (strictly checked), a card with limited cash, and a small crossbody or clutch.
Pack mints, a phone charger, and a light layer, and you’ll warm up once the crowd builds.
Timing here feels different from quieter nights at Randolph Tavern, which draws a more laid-back crowd.
How the Dueling Pianos and Song Requests Work
Ever seen a piano duel turn into a full-room sing-along? That’s the nightly vibe at Howl at the Moon Chicago.
Two (sometimes more) musicians face off on dueling pianos, trading riffs, harmonies, and jokes while you belt out every chorus.
You control the playlist. Write your song requests on napkins or slips and walk them right up to the stage with a tip.
The higher the tip, the faster you’ll hear it—and the more likely they’ll keep your favorite going.
Expect quick mashups, Chicago anthems, and playful roasting if you request something wildly off-the-wall.
Drinks, Buckets, and Bar Specials
Image: Howl at the Moon Chicago
While the piano pros keep the sing-alongs rolling, the bar keeps your night buzzing with oversized cocktails and shareable drinks built for groups. You’ll spot neon buckets loaded with straws, ice-cold beers, and signature cocktails that hit sweeter after every chorus.
| Nightlife Mood | How It Feels |
|---|---|
| First sip of a bucket | “We’re staying out late.” |
| Round of shots | “Turn the volume up.” |
| Last-call cocktail | “One more song.” |
Check the chalkboards and menus for rotating drink specials; Chicago regulars know they change often, especially on weeknights and early evenings.
Reservations, Cover Charges, and Group Parties
Since Howl at the Moon fills up fast on weekends and big event nights, you’ll want to think ahead about how it fills fast on weekends and event nights, and plan.
You can walk up and pay a cover, but lines grow long after 9 p.m., especially on Saturdays and holidays.
For birthdays, bachelorettes, or office outings, consider party packages with guaranteed entry and drink tickets.
To skip the hassle, reserve a VIP table with priority seating and line-jump.
When choosing between entertainment-focused bars and classic pubs, some also consider Dublin’s Bar & Grill.
Conclusion
Now you’re ready to trade quiet weeknights for pounding piano keys and neon-lit sing-alongs. Slip past River North’s office towers into a room where requests fly faster than cocktails and skyscraper calm turns into bucket-drink chaos. With your ID, cash, and crew in tow, you’ll squeeze between bachelorette sashes and after-work ties, shouting lyrics, clinking glasses, and turning an ordinary Chicago night into a loud, unforgettable Howl at the Moon story.
