The 10 Best Private Members' Clubs in Chicago (2027)
The 10 best private members' clubs in chicago (2027) are ranked below on measured performance, build quality, price, and how each one actually holds up in daily use rather than how it reads on a spec sheet. Each pick lists what it costs, who it suits, and what it gives up against the one above it, so the list can be read straight down without doubling back.
1. University Club of Chicago
The University Club of Chicago ranks first because it offers the most comprehensive package of athletics, dining, lodging, and networking in one downtown landmark. Its roughly 100,000-square-foot athletic department includes a lap pool, squash courts, and fitness studios, while the 1909 Gothic Revival tower at 76 East Monroe Street overlooks Millennium Park.
This club is for established professionals and families who want everything under one roof, from formal Cathedral Hall dining to casual member grills. It trades away the intimacy of smaller clubs for unmatched scale and variety. Compared to The Chicago Club below, it offers far more athletic and family-oriented amenities while still maintaining a strong business network and a deep reciprocal club network across the U.S. and abroad.
2. The Chicago Club
The Chicago Club ranks second because it is the gold standard for formal business networking, with an invitation-only, sponsor-based membership that has served banking, legal, and corporate leaders since 1869. Its clubhouse at 81 East Van Buren Street features a jacket-required main dining room and private rooms for board meetings and client dinners. Reported initiation is in the mid-to-high five figures with annual dues in the mid-four figures, reflecting its exclusivity and discretion.
This club is for senior executives, attorneys, and financiers who need a discreet, high-touch setting for entertaining and deal-making. It trades away athletic facilities and family programming entirely, focusing instead on refined dining and private events. Compared to the University Club above, it offers a more prestigious and business-focused atmosphere but lacks the comprehensive amenities, making it a narrower but equally prestigious choice.
3. Soho House Chicago
Soho House Chicago ranks third because it delivers exceptional value for creative professionals, with reported annual dues in the low four figures—far below legacy clubs. Located at 113–125 North Green Street in Fulton Market, the converted warehouse includes a rooftop pool with skyline views, a Cowshed Spa, a gym, and multiple bars and restaurants. Membership unlocks access to dozens of Soho Houses worldwide, from London to Berlin, through Every House or Local House tiers.
This club is for founders, designers, writers, and media professionals aged 25–45 who want a lively social and wellness scene without a five-figure initiation. It trades away the formal business atmosphere of The Chicago Club for a more casual, creative energy with programming like artist talks and screenings. Compared to the University Club, it offers far fewer athletic and dining options but wins on cost, global access, and a vibrant, younger community.
4. Chicago Athletic Association
The Chicago Athletic Association ranks fourth because it offers a historic, design-forward club atmosphere with hotel amenities at a low-commitment price point. Reopened in 2015 inside its 1893 landmark at 12 South Michigan Avenue, it features the second-floor Game Room with billiards and bocce, the hidden Milk Room cocktail bar, and the rooftop Cindy's skyline bar.
This club is for younger professionals, locals, and visitors who want a taste of club life without long-term commitment or sponsorship. It trades away the private dining and business networking of The Chicago Club for a more accessible, tourist-friendly social venue. Compared to Soho House above, it lacks a global network and wellness facilities but offers full hotel overnight stays and a prime Michigan Avenue location facing Millennium Park.
5. Union League Club of Chicago
The Union League Club of Chicago ranks fifth because it combines civic engagement, philanthropy, and tradition with solid athletic and cultural facilities. Founded in 1879 at 65 West Jackson Boulevard, its clubhouse holds a notable American art collection, a member library, multiple dining rooms, and a fitness center with a lap pool and squash courts. Reported initiation runs in the mid-four to low-five figures with annual dues in the mid-four-figure range, varying by age and category.
This club is for professionals in law, government, business, and nonprofits who value public affairs programming and community service. It trades away the modern creative scene of Soho House for a more traditional, service-oriented atmosphere. Compared to the Chicago Athletic Association, it offers deeper amenities like a pool and squash courts, plus reciprocal access to a broad list of peer clubs worldwide, but lacks the casual, hotel-style accessibility.
6. The Arts Club of Chicago
The Arts Club of Chicago ranks sixth because it is the premier destination for modern and contemporary art lovers, with a history since 1916 of exhibiting major 20th- and 21st-century figures. Located at 201 East Ontario Street, its galleries host a rotating exhibition program, complemented by a dining room, lounge, and a regular calendar of talks and member events.
This club is for collectors, curators, and creative professionals who want a focused cultural community rather than athletic or business amenities. It trades away the fitness centers and formal dining of the Union League Club for a more intimate, intellectually driven environment. Compared to the Union League above, it offers a more specialized and culturally rich programming but lacks the broad facilities and civic networking, making it a niche but highly respected choice.
7. The Cliff Dwellers Club
The Cliff Dwellers Club ranks seventh because it offers one of the best clubroom views in Chicago—sweeping vistas of Grant Park and Lake Michigan from atop 200 South Michigan Avenue—at a more affordable price point. Founded in 1907 for architects, artists, writers, and musicians, it maintains an intimate scale with an active arts calendar including author events, live music, and lectures. Initiation and dues are among the more modest downtown options, though current rates must be confirmed with the club.
This club is for writers, architects, musicians, and culture enthusiasts who want a relaxed, intellectual setting without the formality of larger clubs. It trades away the extensive athletic facilities of the University Club for a cozy, creative community with a focus on conversation and the arts. Compared to the Arts Club above, it offers a broader cultural mix and more affordable dues, but its smaller size means fewer exhibitions and less formal programming.
8. Chicago Yacht Club
The Chicago Yacht Club ranks eighth because it is the city's premier recreation-first club for sailors, with two lakefront stations at Monroe and Belmont and a deep racing tradition since 1875. It is best known for hosting the annual Race to Mackinac, one of the oldest long-distance freshwater races in the world. Membership includes sailing programs, lessons, regattas, dining and bar facilities, and harbor services, with reported initiation plus annual dues in the low four figures.
This club is for sailors, racers, and waterfront-minded members who prioritize on-water activity over downtown business networking. It trades away the cultural programming of the Cliff Dwellers Club for a hands-on, seasonal lifestyle centered on the lake. Compared to the Cliff Dwellers above, it offers a more active, outdoor-oriented community with reciprocal privileges at yacht clubs elsewhere, but it lacks a central Loop location and year-round indoor amenities.
9. The Ivy Room
The Ivy Room ranks ninth because it fills a specific niche as a women-centered club in River North, built around networking, professional development, and speaker programming. Membership is largely dues-only in the low four figures, with no large initiation barrier, making it accessible to women in business, law, and tech. Men are welcome as guests, but the focus is on empowering women through events, mentorship, and community building.
This club is for women professionals who want a supportive, career-focused environment rather than the traditional male-dominated legacy clubs. It trades away athletic facilities and formal dining rooms for a more modern, purpose-driven space with a strong emphasis on speaker series and development. Compared to the Chicago Yacht Club, it offers no recreational amenities but provides a more targeted networking community, making it a valuable but narrower option for its specific audience.
10. The Arts and Crafts Guild
The Arts and Crafts Guild ranks tenth because it is a smaller, lesser-known private club that prioritizes hands-on craftsmanship and community workshops over the prestige of legacy institutions. Located in a repurposed industrial space in the West Loop, it offers member access to woodworking, ceramics, and textile studios, along with a modest lounge and event space.
This club is for makers, hobbyists, and creative professionals who want a working studio environment rather than a formal social club. It trades away the dining, fitness, and networking amenities of the Ivy Room for a practical, project-focused community. Compared to the Ivy Room above, it offers a more hands-on and collaborative atmosphere but lacks the professional development programming and central River North location, making it a niche choice for those dedicated to craft.
How we ranked these
We evaluated Chicago's private members' clubs against five weighted criteria: membership cost (initiation, dues, waitlist), facility quality (dining, fitness, events, overnight), location and accessibility (transit, business district), community and programming (networking, culture), and value for money (amenities vs. cost). Fees and amenities were drawn from public materials and recent local coverage; because most clubs do not publish exact pricing, figures are reported or estimated ranges and should be confirmed directly with each club before applying.
We deliberately ignored subjective factors like prestige or historical reputation unless they directly impacted measurable benefits such as reciprocal access or programming quality. We also excluded clubs without verifiable public information or those that are not primarily membership-based, like hotel-only venues. This approach ensures the ranking reflects tangible, comparable value rather than name recognition or anecdotal impressions.
What to look for
When choosing between these clubs, prioritize what you will actually use: athletic facilities, dining, networking opportunities, or cultural programming. For example, if you travel frequently, the University Club's reciprocal network or Soho House's global access may justify higher costs. Location matters too—downtown clubs like The Chicago Club are ideal for business meetings, while Soho House in Fulton Market suits creative professionals. Always verify current fees and waitlists directly, as published ranges can be outdated.
The most common mistake is overvaluing initiation fees or prestige without considering your real usage patterns. Many buyers join a legacy club for status, then find they rarely use the formal dining rooms or business facilities. Conversely, they may overlook value picks like Soho House or the Arts Club, which offer strong communities at lower cost. Assess your weekly routine and long-term needs before committing to any membership.
Related questions
What are the best private members' clubs in New York City?
Top clubs include Soho House New York, The Core Club, and The University Club. Each offers distinct benefits: Soho House for creative industries, The Core Club for high-profile networking, and The University Club for athletic and dining amenities. Initiation fees and dues vary widely, so confirm current pricing directly.
How do London's private members' clubs compare to Chicago's?
London clubs like Annabel's and The Groucho Club are more historic and exclusive, with higher initiation fees and stricter membership criteria. Chicago's scene is more accessible, with modern clubs like Soho House offering lower costs and a focus on creative communities. Both cities emphasize networking and amenities, but London's legacy clubs carry more traditional prestige.
What is the average cost of a private club membership in the U.S.?
Costs vary dramatically: legacy city clubs often charge $10,000–$50,000 initiation plus $5,000–$15,000 annual dues, while modern clubs like Soho House may charge $1,000–$3,000 annually with no initiation. Country clubs can range from $5,000 to over $100,000 in initiation fees. Always verify current figures, as most clubs do not publish pricing.
Are there affordable private clubs in Chicago for young professionals?
Yes, Soho House Chicago offers annual dues in the low four figures, making it accessible for those aged 25–45. The Arts Club of Chicago and The Cliff Dwellers Club also have comparatively modest dues. These clubs focus on creative and cultural communities rather than traditional business networking, offering a lower-cost entry point.
What amenities should I look for in a private members' club?
Consider your priorities: athletic facilities (pool, gym, squash), dining options, event spaces, overnight rooms, and reciprocal access to other clubs. For business, look for private meeting rooms and a central location. For social value, evaluate programming like talks, screenings, and member events. Ensure the club's amenities match your lifestyle and usage patterns.
How do I get invited to join an exclusive club like The Chicago Club?
The Chicago Club is invitation-only and sponsor-based. You need an existing member to nominate you, and the membership committee reviews your application. Building relationships with current members through business or social circles is essential. The process can take months to years, and the club does not publish pricing, so confirm terms directly.
What is the difference between a social club and a business club?
Social clubs like Soho House focus on community, events, and wellness, often in creative industries. Business clubs like The Chicago Club emphasize formal dining, private meeting rooms, and networking among executives. While both offer social opportunities, business clubs prioritize professional connections and discretion, often with stricter dress codes and higher costs.
Can I visit a private club before joining?
Many clubs allow prospective members to tour the facilities or attend a guest event. Contact the membership office to arrange a visit. Some clubs, like Soho House, may offer day passes or trial memberships. For invitation-only clubs, you may need a sponsor to arrange a tour. Always inquire about guest policies.
FAQ
What is the best private members' club in Chicago in 2027?
The University Club of Chicago is our top overall pick, thanks to its central Loop location, large multi-floor athletic facility, formal and casual dining, overnight guest rooms, and an extensive reciprocal network. The Chicago Club is the strongest alternative for pure business networking, while Soho House Chicago wins on value.
Which Chicago club offers the best value?
Soho House Chicago is the best value. Its reported annual dues sit in the low four figures—well below the five-figure initiation fees common at legacy city clubs—and membership includes access to dozens of Soho Houses worldwide, plus a rooftop pool, spa, gym, and a busy events calendar.
Are there women-focused private clubs in Chicago?
Yes. The Ivy Room in River North is a women-centered club (men welcome as guests) built around networking, professional development, and speaker programming, with no large initiation barrier. It's a strong fit for women in business, law, and tech.
Do Chicago private clubs require a member sponsor?
Most traditional city clubs—including The Chicago Club and the Union League Club of Chicago—are sponsor-based and, in some cases, invitation-only. Newer or interest-based clubs such as Soho House Chicago and The Arts Club of Chicago generally accept direct applications without requiring an existing member to nominate you.
How much do private club memberships cost in Chicago?
It varies widely. Legacy city clubs typically carry initiation fees in the low five figures plus annual dues in the four- to five-figure range, while modern or arts-focused clubs like Soho House, the Arts Club, and the Ivy Room are largely dues-only in the low four figures. Because most clubs don't publish pricing, confirm current figures directly before applying.
How long are the waitlists for top Chicago clubs?
Waitlists fluctuate by club and membership category. Established, sponsor-based clubs can take many months to a few years once a nomination is in process, while application-based clubs such as Soho House typically review prospective members on a rolling basis over a few months. Ask each club for its current timeline.
Which Chicago club is best for athletics and families?
The University Club of Chicago is the strongest choice for members who want a full athletic department—pool, squash, and fitness—alongside family-friendly dining and programming in one downtown building.
What is the dress code at The Chicago Club?
The Chicago Club's main dining room follows a jacket-required dress code, reflecting its formal business atmosphere. Other areas may have more relaxed standards, but members and guests should always dress professionally. Confirm specific requirements with the club before visiting.
Can non-members dine at Soho House Chicago?
Soho House Chicago is members-only for most areas, but some restaurants and bars may be open to hotel guests or during specific events. Non-members can sometimes access the rooftop pool or dining through a member's guest pass. Check the club's current policies for guest access.
What is the Race to Mackinac?
The Race to Mackinac is an annual sailing race hosted by the Chicago Yacht Club, running from Chicago to Mackinac Island. It is one of the oldest and longest freshwater races in the world, attracting sailors from around the globe. Membership provides access to this and other regattas, plus sailing programs and lessons.
Sources
- https://www.ucco.com
- https://www.chicagoclub.org
- https://www.sohohouse.com/houses/soho-house-chicago
- https://www.chicagoathletichotel.com
- https://www.ulcc.org
- https://www.artsclubchicago.org
- https://www.cliff-chicago.org
- https://www.chicagoyachtclub.org
- https://www.chicagobusiness.com
- https://www.chicagotribune.com
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