WhirlyBall – Chicago

WhirlyBall is a premium social entertainment venue combining its signature namesake sport with bowling, multi-level laser tag, chef-driven dining, and a full bar experience, all under one roof. The company operates two Illinois locations: the flagship Chicago venue at 1825 West Webster Avenue in the Bucktown neighborhood, and the Vernon Hills location at 285 Center Drive in the northern suburbs. With flexible event facilities that can comfortably accommodate groups of 10 to 500 attendees, WhirlyBall has established itself as one of the most complete entertainment and event destinations in Chicagoland, serving families, friend groups, corporate teams, and private event hosts with an experience that blends active competition, elevated food and drink, and a high-energy social atmosphere.

The centerpiece of every WhirlyBall venue is its namesake game, an exhilarating and entirely unique sport that combines elements of lacrosse, hockey, and basketball with souped-up bumper cars called WhirlyBugs. Up to ten players at a time, with a minimum of four, compete on a dedicated WhirlyBall court, using handheld scoops to pass and shoot a wiffle ball at a target while driving and bumping their way around the court. The game requires no prior experience or athletic ability, making it accessible and entertaining for a wide range of ages and skill levels. Players must be at least four feet six inches tall to participate. The Chicago location, billed as the world’s largest WhirlyBall facility, sprawls across 50,000 square feet over two stories and features three WhirlyBall courts, while the Vernon Hills location also offers multiple courts for simultaneous play.

Beyond WhirlyBall, both Illinois locations offer a robust lineup of additional entertainment options. The Chicago venue features 12 bowling lanes in a sleek, lounge-like environment and a multi-level laser tag arena that delivers non-stop action across multiple floors. The Vernon Hills location offers WhirlyBall courts, bowling, and laser tag along with a rock-climbing wall, adding a physical challenge option not available at the Chicago venue. Both locations also feature pop-up games and rotating entertainment options such as ping pong, giant four square, giant Jenga, and bags, ensuring there is always something new to try alongside the core activities. Multiple large HD screens throughout each venue provide sports and entertainment viewing for guests who want to catch a game between rounds.

The dining and drink experience at WhirlyBall sets it apart from typical entertainment venues. The Pivot Room, the company’s onsite restaurant concept, features a chef-driven menu that takes an inventive approach to classic American fare, with locally sourced ingredients and dishes made fresh daily in house. The food is designed to be elevated bar fare that challenges expectations for what an entertainment venue kitchen can produce. The beverage program is equally impressive, anchored by an expansive rotating craft beer selection with 32 draft options at the Chicago location, alongside unique cocktails and a full bar. The Chicago venue also boasts a rooftop terrace with panoramic views of the Chicago skyline, providing a striking outdoor space for dining, drinks, and events during warmer months.

Private events and group celebrations are a major focus for WhirlyBall, and the venues serve as popular destinations for birthday parties, bachelor and bachelorette parties, bar and bat mitzvahs, weddings, corporate outings, team-building sessions, off-site meetings, fundraisers, holiday parties, reunions, and virtually any group gathering that calls for an energetic and memorable setting. The company offers comprehensive event planning support, working with hosts from start to finish to design customized packages that combine any mix of WhirlyBall, bowling, laser tag, and dining. Party packages include food and beverage options alongside dedicated game time, and the flexible facilities allow events to scale from intimate gatherings to large-scale celebrations accommodating hundreds of guests.