Dive bars benefit from feeling a bit hidden or off the beaten path in some way and downtown Chicago’s Sky-Ride Tap has managed that difficult feat in densely packed part of the city thanks to its hideout status under the city’s elevated train system. Named after a famous aerial gondola-like attraction at the 1933 Century of Progress Exposition, the similarities between the glitz and glamor of an international gathering end at the bar’s name, the interior a classic, no-frills dive bar space.

Business at Sky-Ride Tap has long been strong thanks to its proximity to the nearby train system. Though COVID-19 hampered revenue significantly, the business has endured the many waves of change that have rippled through the nearby area, always making ends meet thanks to its convenient location and affordable pricing. The space caters to train patrons so heavily that the clocks are set 10 minutes fast to ensure that everyone gets out and to their platform on time.

The bar itself is probably the star of the Sky-Ride Tap show thanks to a half moon-style bend in the center of the structure. The bend coincides with a break in the counter behind the bar and an oval-shaped, illuminated ridge that juts out from the wall and covers this Sky-Ride Tap centerpiece. A handful of framed photos, sports pennants and bar snacks can be found behind the bar, but the ambiance here is minimalist by dive bar standards.