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Momentum Coffee - Millennium Park

Momentum Coffee is one of the best grab-and-go spots nearby if you need a quick caffeine fix. With fast service and solid coffee, it’s the perfect choice if you don’t want to wait in long lines before the river dyeing starts at 10 a.m. Their classic lattes, Americanos, and mochas will keep you warm, and if you need something heartier, grab one of their pastries or breakfast sandwiches to go.

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Erica Harp

Fairgrounds Coffee & Tea

Located right across the street from Millennium Park, this café is an easy stop before heading over to the bridge. They offer a variety of coffee beans from different roasters, so if you’re a coffee lover who likes to switch things up, this is the spot. With a cozy but modern atmosphere, Fairgrounds is also a great place to warm up before heading back out into the St. Patrick’s Day crowds.

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NaywriChi

Bubblelicious

For something a little different from your usual coffee order, Bubblelicious offers bubble tea, milk teas, and specialty lattes just a short walk from Michigan Avenue Bridge. If you want a fun and Instagram-worthy drink while watching the river turn green, this is the spot. Their Strawberry Jasmine Milk Tea is a popular choice, but they also have classic coffee drinks if you’re craving caffeine.

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jaideep sidhu

Leonidas Chocolate Café

If you’re looking for a coffee shop that feels like a European café, Leonidas Chocolate Café is the one. It serves rich Belgian hot chocolate, expertly made cappuccinos, and an assortment of croissants, pastries, and chocolates. The cozy indoor seating is perfect for warming up before the parade, and if you have a sweet tooth, their handmade chocolates are a must-try.

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Anh Ha

L.A. Burdick Chocolates

This chocolate-lover’s paradise is just a short walk from the bridge and is known for its rich, European-style drinking chocolates and high-quality espresso drinks. If you’re looking for a cozy place to warm up before heading back out into the festivities, this café is an excellent choice. Plus, they offer delicious pastries and chocolate treats if you want a little snack before finding a good viewing spot.

Blue Bottle Coffee - Michigan Avenue

Blue Bottle is a well-loved coffee chain, but this location near Millennium Park makes it a convenient stop before heading over to the Michigan Avenue Bridge. If you like your coffee smooth, strong, and expertly crafted, Blue Bottle is a great choice. Their small but airy café is ideal for grabbing a quick drink before making your way to the parade or the river dyeing event.

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scott fletcher

Overflow Coffee

A bit further from the bridge but worth the walk, Overflow Coffee is a great option if you want a quieter place to sit before the St. Patrick’s Day chaos begins. They serve excellent specialty lattes, iced teas, and locally made pastries. The seating is comfortable, making it a great spot to stop and recharge before heading back out into the city.

Dollop Coffee Co.

Dollop Coffee is a local favorite for a reason—they serve fantastic lattes, seasonal drinks, and hearty pastries. If you’re in a hurry but still want quality coffee, their grab-and-go service makes it easy to get your caffeine fix before heading to the riverwalk. Plus, they offer comfortable seating if you need a break from the crowd.