Sip Back & Relax: 5 Places for Summer Mocktails in the Champaign-Urbana Area
Updated June 30, 2026
There’s nothing like a cold drink on a sweltering summer day—and if you’re skipping the booze, mocktails are where it’s at. Whether you're sober-curious, taking a break, or just love a beautifully crafted beverage without the buzz, the Champaign-Urbana area’s growing scene of zero-proof sips will keep you cool and refreshed. Here are a few community favorites:
Punch! Bar & Lounge
Located in Hyatt Place
217 N. Neil St., Champaign
Consistently voted “Best Cocktails in CU,” Punch! has you covered with an entire menu of spirit-free drinks. Summer selections include the citrusy Optimus Lime and the Tropic Like It’s Hot, which gives all the pineapple vibes. If your tastes run more botanical, try the fresh, perfectly chill Mint Condition. Peruse the menu for more N/A creations that are flavorful, elevated, and just plain fun.
Gallery Art Bar
119 W. Main St., Urbana
Whether you’re dancing to deep house, singing your heart out during karaoke, or channeling your creative muses at collage night, Gallery Art Bar can make every cocktail on the menu alcohol free. For seasonal standouts, we recommend the Bee’s Knees – made with lavender syrup, nearby Sasse’s Apiary honey, and fresh lemon juice—and the Meadowbrook Delight, crafted with lemon balm tea from Delight Flower Farm.
The Literary
122 N. Neil St., Champaign
Cool off with a beach read and a beverage at this beloved downtown book bar. Enjoy literary-themed beverages like the Emily Wilde, a sparkly, watermelon-mint refresher, and The Stolen Heir, which is pure pineapple delight. Bonus? The Literary patio is also a prime location for catching a band during the Friday Night Live summer music series.
Watson's Shack & Rail
211 N. NEIL ST., CHAMPAIGN
Sure, Watson's is known for their life-altering fried chicken sandwiches and unbeatable bourbon list, but don't sleep on their excellent alcohol-free beverages! We're talking several varieties of Dirty Soda, super-refreshing seasonal slush, and for brunch? Order a Virgin Mary, a lighter version of their (in)famous Bloody Mary.
Cloud Mountain Kombucha
208 W. Griggs St., Urbana
Gather your friends and grab some ice-cold pints at Cloud Mountain Kombucha’s new taproom! Recognized as an Illinois Made Maker, CMK is passionate about sourcing local ingredients—including from their own farm—for their award-winning kombucha. Summer brews include Peach & Nectarine with Chamomile and their signature Lemon Balm Ginger. Seasonal flavors are fleeting, so get ’em while you can!
Join the CU Mocktail Trail
This is just a sampling of all the zero-proof beverages our community offers. Explore them all by signing up for the CU Mocktail Trail, featuring 25+ mocktail-friendly spots. Visit five or more locations in three months, and be eligible for prizes! Cheers to summer, sans the booze!