Sip Back & Relax: 5 Places for Summer Mocktails in the Champaign-Urbana Area
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, zippy Grapefruit Grove 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 Berry Pickers, a sparkly, raspberry-thyme refresher, and the Jo March, which is gingery, bright, and bold—just like its namesake! Bonus? The Literary patio is also a prime location for catching a band during the Friday Night Live summer music series.
Ladro Zero
Located at CU Flower House
2006 S. Neil St., Champaign
If you prefer to stay home and mix your own, stop by Ladro Zero at the CU Flower House for Illinois’ most expansive selection of N/A beverages outside of Chicago. Choose from non-alcoholic spirits, wines, aperitivos, teas, mixers, and accessories. It’s an impeccably curated treasure trove for mocktail lovers and curious creators.
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 the Strawberry Rhubarb, Peach & Nectarine with Chamomile, and their signature Lemon Balm Ginger. Seasonal flavors can be 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!