Chicago gay scene
LGBTQ+ nightlife in Chicago: homosexual and lesbian bars, clubs, and more
Chicago’s nightlife is a lot like the city itself — inclusive, diverse, and welcoming to all. It’s also a whole lot of amusement. Our gay and woman-loving woman bars have a brief bit of something for everyone, with late-night lounges, dance clubs,burlesque and flamboyant shows, and long-standing neighborhood watering holes in almost every corner of the city. And each comes with their own unusual history and vibe.
Check out some of the finest gay bars and clubs to experience Chicago’s homosexual nightlife scene.
Jeffery Pub
One of the city’s oldest homosexual bars, Jeffery Pub is a neighborhood institution. The South Shore staple is also one of Chicago’s first black-owned gay bars, making it all the more meaningful for the spot’s many regulars. Don’t miss the live show, like karaoke nights, Silky Soul Sundays, and a lively dance floor featuring everything from pop to house music.
Big Chicks
This lively and colorful spot is part LGBTQ hangout, part art gallery. The walls are plastered with the owner’s personal collection of paintings and photos, including big names like Diane Arbus. But don’t reflect for a second that makes the pla
Out and About: Finest Gay Bars in Uptown Chicago
Find Uptown Chicago's LGBTQ+ Nightlife Scene
Uptown Chicago has quietly become one of the city's most vibrant Homosexual nightlife destinations, offering authentic experiences without the tourist crowds. The neighborhood's gay bars in Uptown Chicago create a perfect blend of historic charm and modern inclusivity that locals treasure.
The area boasts six standout venues, each with its own distinct character. The Baton Show Lounge has been dazzling audiences with legendary queenly performances since 1969, while Big Chicks offers a cash-only neighborhood vibe with happy hours that locals swear by. Dog owners flock to 2Bears Tavern Uptown for its pet-friendly policy and late-night craft cocktails, while those pursuing leather and fetish-friendly spaces make Jackhammer their home away from home. Evening owls appreciate Touche Chicago staying uncover until the wee hours (4-5AM), and karaoke enthusiasts can choose from over 100 beers while belting out tunes at Uptown Lounge.
"LGBTQ+ bars are much more than places to get a drink," explains Rick Karlin, local historian. "They served as the only places where comm
Sidetrack Chicago
MONDAYOpen 3pm-2am
Start your week with song
MUSICAL MONDAY
Present Tunes 8pm-2am
TUESDAY Open 3pm-2am
TEAM TRIVIA (new topic each week) 8pm
Pop Favorite Videos after Trivia ’til 2am
OUTspoken: LGBTQ+ Storytelling 1st Tues of month 7pm
WEDNESDAY Open 3pm-2am
Wed 7/23 ALL THINGS BRITNEY & RIHANNA
Wed 7/30 ALL THINGS DUA & ARIANA & SABRINA
Wed 8/6 ALL THINGS TAYLOR
Wed 8/13 ALL THINGS BEYONCÉ
Wed 8/20 ALL THINGS GAGA
9pm-2am for “ALL THINGS” PARTIES
THURSDAY Open 3pm-2am
-Glass/Side/Rooftop Bars
LET’S GO! THURSDAY
Pop Music Videos from open till 2am
-Main/Cherry/North Bars – 9pm-2am
LET’S GO! LATIN 7/24 & 8/21
ALL THINGS LOLLA 7/31
MEN’S ROOM GLOW PARTY 8/7
PINK PONY CLUB CHAPPELL/CHARLI/SABRINA 8/14
ALL THINGS K-POP 8/28
FRIDAY Open 3pm-2am
T.G.I.F. Demonstrate TUNES 4-9pm
FRIDAY Evening DANCE PARTY 9pm-2am
Rooftop opens preliminary evening
SATURDAY Open 1pm-3am
Post-Brunch Fun at Sidetrack 1-6pm
Saturday Night Move Party 9pm-3am
Monthly DOG DAY first Sat. of the month 1-5pm
SAPPHIC SATURDAY last Sat. of the month 5-9pm
SUND Photograph: Courtesy Sidetrack Northalsted, aka "Boystown," is the historical center of Chicago’s LGBTQ+ scene, but wonderful gay bars are all over the city. Chicago has always been a trailblazing city when it comes to spaces for the LGBTQ community. One of the first American LGBT rights organizations, the Society for Human Rights, was founded in Chicago in 1924, more than 40 years before Stonewall. And Northalsted, the gay nightlife hub also famous as "Boystown," became the first officially-designated gay village in a major city in 1997. These days, while a night out on Northalsted is still a joyful blur of boozy slushies and death drops, queer nightlife in Chicago is expansive, creative and thriving all over the city. From Rogers Park to South Shore, from James Beard-nominated cocktail bars to beloved, homey dives, there's a queer bar to fit your vibe. Oh, and don't forget about drag brunch. You'll need it after a blackout out on the town. RECOMMENDED: Beverage at the best bars in Chicago Been there, done that? Think again, my friend. By entering your email address you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy PolicThe 34 best LGBTQ+ bars in Chicago