Gay bar chicago suburbs

The 34 best LGBTQ+ bars in Chicago

Photograph: Courtesy Sidetrack

Northalsted, aka "Boystown," is the historical center of Chicago’s LGBTQ+ scene, but fantastic 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 Population for Human Rights, was founded in Chicago in , more than 40 years before Stonewall. And Northalsted, the gay nightlife hub also known as "Boystown," became the first officially-designated gay village in a major city in

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 kingly brunch. You'll need it after a night out on the town.

RECOMMENDED: Sip at the best bars in Chicago

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Chicago LGBTQ+ and gay bars declining in number, learn shows; trend holds nationwide as well

CHICAGO (WLS) -- The number of LBGTQ+ and gay bars in Chicago and nationwide is declining, data shows. Experts say that could signify fewer spaces for some of the community, especially those with diverse backgrounds.

"We have had the trial of going into bars in you know, in our community, and not necessarily feeling welcome," said Angela Barne.

Barnes and Renauda Riddle opened Nobody's Darling in Andersonville in Nobody's Darling is a inky, queer, and women owned and "women forward" bar.

"People are so excited that we own this lock because they can witness themselves in us folks, queer women of color," Riddle said.

Their community-based exclude has thrived during the pandemic and even earned a coveted James Beard Award nomination.

"We fill a niche that most bars in the city carry out not," Riddle said.

In the two years since Nobody's Darling opened, more and more LGBTQ+ bars possess closed.

Greggor Mattson, professor of Sociology at Oberlin

Hunters Niteclub (CLOSED)

While the suburban LGBT scene remains underserved at best and downright dreadful at worst, this sprawling nightclub and complex proposals an oasis for the gay masses seeking a capital alternative. The huge dance floor bids enough thump thump to keep the crowds hot and sweaty, but if it's respite you seek, try cooling off on the excellent outdoor patio. FYI, if you and your newfound trick are both still living at home, there's plenty of frisky activity to be had in the parking lot.

Address: E Higgins Rd; Elk Grove Village

Price:: Average cocktail: $5

Opening hours:: Sun–Wed 4pm–2am; Thu–Sat 4pm–4am

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LGBTQ+ nightlife in Chicago: gay and lesbian bars, clubs, and more

Chicago’s nightlife is a lot love the city itself — inclusive, diverse, and welcoming to all. It’s also a whole lot of fun. Our gay and lesbian bars have a brief bit of something for everyone, with late-night lounges, dance clubs,burlesque and drag shows, and long-standing neighborhood watering holes in almost every corner of the municipality. And each comes with their own unique history and vibe.

Check out some of the top gay bars and clubs to experience Chicago’s queer nightlife scene.

Jeffery Pub

One of the city’s oldest gay bars, Jeffery Pub is a neighborhood institution. The South Shore staple is also one of Chicago’s first black-owned queer bars, making it all the more meaningful for the spot’s many regulars. Don’t miss the live entertainment, like karaoke nights, Silky Soul Sundays, and a lively dance floor featuring everything from pop to house music.

Big Chicks

This lively and colorful notice is part LGBTQ hangout, part art gallery. The walls are plastered with the owner’s personal collection of paintin