Gay clubs chicago suburbs

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Things get a little rowdier later in the evening, especially during themed events like Frat Night and Chicago’s Best Bear Night. Open since 1982, Sidetrack is famous for their sprawling layout (it encompasses multiple levels and rooms that fit more than 1,000 party-goers), huge video screens playing new and classic music videos, and an endless supply of boozy slushie drinks.

Known for their creative cocktails, outstanding event programming (including drag shows!) and the coziest place to be yourself, it’s an incredible place to spend a queer night out with friends.

Their motto — no cover, no attitude — applies every night of the week.

Chicago isn't just known as the Windy City it also boasts a rich and diverseLGBTQ+ community, with a thriving nightlife scene to match. Nothing speaking to you? Nobody’s Darling

Address: 1744 W. Balmoral Ave. Chicago, IL 60640

This sexy Nina Simone-inspired cocktail lounge serves incredible drinks and cocktails on demand while providing a relaxing, classy space for the queer people of Chicago.

Come for trivia, the free Sunday night buffet, and the themed dance parties — then come back the next morning for brunch at attached sister restaurant Tweet.

The Closet

You can’t talk about gay bars in Chicago without talking about Northalsted (also known as Boystown).

Dorothy’s Downstairs

Address: 2500 West Chicago Ave. Chicago, IL 60622

Located in the West Town neighborhood of Chicago, Dorothy’s Downstairs is a sexy, 70s inspired subterranean lesbian cocktail lounge for every friend of Dorothy. With its weekly themed events and laid-back vibe, Jackhammer offers a welcoming space for patrons to express themselves freely.

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The bar is one of the last remnants of “Tower Town”, a former bohemian enclave that was known as an epicenter of LGBTQ life in Chicago.
Roscoe’s Tavern
A Northalsted essential, the welcoming Roscoe’s Tavern has been a go-to for the local LGBTQ community for more than 30 years. Queer cuties in your neighborhood are right at your fingertips - go meet them!
Looking for something a little less nightlife-related?

Drag enthusiasts flock to the Baton every Labor Day Weekend for the Miss Continental Pageant, one of the most prestigious honors in the drag pageantry world, but even outside of pageant season, the recurring drag, burlesque and variety shows are worth the trip.

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11. Replay Andersonville

The Andersonville outpost of the multi-location beer-and-bourbon arcade bar adds food to the mix, with burgers, brunch and more to fuel your retro gaming.

This old-school spot is the place. The walls are plastered with the owner’s personal collection of paintings and photos, including big names like Diane Arbus. Roscoe's Tavern

Address: 3356 N Halsted St. Chicago, IL 60657

Another Boystown favorite, Roscoe's Tavern is a lively gay bar and entertainment venue that's been serving the LGBTQ+ community for over 30 years.

And check out our other city guides here.

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The 34 best LGBTQ+ bars in Chicago

Photograph: Courtesy Sidetrack

Northalsted, aka "Boystown," is the historical center of Chicago’s LGBTQ+ scene, but great gay bars are all over the city.

Chicago has always been a trailblazing city when it comes to spaces for the LGBTQ community.

Create an Event and get friends (read some tips on finding new queer friends here) together to check out a queer bar in your city. You'll need it after a night out on the town.

RECOMMENDED: Drink at the best bars in Chicago

Been there, done that? Whether you're stopping by for a themed event or a casual night out with friends, Big Chicks welcomes all with open arms.

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And Northalsted, the gay nightlife hub also known 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.

Those looking to dance the night away, sing and enjoy the spectacle of performers crooning in Spanish or dancing with giant robots and pyrotechnics (no, really), take the trip to 26th Street and you won’t be disappointed.

10. The Baton Show Lounge

For more than 50 years, the Baton Show Lounge has been entertaining Chicagoans and visitors alike with classic, elegant drag performances.

Grab a drink, play some free darts, and mingle with the diverse crowd of regulars.
Sidetrack
This LGBTQ-owned hotspot is one of the most popular bars in Northalsted. The laidback spot is primarily known as a lesbian bar, but all are welcome. And each comes with their own unique history and vibe.
Check out some of the best 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 SoFo Tap

The SoFo Tap is the epitome of a laid back neighborhood bar. Jackhammer

Address: 6406 N Clark St. Chicago, IL 60626

Situated in Rogers Park, Jackhammer is a popular LGBTQ+ dance club and leather bar known for its energetic dance floors and diverse crowd.