Gay clubs in downtown chicago

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The walls are plastered with the owner’s personal collection of paintings and photos, including big names like Diane Arbus. This old-school spot is the place. 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. 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 spot is part LGBTQ hangout, part art gallery.

Oh, and don't forget about drag brunch. Like its neighbor, RPH is highly collaborative and neighborhood-oriented, co-hosting events with and promoting other nearby shops and local businesses. Look out for your first newsletter in your inbox soon!

Top gay bars in Chicago

1. Sidetrack

If size matters, there’s no better bar than this Northalsted juggernaut.

Whiskey Girl Tavern

Address: 6318 N Clark St. Chicago, IL 60660

Opened in 2022 in Edgewater, Whiskey Girl Tavern is a LGBTQ+ friendly sports bar with craft cocktails and a focus on female sports. Their motto — no cover, no attitude — applies every night of the week.

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.

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. Things get a little rowdier later in the evening, especially during themed events like Frat Night and Chicago’s Best Bear Night.

Tucked away above the bustling streets of Streeterville, Second Story is a relaxed refuge that’s remained virtually unchanged since it opened 35 years ago. Known for its pool table, well-stocked jukebox and cheap Tuesday draft special, Farraguts is perfect for a lively night out or for grabbing a pint and a spot close to the window for a leisurely conversation and watching the world go by.

The laidback spot is primarily known as a lesbian bar, but all are welcome. It features a spacious outdoor beer garden, classic jams on the jukebox, and a selection of works by local artists. We’ve got tips for sober activities, too. 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.

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2. Big Chicks

Not a Boystown fan? 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.

We love to see it.

15. Rogers Park Social

Rogers Park continues to grow its roster of nightlife options for the LGBTQ+ community, including this friendly queer-owned cocktail lounge.

Featured in 2021 in Them for how they thrived during the peak of the pandemic, this queer- and Black-owned business encourages patrons to embrace being outcasts and celebrate LGBTQ community with one another.

3. If you’re not into alcohol, they’ve also got a fair amount of spirit-free mocktail offerings.

Big Chicks

Address: 5024 N Sheridan Rd. Chicago, IL 60640

Located in Uptown, Big Chicks is a beloved queer bar known for its inclusive atmosphere, affordable drinks and cocktails, and hearty food menu.