One of the city’s newest lesbian hot spots, it’s quickly becoming known for its classy, sexy vibe and great cocktail menu that includes elevated classic, extra boozy drinks, and alcohol-free/CBD options. In Andersonville, Nobody’s Darling is a black-owned, queer cocktail bar designed for women. The owners are also local activists who helped pass local anti-discrimination legislation in the 1980s. 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. This LGBTQ-owned hotspot is one of the most popular bars in Northalsted.
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Grab a drink, play some free darts, and mingle with the diverse crowd of regulars. The laidback spot is primarily known as a lesbian bar, but all are welcome. This neighborhood institution has been welcoming bar-goers since 1978. This LGBTQ nightlife mecca has a bar or club on every corner, and The Closet is one of the originals. You can’t talk about gay bars in Chicago without talking about Northalsted (also known as Boystown). 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. But don’t think for a second that makes the place feel pretentious - everyone is welcome at Big Chicks and everybody has a good time. The walls are plastered with the owner’s personal collection of paintings and photos, including big names like Diane Arbus. This lively and colorful spot is part LGBTQ hangout, part art gallery. Don’t miss the live entertainment, like karaoke nights, Silky Soul Sundays, and a lively dance floor featuring everything from pop to house music. 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. One of the city’s oldest gay bars, Jeffery Pub is a neighborhood institution. And each comes with their own unique history and vibe.Ĭheck out some of the best gay bars and clubs to experience Chicago’s LGBTQ+ nightlife scene. Our gay and lesbian bars have a little 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 city. Chicago’s nightlife is a lot like the city itself - inclusive, diverse, and welcoming to all.