Gay cities chicago
Chicago impressed us on so many levels. It is a beautiful Midwestern capital, with super friendly people, lots to keep you busy and an incredibly diverse and thriving lgbtq+ scene.
Gay Chicago has a lot to offer and from our experience, the whole city appears to embrace and support its LGBTQ+ community.
We felt very safe, at ease, and welcome in Chicago as a gay couple. We never felt like we needed to look over our shoulder, fear holding hands or showing affection: just as its should be!
Our first visit was over the Chicago Parade Fest weekend and was hosted by Choose Chicago so we really got to see just how gay Chicago can be!
In our Gay Chicago Instruction, we will cover the gay neighbourhoods of Chicago, gay bars, Gay Parade Fest as well as what activities we did, where we stayed and ate so you will have all the knowledge you need to intend your own visit!
Let’s fetch started!
Gay Neighbourhoods in Chicago
Chicago has two very separate gay neighbourhoods, Northalsted (previous known as Boystown) and Andersonville (affectionately known as MANdersonville).
Northalsted (aka Boystown)
When you are looking into male lover Chicago, Northalsted will and should be, right at the top of
Chicago Gay City Guide: A Midwestern Jewel for the LGBTQ Community
Nestled on the shores of Lake Michigan, Chicago is an industrious metropolis that’s an stimulating place for the LGBTQ community. An international hub of culture, commerce, and creativity, the city provides a multitude of male lover resources to make every new resident feel at home.
A Brief History of the Windy City
Like many Midwestern regions, the Native Americans were responsible for cultivating a lot of the land. The actual term “Chicago” is roughly translated from a Native American word that means “wild onion,” something which grows abundantly to this day.
The city was born in and in , Chicago saw its first black mayor. In , for the first age in history, all three city-wide elective offices were held by women. Chicago is a forward-thinking and progressive town that has a lot to give LGBTQ residents.
Quick Stats About the
- The city is square miles.
- Chicago has both a commuter rail and rapid transit system. (Metra and cta).
- Chicago is the third-most populous city in the United States (approx. 2,, people).
- Spray paint was invented in Chicago.
- Chicago has over 20 nicknames.
The 34 best LGBTQ+ bars in Chicago
Photograph: Courtesy Sidetrack
Northalsted, aka "Boystown," is the historical center of Chicago’s LGBTQ+ scene, but amazing 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 Community 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 performative brunch. You'll need it after a night out on the town.
RECOMMENDED: Beverage at the best bars in Chicago
Been there, done that? Think again, my friend.
By entering your email talk to you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy and con
Northalsted, Chicago's Proudest Neighborhood
The first officially recognized gay village in the United States, Boystown Chicago is the commonly approved nickname for the eclectic East Lakeview neighborhood established as Northalsted that is home to Chicago's visible and active lesbian, gay, bisexual person and transgender community.
Northalsted, the first official gay neighborhood in the country (credit: )
Northalsted is situated just southeast of Wrigleyville in Lakeview. The area is bordered by Broadway Ave. on the east and Halsted St. on the west, Grace St. to the north and Belmont Ave. to the south.
The two main (north-south) avenues of Halsted St. and Broadway take charge the heart of this commercial and entertainment district. Broadway primarily offers a variety of themed shops and restaurants stretching throughout the neighborhood while Halsted caters to a lively nightlife with more than 30 different gay and lesbian bars, nightclubs and restaurants.
The neighborhood is also home to the Center on Halsted, the Midwest’s largest LGBTQ community center that welcomes over people per day. Northalsted hosts a number of annual even
.