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. 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. 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 gay 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. This lively and colorful spot is part LGBTQ hangout, part art gallery. The walls are plastered with the owner’s personal collection of paintings and photos, including big names like Diane Arbus.
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.
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. You can’t talk about gay bars in Chicago without talking about Northalsted (also known as Boystown). This LGBTQ nightlife mecca has a bar or club on every corner, and The Closet is one of the originals. This neighborhood institution has been welcoming bar-goers since 1978. The laidback spot is primarily known as a lesbian bar, but all are welcome. Grab a drink, play some free darts, and mingle with the diverse crowd of regulars. The purpose was to enforce white supremacy and intimidate black people through racial terrorism. #BIG CULVERT ENTRANCE GAY BAR CHICAGO FREE# Big culvert entrance gay bar chicago Wells and the Tuskegee University, most lynching victims were accused of murder or attempted murder. This LGBTQ-owned hotspot is one of the most popular bars in Northalsted.