Gay Bars in Chicago

With its large gay population, Chicago has no shortage of gay bars. Most gay bars in Chicago that cater to men are located in the aptly-named Boystown neighborhood, though many other neighborhoods have destination-worthy bars. Boystown is a nightlife playground of down-to-earth bars that appeal to twenty-something jocks, slick lounges for model types, and campy joints for boys who want to party with their best girlfriends in tow. One such retro-fantastic place, the Kit Kat Supper Club, features drag shows in an old-Hollywood setting. Projectors display classic black-and-white films on the walls, interrupted every twenty minutes when the disco balls start spinning and a dolled-up female impersonator emerges from behind a white curtain.

Down the street, minibar Ultra Lounge & Café caters to a higher-end clientele with swanky décor, intricate drinks, and bartenders who could double as Abercrombie & Fitch models. If the air of exclusivity isn’t your thing, nearby Roscoe’s Tavern has become a mainstay that attracts guys of all ages and types. Up in the Uptown neighborhood, Crew is full of even more everyday guys; it’s a sports bar for gay men who want to watch the NFL instead of dance to Adele.

Gay women have fewer options than the men and often might have to settle for special nights at general gay-friendly bars. The Andersonville neighborhood, however, holds a cluster. Big Chicks has established itself as a neighborhood mainstay, and its all-welcoming atmosphere makes for a warm and friendly gathering spot. Many of the Andersonville bars also draw a gay male crowd – who can blame them, when the bars are so great? – turning the scene into a diverse party.