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Fri / Jan 15
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The first officially recognized gay village in the United States, this southern enclave of Lakeview is undeniably the end of the rainbow for the Midwest's LGBT community, though Boystown’s myriad dining and entertainment options welcome unprejudiced partiers of every persuasion to join the fun.
The main thoroughfare on North Halsted – easy to spot given the nearly two dozen twenty-foot, rainbow-ringed pylons lining the street – bursts with shops, eateries, and the largest LGBT community center in the Midwest.
Daytime crowds of happy same-sex couples and inquisitive groups of friends peruse the gay-themed stores – but if the sex toys and bathhouses are a bit much for some, a bevy of fine dining, neighborhood bars, and relaxed bistros are also readily available.
The Boystown nightlife tends to be wild, with LGBT residents and young artsy types taking full advantage of the 5am bars and dance clubs, though nearby live theaters and comedy clubs also bring in older professionals and families just looking for a low-key evening.
Regardless of age, race, or gender identity, the annual Chicago Pride Parade at the end of June is only one of the countless reasons to check out the proud neighborhood-within-a-neighborhood of Boystown.
20s / 30s / Bottle Service / Brunch
Party Earth Review Situated in the epicenter of Lakeview’s gay scene, minibar Ultra Lounge & Café caters to a higher-end clientele with swanky décor, intricate drinks, and bartenders who could double ... more
3341 North Halsted Street
Chicago, IL 60657
20s / Bachelorette Parties / Gay
Party Earth Review Located in Chicago’s famous Boystown neighborhood, The Kit Kat Lounge is a lively spot where stylish gay men and large groups of straight girls sip colorful drinks and enjoy over-the ... more
3700 North Halsted Street
Chicago, IL 60613
20s / 30s / Alternative / Artists / DJ
Party Earth Review A crossroads between sporty Wrigleyville and flamboyant Boystown to the north and preppie Lincoln Park to the south, the Clark and Belmont intersection was for years associated with ... more
Intersection of Clark Street and Belmont Avenue
Chicago, IL 60657
30s / 40s / Affluent / After Work
Party Earth Review Despite its unassuming brick façade and location on a desolate stretch of North Halsted Street, George Street Pub has managed to garner a loyal following of area yuppies and affluent ... more
2858 North Halsted Street
Chicago, IL 60657
20s / 30s / 40s / All Ages / All Types
Reviewed by Chris M.
"Though located on the edge of Boystown and certainly gay-friendly, Jacqueline's is defined more by the diverse crowd that it pulls in than any one gro ..." more
3420 North Broadway Street
Chicago, IL 60657