Bars in Boystown, Chicago, IL

Most Boystown bars, unsurprisingly, self-identify as gay bars. But locals know that, gay or otherwise, the crowds at drinking spots along Halsted Street and Broadway Avenue are welcoming and inclusive. Same-sex couples are welcome at nondescript pubs, and gay clubs are happy to have respectful straight patrons. With such a huge concentration of bars, there is something for everyone.

Gay bars in Boystown include mega-clubs like Hydrate, neighborhood taverns like Roscoe’s, and swank lounges like minibar. Those looking for a specific scene are likely to zero in on an appealing target, while the versatile can experience an entire range in one bar-hopping night.

Boystown is an upscale neighborhood, bordered by sporty Wrigleyville and yuppie East Lakeview, so most other bars tend to appeal to affluent 20-somethings, with occasional nods to the Cubs crowd. The gastropub craze thrives here, with sophisticated neighborhood spots like George Street Pub bringing craft beers to the Lakeview masses. George Street is just one of many Boystown bars with outdoor seating, adding to the festive neighborhood scene come summer. If sidewalk drinks aren’t enough, massive club Sidetrack entices with a giant rooftop space.

Boystown bars are a diverse lot, and, gay/straight/rowdy/laid-back, people can always find what they’re looking for.