Chicago. The nightlife of the Windy City is chock-a-block full of the top gay bars. Trendy hotspots to classic favorites, grab a stiff drink and hold tight!
Roscoe’s Tavern – Northalsted
Having been around since 1987, Roscoe’s knows how to keep its crowds entertained. Today, a favorite of Halsted, this bar caters to its young, fun crowds who meet here to catch Roscoe’s award-winning drag shows.
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Cell Block – Northalsted
Cell Block has been offering a safe and sultry place for leather/Levi’s daddies and puppies to play since 1994. You will find a casual and welcoming atmosphere upfront and kinkier fun farther back.
Sidetrack – Northalsted
This behemoth bar has been a standout in the community since 1982. Today it draws in a large and diverse crowd. Enjoy the tunes, large balcony & incredible staff. Being the biggest bar in the city, it gets packed with cuties!
Hydrate Nightclub – Northalsted
Considered to be one of the safest & most welcoming nightclubs in the city, Hydrate is perfect if you are looking for a wild night with wonderful people. Make sure to check out one of their many drag shows featuring incredibly talented queens!
Charlie’s Chicago – Northalsted
It doesn’t matter what night you decided to visit Charlie’s; you are always going to have an amazing time! From drag bingo to shirtless cowboys dancing on the bar, there is always something wild going on that you won’t want to miss!
Atmosphere – Andersonville
Whether you are looking for a night of dancing and delicious drinks or are coming for its strip bingo & trivia nights, you are destined to have a fabulous time at this fun dive.
Second Story Bar – River North
Tucked away from the hubbub of the street sits this unassuming gay dive. Stop by for a no-frills cocktail to be enjoyed while chatting with some locals.
Jackhammer – Rogers Park
Since 2003, Jackhammer has been serving LGBTQ+ communities by creating and preserving a safe space for exploration, education, leisure, and community engagement for visitors and locals throughout Chicagoland and across the globe.
Jeffery Pub – South Side
Originating in the 1960s to fill a cultural void on the south side, it endures as a historic beacon. With nightly dancing, delightful drinks, and a friendly staff, it remains a welcoming space. The unassuming exterior conceals a lively interior with a stage for karaoke and an eager dance floor. Known for strong beverages, the bartenders foster a sense of kindness.
Touché – Rogers Park
Opened in 1977, Touché is one of Chicago’s few surviving bars catering to leather lovers. They offer tons of theme nights and a backroom area for extra fun!
Krave – South Side
A haven for the gay, lesbian, bi-sexual, and transgender crowd, Krave offers weekly events and spectacular drink specials! The bartenders are not only super hot, but also very welcoming and kind to everyone.
Lucky Horseshoe Lounge – Northalsted
Within these walls, you will find sultry lighting, a classic winding oak bar & lusty locals ready to party! Come catch a go-go show and flirt with the hunky bartenders.
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