Check their events calendar to see when they’re open to the public!
2. Nothing speaking to you? Tucked away above the bustling streets of Streeterville, Second Story is a relaxed refuge that’s remained virtually unchanged since it opened 35 years ago. Other popular events include dueling pianos, themed dance nights, and karaoke hosted by Chicago cabaret legend Honey West.
La Cueva Night Club
This popular Little Village spot has their own slice of LGBTQ history — they’re known as one of the oldest Latinx drag bars in the country.
The bar is one of the last remnants of “Tower Town”, a former bohemian enclave that was known as an epicenter of LGBTQ life in Chicago.
Roscoe’s Tavern
A Northalsted essential, the welcoming Roscoe’s Tavern has been a go-to for the local LGBTQ community for more than 30 years. Chicago isn't just known as the Windy City it also boasts a rich and diverseLGBTQ+ community, with a thriving nightlife scene to match.
It’s also a whole lot of fun. Open since 1982, Sidetrack is famous for their sprawling layout (it encompasses multiple levels and rooms that fit more than 1,000 party-goers), huge video screens playing new and classic music videos, and an endless supply of boozy slushie drinks. Grab a drink, play some free darts, and mingle with the diverse crowd of regulars.
Sidetrack
This LGBTQ-owned hotspot is one of the most popular bars in Northalsted.
The extensive beer list (26 rotating drafts listed on a giant chalkboards over the bar) and even bigger collection of bourbons are the reasons to visit—other than getting it on like Donkey Kong, of course.
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12. Fantasy Nightclub
Since moving into the former Circuit space, Fantasy has become a high-energy destination for drag, DJs and dancing well into the night—this club goes hard until 5am on Saturday nights (er, Sunday mornings).
With its spacious dance floor, karaoke nights, and drag bingo, Roscoe's Tavern guarantees a fun and memorable night out with good vibes.
7. Post on Lex to find a queer date or friend to check out these LGBTQ+ bars with you. The walls are plastered with the owner’s personal collection of paintings and photos, including big names like Diane Arbus.
The owners are also local activists who helped pass local anti-discrimination legislation in the 1980s.
Nobody’s Darling
In Andersonville, Nobody’s Darling is a black-owned, queer cocktail bar designed for women. The bar runs down the center of the space, though it's just one-sided—the other side of its rear wall is lined with video game consoles.
The SoFo Tap
The SoFo Tap is the epitome of a laid back neighborhood bar. From Rogers Park to South Shore, from James Beard-nominated cocktail bars to beloved, homey dives, there's a queer bar to fit your vibe. Create an Event and get friends (read some tips on finding new queer friends here) together to check out a queer bar in your city.
Jackhammer
Address: 6406 N Clark St. Chicago, IL 60626
Situated in Rogers Park, Jackhammer is a popular LGBTQ+ dance club and leather bar known for its energetic dance floors and diverse crowd. Also, it’s dog-friendly, so your best friend doesn’t have to be left out of the fun.
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14. R Public House
A couple doors down from Jarvis Square Tavern in the cozy Jarvis Square enclave is R Public House, a chill, queer-friendly neighborhood spot slinging craft beer and comforting pub food.
