Gay Bars in Chicago

Where bigger is always better

This behemoth bar has been a standout in the community since 1982. Today it draws in a large and diverse crowd....

Northalsted · 3349 N Halsted St, Chicago

• trans-friendly
• 20+
• 30+
• 40+
• dancing
• outdoor seating
• video
• happy hour
• mixed LGBTQ+
• mixed gay/straight
• $$

Roscoe's Tavern

Iconic drag, bingo, booze & babes

Having been around since 1987, Roscoe's knows how to keep its crowds entertained. Today, a favorite of Halsted,...

2nd place in Best of GayCities 2023 - Legendary Bar

Northalsted · 3356 N Halsted St, Chicago

• trans-friendly
• 20+
• 30+
• dancing
• drag
• go-go boys
• outdoor seating
• pool table
• video
• mixed LGBTQ+
• pub
• mixed gay/straight
• $$$
• $$
• bar food

Hydrate Nightclub

Energetic & entertaining dance club

Considered to be one of the safest & most welcoming nightclubs in the city, Hydrate is perfect if you are...

Nominated for Best of GayCities 2023 - Clubbing King

Northalsted · 3458 N Halsted St, Chicago

• 20+
• 30+
• dancing
• drag
• go-go boys
• video
• after hours
• $$
• themed

A place to wear Levis

Since 2003, Jackhammer has been serving LGBTQ+ communities by creating and preserving a safe space for exploration,...

Rogers Park · 6406 N Clark St, Chicago

• Backroom
• dancing
• go-go boys
• leather
• outdoor seating
• video
• bears
• live entertainment

Notorious leather bar

Cell Block has been offering a safe and sultry place for leather/Levi's daddies and puppies to play since 1994....

Northalsted · 3702 N Halsted St, Chicago

• 20+
• 30+
• 40+
• Backroom
• leather
• pool table
• video
• bears
• cruising
• $$
• themed
• daddies

Getting lucky since 1989

Within these walls, you will find sultry lighting, a classic winding oak bar & lusty locals ready to party! Come...

Northalsted · 3169 N Halsted St, Chicago

• dancing
• go-go boys
• outdoor seating
• video
• pub
• $$
• themed

Cruise in leather

Opened in 1977, Touché is one of Chicago's few surviving bars catering to leather lovers. They offer tons...

Rogers Park · 6412 N Clark St, Chicago

• 30+
• 40+
• Backroom
• leather
• pool table
• bears
• cruising
• after hours
• $$
• dive
• themed
• casual

Vibrant, colorful & amazing food!

Big Chicks is one of the oldest gay bars in Chicago and has been offering the community a joyful and safe space to...

Uptown · 5024 N Sheridan Rd, Chicago

• 20+
• 30+
• 40+
• outdoor seating
• pool table
• happy hour
• bears
• mixed LGBTQ+
• mixed gay/straight
• bar food
• women-led

Cold drinks & giant flat screens

Enjoy sports games, drink specials, a friendly bar staff, and karaoke at this local favorite spot! Since 1983 The North...

Northalsted · 3733 N Halsted St, Chicago

• 30+
• 40+
• 50+
• pool table
• video
• sports
• happy hour
• bears
• karaoke
• pet-friendly
• $$
• casual
• craft beer

Drinks, dance, repeat

From wild dance parties to live viewings of Ru Paul, you will always have a fantastic time at the Scarlet Bar! Great...

Northalsted · 3320 N Halsted St, Chicago

• 20+
• 30+
• 40+
• dancing
• drag
• video
• mixed LGBTQ+
• cocktail lounge
• mixed gay/straight
• $$
• dive