Cell Block

For a relaxed gay night out with friendly faces and no attitude, 2Bears Tavern Uptown is a great choice. This welcoming neighbourhood bar has a strong connection to Chicago's bear community, while attracting a diverse mix of LGBTQ+ locals and visitors who appreciate good company, affordable drinks and an easy-going atmosphere. Just steps from the Wilson Red Line station, it's a particularly sociable place to spend an evening, with pinball, darts, video games and regular activities including karaoke, trivia and poker. There's always something happening, but it's just as enjoyable when you simply want to settle in at the bar and chat. Open late and refreshingly unpretentious, 2Bears is a great alternative to the busier Northalsted nightlife scene. There's more than enough to keep you entertained, from pinball and darts to video games, karaoke, trivia and occasional drag-themed events. The atmosphere is unpretentious and inclusive, with no dress code or cover charge on regular nights. It's a particularly useful option for late-night drinks away from the busiest parts of Northalsted.

Serious about your dance music? Smartbar is one of Chicago's most respected clubs, with a long history of hosting outstanding DJs and championing underground electronic music. While it isn't exclusively an LGBTQ+ venue, its legendary Sunday night Queen! party makes it essential territory for queer clubbers. Queen! celebrates Chicago's deep house music heritage with acclaimed resident DJs, guest performers, drag artists and a wonderfully expressive crowd. Expect a proper dance floor, excellent music and an atmosphere that values individuality over posing. It's a very different experience from the pop-heavy clubs of Northalsted, and a particularly good choice for visitors who love authentic house music culture.

A little nostalgia goes a long way at Replay Andersonville, where classic arcade games, cocktails and American comfort food provide the ingredients for a fun, sociable night out. Located in one of Chicago's most LGBTQ+-friendly neighbourhoods, this relaxed bar and restaurant attracts a welcoming mix of locals and visitors. Replay is particularly appealing when you fancy doing something together rather than simply standing around with drinks. Challenge your friends to an arcade game, enjoy a burger and a beer, or drop in for trivia, karaoke and other regular events. It's not exclusively a gay bar, but its inclusive atmosphere makes it an easy addition to an Andersonville evening.

Hydrate Nightclub is Chicago's premiere destination for shows, music, dancing, and the best late-night party in the city. It's quickly developed a reputation for the best DJ's in Chicago and a powerful sound and light experience. High energy music accompanies drag acts, dance parties, and a lot of hot guys dancing on the bar, creating an atmosphere that makes Hydrate a staple on the scene. It's loud, it's proud, and it'll keep you entertained well into the next morning.

Colourful, friendly and gloriously unpretentious, Big Chicks is one of those Chicago LGBTQ+ bars that feels like a proper neighbourhood institution. Its walls are packed with art, the drinks are reasonably priced and the crowd spans different ages, genders and identities, creating a welcoming atmosphere that keeps regulars coming back. The food is another big attraction, with generous American comfort dishes making this an excellent choice for combining dinner with drinks. Weekends bring a livelier atmosphere with DJs and dancing, while quieter evenings are perfect for catching up with friends or getting to know the locals. It's refreshingly different from the glitzier Northalsted clubs and well worth the trip to Uptown. Just remember to bring cash, as cards aren't accepted.

Cell Block is Boystown's premier leather and fetish gay club. The main front bar has a dance floor where anyone can let go and have fun with a casual leather dress code. If you're more of a serious leather fan, the back bar opens on Friday and Saturday nights for some more mature fun. This space has a strict leather dress code and hosts events catering to multiple fetishes such as monthly puppy patrol parties.