Sidetrack

As the name suggests, Second Story Bar is hidden away above a restaurant in the River North area of Chicago. This bar is dark and divey with an old school charm that has remained untouched by the upscale modernity of the street below. Inside a sketchy looking unmarked entrance, you'll find a perfectly friendly bar serving cheap drinks to a soundtrack of camp dance classics. This is a true hidden gem and a unique venue among its modern neighbours.

A staple video bar in the Boystown community, The Closet walls have been a second home to many since 1978. The Closet is a great place to kick back with friends or meet new people, whether you're looking to relax after work, or kick start your night. The Closet attracts a mostly lesbian crowd who pack the small bar and create a super friendly atmosphere, so all identities are welcome for dancing, games, and karaoke.

For bears and leather fans with and a fun atmosphere. Jackhammer has a friendly vibe, with multiple levels where anything goes and you can have a fun night of dancing with other leather fans, bears, and their admirers. Jackhammer creates a unique environment that offers the community a safe and welcoming space that attracts a diverse mix of the global LGBTQ fetish community seeking a no-attitude bar.

The Granville Anvil is a dimly lit and manly bar that draws a small community crowd particularly on weekends. There are no frills, just a good old fashioned gay pub with faded basement vibes that appeals to those who want a simple beer with down to earth people and none of the fuss that you might find elsewhere on the gay scene.

The North End is a long-running gay sports bar in Boystown that provides a laidback and unpretentious atmosphere. There are plenty of drinks specials to keep you in the moon as you watch whatever sports are on the TV or have a friendly game of pool or darts with the new friends you'll inevitably make. This is a classic sports bar at heart with a modern and stylish twist that suits the local gay community.

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.