The SoFo Tap

Fancy a friendly queer neighbourhood bar without the full-on Boystown party atmosphere? Fathom brings something refreshingly different to Lakeview, with a nautical-inspired interior, comfortable booths, a long bar and a genuinely welcoming, mixed LGBTQ+ crowd. Opened in 2026 by the team behind Chicago's much-loved Dorothy lesbian bar, Fathom feels more like a place to settle in with friends than somewhere to compete with a thumping dance floor. Expect thoughtfully made cocktails, relaxed conversations and changing events including karaoke, pop-ups and community gatherings. It's particularly appealing if you enjoy discovering the neighbourhood bars where locals actually spend their evenings.

Right in the heart of Northalsted, Splash is a lively gay bar where cocktails, drag and dancing come together for a reliably entertaining night out. The venue mixes energetic party spaces with more comfortable spots to catch up over a drink, attracting a diverse LGBTQ+ crowd that knows how to have fun. The entertainment programme keeps things moving throughout the week, with DJs, drag performances and themed events catering to different moods. Friday's social gatherings offer a great way to get the weekend started, while Sunday afternoons bring a more playful combination of drinks, music and drag. Whether you're out with friends or making new ones, Splash is an easy addition to a night exploring the bars along Halsted Street.

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.

Bobby Love's is a gay karaoke bar in Boystown. During the day it's a neighbourhood bar that's home to loyal regulars enjoying a variety of specials that are on offer throughout the week. People pack into this tiny bar, especially on the weekends, to sing karaoke fuelled by strong drinks but throughout the week the jukebox is always playing great music as well.

Look for the unmarked red door on Chicago Avenue and head downstairs into Dorothy, a wonderfully atmospheric lesbian cocktail lounge inspired by the 1970s. Rich colours, plush seating and subdued lighting give this welcoming West Town hideaway a distinctly retro feel, making it a brilliant choice for a date or a relaxed evening with friends. Dorothy puts queer women at the heart of its community while welcoming the wider LGBTQ+ crowd. Its changing calendar includes DJs, live music, karaoke, film nights and social gatherings, so there's often more happening than just cocktails. It's intimate, full of personality and one of Chicago's most distinctive LGBTQ+ venues.

Chicago's gay scene extends well beyond the North Side, and Club Escape is one of the best reasons to explore South Shore. This longstanding LGBTQ+ nightclub combines lively drag entertainment with dancing, house music, hip-hop and a friendly local crowd that spans different ages and identities. The venue is particularly known for its regular drag productions, with performers bringing plenty of personality and theatrical flair to the stage. Friday nights lean towards music and dancing, while other evenings feature shows and special events. There's also a spacious outdoor patio for taking a break from the action. It's an excellent choice for experiencing Chicago's vibrant Black LGBTQ+ nightlife.