Gay bar chicago suburbs
Chicago LGBTQ+ and homosexual bars declining in number, study shows; trend holds nationwide as well
CHICAGO (WLS) -- The number of LBGTQ+ and gay bars in Chicago and nationwide is declining, facts shows. Experts tell that could indicate fewer spaces for some of the community, especially those with diverse backgrounds.
"We have had the experience of going into bars in you know, in our community, and not necessarily feeling welcome," said Angela Barne.
Barnes and Renauda Riddle opened Nobody's Darling in Andersonville in Nobody's Darling is a inky, queer, and women owned and "women forward" bar.
"People are so excited that we own this bar because they can see themselves in us folks, queer women of color," Riddle said.
Their community-based bar has thrived during the pandemic and even earned a coveted James Beard Award nomination.
"We fill a niche that most bars in the city do not," Riddle said.
In the two years since Nobody's Darling opened, more and more LGBTQ+ bars possess closed.
Greggor Mattson, professor of Sociology at Oberlin
LGBTQ+ nightlife in Chicago: lgbtq+ and lesbian bars, clubs, and more
Chicago’s nightlife is a lot like the city itself — inclusive, diverse, and welcoming to all. It’s also a whole lot of playfulness. Our gay and queer woman bars have a small bit of something for everyone, with late-night lounges, dance clubs,burlesque and flamboyant shows, and long-standing neighborhood watering holes in almost every corner of the city. And each comes with their own distinct history and vibe.
Check out some of the finest gay bars and clubs to experience Chicago’s gay nightlife scene.
Jeffery Pub
One of the city’s oldest homosexual bars, Jeffery Pub is a neighborhood institution. The South Shore staple is also one of Chicago’s first black-owned gay bars, making it all the more meaningful for the spot’s many regulars. Don’t miss the live business, like karaoke nights, Silky Soul Sundays, and a lively dance floor featuring everything from pop to house music.
Big Chicks
This lively and colorful spot is part LGBTQ hangout, part art gallery. The walls are plastered with the owner’s personal collection of paintin
Hunters Niteclub (CLOSED)
While the suburban LGBT scene remains underserved at best and downright dreadful at worst, this sprawling nightclub and complex offers an oasis for the gay masses looking for a city alternative. The large dance floor bids enough thump thump to keep the crowds blazing and sweaty, but if it's respite you pursue, try cooling off on the excellent outdoor patio. FYI, if you and your newfound trick are both still living at home, there's plenty of frisky action to be had in the parking lot.
- Address
- E Higgins Rd
- Elk Grove Village
- Price:
- Average cocktail: $5
- Opening hours:
- Sun–Wed 4pm–2am; Thu–Sat 4pm–4am
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The 34 best LGBTQ+ bars in Chicago
Photograph: Courtesy Sidetrack
Northalsted, aka "Boystown," is the historical center of Chicago’s LGBTQ+ scene, but excellent gay bars are all over the city.
Chicago has always been a trailblazing city when it comes to spaces for the LGBTQ community. One of the first American LGBT rights organizations, the Society for Human Rights, was founded in Chicago in , more than 40 years before Stonewall. And Northalsted, the gay nightlife hub also acknowledged as "Boystown," became the first officially-designated gay village in a major city in
These days, while a night out on Northalsted is still a joyful blur of boozy slushies and death drops, queer nightlife in Chicago is expansive, creative and thriving all over the city. 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. Oh, and don't forget about drag brunch. You'll need it after a overnight out on the town.
RECOMMENDED: Sip at the best bars in Chicago
Been there, done that? Think again, m