Chicago downtown gay bar

Welcome to our queer city guide series! Chicago isn't just known as the Windy City it also boasts a rich and diverseLGBTQ+ community, with a thriving nightlife scene to match. With $5 drink specials and $10 Champagne bottles on Sunday Fundays, this hideaway was tailor made for boozin’ on a budget.

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

Great drink specials and skilled DJs set this little dive apart.

Address : 3320 N Halsted St Chicago, IL 60657

Reservations : (773) 348-1053

SECOND STORY BAR

Looking for a gay bar near downtown Chicago? We’ve got tips for sober activities, too. Our gay and lesbian bars have a little bit of something for everyone, with late-night lounges, dance clubs,burlesque and drag shows, and long-standing neighborhood watering holes in almost every corner of the city.

Big Chicks

Address: 5024 N Sheridan Rd. Chicago, IL 60640

Located in Uptown, Big Chicks is a beloved queer bar known for its inclusive atmosphere, affordable drinks and cocktails, and hearty food menu. The bar is one of the last remnants of “Tower Town”, a former bohemian enclave that was known as an epicenter of LGBTQ life in Chicago.

Roscoe’s Tavern

A Northalsted essential, the welcoming Roscoe’s Tavern has been a go-to for the local LGBTQ community for more than 30 years.

Things get a little rowdier later in the evening, especially during themed events like Frat Night and Chicago’s Best Bear Night. It’s also a whole lot of fun. Get some friends together on Lex to meet up to watch the latest women's soccer or basketball game, or play a round of pool or darts.

Dorothy’s Downstairs

Address: 2500 West Chicago Ave. Chicago, IL 60622

Located in the West Town neighborhood of Chicago, Dorothy’s Downstairs is a sexy, 70s inspired subterranean lesbian cocktail lounge for every friend of Dorothy. Whether you're stopping by for a themed event or a casual night out with friends, Big Chicks welcomes all with open arms.

4.

It was much needed and the only way we could move forward.

So, we are trying for Landmark status to ensconce the building in protection from high rolling developers. It features a spacious outdoor beer garden, classic jams on the jukebox, and a selection of works by local artists. Their motto — no cover, no attitude — applies every night of the week.

Fold our tents? Andersonville’s friendly bear bar is fun in all weathers with weekly activities like karaoke and trivia, but really shines in the summer with its cozy back patio. 

This bar’s got all the fixins: a dartboard, a jukebox, flat-panel TVs, drink deals every night, and a lovable crowd you’ll fit right into.

Your four-legged pal can even make new friends as dogs are welcome to roam free during “doggy days” on Saturdays from noon to 3pm. 

Address : 4923 N Clark St Chicago 60640

Reservation : 773-784-7636

Written by Stuti Khetan, Beverage Trade Network

Chicago’s nightlife is a lot like the city itself — inclusive, diverse, and welcoming to all.

The walls are plastered with the owner’s personal collection of paintings and photos, including big names like Diane Arbus. or those who have had too much to drink. Roscoe's Tavern

Address: 3356 N Halsted St. Chicago, IL 60657

Another Boystown favorite, Roscoe's Tavern is a lively gay bar and entertainment venue that's been serving the LGBTQ+ community for over 30 years.