Summary
Although Chicago boasts one of the finest selections of gay nightspots in the country, most of these venues—from bars and discos to LGBT-popular restaurants—are located in lively mixed residential-commercial neighborhoods primarily on the north side of the city. However, you can discover extensive lists of establishments in the Chicago Lakeview Gay Nightlife Guide and the Chicago Andersonville Gay Nightlife Guide. While these neighborhoods are certainly enjoyable, reaching them can require a bit of time by cab or public transport from downtown Chicago, where the majority of the city’s hotels are situated.
Fortunately, there are several exciting gay nightspots right in the heart of downtown, not to mention an almost endless array of fabulous restaurants that cater to a mixed gay and straight clientele. Moreover, on the city’s South Side, you will find two remarkable gay bars that serve primarily African-American patrons: Club Escape and Jeffery Pub. Although these venues are somewhat distant, they are legendary spots worth visiting, especially considering the gradual disappearance of many gay African-American hangouts across the nation over the years.
1. Club Escape, South Side – gay bar
Address: 1530 E 75th St, Chicago, IL 60619-2111, USA
Phone: +1 872-228-1567
Housed behind an art deco facade, Club Escape is one of two long-standing gay bars on Chicago’s South Side, primarily catering to the city’s large African-American GLBT community (the other being the Jeffrey Pub). Escape truly comes alive on weekends, hosting some of the best drag acts in town. Moreover, Thursday’s “Ladies Night” is exceptionally popular. During the weekdays, the atmosphere is more relaxed, but with $10 pitchers of beer and a welcoming staff, regulars keep returning.
2. Jeffery Pub, South Side – gay bar
Address: 7041 S Jeffery Blvd, Chicago, IL 60649-2015, USA
Phone: +1 773-363-8555
As one of the most historic gay bars in Chicago, Jeffery Pub has been a cornerstone of the South Shore community for over 40 years, serving as a gathering place for the city’s African-American gay community. The iconic bar features drag shows and a lively dance scene throughout the weekend. Although the dance floor may be a bit tight, the fantastic music and high energy create a memorable atmosphere.
3. Baton Show Lounge, Downtown – gay bar
Address: 4713 N Broadway, Chicago, IL 60640, USA
Phone: +1 312-644-5269
As one of the longest-running gay clubs in the Midwest, the iconic Baton Show Lounge is celebrated as one of the country’s premier female impersonation cabarets. Situated in downtown Chicago’s Near North neighborhood (at 436 N. Clark St., 312-644-5269), the captivating drag shows occur from Wednesday through Sunday, beginning at 8:30 PM with three shows nightly. Consequently, making a reservation is strongly advised, especially on weekends.
