The gay nightlife in Chicago ranges from the loud and loose to the sedate. Most of the Chicago gay bars and clubs are conveniently located on North Halsted, an area known as Boystown, making it easy to sample several bars in one night. Another cluster can be found in Andersonville, with the rest of the gay and lesbian bars scattered throughout Chicago and the suburbs. The bars and clubs appeal to mixed crowds and tastes.

Limit bars by neighborhood: boystown, andersonville, and downtown.