Renaissance Chicago Downtown Hotel
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Gay Chicago
The Windy City is an absolute must-visit for any gay traveler. Brimming with culturally and architecturally rich neighborhoods, gorgeously designed parks, and long stretches of scenic lakefront, this city of nearly 3 million boasts a host of pleasures for gay travelers of all stripes.
With glamourous old hotels, world-renowned restaurants, and speakeasy-style cocktail bars practically on every corner, Chicago never fails to impress, whether it's your first time here or your hundredth. In the bustling downtown, historical theater marquees and landmark skyscrapers compete with thriving cafes and boutiques to garner attention from tourists. In the warm and humid summer months, sun-worshippers gather at the popular lakefront spots spanning the city's shores, including North Avenue Beach, Montrose Beach, and Kathy Osterman Beach, a beautiful gay beach on the north side.
Recently, Chicago was chosen to host the Gay Games, boosting the city's reputation as a continually growing gay hub.
Check out Kylie Condon's travel journal exploring the lesbian culture in Chicago. Lez Explore: Chicago
If you're a professional shopper or even a professional window-shopper, then you don't want to miss the Magnificent Mile, located in the shadows of the city's most iconic skyscrapers. This stretch of commercial indulgence is a marvel for shopaholics; you'll find an avenue lined with 460 different stores to feed your material cravings and over 220 delicious restaurants to enjoy. This retail district should quell all of your shopping addictions, but if you're looking for more, head over to Wicker Park or Bucktown for some out-of-this-world funky boutique shops and discount stores.
Into sports? A gay jock? Chicago has your name on it. The city hosts a myriad of sports franchises, including The White Sox, The Bears, The Cubs, and The Bulls. For memory, you can't forget, head over to Wrigley Field, one of the oldest ball fields in the nation, to get a sense of the deep history and community it holds. Tickets don't come cheap here, but it's worth every penny.
Here is something that you might not know: The Boystown neighborhood was the first officially recognized "gay village" in the nation after it blossomed into the central gay mecca in the 80s. Andersonville rivaled Boystown in attracting lesbians looking for an alternative gayborhood by the end of that decade. Nowadays, it's no longer so partitioned, with gays and lesbians living in both parts, and best of all, they all know how to have a good time!
Even if you don't consider yourself the typical tourist, there are some activities in Chicago you have to add to your itinerary. Take in incredible views from the top of the Ferris Wheel at Navy Pier or The Ledge at Skydeck Chicago. Make your trip fun and educational with a trip to the Field Museum, the Museum of Science and Industry, the Art Institute of Chicago, or the Shedd Aquarium. If you're there for a gay family vacation, hit up American Girl Place and The LEGO Store at Water Tower Place.
Once spring begins, the gayborhoods burst to life, with patio seating overflowing and attractive people flooding the streets in the latest spring fashions. The winters are frigid and overcast, and the sun only returns in late spring after nine harsh months of winter. Chicago does have a certain allure in the colder months, but you need to be sure to dress warm (yes, that means mittens, hats, and snow boots!). Packing accordingly is essential for any trip to Chicago.
Chicago Gay Scene
Most of Chicago's gay scene centers around two gayborhoods, Boystown and Andersonville. Boystown is centrally located next to Lake Michigan and the east of Clark Street. Boystown is anchored by two main drags, Halsted and Broadway, which make up the heart of this storied gayborhood. Halsted is the street to head to first if you're craving a drink at a gay or lesbian bar.
Located a few miles to the north, Andersonville is another flourishing LGBT-friendly zone. Compared to Boystown, Andersonville is considered much more diverse and eclectic. Its population comprises lesbians, though plenty of gay men make their home here, too.
During June and July, two Pride celebrations are hosted. The first celebration lasts for a month and is a long series of LGBT events that launches with an extravagant weekend festival and parade. The second event is Chicago's Windy City Black LGBT Pride Festival, a celebration of gay pride by the African-American population living in the community. Recently Chicago was chosen to host the prestigious Gay Games, further boosting its reputation as one of America's gayest cities.
Gay-Friendly Dining
Chicago's restaurant scene is world-class, offering everything from gourmet Chicago-style hot dogs to the best deep dish pizza in the country — and that's just the tip of the iceberg. No matter the type of food you're craving, Chicago almost certainly does it best.
Boystown's D.S. is a perfect place to begin your night out on the town. Offering a combination of Mexican and American fare, this place is bound to have something for a range of palates, plus you can choose the perfect frozen margarita to pair with your meal. The food here is reasonably priced and incredibly delicious, and the house tequila is fantastic.
Famous for its chicken pot pies, this longstanding Macy's staple has offered gourmet American fare since 1905. If you're visiting during the Christmas season, you must stop in to see the Great Tree, the 45-foot masterpiece exhibited in the center court of the dining room, and got kids in tow? Order from the children's menu.
This restaurant is perfect for a night out or a romantic dinner for two with a distinct South American aesthetic. Cocktails here are a must-try, as is the mouthwatering ceviche. The waitstaff is very helpful with recommendations and won't steer you in the wrong direction.
Gay-Friendly Nightlife
Chicago's gay nightlife takes the cake. Everyone has something, from laid-back gay bars to bumping gay clubs. A legendary night is out is just waiting to be had.
Are you looking to party in a gay Chicago icon? Berlin keeps the beat going all night long with dancing, drinks, and drag shows. It's easy to reach via the "El" train, so you don't have to fight over who's going to be the designated driver.
Drink specials every night, ALL NIGHT! 1920's influenced interior design and fun bartenders with a heavy hand. Get there a bit early or late come Friday and Saturday night(s) to avoid the line, but get there!
More than a thousand revelers can squeeze into this award-winning gay club, open until 3 am on the weekends. Come on a weeknight to see a drag show or sing along to show tunes.
A visit to SmartBar on a Sunday night is a great way to end the weekend and begin the week with both resident and guest house D.J.s. This is a mixed gay and straight-friendly club on Sunday Nights. The vibe will remind you a lot of Euro Industrial House, and on some nights, you'll be lucky enough to see some flashbacks to the Club Culture Kids.
Want to enjoy an intimate cocktail with a friend? Look no further than Elixir. This small-capacity lounge is excellent! The bartenders take their time in crafting a cocktail especially for you. The price is a bit on the higher side, but the drinks are worth the expense. Make sure to show up early to get a seat!
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