Beginning in 2012, bronze plaques were added along that historic stretch of Halsted commemorating LGBTQ+ figures and allies in Chicago and beyond. The Andersonville neighborhood is another great example of a welcoming and inclusive community. Their rotating exhibits cover everything from local drag icons to queer sports groups.
Also in Rogers Park, the Leather Archives & Museumis where you can learn everything you’ve ever wanted to know about the leather lifestyle.
The neighborhood also features a number of housing options, ranging from affordable to luxury.
Overall, Chicago is a great place to explore LGBTQ+-friendly neighborhoods. The LGBTQ community is no exception. A literal walk through history, these memorials are the world's largest collection of bronze biographical monuments.
Chicago prides itself on its inclusivity and acceptance of all its citizens, regardless of their race, gender, and sexual orientation.
The annual festival celebrates the community’s heritage with Swedish food, local artisans, and a Pride stage where you can catch performances from drag divas and Broadway stars.
Go under-the-radar in Rogers Park
This welcoming lakefront enclave is home to a fascinating slice of LGBTQ+ history.
Over the decades, the group evolved and eventually settled in the current space on Halsted and Waveland, providing mental health and legal services, free HIV testing, and support groups to LGBTQ+ people. Every Blueground apartment comes fully-furnished, equipped and serviced.
So, you don’t have to worry about buying furniture or setting up the internet.
These neighborhoods are filled with a diverse mix of people, and offer an array of activities and services specifically designed for the LGBTQ+ community. But there’s a love story beating at the heart of Sidetrack, too. For nightlife, head to neighborhood gay bars like The SoFo Tap, where you’ll find themed events and fun games.
Pilsen
Pilsen is most commonly known as the center of the Latino community.
This area is known for its vibrant nightlife, numerous restaurants, and its welcoming and accepting atmosphere.
What services and amenities are available in these neighborhoods? The neighborhoods offer a range of services and amenities that cater to the LGBTQ+ community, such as LGBTQ+ friendly bars and restaurants, unique shopping experiences, and events and activities hosted throughout the year.
Chicago is a city full of history, culture, and diversity. And while the whole city exudes a welcoming vibe, there are a couple of neighborhoods and places you shouldn’t miss.
LGBTQ+ neighborhoods in Chicago
Make a beeline for Northalsted
Northalsted, also known as Boystown, is the oldest LGBTQ+ neighborhood in the country.
It is home to many LGBTQ+ friendly businesses and organizations, making it a great place to find a diverse range of people and activities. This area is known for its vibrant music and art scene, and its numerous LGBTQ+ friendly bars and restaurants make it a great place to explore and experience Chicago’s diversity.