Northalsted Boystown - a dirt road surrounded by grass and trees
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Northalsted Boystown

4.6
·491k reviews·Chicago, United States

Northalsted, Chicago's historic LGBTQ+ village, offers vibrant nightlife, unique shops, and a welcoming atmosphere rooted in decades of pride and acti...

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekend evenings

Bars and clubs come alive

CrowdHigh
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Northalsted Boystown - a dirt road surrounded by grass and trees

Northalsted Boystown

Best Time

Weekend evenings

Bars and clubs come alive

CrowdHigh
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Northalsted, Chicago's historic LGBTQ+ village, offers vibrant nightlife, unique shops, and a welcoming atmosphere rooted in decades of pride and activism.

4.6
(491k reviews)

"This neighborhood is a celebration of inclusion, history, and LGBTQ+ pride."

Vertical photo
TIP

🚶‍♀️ Stroll Northalsted

Wander the main street for unique shops and a vibrant atmosphere. Great for daytime exploration.

🍸 Bar Hopping Fun

Experience iconic LGBTQ+ bars like Sidetrack and Roscoe's for drinks and dancing.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Rainbow Pylons

Rainbow Pylons

Iconic symbols of pride and unity, these vibrant pylons mark the entrance to the neighborhood. A must-see photo op!

Instagram
Northalsted Street

Northalsted Street

The heart of the neighborhood, lined with diverse shops, restaurants, and iconic LGBTQ+ bars. Perfect for a stroll.

Reddit
Market Days

Market Days

An annual street festival celebrating LGBTQ+ culture with music, food, and vendors. A truly electric experience!

Instagram
OUTspoken Storytelling

OUTspoken Storytelling

A platform for LGBTQ+ individuals to share their stories, fostering connection and understanding.

Instagram
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Planning Your Visit

Embrace the Vibe

Northalsted, also known as Boystown, is a vibrant LGBTQ+ neighborhood. Expect lively bars, unique shops, and a strong sense of community. Daytime visits offer a more relaxed experience, while evenings come alive with nightlife. Reddit

Plan Your Visit

This historic gayborhood is easily accessible by public transport. Consider visiting during major events like Market Days for an extra festive atmosphere, but be prepared for larger crowds. Instagram

Best Times

When
Weekend evenings
Why
Bars and clubs come alive
Crowd
High
When
Market Days weekend
Why
Largest annual celebration
Crowd
High
When
Weekday afternoons
Why
More relaxed exploration
Crowd
Low

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Guide to Boystown Chicago #boystown #chicago #lakeview #lakevieweast #roscoes #sidetrack #steamworks #gay #gaytiktok #marketdays #northhalsted
@abbi.jpeg
18.7K likes • 112.4K views

🚶‍♀️ Stroll Northalsted

Wander the main street for unique shops and a vibrant atmosphere. Great for daytime exploration. Reddit

🍸 Bar Hopping Fun

Experience iconic LGBTQ+ bars like Sidetrack and Roscoe's for drinks and dancing. TikTokInstagram

Start at Replay with some chill arcade games 🎮, dance it out at Scarlett 💃, feel the full bar + club energy at Roscoe’s 🍸 and lose your voice at Progress to end the night right 🪩✨ That’s how you really party in Boystown. Want to catch more nights like this? Download Vibeo ~ Chicago’s ultimate nightlife app. Link in bio 📲 #thingstodoinchicago #nightoutchicago #chicagobars #chicago #nightlife #part...
@lets.vibeo
13.1K likes • 161K views
This was the first officially recognised gay village in the US. Make sure you have Northalsted (previously and still aka BoysTown) on your list for your next visit to Chicago. #gayvillage #chicago #boystown #northalsted #gaystagram #marketdays #chicagopride
theglobetrotterguys
2.2K likes • 84.8K views

🌈 Photo Ops Galore

Don't miss the Rainbow Pylons and colorful street art for memorable photos. Instagram

🎶 Live Music & Events

Check local listings for drag shows, storytelling events, and live music. Instagram

📍 Ubicado en Chicago, este vecindario icónico, ahora conocido como Northalsted, es más que un lugar; es una celebración de inclusión, historia y orgullo LGBTQ+. 🎶 ¿Qué encontrarás aquí? • 🏳️‍🌈 Los famosos Rainbow Pylons, símbolos del orgullo y la unidad. • 🕺 Bares y clubes vibrantes como Sidetrack y Roscoe’s Tavern para una noche inolvidable. • 🎭 Cultura y arte por todas partes, desde el Legac...
sthevacosta
3.8K likes • 55K views

Tips

from all over the internet

🚶‍♀️ Stroll Northalsted

Wander the main street for unique shops and a vibrant atmosphere. Great for daytime exploration. Reddit

🍸 Bar Hopping Fun

Experience iconic LGBTQ+ bars like Sidetrack and Roscoe's for drinks and dancing. TikTokInstagram

🌈 Photo Ops Galore

Don't miss the Rainbow Pylons and colorful street art for memorable photos. Instagram

🎶 Live Music & Events

Check local listings for drag shows, storytelling events, and live music. Instagram

🌮 Authentic Mexican Eats

Try El Mariachi for delicious, highly-rated Mexican cuisine in the neighborhood. TikTok

What Travellers Say

4.6
(491k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors consistently praise Northalsted for its vibrant atmosphere, inclusive spirit, and rich LGBTQ+ history. The neighborhood's lively bars, unique shops, and diverse dining options are major draws. While some find parking challenging, the overall experience is overwhelmingly positive, with many highlighting the welcoming community and energetic nightlife.

What People Like

Vibrant and inclusive atmosphere
Rich LGBTQ+ history
Lively nightlife and bars

What People Dislike

Challenging parking

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Northalsted is easily accessible via Chicago's public transit system. The CTA Red Line 'Belmont' station is a short walk away. Several bus routes also serve the area, making it convenient to reach from various parts of the city. TikTok

Street parking can be challenging, especially on weekends and during events. It's recommended to use public transportation or rideshare services. If driving, look for parking garages in the vicinity. Reddit

Yes, the neighborhood is very walkable. The main stretch of Northalsted Street is perfect for exploring on foot, with shops, bars, and restaurants all within easy reach. Reddit

Many visitors enjoy a self-guided walking tour, taking in the sights and sounds. For a deeper dive, consider checking for organized events or tours that highlight the area's history and culture. TikTok

Like any urban neighborhood, it's wise to be aware of your surroundings. However, Northalsted is generally considered a safe and welcoming area, especially during its active nightlife hours. TikTok

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

No, Northalsted is a public neighborhood and does not require tickets for general entry. However, specific venues or events within the neighborhood may have their own admission fees or cover charges. Reddit

Yes, many events like the outdoor LGBTQ+ museum tour are free. Keep an eye on local listings for community events, street festivals, and Pride Month celebrations which often have free access. TikTok

Bar and club hours vary, but most are open late into the night, especially on weekends. It's best to check the specific venue's website for their exact operating hours. TikTok

Market Days is a large street festival and typically does not have an entrance fee, though some vendors may charge for their goods and services. Instagram

The outdoor LGBTQ+ museum is a self-guided tour, so you can visit it at your leisure during daylight hours. TikTok

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

Don't miss the iconic Rainbow Pylons, the vibrant Northalsted Street, and the historic LGBTQ+ bars. Exploring the unique shops and public art is also highly recommended. InstagramReddit

You'll find a diverse range of shops, including boutiques, gift shops, bookstores, and specialty stores catering to the LGBTQ+ community and allies. Reddit

While known for its nightlife, daytime visits can be family-friendly. Strolling the street, visiting shops, and enjoying a meal can be enjoyable. Some events may also be suitable for all ages. TikTok

Northalsted is recognized as the first officially recognized gay village in the United States, with a rich history of activism and community building. Instagram+1

Popular spots include Sidetrack, Roscoe's Tavern, Progress, and North End, offering different vibes from arcade games to dance floors. TikTokInstagram+1

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

For authentic Mexican, El Mariachi Tequila Bar and Grill is a local favorite. 2D Restaurant offers a unique dining experience with great food. TikTokInstagram

Many restaurants in the area offer diverse menus that include vegetarian and vegan options. It's always a good idea to check the menu beforehand or ask your server. Reddit

You'll find a variety of cuisines, with a strong presence of Mexican restaurants, but also American, Italian, and more. The neighborhood caters to diverse tastes. TikTokInstagram

Yes, drag brunches are a popular offering, with places like Lark known for their phenomenal food and bottomless drinks. TikTok

North End is described as a relaxed sports bar, perfect for an easy afternoon drink. Many other bars also offer a more laid-back atmosphere during the day. TikTok

📸 📸 Photography

The Rainbow Pylons are a must-capture landmark. The vibrant street art, unique storefronts, and lively atmosphere also make for great photos. Instagram

It's generally polite to ask for permission before taking close-up photos of individuals. However, capturing the general street scenes and landmarks is common. Instagram

Golden hour, just after sunrise or before sunset, can offer beautiful lighting. However, the neighborhood's vibrant energy is also great to capture during the day and at night. TikTok

Events like Market Days offer a wealth of photo opportunities with colorful decorations, diverse crowds, and lively performances. Instagram

Most bars are welcoming to photos, especially during less crowded times. However, be mindful of others and avoid flash photography if it might be disruptive. TikTok

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

While Northalsted is famous for its nightlife, daytime visits can be enjoyable for families. Strolling along Northalsted Street offers a chance to explore unique shops and admire the vibrant atmosphere. Reddit Consider visiting during a drag brunch for a fun and entertaining experience that can be suitable for older children, or simply enjoy a meal at one of the neighborhood's diverse restaurants. TikTok

Daytime exploration allows you to appreciate the Rainbow Pylons and the general ambiance without the late-night crowds. It's a great opportunity to experience a welcoming and historically significant part of Chicago in a more relaxed setting. Instagram

💰 Budget Travelers

Northalsted can be explored on a budget by focusing on its free attractions and affordable dining options. The outdoor LGBTQ+ museum offers a fascinating historical tour without any cost. TikTok Wandering the streets, people-watching, and soaking in the atmosphere are also free activities. Reddit

For dining, look for happy hour specials at the bars or opt for more casual eateries. While some bars have cover charges, many offer a lively experience without one, especially during earlier hours. Consider visiting during weekday afternoons for a more relaxed and potentially less expensive experience. TikTok

🥂 Couples

Northalsted offers a vibrant and inclusive setting for couples looking for a fun night out or a unique daytime experience. Enjoy a cocktail crawl through some of the neighborhood's iconic bars, perhaps starting with a relaxed drink at North End and moving on to more energetic spots like Sidetrack or Roscoe's Tavern. TikTok+1

For a unique dining experience, consider 2D Restaurant for its artistic ambiance and delicious food, or enjoy a romantic dinner at one of the many diverse eateries. The neighborhood's lively yet welcoming atmosphere makes it a great place for couples to explore and create memorable experiences together. Instagram

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

A Hub of LGBTQ+ History and Culture

Northalsted holds the distinction of being the first officially recognized gay village in the United States.Instagram This rich history is palpable as you walk through the neighborhood, which was a crucial center for LGBTQ+ activism and community building. The Rainbow Pylons are not just decorative; they are powerful symbols of pride and resilience that have become synonymous with the area. Instagram

Beyond the iconic landmarks, Northalsted is a living testament to LGBTQ+ culture. It's a place where inclusion, diversity, and celebration are at the forefront. From its vibrant nightlife to its community-focused events like OUTspoken, the neighborhood provides a platform for voices to be heard and stories to be shared. Instagram This deep-rooted history makes Northalsted more than just a destination; it's a significant cultural landmark.

Experiencing Northalsted's Nightlife

When the sun sets, Northalsted truly comes alive with its renowned nightlife scene. The neighborhood boasts a variety of bars and clubs catering to different tastes, from relaxed sports bars to high-energy dance clubs. Sidetrack and Roscoe's Tavern are frequently mentioned as must-visit spots, offering everything from arcade games to dance floors and a lively atmosphere. TikTokInstagram

Many visitors highlight the vibrant energy and inclusive atmosphere of these establishments. Whether you're looking for a chill afternoon drink at a place like North End TikTok or a full-on party experience, Northalsted has options. It's a place where people come to connect, celebrate, and enjoy themselves in a welcoming environment. Remember to stay hydrated and have fun exploring the diverse offerings! Instagram

Culinary Delights in the Gayborhood

Northalsted offers a diverse culinary landscape, with a particular standout being its authentic Mexican restaurants. El Mariachi Tequila Bar and Grill is consistently praised by locals for its delicious food and vibrant atmosphere, making it a top recommendation for Mexican cuisine in Chicago. TikTok

Beyond Mexican fare, the neighborhood also features unique dining experiences like 2D Restaurant, which has impressed visitors with its unexpectedly great food and reasonable prices, all within a visually striking setting. Instagram Whether you're seeking a lively drag brunch with bottomless drinks at a place like Lark TikTok or a more casual meal, Northalsted provides a range of options to satisfy your appetite.

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