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Gay Illinois
Finding Welcoming Communities Across LGBTQ-Friendly Illinois
Chicago Gay Bars
Many of Chicago's gay bars can be found in an area known as "Boystown," a half-mile stretch of North Halsted and Broadway in East Lakeview
Chicago Gay Dance Clubs
Going out in Chicago? Check out the best gay dance clubs and LGBT-popular dance parties in Boystown
Gay Aurora Hotels & Information
Aurora is the second biggest city in the state of Illinois, second of course to Chicago. Aurora doesn't really have a gay scene.
Gay Chicago Hotels
Looking for a place to stay? Our top Chicago hotels are well-located for sightseeing, shopping and gay scene near the beach, Magnificent Mile, Boystown, gay bars and restaurants
What's On Today
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About Illinois
From Chicago to Bloomington, Illinois offers diverse gay-friendly havens. Progressive cities like Chicago, Evanston and Oak Park boast lively LGBTQ neighborhoods and pride events. College towns like Champaign-Urbana and Carbondale exude youthful queer energy. And Bloomington's longtime advocacy makes it an LGBTQ hub.
Where Are the Top Gay-Friendly Suburbs Around Chicago?
Just outside the Windy City, suburbs like Oak Park, Evanston and Oak Lawn have long nurtured vibrant queer communities. Head to Oak Park for LGBTQ bookstores, bars and neighborhood vibe. Evanston's proximity to Northwestern University contributes to its gay-friendly repute. And Oak Lawn balances LGBTQ nightlife with city access.
What Other Areas of Illinois Offer Thriving LGBTQ Culture?
Beyond Chicagoland, pockets across Illinois celebrate Pride loudly. Peoria, Rockford, Springfield, Alton and Galesburg all host annual Pride fests. And throughout the state, advocacy groups, community centers and university LGBTQ organizations empower queer residents to live out, loud and proud.
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-(11).png "Chicago Pride Fest")