The 16 Best Lesbian Bars in Chicago

Looking for a vibrant and inclusive nightlife scene in Chicago? Look no further than the diverse array of lesbian bars scattered throughout the city. Whether you're a local or just passing through, these bars offer a welcoming space for women of all backgrounds to come together and let loose.
From cozy lounges to lively dance clubs, Chicago's lesbian bars cater to a variety of tastes. So grab your friends and get ready for a night of fun and celebration at one of these top-rated establishments.
- Welcoming atmosphere for women
- Diverse crowd and inclusivity
- Live music and entertainment options
- Drink specials and happy hours
- Various locations throughout Chicago
Discover the best lesbian bars in Chicago for a memorable night out on the town!
- 1. Kit Kat Lounge
- 2. Big Chicks
- 3. Roscoe's Tavern
- 4. Sidetrack
- 5. Scarlet Bar
- 6. Dorothy
- 7. Granville Anvil
- 8. Bobby Love's
- 9. CloudBar at 360 CHICAGO
- 10. Atmosphere
- 11. Second Story Bar
- 12. Jeffery Pub
- 13. Charlie's Chicago
- 14. Touché
- 15. Progress Bar Chicago
- 16. The Closet

- Monday: Closed
- Tuesday: 5 PM–2 AM
- Wednesday: 5 PM–2 AM
- Thursday: 5 PM–2 AM
- Friday: 5 PM–2 AM
- Saturday: 11 AM–2 AM
- Sunday: 11 AM–2 AM
1. Kit Kat Lounge
Information and Reviews
Customers have raved about their experiences at Kit Kat Lounge, highlighting a few key points:
- Awesome atmosphere and entertaining shows
- Delicious food and drinks, especially the Bottomless Mimosa Brunch
- Warm and welcoming vibe for all customers
If you're looking for a fun and lively place to enjoy a night out or a delightful brunch, Kit Kat Lounge is the place to be!

- Monday: 4 PM–2 AM
- Tuesday: 4 PM–2 AM
- Wednesday: 4 PM–2 AM
- Thursday: 4 PM–2 AM
- Friday: 4 PM–2 AM
- Saturday: 9 AM–2 AM
- Sunday: 9 AM–2 AM
2. Big Chicks
Information and Reviews
With a rating of 4.6 stars, it's no surprise that Big Chicks has received rave reviews from its patrons. Some key points from customer feedback include:
- Delicious food and strong drinks
- Fast and friendly service
- Supporting a queer-owned business with a rich history
- Great brunch and lunch spot
One review mentions the delightful experience of ordering the garlic parmesan fries and a strong, tasty drink. Another customer praises the excellent tuna melt on rye and the friendly service they received. Overall, patrons appreciate the quality of food, drinks, service, and the inclusive atmosphere at Big Chicks.

- Monday: 4 PM–2 AM
- Tuesday: 4 PM–2 AM
- Wednesday: 4 PM–2 AM
- Thursday: 4 PM–2 AM
- Friday: 4 PM–2 AM
- Saturday: 12 PM–3 AM
- Sunday: 12 PM–2 AM
3. Roscoe's Tavern
Information and Reviews
Customers rave about their experiences at Roscoe's Tavern. Here are some key points from the reviews:
- We went for an early dinner and enjoyed outstanding food, including the watermelon salad and gouda burger.
- Friday Night Lights was amazing, with last-minute front-row seats and friendly service.
- Drag queen meet-and-greet events and viewing parties are a must-attend for fans of RuPaul's Drag Race.
- Fun atmosphere with great drinks, delicious food, and complimentary shots during special events like Disney Bingo Night.
If you're looking for a LGBTQ+-friendly bar with a lively atmosphere, delicious food, and fantastic entertainment, make sure to check out Roscoe's Tavern in Chicago!

- Monday: 3 PM–2 AM
- Tuesday: 3 PM–2 AM
- Wednesday: 3 PM–2 AM
- Thursday: 3 PM–2 AM
- Friday: 3 PM–2 AM
- Saturday: 1 PM–3 AM
- Sunday: 1 PM–2 AM
4. Sidetrack
Information and Reviews
Customer reviews highlight several key points:
- Fun free-spirited club with a lively drag show and great drink options
- Fast service with a variety of bars and drink choices
- Great place for LGBTQIA+ community with entertaining events like band show tunes sing-along
- Spacious and clean club with friendly staff, ideal for a night out in Boys Town

- Monday: Closed
- Tuesday: Closed
- Wednesday: Closed
- Thursday: 8 PM–2 AM
- Friday: 8 PM–2 AM
- Saturday: 8 PM–3 AM
- Sunday: 2 PM–2 AM
5. Scarlet Bar
Information and Reviews
- Friendly staff and great music
- Unforgettable nights and endless memories
- Immaculate vibes and top-notch service
- Phenomenal drag performances and theme nights
Customers rave about their experiences at Scarlet Bar, highlighting the welcoming atmosphere, clean facilities, and excellent customer service. Whether you're looking for a night out with friends or a solo adventure, Scarlet Bar is the place to be for a memorable and fun-filled time.

- Monday: 6–10 PM
- Tuesday: Closed
- Wednesday: 6–10 PM
- Thursday: 6–10 PM
- Friday: 6 PM–12 AM
- Saturday: 6 PM–12 AM
- Sunday: 6–10 PM
6. Dorothy
Information and Reviews
Customers have shared their positive experiences, highlighting the following key points:
- Great bar for friends of Dorothy with a chill and laid-back glam vibe
- Super cute bar with nice bartenders, comforting environment, and awesome music
- Extremely queer-friendly with strong drinks, impeccable decor, and considerate staff
- Hidden gem with groovy couches, welcoming staff, and great happy hour deals
With a high rating of 4.6 and numerous positive customer reviews, Dorothy continues to attract a diverse and satisfied clientele who appreciate its unique atmosphere and offerings.

- Monday: 11 AM–2 AM
- Tuesday: 11 AM–2 AM
- Wednesday: 11 AM–2 AM
- Thursday: 11 AM–2 AM
- Friday: 11 AM–2 AM
- Saturday: 11 AM–3 AM
- Sunday: 11 AM–2 AM
7. Granville Anvil
Information and Reviews
Some key points from customer reviews:
- Great relaxed atmosphere with friendly bartenders
- Strong drinks and fun back patio area
- Good place to hang out, meet people, and have a drink
- Cute little patio out back for a cozy experience

- Monday: 3 PM–2 AM
- Tuesday: 3 PM–2 AM
- Wednesday: 3 PM–2 AM
- Thursday: 3 PM–2 AM
- Friday: 3 PM–2 AM
- Saturday: 12 PM–3 AM
- Sunday: 12 PM–2 AM
8. Bobby Love's
Information and Reviews
- Great crowd and crew always, with a welcoming community atmosphere
- Awesome drinks and fantastic karaoke experience
- Outstanding bartenders and friendly staff
- A classic spot in Boystown to hang out with friends
These reviews showcase the charm and appeal of Bobby Love's, making it a must-visit destination for those looking for a memorable night out in Chicago.

- Monday: 9 AM–11 PM
- Tuesday: 9 AM–11 PM
- Wednesday: 9 AM–11 PM
- Thursday: 9 AM–11 PM
- Friday: 9 AM–11 PM
- Saturday: 9 AM–11 PM
- Sunday: 9 AM–11 PM
9. CloudBar at 360 CHICAGO
Information and Reviews
Customer reviews highlight a few key points:
- Breathtaking panoramic views of the city
- Excellent service and accessibility options
- Pricey but worth it for the experience
Whether you're a local or a tourist, CloudBar at 360 CHICAGO is a must-visit destination for those looking to enjoy delicious drinks, good food, and a trendy atmosphere high above the bustling city streets.

- Monday: Closed
- Tuesday: 6 PM–2 AM
- Wednesday: 6 PM–2 AM
- Thursday: 6 PM–2 AM
- Friday: 6 PM–2 AM
- Saturday: 3 PM–3 AM
- Sunday: 3 PM–2 AM
10. Atmosphere
Information and Reviews
- Customers appreciate the diverse and enjoyable music selection, especially the 70's and 80's hits that bring a disco vibe.
- The delightful drinks and friendly bartenders add to the great experience.
- The bar is known for its lively crowd, exceptional service, and wild yet fun atmosphere.
- Visitors highly recommend Atmosphere for anyone looking to dance all night long and have a blast with friends.
From offering great cocktails to providing fast service and hosting quiz nights, Atmosphere ensures that every customer has a memorable experience. The bar is LGBTQ+ friendly and provides a safe space for everyone to enjoy.
If you are in search of a trendy and casual spot to unwind with friends, Atmosphere is the perfect place for you.

- Monday: 12 PM–1:30 AM
- Tuesday: 12 PM–1:30 AM
- Wednesday: 12 PM–1:30 AM
- Thursday: 12 PM–1:30 AM
- Friday: 12 PM–1:30 AM
- Saturday: 12 PM–2 AM
- Sunday: 12 PM–1:30 AM
11. Second Story Bar
Information and Reviews
Customer reviews highlight the following key points:
- The bar has an amazing atmosphere with excellent music and ultra kind service.
- Some customers had negative experiences with certain staff members, including instances of rude behavior and unprofessionalism.
- The bar is praised for being a hidden gem with a divey atmosphere, attracting a fun crowd and offering cheap cash-only drinks.
- The strong drinks, good mix of people, and overall fabulous vibe make this bar a must-visit spot in the area.

- Monday: Closed
- Tuesday: Closed
- Wednesday: 6 PM–4 AM
- Thursday: Closed
- Friday: 8 PM–4 AM
- Saturday: 8 PM–5 AM
- Sunday: 12 PM–4 AM
12. Jeffery Pub
Information and Reviews
- One customer described it as a "Very cute place with strong drinks and a dance floor."
- Another mentioned it as a "nice bar that caters to everyone of age and has gotten safer recently."
- A patron praised the bar for providing a safe space for mainly Black LGBT+ folks and commended the owner's efforts in making the space safer.
- Another customer expressed concern about safety after a recent tragedy nearby but still appreciated the changes made by the bar.
Overall, customers have enjoyed the friendly environment, strong drinks, and entertaining drag shows at Jeffery Pub. It is a place where people can have fun and make new friendships in a welcoming atmosphere.

- Monday: 3 PM–4 AM
- Tuesday: 3 PM–4 AM
- Wednesday: 3 PM–4 AM
- Thursday: 3 PM–4 AM
- Friday: 3 PM–4 AM
- Saturday: 3 PM–5 AM
- Sunday: 3 PM–4 AM
13. Charlie's Chicago
Information and Reviews
- Customers rave about the Country Line Dancing nights, describing them as fun and welcoming.
- Despite the positive feedback, some reviewers have mentioned instances of staff rudeness and poor customer service.
- Another highlight is the bar's commitment to maintaining its unique western theme and intimate atmosphere.
If you're looking for a place to enjoy great cocktails, partake in line dancing, and immerse yourself in a trendy and casual atmosphere, Charlie's Chicago is the place to be. Visit their website to learn more about their offerings and plan your next visit!

- Monday: 5 PM–4 AM
- Tuesday: 5 PM–4 AM
- Wednesday: 5 PM–4 AM
- Thursday: 5 PM–4 AM
- Friday: 5 PM–4 AM
- Saturday: 2 PM–5 AM
- Sunday: 2 PM–4 AM
14. Touché
Information and Reviews
Some key customer reviews include:
- An old-school bear/leather/backroom bar with friendly bartenders and a welcoming atmosphere.
- A negative experience with an unwelcoming bartender for a customer in their 40s, cautioning others to stay away.
- Praise for the bar's inclusivity and past events, along with a plea for forgiveness for a recent controversial incident.
- Criticism for hosting a bigoted show and lack of accountability from the management, advising minority groups to avoid the establishment.
Overall, despite some negative feedback, Touché continues to be a popular choice for those seeking a casual and trendy environment with a lively crowd. The bar offers a range of alcoholic beverages, including beer, cocktails, spirits, and wine, making it a versatile destination for a night out. With a rating of 4.0, Touché is a staple in Chicago's vibrant nightlife scene.

- Monday: 5 PM–2 AM
- Tuesday: 5 PM–2 AM
- Wednesday: 5 PM–2 AM
- Thursday: 5 PM–2 AM
- Friday: 5 PM–2 AM
- Saturday: 3 PM–3 AM
- Sunday: 1 PM–2 AM
15. Progress Bar Chicago
Information and Reviews
Customer reviews rave about their experiences at Progress Bar Chicago. Here are some key points summarizing their feedback:
- Great bartender with excellent suggestions
- Comfortable atmosphere and no dress code
- Good music selection with affordable drinks
- Friendly staff and patrons with great vibes
Overall, customers highly recommend visiting Progress Bar Chicago for a fun and enjoyable time.

- Monday: 4 PM–4 AM
- Tuesday: 4 PM–4 AM
- Wednesday: 4 PM–4 AM
- Thursday: 4 PM–4 AM
- Friday: 4 PM–4 AM
- Saturday: 12 PM–5 AM
- Sunday: 12 PM–4 AM
16. The Closet
Information and Reviews
Some key points from customer reviews include:
- HORRIBLE EXPERIENCE!!! The vibes are dark and depressing, and the bartender exudes negativity. Will never return or even come close to this place.
- Confusing and upsetting experience with the door guy who denied entry for no apparent reason. Made out of town friends think Chicago gay bars are awful.
- A go-to spot for a drink and chat in the neighborhood with a chill sapphic vibe and stern bartending. No issues as a trans person.
- Nice vibe and a chill place to grab a drink. Great for those looking for a low-key spot to socialize.
Whether you're looking for a lively dance party or a cozy place to have a drink and chat, The Closet offers a unique atmosphere that appeals to a wide range of customers. With friendly staff and a welcoming environment, it's a must-visit destination for those exploring the vibrant nightlife of Chicago.
Map of Lesbian Bars in Chicago
Chicago is a city known for its vibrant LGBTQ+ community, and lesbian bars have long been an important part of the city's nightlife scene. Whether you're looking for a cozy spot to have a drink with friends or a lively dance floor to let loose, Chicago's lesbian bars offer something for everyone. Check out the map below to find the best spots to enjoy a night out in the Windy City.
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