12 Must-Do Activities In Boystown, Chicago

Nestled in the heart of Chicago, Boystown is a vibrant and inclusive neighborhood, welcoming people of all backgrounds and identities. From world-renowned restaurants to lively nightlife and colorful street festivals, there is no shortage of must-do activities in this lively enclave. Whether you are a local or visiting for the first time, there are 12 essential experiences that every visitor should add to their Chicago bucket list. Get ready to explore the best of Boystown with this ultimate guide to the top 12 things to do in this vibrant community.

Catch a show at the legendary Sidetrack bar

Characteristic	Description
Name	Sidetrack
Type	$$
Website	Go to website
Rating / Review count	4.3 / 441
Address	3349 N Halsted St, Chicago, IL 60657
Phone	(773) 477-9189
Hours	Saturday - 1 PM–3 AM Sunday - 1 PM–2 AM 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
Profiles

Chicago's Boystown, also known as the Northalsted neighborhood, is a famed LGBTQ community located in the Lakeview area of the city. It has been a popular destination among tourists and locals who seek a vibrant and welcoming environment.

One of the must-visit spots in Boystown is the legendary Sidetrack bar, which has been serving the community since 1982. The bar is renowned for its huge screens showing music videos and performances, which create a unique and lively atmosphere. Sidetrack is famous for its themed nights and events, which include drag shows, karaoke, and special screenings.

The bar's interior is full of charm and character, with multiple rooms and levels, each with unique decor and music. The friendly staff at Sidetrack will make you feel welcomed and provide you with excellent service, ensuring that you have a great experience. The bar is often packed with patrons of all ages, making it a great spot for solo travelers or groups of friends.

One of the most significant and beloved events held at Sidetrack is the annual Out at the Movies Film Festival. The festival offers the opportunity to watch a broad range of queer cinema, including short films, documentaries, and feature films. The festival aims to provide a safe and comfortable space for members of the LGBTQ community to enjoy quality cinema.

Sidetrack bar also plays an essential role in supporting charitable events and organizations. The bar's management has hosted numerous fundraisers to support LGBTQ rights and HIV/AIDS awareness initiatives. In addition, the famous "Boystown Christmas" decorations line the streets every winter, with Sidetrack being one of the major sponsors of the event.

In conclusion, a visit to Boystown is incomplete without experiencing the friendly and lively atmosphere of Sidetrack bar. Whether you're there to catch a show, enjoy a drink, or make new friends, Sidetrack bar will provide you with an unforgettable experience. So, next time you're in Chicago, don't forget to include Sidetrack in your itinerary.

Dance the night away at Roscoe's Tavern

Characteristic	Description
Name	Roscoe's Tavern
Type	Bar
Website	Go to website
Rating / Review count	4.3 / 1,036
Address	3356 N Halsted St, Chicago, IL 60657
Phone	(773) 281-3355
Hours	Saturday - 12 PM–3 AM Sunday - 12 PM–2 AM 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
Profiles

Boystown in Chicago is a vibrant and bustling neighborhood primarily catering to the LGBTQ+ community. It is home to many iconic landmarks and venues and offers a unique experience unlike any other. One of the most famous and popular destinations in this area is Roscoes Tavern, a gay bar known for its high-energy nightlife and excellent entertainment.

If you're looking for a place to dance the night away, Roscoes Tavern is the perfect spot to go. The music is always upbeat and the dance floor is always packed full of people ready to have a good time. The atmosphere is lively and buzzing, and the sparkling disco balls hanging from the ceiling add to the electric vibe of the place.

Roscoes Tavern has a rich history, having been established in 1987 by a group of four friends. Over the years, it has become a staple of the LGBTQ+ community and is now one of the most popular gay bars in the country. The staff is friendly and welcoming, and they are always happy to serve you a cold beer or mix you up a delicious cocktail.

Apart from the dance floor, Roscoes Tavern also offers a variety of other entertainment options. There are pool tables and dartboards for those who want to challenge their friends to a game. On the weekends, they have drag shows and karaoke contests that attract crowds from all over the city. The bar also hosts trivia nights and other special events throughout the year.

The bar also provides an extensive menu of food, including pizzas and other pub fare, perfect for filling your appetite after a long night of dancing. The kitchen remains open well into the night, so there's no need to worry about getting hungry on the dance floor.

In conclusion, if you're looking to dance the night away in Boystown, look no further than Roscoes Tavern. With its lively atmosphere, friendly staff, and top-notch entertainment, it's the perfect place for a night out with friends. So put on your dancing shoes and get ready to party at Roscoes Tavern!

Enjoy a cocktail at The Closet

Characteristic	Description
Name	The Closet
Type	Gay bar
Website	Go to website
Rating / Review count	3.3 / 86
Address	3325 N Broadway, Chicago, IL 60657
Phone	(773) 477-8533
Hours	Saturday - 12 PM–5 AM Sunday - 12 PM–4 AM 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
Profiles

Boystown is one of Chicago's popular neighborhoods that attracts people from all walks of life. This vibrant community celebrates diversity, pride, and showcases LGBTQ culture. Whether you're looking for entertainment, shopping, dining, or nightlife, Boystown has it all, and one spot worth visiting in the neighborhood is The Closet.

The Closet, located on 3325 N. Broadway St., is a chic and trendy bar that offers a cozy ambiance and laidback atmosphere. It's a perfect place for people who want to unwind, grab a drink or two, and socialize with friends. Once you step inside, you'll be greeted with a warm and welcoming environment, and its friendly staff will make you feel like you're part of the family.

The bar's interior design is impressive and exudes a contemporary and stylish vibe. It has a mixture of lighting, from low-hanging chandeliers to floating orbs that emit soft glow, creating a relaxing and intimate atmosphere. The walls are decorated with pop art and vintage posters, adding color and character to the place. The Closet also houses a spacious dance floor where you can show off your dance moves to the beat of the latest music.

The bar menu boasts a broad range of beer, wine, spirits, and cocktails. If you're feeling fruity, try their signature drink, "The Closet-Rita," a blend of citrus and tropical flavors that is pleasing to the palate. Their craft beer selection includes local and international brews perfect for beer enthusiasts. If you're not sure what to order, just ask the bartender, and they'll give you some recommendations.

The Closet has a reputation for hosting various events such as trivia night, karaoke, drag shows, and comedy nights. Each event provides a unique and fun experience, and it's a great opportunity to meet new people and make memories. If you're looking for a place to host a private party or corporate event, The Closet has private rooms available for booking.

In conclusion, visiting Boystown isn't complete without stopping by The Closet. It's an ideal spot for after-work drinks, weekend gatherings, or even a night out alone. With its lively ambiance, impressive cocktails, and welcoming staff, The Closet is an unforgettable experience that you don't want to miss.

Check out the artwork at the Center on Halsted

Characteristic	Description
Name	Center on Halsted
Type	Community center in Chicago, Illinois
Website	Go to website
Rating / Review count	4.7 / 804
Address	3656 N Halsted St, Chicago, IL 60613
Phone	(773) 472-6469
Hours	Saturday - 8 AM–9 PM Sunday - 8 AM–9 PM Monday - 8 AM–9 PM Tuesday - 8 AM–9 PM Wednesday - 8 AM–9 PM Thursday - 8 AM–9 PM Friday - 8 AM–9 PM
Profiles

If you are visiting or living in Chicago, you may have heard about Boystown. This is a vibrant and diverse neighborhood where you can find shops, restaurants, and entertainment venues that cater to the LGBTQ+ community. One of the must-visit places in Boystown is the Center on Halsted, where you can not only learn about LGBTQ+ history and culture but also see some inspiring art.

The Center on Halsted is a community center that offers resources and programs to LGBTQ+ people and their allies. It is housed in a beautiful and modern building that was designed by the architectural firm Gensler. The center opened its doors in 2007 and has since become a hub for LGBTQ+ activism and education.

One of the things that make the Center on Halsted special is its art collection. The center has a gallery space where it hosts exhibitions of contemporary art that explore LGBTQ+ themes and issues. The artwork is carefully curated to reflect the diversity and creativity of the LGBTQ+ community.

One of the recent exhibitions that took place at the Center on Halsted was titled "Transformative Power: Disability, Race, Gender, and Sexuality." This exhibition showcased the work of artists who address the intersections of these identities and challenge ableism, racism, sexism, and homophobia. The artworks ranged from multimedia installations to paintings, sculptures, and photography.

Another exhibition that was held at the center was called "Queer & Present Danger." This exhibition featured the work of queer artists who address political and social issues such as police brutality, immigration, and HIV/AIDS. The artworks were provocative and thought-provoking, and they reflected the activist spirit of the LGBTQ+ community.

Apart from hosting exhibitions, the Center on Halsted also has a permanent art collection that is displayed throughout the building. The collection includes a variety of artworks, from paintings and prints to sculptures and installations. Some of the artists represented in the collection are Lilli Carré, Mitsu Salmon, and Douglas Rieger.

In addition to the art, the Center on Halsted offers many other resources and programs to the LGBTQ+ community. These include counseling services, HIV/AIDS prevention and testing, legal assistance, youth programs, and senior services. The center also hosts events and workshops on a variety of topics related to LGBTQ+ rights and issues.

Overall, if you are looking for some inspiring and thought-provoking art in Boystown, the Center on Halsted is definitely worth a visit. The center is a welcoming and inclusive space that celebrates the diversity and creativity of the LGBTQ+ community. Whether you are a local or a visitor, you can learn a lot from the art and resources available at the Center on Halsted.

Brunch at Drew's on Halsted

Characteristic	Description
Name	Drew's on Halsted
Type	$$
Website	Go to website
Rating / Review count	4.4 / 633
Address	3201 N Halsted St, Chicago, IL 60657
Phone	(773) 244-9191
Hours	Saturday - 10 AM–10:30 PM Sunday - 10 AM–10 PM Monday - 11 AM–10 PM Tuesday - 11 AM–10 PM Wednesday - 11 AM–10 PM Thursday - 11 AM–10 PM Friday - 11 AM–10 PM
Profiles

If you find yourself in the Boystown neighborhood of Chicago, you won't want to miss out on a delicious brunch at Drew's on Halsted. This cozy restaurant, located on Halsted Street, has been serving up delicious breakfast and brunch options for over 20 years.

Drew's on Halsted boasts a menu full of classic brunch dishes with a twist. Their French Toast is made with fresh challah bread, and their Eggs Benedict can be customized with toppings such as avocado or salmon.

One of the highlights of Drew's on Halsted is their ricotta pancakes. These fluffy pancakes are topped with lemon curd and fresh berries, creating the perfect balance of sweet and tart flavors. If you're in the mood for something savory, try the Beneduckt, featuring duck confit and hollandaise sauce.

What sets Drew's on Halsted apart from other brunch spots in Boystown is their commitment to inclusivity. The staff is friendly and welcoming, and the restaurant features gender-neutral restrooms. They also offer a gluten-free menu for those with dietary restrictions.

In addition to their delicious food and inclusive atmosphere, Drew's on Halsted has a charming aesthetic. The walls are adorned with artwork and vintage mirrors, and there's even a cozy fireplace to keep you warm during the colder months.

Whether you're a resident of Boystown or just visiting, don't miss out on a brunch experience at Drew's on Halsted. It's the perfect spot for a delicious meal in a welcoming environment.

Get your game on at Replay

Characteristic	Description
Name	Replay Lakeview
Type	$$
Website	Go to website
Rating / Review count	4.4 / 614
Address	3439 N Halsted St, Chicago, IL 60657
Phone	(773) 661-9632
Hours	Saturday - 12 PM–3 AM Sunday - 12 PM–2 AM Monday - 2 PM–2 AM Tuesday - 2 PM–2 AM Wednesday - 2 PM–2 AM Thursday - 2 PM–2 AM Friday - 12 PM–2 AM
Profiles

Boystown, Chicago is known as the hub of the vibrant LGBTQ+ community in the city. However, this neighbourhood has many exciting places to visit for people of all ages and interests, one of which is Replay. If you're a gamer or just love arcade games, Replay is where you need to be.

Located in the heart of Boystown, Replay is an arcade bar that attracts visitors with its unique blend of gaming and nightlife. The bar features dozens of classic arcade games such as Ms. Pac-Man, NBA Jam, and Street Fighter, along with pinball machines, air hockey tables and more. The games are updated regularly to keep the experience fresh and exciting.

Replay ensures a fun-filled evening with friends or family. The atmosphere inside is electric with neon lights and blaring music. You can choose to grab a quick drink at the bar or spend the night playing games amidst the crowd of gamers reveling in their victories.

Furthermore, Replay has a fantastic collection of beers, cocktails, and food. The bar menu features specially-crafted cocktails with video game-inspired names, such as “Donkey Kong Island” and “The Princess Peach.” You can also indulge in burgers, pizzas, and other mouth-watering dishes while playing games.

The staff at Replay is friendly and helpful, always available to cater to your gaming needs. They’ll guide you through the gameplay and ensure you have the best experience in the arcade bar.

Moreover, Replay has a unique sense of social responsibility, and they’re committed to environmental sustainability. They use compostable straws, cups, and plates, and encourage recycling of materials. This eco-friendly approach marks them as a socially responsible business.

In conclusion, Replay is a must-visit spot in Boystown, Chicago. It has carved out a unique niche for itself as a gaming bar with its commitment to eco-friendliness and an electric atmosphere. Whether you’re a gamer or just want to spend a fun evening with friends, Replay guarantees a unique and enjoyable experience. So, get ready to put on your gaming hat and head to Replay for an unforgettable night!

Shop for LGBTQ+ merchandise at The Brown Elephant

Characteristic	Description
Name	The Brown Elephant Lakeview
Type	Thrift store in Chicago, Illinois
Website	Go to website
Rating / Review count	4.6 / 265
Address	3020 N Lincoln Ave, Chicago, IL 60657
Phone	(773) 549-5943
Hours	Saturday - 11 AM–6 PM Sunday - 11 AM–6 PM Monday - 11 AM–6 PM Tuesday - 11 AM–6 PM Wednesday - 11 AM–6 PM Thursday - 11 AM–6 PM Friday - 11 AM–6 PM
Profiles

Chicago's Boystown neighborhood is widely known as one of the most vibrant LGBTQ+ communities in the country. It's a place of acceptance, diversity, and pride, complete with an array of shops, bars, restaurants, and cultural institutions that cater specifically to the LGBTQ+ community.

If you're looking to show off your pride and support the community while doing some shopping, The Brown Elephant is a must-visit destination in Boystown. Located at 5404 N Clark St, this thrift store is stocked with all kinds of LGBTQ+ merchandise that you'll love.

The Brown Elephant has been around for more than 30 years, and in that time it has become a beloved institution in the Boystown community. The store's proceeds go to the Howard Brown Health Center, which is dedicated to providing healthcare services to LGBTQ+ individuals.

If you're looking for clothing, The Brown Elephant has a range of options to suit any taste or style. You can find everything from vintage t-shirts and tank tops to dresses, jackets, and accessories. The store also has a wide selection of kitschy and funky jewelry, including rainbow bracelets, earrings, and necklaces.

But that's just the beginning. The Brown Elephant also has a large selection of home goods, like candles, picture frames, and kitchenware, many of which are adorned with pride flags and other LGBTQ+ symbols. You can even find collectibles, like action figures and figurines, that celebrate gay icons like Freddie Mercury and RuPaul.

Whether you're shopping for yourself or trying to find the perfect gift for a friend or loved one, The Brown Elephant is a great place to start. Not only will you be supporting a worthy cause, but you'll also be able to find unique and meaningful LGBTQ+ merchandise that you won't find anywhere else.

If you're visiting Chicago, make sure to set aside some time to explore Boystown and check out The Brown Elephant. You'll be glad you did.

Sing your heart out at Kit Kat Lounge and Supper Club

Characteristic	Description
Name	Kit Kat Lounge
Type	$$
Website	Go to website
Rating / Review count	4.4 / 1,230
Address	3700 N Halsted St, Chicago, IL 60613
Phone	(773) 525-1111
Hours	Saturday - 10:30 AM–2 AM Sunday - 10:30 AM–2 AM Monday - Closed Tuesday - 5 PM–2 AM Wednesday - 5 PM–2 AM Thursday - 5 PM–2 AM Friday - 5 PM–2 AM
Profiles

Boystown in Chicago is one of the most popular LGBT neighborhoods in the United States. With its vibrant community, colorful streets and endless entertainment options, it's no wonder that millions of tourists from around the world come to Boystown every year. Among the many attractions is the Kit Kat Lounge and Supper Club, a famous destination for those who love to sing their hearts out.

Located at 3700 N Halsted St, Kit Kat Lounge and Supper Club is a unique venue that combines delicious dining with live entertainment. The venue is widely known for its diva impersonation shows, where talented performers dress up as famous stars such as Madonna, Cher, Beyonce and Lady Gaga. These shows are quite a spectacle, with the performers singing, dancing and interacting with the audience, creating an unforgettable experience.

But the real star of the show is the karaoke, which takes place every Monday, Wednesday, Thursday and Sunday nights. It’s a chance for visitors to go up on stage, choose their favorite song and sing it to their heart’s content. The venue's sound system and lighting are top-notch, creating a thrilling atmosphere that encourages the crowd to get involved.

Kit Kat Lounge and Supper Club caters to all styles, with a large selection of songs from every decade and genre. From classic hits such as "Bohemian Rhapsody" to the latest chart-topping songs, there's something for everyone. The friendly staff and welcoming atmosphere make Kit Kat Lounge and Supper Club the perfect place to let loose, have some fun and sing the night away.

In addition to karaoke, Kit Kat Lounge and Supper Club offers a tantalizing menu that features American comfort food with a twist. From buffalo wings to mac and cheese, grilled salmon to steak, the menu has a range of options that are sure to satisfy any appetite. The bar offers a range of handcrafted cocktails and an extensive wine list. The menu has something for everyone, so visitors can relax and enjoy a delicious meal while taking in the live entertainment.

Boystown in Chicago is full of surprises, and Kit Kat Lounge and Supper Club is certainly one of them. If you're visiting Boystown, don't miss the experience of singing your heart out at this epicenter of music and entertainment. Whether you're a seasoned performer or just singing for fun, Kit Kat Lounge and Supper Club is the perfect place to let your inner diva shine.

Grab a slice of pizza at Blaze Pizza

Boystown, located in the Lakeview neighborhood of Chicago, is a lively and diverse community that is home to many LGBTQ+ individuals and businesses. One of the most popular spots to grab a bite to eat in Boystown is at Blaze Pizza, where you can enjoy a delicious slice of pizza made with fresh, high-quality ingredients.

Blaze Pizza has quickly become a go-to destination for pizza lovers in Chicago, thanks to its commitment to using only the freshest ingredients and its unique approach to pizza-making. At Blaze Pizza, customers can create their own custom pizza with a wide variety of fresh toppings, or they can choose from one of their signature pies, such as the Meat Eater or the Veg Out.

One of the things that sets Blaze Pizza apart from other pizza places in Chicago is its commitment to using fresh, non-GMO ingredients. All of their dough is made from scratch using an all-natural yeast that is allowed to rise for 24 hours, which gives the pizza a unique, delicious flavor that is unmatched by other pizza chains.

In addition to their commitment to using fresh, high-quality ingredients, Blaze Pizza also offers a number of vegan and gluten-free options, making it a great choice for individuals with dietary restrictions. They even have a special vegan cheese that melts and tastes just like the real thing!

So why not head over to Blaze Pizza in Boystown and grab a slice of pizza? Whether you're in the mood for something classic, like a pepperoni pizza, or you want to try something new and exciting, like a pizza topped with goat cheese and arugula, Blaze Pizza has you covered. And with its prime location in the heart of Boystown, you'll have plenty of other great places to explore and enjoy after you finish your meal.

Have a beer at Elixir Lounge

Characteristic	Description
Name	Elixir Lounge
Type	$$
Website	Go to website
Rating / Review count	4.7 / 159
Address	3452 N Halsted St, Chicago, IL 60657
Phone	(773) 975-9244
Hours	Saturday - 5 PM–5 AM Sunday - 5 PM–12 AM Monday - 5 PM–2 AM Tuesday - Closed Wednesday - 5 PM–2 AM Thursday - 5 PM–2 AM Friday - 5 PM–4 AM
Profiles

Boystown, located in the heart of Chicago's Lakeview neighborhood, is known for its lively community and thriving LGBTQ+ scene. With a variety of restaurants, bars, and clubs, there is no shortage of things to do in this vibrant area. One spot that should definitely be on your list is Elixir Lounge, a cozy neighborhood bar with a great selection of craft beers, cocktails, and tasty bites.

When you step into Elixir, you will immediately feel welcomed by the friendly staff and cozy atmosphere. The bar is dimly lit with dark wood accents and exposed brick, creating a warm and inviting ambiance. The walls are adorned with artwork from local artists, adding to the eclectic vibe of the place.

One of the standout features of Elixir is their impressive list of craft beers. With over 100 different types to choose from, beer lovers will have no trouble finding a new favorite. Whether you're in the mood for something hoppy, malty, or fruity, the knowledgeable bartenders can guide you towards the perfect pint. They also offer a rotating selection of local brews, which is a great way to support the Chicago community.

If beer isn't your thing, Elixir also serves an array of cocktails, wine, and spirits. Their mixologists are skilled at creating unique and flavorful drinks that are perfect for sipping on a cozy night out. One popular option is the "Busted Paloma," a refreshing mix of tequila, grapefruit soda, and fresh citrus.

To pair with your drinks, Elixir also serves up a variety of small plates and snacks. The menu features classic bar fare like loaded tater tots and wings, as well as more upscale options like charcuterie boards and oysters. There is something for everyone on the menu, making it a great spot to grab a bite to eat before a night out in Boystown.

Overall, Elixir Lounge is a must-visit spot for anyone exploring the Boystown neighborhood. With its cozy atmosphere, impressive beer selection, and tasty bites, it's the perfect place to unwind and enjoy a cold one. So next time you're in the area, be sure to stop by Elixir and have a beer - or two!

Try the famous mac and cheese at Wood

Boystown in Chicago is one of the most vibrant and diverse neighborhoods in the city. Filled with unique shops, restaurants, and bars, there's always something exciting happening in this community. But one must-try destination in Boystown is Wood, located at 3335 N. Halsted St. If you're looking for a new spot to enjoy some classic mac and cheese, Wood has you covered.

Wood is a trendy restaurant that promises rustic-chic vibes and locally sourced ingredients that will have you salivating in no time. Along with a host of tasty dishes, this restaurant is famous for its mac and cheese. Made with creamy cheese sauce and topped with panko breadcrumbs, the mac and cheese at Wood is a standout dish that provides a unique twist on a classic comfort food.

But what makes the mac and cheese at Wood so special? It all starts with the locally sourced ingredients that the chefs use to make the sauce. The craft beer they use adds a delicious maltiness to the cheese sauce, and when combined with the hot pasta, it creates an incredibly satisfying dish. The homemade panko breadcrumbs baked on top of the mac and cheese add a crunchy texture to the dish, making every bite even more satisfying.

But that's not all. Wood is a great destination all year round, and its atmosphere is the perfect addition to any night out. The restaurant has a cozy, warm setting with wooden floors, exposed brick walls, and a fireplace. If you're in Boystown during the warmer months, you can also sit outside and enjoy the beautiful Chicago weather while you savor your dish of mac and cheese.

In conclusion, if you're in Boystown and looking for a must-try dish, make sure to head to Wood for some delicious mac and cheese. The locally sourced ingredients and homemade panko breadcrumbs set this dish apart from the others, while the cozy, rustic atmosphere only adds to the entire experience. You won't regret stopping by for a bite.

Take a stroll through the rainbow crosswalks at Belmont and Halsted

If you're seeking a fun and friendly destination in Chicago, look no further than Boystown. This historic neighborhood, located on the North Side, offers a colorful array of shops, restaurants, and entertainment options. And one must-see attraction is the rainbow crosswalks at Belmont and Halsted.

Boystown has a rich history as one of the United States' first "gay villages." It was founded in the 1960s and quickly became a hub for LGBTQ+ culture and activism. Today, it remains a landmark destination for anyone seeking a welcoming and diverse community.

The rainbow crosswalks at Belmont and Halsted are a symbol of this community's vibrant spirit. Installed in 2012, they are the first of their kind in the Midwest. When you walk across these colorful stripes, you're literally stepping into a space that celebrates inclusivity and diversity.

The rainbow flag, which inspired the crosswalk design, was created by artist and activist Gilbert Baker in 1978. Today, it's recognized worldwide as a symbol of LGBTQ+ pride. Each color on the flag represents a different aspect of this community's identity: red for life, orange for healing, yellow for sunlight, green for nature, blue for harmony, and purple for spirit.

The Boystown crosswalks offer a dazzling display of these colors. In addition to being a celebration of pride, they're also functional. The colorful stripes are a visual reminder for drivers to slow down and yield to pedestrians. They serve as a shining example of how public art can also serve a practical purpose.

Beyond the crosswalks, Boystown is a destination brimming with things to do. Check out the Center on Halsted, which offers a variety of LGBTQ+ programs and events. Take in a show at the legendary Laugh Factory comedy club. Or grab a bite at one of the many restaurants and bars that line the streets.

In short, Boystown is one of Chicago's must-see destinations. And the rainbow crosswalks at Belmont and Halsted are a shining symbol of this community's vibrant culture. So come for the rainbow stripes and stay for the fun, friendly neighborhood that surrounds them.

Frequently asked questions