Gay Guide Chicago

Chicago, called the "City Of Big Shoulder" by Carl Sandburg is a sophisticated, big-hearted city. Chicago is a veritable museum of modern architecture. Although renowned for its skyscrapers, Chicago is a "green" city with more than 500 parks, 46 kilometres of beaches and bike trails. The city relishes public art, unique theatre, cultural festivals and music concerts of every genre. Chicago is the birth place of Blues and House music, which can be found nightly in small and large clubs, along with jazz, rock, techno and country. Chicago is a city of neighbourhoods, each with their own vibe, look and feel. Most of the gay bars and businesses are situated in "Boys Town," along North Halsted Street between Belmont Avenue and Grace Street and in Andersonville along Clark Street, between Lawrence and just North of Foster Avenue. International Mr. Leather is held in Chicago each year on the Memorial Day weekend and Chicago's pride festival takes place every year the last weekend in June. Another highlight of the summer festival season is North Halsted Market Days, a street festival held in late July or early August. The gay scene is quite diverse with less attitude and snobbery than in some other cities. People in the Midwest tend to be friendly and more outgoing. The easiest way to get around town is on the rapid transit trains.