Here is something that you might not know: The Boystown neighborhood was the first officially recognized "gay village" in the nation after it blossomed into the central gay mecca in the 80s. Tickets don't come cheap here, but it's worth every penny. For memory, you can't forget, head over to Wrigley Field, one of the oldest ball fields in the nation, to get a sense of the deep history and community it holds. Into sports? A gay jock? Chicago has your name on it. The city hosts a myriad of sports franchises, including The White Sox, The Bears, The Cubs, and The Bulls. This retail district should quell all of your shopping addictions, but if you're looking for more, head over to Wicker Park or Bucktown for some out-of-this-world funky boutique shops and discount stores. This stretch of commercial indulgence is a marvel for shopaholics you'll find an avenue lined with 460 different stores to feed your material cravings and over 220 delicious restaurants to enjoy.
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If you're a professional shopper or even a professional window-shopper, then you don't want to miss the Magnificent Mile, located in the shadows of the city's most iconic skyscrapers. Check out Kylie Condon's travel journal exploring the lesbian culture in Chicago. Recently, Chicago was chosen to host the Gay Games, boosting the city's reputation as a continually growing gay hub. In the warm and humid summer months, sun-worshippers gather at the popular lakefront spots spanning the city's shores, including North Avenue Beach, Montrose Beach, and Kathy Osterman Beach, a beautiful gay beach on the north side. In the bustling downtown, historical theater marquees and landmark skyscrapers compete with thriving cafes and boutiques to garner attention from tourists. With glamourous old hotels, world-renowned restaurants, and speakeasy-style cocktail bars practically on every corner, Chicago never fails to impress, whether it's your first time here or your hundredth. Brimming with culturally and architecturally rich neighborhoods, gorgeously designed parks, and long stretches of scenic lakefront, this city of nearly 3 million boasts a host of pleasures for gay travelers of all stripes. The Windy City is an absolute must-visit for any gay traveler.