North Side LGBTQ Stories

Tour Description

LGBTQ (lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, and queer) businesses and organizations first started opening in the Northalsted (Boystown) area in the mid-1970s. Today it is one of the country’s largest LGBTQ districts and the first one formally recognized by its city government. On this walking tour, you’ll discover:

  • Stories about the area’s exciting bars, restaurants, and shops,

  • Architecture evolving along with the neighborhood’s transformation,

  • The Legacy Walk honoring LGBTQ leaders and historical events,

  • Beautiful mosaics, murals, and sculptures celebrating Chicago’s diversity, and

  • Wonderful spaces inside the Midwest’s largest LGBTQ community center.

Supplementing the experience, attendees can view on their smartphones a hidden webpage referencing historical photos linked to the tour topics discussed. I hope to see you soon as we explore North Side LGBTQ Stories together!

🏳️‍🌈🏳️‍⚧️

Tour Details

Start Time

Public tours are on the schedule on weekends during June’s Pride Month. You can alternatively book a private tour anytime you want.

Duration

120 minutes

Starting Point

Just outside of the Belmont Red/Brown/Purple Line train station’s southern entrance in front of Dunkin’ Donuts (945 W Belmont Ave.)

Ending Point

Center on Halsted (3656 N Halsted St.)

Walking Distance

Approximately 1.2 miles (1.9 kilometers)

Accessibility

The tour route is wheelchair accessible

Price

$30 per ticket

  • Among Tripadivsor's top 10% of reviewed experiences

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  • Runner-up for the Chicago Reader's Best Tour of 2021, 2022, and 2023

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  • Watch Mike’s discuss some of his unique tours on WGN TV

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  • WTTW’s Geoffrey Baer: “He is a tour guide’s tour guide.”

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Frequently Asked Questions

Who is the tour guide?

Mike McMains creates and delivers all Tours With Mike experiences, so you know you are getting a professional, passionate guide.

How do I find Mike?

He will be at the aforementioned starting point wearing a Tours With Mike polo, hat, or some other type of branded attire or accessory.

Do we go inside buildings?

Yes, we go inside the Center on Halsted and potentially other buildings.

Are dogs allowed on the tour?

Since the tour goes inside of buildings, dogs are not allowed.

Is there a restroom stop on the tour route?

Tourees are encouraged to stop at the restroom before the tour begins. There are several neighboring retail establishments that may have a public restroom available. A restroom stop can be made available during the tour upon request.

Can I buy my ticket in-person immediately before the start of the tour?

Tickets need to be purchased through this website in advance, because capacity is limited.

What is the cancellation/refund policy?

Tickets are fully refundable with at least 48 hours notice. Refund instructions are provided in the confirmation email.

What if it is raining?

All tours go out rain or shine, so please dress appropriately for the weather.

Are there any COVID-19 considerations in-place?

All tours follow guidelines laid out by the State of Illinois’s and City of Chicago’s health departments. Currently masks and proof of vaccination are not required. Your tour guide, Mike, has been fully vaccinated and boosted.

Can I book this as a private tour?

Absolutely! You can book this as a private in-person tour for up to 15 people or an interactive, live-streamed experience for up to 1,000 attendees. There is more information here.

Do you have questions about potentially booking this walking tour or anything else? If so, please fill out this form and I will get back to you as soon as possible.