OUT at CHM | North Side LGBTQIA+ Stories Walking Tour

Did you know that Chicago is home to the very first LGBTQIA+ rights organization in the US (1924) AND the first Pride Parade in the world (1970)? As we celebrate the 250th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence, we are also taking time to consider the ways people in the United States make practice democracy through their words and actions. Led by Mike McMains of Tours with Mike, this tour explores the businesses and organizations in the Northalsted (formerly Boystown) area in Lakeview. Today, it is one of the country’s largest LGBTQIA+ districts and the very first “gayborhood” to be governmentally recognized. It’s home to numerous bars, restaurants, shops, and social services and civil rights organizations. You’ll discover: How the architecture evolved along with the neighborhood’s transformation The Legacy Walk, which honors LGBTQIA+ leaders and historical events Beautiful mosaics, murals, and sculptures celebrating Chicago’s diversity Wonderful spaces inside the Midwest’s largest LGBTQIA+ community center Attendees can enhance their tour experience by using their smartphones to view historical photographs related to the tour topics. $25, $22.50 members Tour runs approximately 90–120 minutes and is wheelchair accessible. Meet just outside of the Belmont Red/Brown/Purple Line train station’s southern entrance in front of Dunkin Donuts (945 West Belmont Avenue, Chicago, IL 60657). The tour ends at Center on Halsted (3656 North Halsted Street, Chicago, IL 60613) Tour also includes free admission to the Chicago History Museum, good for one week from tour date. Masks are optional for our outdoor walking tours. Learn more about our COVID-19 safety policies and procedures.