Chicago's iconic basement dance club. Home to the legendary 'Queen!' Sunday party, world-class sound, and a welcoming LGBTQ+ vibe.
Located in the heart of Wrigleyville, Smartbar is a cornerstone of Chicago’s legendary nightlife and a must-visit destination on any traveler's gay map. As one of the most respected independent dance clubs in the United States, this basement sanctuary has been a temple for house and techno for over four decades. While the venue attracts a diverse audience throughout the week, it is a pivotal hub for the LGBTQ+ community, celebrated for its inclusive atmosphere and world-class sound engineering. The club’s crowning jewel is 'Queen!', the legendary Sunday night residency that stands as Chicago’s premier underground house and disco party. Featuring iconic residents like Derrick Carter and Michael Serafini, and hosted by queer royalty like Lucy Stoole, it is a space where gay men, non-binary folks, and queer individuals of all identities unite under a state-of-the-art Funktion-One sound system. With gender-neutral bathrooms and a firm commitment to providing a safer space, Smartbar offers an authentic, high-energy environment. Whether you are exploring the city's queer roots or looking for the best dance floor in town, this iconic venue remains an essential stop for anyone seeking the heartbeat of Chicago house music.
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