Add a bit of glam to your night out on the town with Chicago’s premier burlesque and drag shows. From downtown to Northalsted (also known as Boystown) there’s a little something for everyone at these clubs, lounges, and venues.
The Baton Show Lounge
Drag queens have been taking the stage at the celebrated club for more than 50 years. The Baton Show Lounge in Uptown has attracted a celebrity clientele, including Joan Crawford, Kirk Douglas, Janet Jackson, and Madonna. Come experience a bit of the glamour for yourself Wednesday through Sunday every week.
Lips
Lips offers a drag dining experience unlike any other. The South Loop venue is decked out in glitz and glamour, like eight-foot crystal chandeliers and pink leopard walls. And the talented cast of nationally recognized drag talent serves up a dynamic show of lip syncing, live vocals, campy comedy, and more — they also double as your lively waitress for the evening. The menu is crafted by a top Chicago chef and features a variety of signature cocktails.
Teatro ZinZanni
Expect the unexpected at this truly one-of-a-kind spectacle, which has taken up residence in the heart of Chicago’s downtown Loop. Teatro ZinZanni is a dinner-and-a-show experience with mesmerizing cirque acts, comedy, cabaret, and more. Guests are seated cabaret-style in the heart of the action, while they enjoy a multi-course feast and elegant atmosphere.
Bordel
This sexy speakeasy in Wicker Park showcases a rotating cast of musicians, magicians, dancers, and more every night they’re open. Slip into one of the plush velvet booths at Bordel and be mesmerized by sensational burlesque shows, cabaret acts inspired by bohemian Paris, and other live performances fueled by fantasy, fetish, and glamour.
Kit Kat Lounge & Supper Club
Kit Kat Lounge & Supper Club in Northalsted is home to the legendary Kit Kat divas, a roster of glamorous drag queens that perform for each table for an interactive show. The cocktails are also showstoppers — they offer more than 200 options, including their award-winning martinis.
La Cueva
In the Little Village neighborhood, La Cueva is a historic LGBTQ+ nightclub that’s known as the oldest Latino drag bar in the country. For more than 40 years, the welcoming club has featured Spanish-speaking drag performers who channel some of the most beloved Latinx icons. Come on the weekend to dance and sing along with the diverse audience.
Roscoe’s Tavern
Roscoe’s Tavern is a local favorite in Northalsted. On Tuesdays, they host Roscoe’s Drag Race, Chicago’s longest running amateur drag competition. Come watch talented local queens, plus special celebrity guests, like RuPaul’s Drag Race stars, that occasionally stop by.
Sidetrack
Divas take to the stage every week at Sidetrack. Check the calendar for popular events like RuPaul’s Drag Race viewing parties and drag show competitions where you can vote for your favorite queens. Sidetrack is located in the heart of Northalsted, and just across the street from Roscoe’s Tavern.
Epiphany Center for the Arts
In the West Loop neighborhood, Epiphany Center for the Arts stages intimate live shows in their one-of-a-kind venue. Housed inside a revitalized church, the center includes several unique spaces where you can catch local musical acts and performing arts. Don’t miss The Sanctuary, a soaring room with vaulted ceilings, stained glass windows, and vintage chandeliers that’s perfect for cabaret-style performances.
Untitled Supper Club
Untitled Supper Club in River North gets a little racy on Thursdays during their Unbridled shows. Expect aerial, burlesque, circus, contortion, and freak performances that combine fantasy and artistry into one amazing show. It’s a perfect match for the club’s sultry speakeasy vibe.
The River
The River in Lakeview is home to one of the most raucous drag brunches in town. Every Sunday, divas steal the show with their wild antics and outrageous dance moves. Your ticket comes with a family-style brunch meal for the table, bottomless drinks, and a one-of-a-kind show.
