Exclusive | Three Gay Days: Chicago Part Five

DAY THREE: BEACH, BAR AND BARBECUE
For your final day in town, head north. Discover another of Chicago?s best brunch addresses: M. Henry (5707 N. Clark; 773-561-1600; brunch $6-12), an Andersonville classic that features a modern take on breakfast classics. Breakfast is served all day, and includes the dulce banana rumba French toast, thick slices of brioche French toast layered with warm bananas, rum and golden raisins, and topped with cr?me caramel and toasted pecans. Several vegetarian and vegan items also are available. If the line?s too long, another favorite close to Andersonville is Tweet Let's Eat (5020 N. Sheridan Rd; 773-728-5576; brunch $7-11), a brunch spot serving causal breakfast to hung-over gay boys and lesbian soccer leagues.

If the weather is on your side, join the bronzed boys and girls at gay-frequented Hollywood Ardmore Beach (officially known as Kathy Osterman Beach, 5800 N. Lakeshore Drive), It remains one of the city?s quietest beaches, so stretch out on the sand and enjoy the scenery.

After all that exercise, join the Sunday afternoon exodus to non-smoking Big Chicks (5024 N. Sheridan Rd.; 773/728-5511), a neighborhood bar that has become a welcome alternative for guys and girls looking for a good time outside Boystown. Owner Michelle Fire makes sure everyone is welcome with complimentary shots at midnight, an intimate dance floor with techno pop and an enclosed outdoor patio. Her free Sunday BBQs are legendary, especially during the summer.

Get an early start on exploring Andersonville?s laid back gay scene. The pub Atmosphere (5355 N. Clark St.; 773-784-1100) draws a mix, but the crowd is mostly gay and significantly lesbian. Wood floors, exposed brick and galvanized surfaces create an upscale feel, and windows open on the street when it's warm. A long bar overlooks the dance floor. Clark?s on Clark (5001 N. Clark St; 773-728-2373) is one of a cluster of gay-oriented business round the Clark and Argyle intersection. A few doors away, Sofo (4923 N. Clark St; 773-784-7636) is another predominantly gay and lesbian lounge, with a beer garden and fun garage bar. While away the evening outside or playing darts, pool, or pinball in the cozy bar.

Part One | Part Two | Part Three | Part Four | Part Five