Whether you’re looking for relaxation or adventure, you’ll find it in Illinois — a destination that’s #amazingforall
BY ILLINOIS OFFICE OF TOURISM
Start your trip in Chicago, the large, shimmering city on the shores of Lake Michigan.
In the summer, city life meets beach life thanks to Chicago’s 26 miles of publicly owned beaches, where you can lounge on the sand, swim in the lake or bike on the lakeside trails.
Frequented by the LGBTQ community, the beach popularly called “Hollywood Beach” is officially named Kathy Osterman Beach, in honor of a Chicago politician who fought for gay rights in the 1980s.
Beyond the fun in the sun, Chicago’s spectacular skyline invites you to explore the city. Head to Millennium Park to catch a glimpse of the Cloud Gate — aka The Bean — or hop aboard a riverboat for a tour of the architecture that tells the history of Chicago in every brick.
The metropolis of downtown Chicago may be exciting, but it’s the diverse neighborhoods that lend the city its character. In Andersonville, one of Chicago’s largest gay and lesbian communities, charming boutiques such as Foursided stock handcrafted gifts to give your shopping trips that personal, local touch.
Along the stretch of North Halsted Street known as Boystown, Chicago comes alive with friendly gay bars and some of the best nightlife in the city. More than a dance club, Berlin is where you’ll find some of the neighborhood’s most entertaining drag shows.
Boystown is also home to two of the biggest events of the Chicago summer: Northalsted Market Days, the largest outdoor street festival in the Midwest, and the Chicago Pride Festival, which culminates in a colorful Pride Parade that has been drawing revelers for 50 years.
Chicago is just the beginning of your adventure in Illinois.
Nestled in northwest Illinois on the banks of the Mississippi River, the historic town of Galena is great place for a romantic getaway. Start with a stroll along Main Street with its restored red brick buildings, then get a taste of Illinois wine with a visit to Galena Cellars Vineyard.
Tuck in for the night at one of Galena’s many bed and breakfasts that dot the hillsides, such as the rustic Inn at Irish Hollow.
For night on the town or a cozy night in, Illinois is full of LGBTQ-friendly destinations. There you’ll find a variety of warm, welcoming places to make your holiday amazing.
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