Brought to you by Chicago’s Best Boystown Movers

One of the first official LGBT neighborhoods in the US, Boystown is known for being lively, colorful and full of character. It offers great neighborhood amenities, unique shops and restaurants, and a nightlife scene that keeps the streets buzzing well into the night. As you’re moving to Boystown, you may find yourself settling into a renovated historic home on a quiet side street or choosing a place closer to the heart of the action. Wherever you decide to live, you can count on STI Moving & Storage to be the best Boystown movers.

When you live in Boystown, you’ll be joining a community of about 16,500 residents from diverse backgrounds and orientations. There are slightly more men than women, along with a significant number of families with children. Residents of Boystown generally earn more than $60k per year and have at least a Bachelor’s degree.

Through the early 20th century, when it was more commonly known as East Lakeview, the neighborhood was home to large German and Scandinavian communities. By the mid-20th century, the area had become known for being gay-friendly and hosted its first Gay Pride Parade in 1970. The nickname Boystown followed shortly afterward. In the late 1990s, the neighborhood was officially designated as a gay village. Around that time, art deco-style rainbow monuments were installed throughout the area and they remain today as a tribute to Boystown’s history.

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Now that you’ve got the gist, here are some highlights—and basics—we’ve gathered to help you get started with life in Boystown.

Things to Do in Boystown

  • Space Park on Roscoe: A local community garden where residents can enjoy green space and gardening.
  • Martin Playlot Park: A neighborhood playground that’s great for families and children.
  • Northalsted Market Days: A huge annual street festival with music, entertainment, food and shopping.
  • Chicago Pride: A major annual celebration held every June.
  • Center on Halsted: A modern community center offering resources, programs and support for the LGBT community.
  • Laugh Factory: A popular comedy club featuring well-known stand-up comedians.
  • Annoyance Theatre & Bar: A favorite spot for improv shows, sketch comedy and alternative performances.
  • Beatnix: A fun shop known for costumes, wigs, vintage clothing and unique accessories.
  • Ragstock: A budget-friendly store offering both new and recycled clothing.

Best Restaurants in Boystown

  • Pizza: Features TVs, board games and a DJ. Open late.

3441 N Halsted St. | (773) 799-8968

  • Tacos:S Tequila Company. Also serves burgers. Patio seating available.

3352 N Halsted St. | (773) 697-9127

  • Sushi: BYOB, but no hard liquor.

3344 N Halsted St. | (773) 281-6400

  • Vegan Brunch: Chicago Diner. Delivery available.

3411 N Halsted St. | (773) 935-6696

  • Omnivore Brunch: Drew’s on Halsted. A great choice for families.

3201 N Halsted St. | (773) 244-9191

  • Michelin Favorite: High quality with excellent value.

3335 N Halsted St. | (773) 935-9663 (WOOD)

  • Shows: Kit Kat Lounge & Supper Club. Drag performances during dinner and brunch.

3700 N Halsted St. | (773) 525-1111

  • Late Night: Plenty of options after last call.
  • Taco & Burrito Palace: Two locations.
    • North: 3507 N Halsted St. | (773) 929-4040
    • South: 2459 N Halsted St. | (773) 248-0740
  • Tasty Asian Restaurant: Delivery available.

3500 N Broadway St. | (773) 666-5820

Best Bars in Boystown

  • Community Spot: Roscoe’s Tavern. One of the neighborhood’s most well-known LGBTQ+ bars and a popular gathering place.

3356 N Halsted St. | (773) 281-3355

  • Rooftop Bar: A spacious venue with multiple levels, including an outdoor deck.

3349 N Halsted St. | (773) 477-9189

  • For Watching the Game: North End. A relaxed sports bar with regular drink and food specials.

3733 N Halsted St. | (773) 477-7999

  • For Games: An arcade bar where you can enjoy classic games and drinks.

3439 N Halsted St. | (773) 661-9632

  • Neighborhood Favorite: Little Jim’s. Serving locals since 1975 and open late throughout the week.
  • Start the Evening: Dive Bar. Known for its large selection of daiquiri flavors and seafood dishes.

3445 N Halsted St. | (773) 770-4618

  • Late-Night Dancing: Here are a few popular choices.
  • Hydrate: Features themed events, music and special programs throughout the week.

3458 N Halsted St. | (773) 975-9244

  • Charlie’s: A lively bar with a Western-inspired atmosphere.

3726 N Broadway St. | (773) 871-8887

  • Berlin: A welcoming spot that attracts people from all backgrounds and orientations.

954 W Belmont Ave. | (773) 348-4975

Grocery Stores in Boystown

  • Jewel Osco: A full-service grocery store that stays open 24 hours a day.

3531 N Broadway | (773) 871-1054

  • Whole Foods: A large grocery store with a wide selection of fresh and specialty items.

3640 N Halsted St. | (773) 472-0400

  • Mariano’s: A popular local grocery chain known for its ready-made meals and prepared foods.

3030 N Broadway #100 | (773) 935-0294

Coffee Shops in Boystown

  • Starbucks: Several locations can be found throughout the area.
  • Intelligentsia: Home to the company’s original location and a favorite spot for coffee lovers.

3123 N Broadway | (773) 348-8058

  • Peet’s Coffee: Well-known coffee chain offering a variety of signature drinks.

3500 N Halsted St. | (773) 360-5280

  • Coffee and Tea Leaves Company: A local shop where you can find a selection of coffee beans and teas.

3311 N Broadway | (773) 528-2241

  • Next Door: A community-friendly space with free meeting areas sponsored by State Farm.

659 W Diversey Pkwy. | (773) 472-3667

Gyms in Boystown

  • Lakeview Athletic Club: A popular fitness center featuring a rooftop pool.

3212 N Broadway | (773) 529-2024

  • X Sport Fitness: Offers a wide range of workout equipment and fitness amenities.

3030 N Broadway | (773) 634-7333

  • FFC Halsted: Full-service gym with extensive equipment and spa facilities.

3228 N Halsted St. | (773) 755-3232

Pet Parks in Boystown

  • Belmont Harbor Dog Beach: A favorite spot for dog owners and well worth the walk.

N Lake Shore Dr. & Lake Shore Dr. | Open 24/7

Boystown Local Post Office and Delivery

  • US Post Office

A convenient option for mailing packages, buying stamps and handling other postal needs.

3024 N Ashland Ave. | Mon–Fri 8:30am–7pm, Sat. 9am–3pm, Sun. 11am–2pm

  • Postal Place

Offers mailing, shipping and package services in the neighborhood.

3304 N Broadway | Mon–Fri 9am–7pm, Sat. 10am–5pm

  • UPS Stores
    • North Location: 3712 N Broadway | Mon–Fri 8am–7pm, Sat. 9am–5pm
    • South Location: 5315 N Clark St. | Mon–Fri 8:30am–7pm, Sat. 10am–5pm, Sun. 12pm–4pm

Dry Cleaners in Boystown

  • Platinum Dry Cleaners

A convenient neighborhood option for dry cleaning and laundry services.

3707 N Broadway | Mon–Fri 7am–7pm, Sat. 8am–6pm

  • Eve’s Cleaners

Provides dry cleaning services with hours that work well for busy schedules.

3345 N Broadway | Mon–Fri 7am–7pm, Sat. 8am–6pm

  • Barry-Regent Cleaners, Inc.

A long-standing local cleaner offering garment care and laundry services.

3000 N Broadway | Mon–Fri 7:30am–6:30pm, Sat. 7:30am–6pm

Parking in Boystown

  • Ward 44 Resident Parking Information

Residents can find parking permit details, parking rules and other local parking information through Ward 44 resources.

boystown illinois

This has been just a small sampling of the great things you’ll experience in your new Boystown home. As a seasoned Boystown moving company, we’ve come to know the neighborhood’s staples and hidden gems alike. We’re always happy to share more!

As you plan your big move, take one major task off your to-do list and book Boystown movers who can help reduce the stress. Call us at STI Moving & Storage and we’ll help make your move safe, smooth, and on schedule, so you can settle in quickly and start enjoying the very best of Boystown living.

FAQs

Where Is Boystown in Chicago?

Boystown, now officially known as Northalsted, is located in Chicago’s East Lakeview neighborhood on the city’s North Side. The district is centered along North Halsted Street and is part of the larger Lakeview community area.

Is Boystown Chicago Safe?

There is no official source that classifies Boystown as either “safe” or “unsafe.” Boystown (Northalsted) is a busy residential, entertainment, dining and nightlife district within Lakeview. Anyone considering moving to the area should review current crime statistics and local public safety data, as safety conditions can vary over time and by location.

What to Do in Boystown Chicago?

Boystown is known for its restaurants, nightlife, LGBTQ+ cultural attractions, Pride celebrations, Northalsted Market Days and community organizations. Popular attractions include Center on Halsted, the Legacy Walk, Pride Fest and a variety of entertainment venues along North Halsted Street.

How Far Is Boystown Chicago From Downtown Chicago?

Boystown is approximately 5 miles north of Downtown Chicago (The Loop). The neighborhood is accessible by car, bus and CTA train, with travel times varying depending on traffic and transit schedules.

What Is Boystown Called Now?

Boystown is now officially promoted as Northalsted. In 2020, the Northalsted Business Alliance announced that it would stop using “Boystown” in its marketing and branding efforts and instead use Northalsted. However, many residents and visitors still commonly refer to the neighborhood as Boystown.