Just behind New York and Los Angeles, Chicago is one of the most populous cities in the United States. The cosmopolitan center of Illinois has a thriving gay culture, and world-famous bars that host drag shows, welcoming residents and visitors alike. From standard shows to table-side performances, Chicago provides many different opportunities for tourists to enjoy drag shows.
The Baton Show Lounge opened in 1969, and has been producing famous drag shows ever since. The drag cast has appeared on various talk shows, including Oprah Winfrey and Phil Donahue. Among the famous patrons have been Joan Crawford, Carol Channing, Dinah Shore and Kirk Douglas. The club is a popular spot for bachelorette parties, and is open from Wednesdays through Sundays from 8 p.m. to 2 a.m., with shows running at 8:30 p.m., 10:30 p.m. and 12:30 p.m. Reservations should be made in advance, as the shows typically sell out. To make reservations, call the club between 11:30 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. Monday through Friday, and after 6:30 p.m. from Wednesday through Sunday.
Baton Show Lounge
436 North Clark St.
Chicago, IL 60610
312-644-5269
thebatonshowlounge.com
Featuring contemporary cuisine and an extensive list of $10 specialty martinis, the Kit Kat Lounge & Supper Club is a restaurant and martini bar that features drag performances every 20 minutes. The lounge describes itself as "South Beach meets Hollywood." The shows begin at 7 p.m. and continue until 12 a.m. The unique component of the Kit Kat Lounge is table side performances, making it an ideal venue for groups. The lounge is open seven days a week, and dinner is served from 5:30 p.m. until 2 a.m., but the kitchen closes at midnight. The Divalicious Brunch is a popular attraction starting at 11 a.m. on Sundays, and features all-you-can-drink mimosas and Bloody Marys for $10. Daily specials include half-price martinis on Sundays, 50 percent off the entire menu on Mondays, half-price martinis and tarot card readings on Tuesdays, half-price cocktails and martinis on Wednesdays, as well as buy-one get-one-free entrees, $5 Effin martinis and $5 mojitos are featured Thursdays, and Fridays include a $30 flat fee for an appetizer, entree and martini.
The Kit Kat Lounge & Supper Club
3700 North Halsted Street
Chicago, IL 60613
773-525-1111
kitkatchicago.com
Located in the south side of Chicago, Club Escape features drag shows Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Saturdays. Playing a mix of Hip-Hop and R&B, both male and female drag performers comprise the show, hosted by Mz Ruff-N-Stuff. Drinks are served on Saturdays until 3 a.m.
Club Escape
1530 East 75th Street
Chicago, IL 60619
773-667-6454
clubescapechicago.com
