CHICAGO — A new proposal submitted for concession space at O’Hare International Airport could make history: Chicago’s iconic Sidetrack bar is seeking to open what would be the first gay bar in a U.S. airport.
The proposed expansion would be part of the ongoing Terminal 1 redevelopment, a project that includes adding new retail and hospitality offerings for travelers. If approved, Sidetrack would bring its decades-long legacy of LGBTQ+ inclusivity and community pride to one of the busiest aviation hubs in the world.
A Landmark Move for Visibility and Inclusion
The proposal was submitted by restaurateur Germán González on behalf of Sidetrack co-owners Art Johnston and José “Pepe” Peña. The original bar has operated since 1982 in Chicago’s North Halsted neighborhood — long considered the heart of the city’s LGBTQ+ community.
Johnston described the opportunity as “blowing them away,” citing the symbolism of such visibility at one of the most trafficked airports in America:
“Pepe and I… knowing the number of people who pass through here every day… could see that there are gay bars here, where the people don’t have horns and tails. We’re trying to live our lives and make life better for all of us.”
What the Sidetrack Airport Bar Could Represent
If approved, the venue at O’Hare would not only serve drinks and offer a social atmosphere but also stand as a symbol of inclusiveness and civic progress.
According to Chicago Tribune, the bar would be open to all travelers regardless of identity, and aims to be “a beautiful bar” where respect and hospitality are paramount. This aligns with growing airport trends across the country to feature local businesses and cultural landmarks in terminal spaces.
Next Steps and Broader Impact
Applications for concession space at O’Hare closed on June 20, 2025. It may take months for a final decision, but if approved, Sidetrack at O’Hare would be a trailblazing first in the U.S. airport ecosystem.
The news has prompted a positive response online, with many praising the move as a step toward greater representation and normalization of LGBTQ+ spaces in mainstream public areas.
This would not be the first time airport culture embraces LGBTQ+ identity, but it would certainly mark one of the most visible and permanent acknowledgments of community identity in national travel infrastructure.
Would you support more inclusive, local businesses inside major transportation hubs like O’Hare? Share your thoughts in the comments on ChicagoSuburbanFamily.com.
