About Fantasy Nightclub
Fantasy Nightclub is a large LGBTQ-friendly nightclub in Chicago’s Lakeview neighborhood (Boystown), located at 3641 N. Halsted Street (pridechicago.org ). It occupies the former space of Circuit Nightclub and first opened in mid-2016 under new ownership (chicago.gopride.com ). The club was redesigned and rebranded as Fantasy with an emphasis on inclusivity and a fresh identity; as one manager explained at opening, they “don’t want to be known as Circuit” but rather “an inclusive” club open to everyone (chicago.gopride.com ). Fantasy boasts what its owners call Chicago’s largest gay dance floor (chicago.gopride.com ) and a high-energy vibe of drag shows and DJ sets. The two-level venue combines an expansive main dance area with a smaller front lounge (and an outdoor patio) so guests can mingle or dance late into the night. It quickly became a cornerstone of Northalsted nightlife due to its size, late hours, and lively shows (the club even hosted the Chicago Drag Awards “Gaggys” in 2024 and 2025 (windycitytimes.com ) (windycitytimes.com )). In sum, Fantasy is notable for big dance parties, prominent drag performances, and a large, state-of-the-art sound and lighting setup in the heart of Boystown.
Events and Programming
Fantasy Nightclub operates primarily as a late-night dance club with a focus on drag entertainment. Each week the club schedules themed drag shows, contests, and DJ dance nights. Regular events include high-energy drag battles (for example, the popular “Freshman 15 vs Survivor” drag competition on Thursday nights) and cabaret-style shows on other evenings. House DJs (such as DJ Cristian Anthony, DJ Xtasy, and DJ Trini, per the club’s team listings) spin vibrant house, techno, and pop sets most nights (fantasychicago.com ). The main floor is set up for dancing twenty-one and over, while the front lounge (right off Halsted Street) often hosts lighter events or serves as an entry lounge with no cover on theater-night style shows (chicago.gopride.com ) (chicago.gopride.com ).
Fantasy frequently brings in local drag stars and guest entertainers. For instance, the Chicago Drag Awards (the Gaggys) have been held at Fantasy on Pride weekend, featuring top queens like Sativa Diamond, Neutral Gena, and others (windycitytimes.com ) (windycitytimes.com ). In fact, both the 2024 and 2025 Drag Awards ceremonies took place at Fantasy (packed, by design), highlighting Fantasy’s role as a hub of drag culture (windycitytimes.com ) (windycitytimes.com ). Other one-off events might include holiday parties or festival after-hours during Pride and Market Days. Cover charges are typically low (around \$5 on regular nights, and not more than \$10 except on special parties (chicago.gopride.com )), so most shows remain quite affordable. Overall, visitors can expect a calendar full of late-night dance parties with elaborate drag performances, live hosting by Chicago’s queens, and plenty of percussion-driven club music.
Tickets and Booking
Fantasy Nightclub does not use online ticketing like a theater; instead, entry is basically on a general-admission, cover-charge basis. Most visitors simply pay a modest cover fee at the door on event nights (commonly \$5, and only up to around \$10 for peak parties) (chicago.gopride.com ). There is no traditional box office or reserved seat system – you do not purchase a numbered ticket in advance for standard shows. On most nights, cover is collected on a first-come, first-served basis at the door. For very popular events (sold-out drag shows or holiday parties) you may want to arrive early or check if any guestlist/RSVP is available via the club’s social media or community calendars.
The club advertises a VIP membership program for regular patrons (northalsted.com ). This membership is typically handled through the club and not widely publicized, but it may offer perks like priority entry or drink discounts. If you plan to attend frequently, it may be worth inquiring about sign-ups at the bar. Otherwise, no purchase or membership is required: just bring a valid ID and enough cash or card for the cover charge. Note that Fantasy’s front lounge generally has no cover, but the main dance area does (chicago.gopride.com ), so you may be able to enter and lounge for free before 11pm during off-peak times. In summary, plan to pay at the door. Tickets are not sold through third-party sites or box offices – you simply show up, give your name (or show an ID), and pay the cover fee to gain entry.
Seating and Layout
Fantasy Nightclub is mostly an open-plan club rather than a theater. The bulk of the space is a large standing-room dance floor in the back of the building. This main dance area includes a central performance stage and DJ station along one wall. In fact, the owners designed it to be a massive dance pit – they claim it’s the “largest gay dance floor” in Chicago (chicago.gopride.com ). The floor is surrounded by bars (the club expanded from 6 to 7 separate bar areas during its remodel (chicago.gopride.com )) and standing areas. There are no fixed seats in the main room. Guests chase the music under club lights and can gather near railings or column tops, but viewing is best when close to the stage. During big shows or packed weekends, it can get very crowded, so arriving early helps you snag a better spot by the stage or front of the room.
The front portion of Fantasy (toward Halsted Street) is a slightly elevated lounge area with more relaxed seating. This lounge has bar stools and high-top tables lining the room, plus large front windows (which now open to the outside) and an attached patio for about 20 people (chicago.gopride.com ). The lounge itself has seating for roughly 77 guests (chicago.gopride.com ) and is often used for pre-show socializing or less intense gatherings. Unlike the dance floor, the lounge usually does not charge a cover and often operates on open-house hours with food service (chicago.gopride.com ). The new layout even added a dedicated VIP section near the stage (chicago.gopride.com ), which is popular for private parties or bottle service on busy nights. In short, Fantasy has a two-part layout: a rowdy, standing-room-only dance floor in back, and a quieter seated lounge in front. There are no general-assignment chairs on the floor, so pick your spot early if you want a clear view of the stage or DJs.
Getting There and Parking
Fantasy Nightclub’s address is 3641 N. Halsted St in Chicago, just north of W. Waveland Ave (pridechicago.org ). Halsted Street is a major north-south artery, so it’s easy to reach by car or public transit. If you’re driving, note that street parking in Boystown can be tight at night. There are metered curbside spots on Halsted and side streets, usually time-limited (check signs). On-event nights many people park in nearby paid lots – for example, short-term garages near Waveland/Addison (the Wrigley Field area) or the Whole Foods/Jewel lots on Addison serve the neighborhood. Rideshare drop-offs and taxis can pull up in front of the Halsted entrance on Waveland (passes at all hours).
Public transportation is a convenient option. The CTA Red Line has an Addison station at Halsted (the “Addison” stop near Wrigley Field) about 2–3 blocks south, making access easy from downtown or the North Side. CTA bus #8 (Halsted) runs regularly and stops right at Fantasy’s door. Other CTA buses on nearby crosstown routes (e.g. 77 Belmont or 152 Addison) also stop within a few blocks. For late-night trips back to the suburbs or other neighborhoods, remember that CTA subway service (Red Line) ends around 2 AM (weekdays) or 2:30 AM (weekends), but the #8 bus runs 24 hours on Halsted. If you’re cycling, the North Branch Trail and Lakefront Trail are within a mile, and Divvy bike-share stations are located on the 3600 block of N. Halsted and at Clark/Montrose. Overall, Fantasy is easily walkable from nearby hotels in Lakeview or Ballpark areas, and well-served by CTA and Divvy.
Inside the Venue
Upon arrival, guests should expect typical nightclub entry procedures: staff at the door will check IDs (18 or 21+ depending on the night), verify tickets or collect the cover charge, and do a cursory security check. (Fantasy is a secure venue; bag checks and metal detectors may be used when crowds are very large.) The atmosphere inside is dark, loud, and energetic. The music is high-volume club mix and Latin beats (during special nights), with a powerful sound system. The lighting setup features moving spotlights and strobes that flood the dance floor, creating a party club ambiance. Once inside, most guests head straight to the dance floor where the action is. The stage shows (drag performances, DJs) take place under the lights, and crowd participation is strongly encouraged.
Fantasy has multiple bars scattered around the club (typically up to seven service bars (chicago.gopride.com )), so drinks are always available. Common offerings include beers, standard cocktails, mixed drinks, shots, and energy mixers – roughly typical nightclub prices (a beer or shot is moderate, cocktails range upward from there). In the front lounge you can also order food; when it opened Fantasy boasted a full kitchen serving American bar fare (burgers, chicken sandwiches) as well as some Mexican-style items like tacos (chicago.gopride.com ). Expect to see food specials or late-night snacks in the lounge and patio areas on nights they are open for daytime or early-evening hours (chicago.gopride.com ). Bars accept cash and credit, and bartenders typically suggest a 15–20% tip.
Other amenities: There is a coat check area (though the club once converted standard coat-check space to kitchenwork, they may still offer coat services near the entrance). Restrooms are located off the main floor; on busy nights they may have lines. Fantasy does not openly advertise Wi-Fi, so assume cell coverage is your primary connection (inside, coverage can sometimes be spotty due to the thick walls and crowded crowd). Merchandise is limited – you might find branded T-shirts or event flyers, but this is not a gift-shop venue. Photography rules are as in most clubs: cell phone photos are generally fine, but professional cameras/tripods will require permission. In summary, expect a high-energy club vibe: dress to dance, buy your drink at one of the many bars, and move freely around the dance floor (the lounge seating is optional for breaks or eating).
Nearby Amenities
Because Fantasy sits in the heart of Lakeview’s busy North Halsted entertainment district, there are many options nearby. The immediate block (Halsted between Waveland and Addison) has restaurants and bars for pre-show dining or post-show drinks. For example, within a 2-block walk you’ll find burger joints, diners, and popular Latino eateries (Chicago’s famed El Mariachi Tapatio serves tacos a short walk away). Ice cream and pizza by the slice places also line Addison nearby. Immediately beside Fantasy is an outdoor patio lounge, so you can grab a drink or snack in a patio table before heading into the main club. If you’re planning a pre-club meal, there are a handful of sit-down spots – from traditional American bars (like Molly’s Cupcakes and Brewery) to Tex-Mex or vegan mini-cafés – in walking distance.
For drinks, the entire Boystown strip on Halsted is in full force while Fantasy is open. Iconic neighbor bars like Roscoe’s Tavern, Sidetrack (the video bar), and Passport (a cocktail lounge) are all within two blocks. These can be good spots to warm up before dancing, or to head to afterward if Fantasy gets too crowded. On the hotels side, a variety of lodging options are nearby. The closest large hotels are a few blocks east, near Broadway (such as the DoubleTree by Hilton Chicago, SpringHill Suites, etc.). Downtown Chicago hotels (Gold Coast and Loop) are only a short drive or CTA ride away, so some visitors stay downtown and take the train to Halsted. Finally, late-night transit is a plus: the #8 Halsted bus runs all night, and ride-sharing services are plentiful – just tell the driver 3641 N. Halsted for drop-off. Overall, Lakeview makes it easy to put together a full evening: dinner and drinks along Halsted and Addison, a show at Fantasy, and then an easy trip back to lodging via Red Line or rideshare.
What Makes This Venue Special
Fantasy Nightclub stands out as a modern pillar of Chicago’s queer nightlife. It carries on the legacy of Circuit (a longtime Latin dance club) but has expanded it. Owners rebuilt the venue to be “international” in flair, not just catering to one community (chicago.gopride.com ). In fact, Fantasy has distinguished itself by its commitment to inclusivity: it regularly hosts events that bring together diverse segments of the LGBT community, from drag shows to electronic dance nights (chicago.gopride.com ) (windycitytimes.com ). The club’s prominence is reflected in community accolades – for example, it was the nominated “Best Club” at Chicago’s 2024 drag awards and hosted that ceremony (windycitytimes.com ). In October 2025, Chicago drag legend Alexandrea Diamond even noted on stage that Fantasy (and its predecessor Circuit) was the only openly Latino/POC-focused club on North Halsted for 25 years (windycitytimes.com ), highlighting Fantasy’s unique cultural role.
Another special feature is the venue size and atmosphere. Chicagoans often rave about Fantasy’s energy – a combination of high-powered sound system, flashing lights, and top-tier performers – making nights here a city highlight. As one local guide notes, it’s Chicago’s “hottest LGBTQ+ club” and consistently earns praise for being vibrant and fun (pridechicago.org ). Fantasy also proudly participates in major city events: it builds a float for the Pride Parade and takes part in Northalsted Market Days, cementing its ties to local tradition (chicago.gopride.com ). Finally, the architecture, while not landmark-style, is purpose-built for nightlife. Massive speakers, club lighting, and a polished stage give performances a theatrical feel that both performers and audiences love. In short, Fantasy’s combination of community significance, sheer size of its dancefloor, and high-profile drag programming make it a beloved icon on Chicago’s North Side.
Visitor Tips and Information
Accessibility: Fantasy Nightclub is wheelchair-accessible. The main entrance on Halsted is at street level and the club does not have interior steps blocking entry to the dance floor or lounge. Accessible restrooms are provided inside. For any special accommodations (e.g. seating near an elevator or a quiet space) it’s best to call the venue ahead of time.
What to Bring: Photo ID is required (age 21+ for late-night entry). Cash or credit is recommended (for cover and drinks). Dress code is casual to club dress – many patrons wear fashionable club attire, but no formal dress is required. Avoid large bags or backpacks (security may ask you to check them or leave them at coat check). Phones and small cameras are fine for personal photos; just be mindful not to obstruct others with tripods or selfie sticks. If you’re sensitive to noise or lights, consider earplugs and take breaks in the lounge area.
Common Mistakes to Avoid: Players advise arriving before dress shows or contests begin (typically around 11pm or midnight) to avoid long lines and ensure entry before capacity fills. Don’t expect reserved seating or ticket booths – things move fast, so line up early if in doubt. Also, remember that Fantasy is a 21+ environment (if there is a daytime event for 18+, it will be noted in advance). Many visitors assume it’s an “all ages” club because of its lounge menu – it is complex, but generally plan on being 21 after very late-night hours. Also note Fantasy’s no-negative-attitude policy: it’s a welcoming space for everyone, so discriminatory or rude behavior is not tolerated. Be polite and respectful to staff and performers at all times.
Age & Entry: Most nightly events are 21+, especially in the dance club area. Fantasy is known as an LGBTQ+ venue, but all are welcome; it is not limited only to gay men. Anyone with valid ID meeting the night’s age requirement can enter, subject to dress and conduct standards. During major city events like Chicago Pride, Fantasy may open earlier or host special all-ages events, but these will be clearly advertised in advance.
Other Tips: Fantasy does have a coat check (free or paid, depending on season). Tip bartenders around 20%. Re-entry: If you exit to the patio or lounge area, you can usually return as long as you get a wristband or mark at the door, but confirm with staff to avoid confusion when re-entering the main club. If you step out onto Halsted (to smoke or hail a cab), do not dispose of drink containers on the street – they will track you down for litter. Finally, stay hydrated – it can get hot on the dance floor, so alternate water with your cocktails.
What is the cover charge or ticket price at Fantasy Nightclub?
Fantasy Nightclub generally uses a cover-charge system, not fixed tickets. Most nights cost about $5 at the door, and special or holiday events may charge up to $10 (chicago.gopride.com ). No online ticket purchase is required for regular shows – just arrive and pay the cover at entry. The front lounge usually has no cover, but the main dance area does.
Where is Fantasy Nightclub located and how do I get there by public transit?
Fantasy is at 3641 N. Halsted St. in Chicago’s Boystown (Lakeview) (pridechicago.org ). The closest "L" train is the Red Line at Addison station (Addison & Halsted), about a 3-5 minute walk. CTA bus #8 runs on Halsted and stops right at the club. You can also take buses along Belmont, Sheridan or Addison for short walks. Late-night buses (like the #80 on Western, connecting with buses to Halsted) and Divvy bike-share are options too.
Is there parking available near Fantasy Nightclub?
Street parking is available around Fantasy, but supply is limited on busy nights. Halsted and nearby side streets have metered spots (often free after certain hours), and there are pay garages around Addison and Waveland (near Wrigley Field) within walking distance. We recommend budgeting extra time to find parking or consider rideshare/taxi. Some visitors park a few blocks north (free residential parking after hours) or use gated lots (paid) near Ottos Ice Cream. Always check local signs to avoid ticketing.
What are the best areas to stand or sit inside for viewing?
Fantasy has an open dance floor in the back and a raised lounge in front. For the best view of performances or DJs, head to the front of the dance floor near the stage; this area lets you see the full show. Note that there are no permanent seats on the main floor, so standing is usual. If you need a break, the front lounge has bar stools and tables (capacity ~77 (chicago.gopride.com )) where you can sit and still hear the music. Avoid standing far behind bar counters, as sightlines can be blocked. The newly added VIP section (usually roped off) also offers a good vantage point when it’s open for events (chicago.gopride.com ).
Does Fantasy Nightclub have a dress code or age requirement?
Fantasy’s dress code is casual-club attire — no formalwear is required, but guests generally dress fashionably for the nightlife scene. Avoid flip-flops or overly casual attire if you want to fit in. As for age limits, Fantasy is primarily a 21+ venue after evening hours. The main dance area is 21+ at night (though special events with earlier start times may allow 18+ or all ages before 10pm; check the event info). Photo ID is required for entry. Minors are not usually admitted during late-night hours in the club area due to serving alcohol and the nature of the entertainment.
Is Fantasy Nightclub wheelchair accessible?
Yes, Fantasy Nightclub is accessible. It has a street-level entrance with no interior steps to the main floor or lounge. The dance floor area is flat and spacious, making it possible for wheelchairs. Accessible restrooms are available inside. If you have specific accessibility needs (e.g. seating preference), it’s a good idea to call ahead and speak with staff about accommodations.
Can I buy drinks inside and is food available?
Yes. There are multiple bars (up to seven service bars on the floor (chicago.gopride.com )) serving beer, wine, cocktails, and soft drinks. Drink service runs all night until closing (usually 4-5am). As for food, Fantasy has a full kitchen in the front lounge. They serve classic bar food — burgers, sandwiches, fries — and even some Mexican-style items (like tacos) during lounge hours (chicago.gopride.com ). You can order in the lounge area and take it to the dance floor. Food availability may vary by night, but basic snack and meal options are offered during most open hours.
When does Fantasy Nightclub typically open and close?
Fantasy is open late-night, targeting the after-hours crowd. Typically the door opens around 10 or 11 PM on performance nights (often Thursday through Saturday). The club stays open until around 4 AM (early Sunday morning) on those nights. If there are special events (like weekend Pride parties or holidays), hours may shift. The front lounge intended to eventually open earlier in the day (some plans were 11 AM to 11 PM daily), but check the current schedule. For the most up-to-date hours, it’s best to check Fantasy’s official announcements or local event listings.
Does Fantasy offer a coat check and restrooms?
Yes. Like many nightclubs, Fantasy provides coat check (usually for a small fee, especially during winter or busy events). The coat check is near the entrance, but note the club once converted part of that space to kitchen, so it may now be in another convenient corner. As for restrooms, they are located inside off the main floor. Expect separate men’s and women’s restrooms (plus an ADA restroom). Lines can form on busy nights, so some guests suggest going early or using the lounge restrooms if you need a shorter wait.
Are cameras or recording devices allowed inside Fantasy?
Smartphone photos and videos for personal use are fine, as Fantasy wants guests to share their experience. Just be courteous not to block the view of others. Tip: Avoid excessive flash photography (it can be startling during performances). Professional cameras or video equipment (detached lenses, tripods, etc.) typically require the club’s permission, since Fantasy is a performance venue. If you plan to record extensively, it’s safest to check with management in advance.
What is Fantasy Nightclub’s policy on smoking or vaping?
Like all Chicago indoor venues, Fantasy is non-smoking inside; no cigarettes or vapes can be used on the dance floor or lounge interior. There is probably a smoking area or designated spots outside the front entrance for cigarette smokers during events. If you smoke or vape, step outside and use the Halsted sidewalk space, but be aware of people going by. Chicago law requires that indoor events be smoke-free.
Are children or dogs allowed inside Fantasy Nightclub?
No. Fantasy Nightclub is exclusively an adult nightclub environment. During late-night operations, entry is limited to adults meeting the age requirement (usually 21+). (Note: the drink-driven, dance-heavy atmosphere and dim lighting make it inappropriate for children.) Pets or animals are not allowed inside, except for certified service animals. So plan for adult-only company at this venue.
Is Fantasy Nightclub LGBTQ+-friendly?
Yes – Fantasy is explicitly one of Chicago’s LGBTQ+-oriented nightclubs. It serves and celebrates the gay and queer community (and beyond). From drag performances to themed club nights, the programming is tailored to LGBT nightlife. However, everyone is welcome regardless of sexual orientation or gender identity. The club’s owners emphasize an “inclusive atmosphere” (chicago.gopride.com ), meaning it’s open to all who want to join the party. In short: it’s very gay-friendly (and often full of pride flags), but straight or curious allies are certainly welcome too.
What days of the week is Fantasy Nightclub open?
Fantasy primarily operates on weekends and holiday eves. Historically it’s open Wednesday, Thursday, Friday and Saturday nights (often until 4–5 AM the following morning), with special hours on event holidays. The front lounge intended to be open earlier (possibly daily except Mondays), but for late-night dancing expect Thursday through Saturday to be the safest bets. Always check the club’s calendar or social media for the current week’s listings; sometimes Sunday nights also have a show, especially around large events like IML (International Mr. Leather) or Christmas.
Are there any age restrictions or ID requirements?
Yes. Fantasy Nightclub enforces an age restriction of 21 years and older for its main nightclub events. A government-issued photo ID is required at the entrance. On rare occasions, the lounge area might serve as an 18+ space earlier in the night, but after dark and for DJs and drag shows, it’s 21+. In general, plan to show ID and meet the age limit. Anyone without proper ID will not be allowed in.
What kind of drinks does Fantasy Nightclub serve and do they have food?
Fantasy has several full bars. You can buy standard drinks: beers, wines, mixed cocktails, shots, energy drinks, and non-alcoholic beverages. Expect prices typical of Chicago nightclubs. Additionally, Fantasy has a kitchen in the lounge area – they serve bar-style food such as burgers, fries, chicken sandwiches and even some tacos (chicago.gopride.com ). These are available in the lounge and patio during evenings (especially on weekends). So you can grab a bite to eat at the bar before or during your night out.
Is there a re-entry policy for Fantasy Nightclub?
On nights that Fantasy is open, it generally allows re-entry for patrons who leave briefly (for example, to step outside for fresh air or a smoke). To re-enter, you will usually need to get a hand-stamp or wristband from the staff when you first enter. If you plan to exit and return, ask the door staff about re-entry policy and keep your ID handy. Once club doors close for the night (around 4-5 AM), they do not reopen, so make sure the party’s winding down before last call.
