Chicago's O'Hare Airport Could Be Home to the Nation's First LGBTQ+ Bar

O'Hare airport: Leading with inclusivity through a new LGBTQ+ bar

There's a buzz in Chicago about O'Hare International Airport, a bustling hub and one busy spot in America. Talks are in motion about opening up what could be not just any bar, but potentially America's first LGBTQ+ bar right in an airport. Germán González, a familiar name in Chicago's restaurant scene, has tossed around plans about bringing Sidetrack—a beloved LGBTQ+ bar in Chicago—into Terminal One at O'Hare.

Considering Terminal One sees over 80 million travelers a year, it sounds like a fantastic place, doesn't it? Art Johnston, along with his husband José Pepe Peña, owns Sidetrack, and they see this as a golden chance not just locally, but on an international scale, letting people know what Chicago stands up and waves its flag proudly.

Envisioning an inclusive spot at O'Hare

Johnston's got a lot riding on this idea, saying, "It's a big move in showing travelers what a lively and strong gay community looks like. Chicago has been at front and center when it comes down LGBTQ+ rights and showing off what we've achieved at an airport that's seen worldwide eyes shows where our city's heart truly lies."

Sidetrack, ever since it opened its doors back in 1982, went from a single-room joint and grew wildly, now comfortably fitting up a thousand folks at once. Imagine that kind atmosphere melding with an airport—it's a chance you don't pass up if you want people coming together, no matter where they're flying in from or heading out.

A history rooted in activism and social justice

Sidetrack goes beyond serving up drinks; it's truly a bedrock in LGBTQ+ activism and social justice. They've never shied away from backing up community efforts and standing with those who need it most. Remember when trans influencer Dylan Mulvaney faced backlash in 2023 during her Bud Light campaign? Johnston and Peña were right there, lending their support.

In a bold move, Sidetrack decided not another Anheuser-Busch product would be sold there unless they came through strong on supporting LGBTQ+ rights. It was just one more moment that showed Sidetrack's resolve in ensuring LGBTQ+ visibility and their stance against discrimination.

Raising travel hospitality standards

Opening an LGBTQ+ bar at Chicago O'Hare could set groundbreaking standards in travel hospitality, blazing a trail across airports nationwide. A comfortable and safe space like that would not just make a statement but echo a message about acceptance and our society's beautiful diversity.

This move aligns with a growing shift towards creating spaces in travel and hospitality where everyone feels right at home. LGBTQ+ travelers often look out and long after places that elicit a natural welcoming vibe, and having something like this in an airport could speak volumes about acceptance.

Exciting times ahead

As talks move forward, there's a palpable sense amongst LGBTQ+ folks and supporters alike that something exciting's brewing. A Sidetrack at O'Hare could spark a domino effect, prompting airports worldwide toward more inclusive spaces that welcome LGBTQ+ travelers with open arms.

Art Johnston and José Pepe Peña see this venture as more than just opening another bar; it holds a deeper meaning. It's about fostering that warm feeling you get when you belong somewhere, and showing off that grit and spirit found within LGBTQ+ communities. Johnston shared a snippet, "Pepe and I look forward, thinking about all walks crossing paths here. It's not just about serving drinks; it's all about making our mark, showing what we represent."

Join in! What are your thoughts on where this could lead travel hospitality? Share your ideas in comments below, keeping it kind and supportive.