Tips for gay cruising

So, after checking cumdumping off the essential list of topics for Sniffies’ Cruising Confessions, I knew we had to take a deep dive on cruising itself for episode two. These spaces have history, but they also have risk.

If you’re going to cruise outdoor spots:

• Go with a friend who can watch your back
• Stay in areas with other people around
• Avoid going after midnight when the area empties out
• Keep your phone charged and in your hand
• Don’t drink heavily before going—you need your wits about you
• Let someone know where you are

The Rocks can be magical on a summer evening at sunset.

You don’t want to seem paranoid or rude. Most importantly, have a sober friend you can text if you need a reality check on whether someone seems safe.

Final Thoughts: Cruising with Intention

Boystown exists because gay men refused to hide. Avoid the 2 AM – 4 AM window when bars close—that’s when most incidents occur as intoxicated people leave alone and the streets empty out.

But where did cruising begin and how has it changed over time? “Anonymity allows people to step out of themselves,” he says, “so they can feel free to explore and experiment. In Chicago, places like the Belmont Rocks, Lincoln Park’s “Fruit Loop” trails, and even the third-floor balcony at Man’s Country (RIP, 1973-2017) were where men found each other when simply existing as gay could get you arrested, fired, or worse.

Boystown itself emerged from this history.

Throw in several cruising confessions both hot and hilarious from Gabe, Chris and Leo, and you have a recipe for a great episode you should watch or listen to before you next log into Sniffies.

Happy Cruising! Avoid “Helping” Strangers with Problems

This is a classic setup that I’ve seen play out too many times: You’re outside Hydrate or walking down Halsted, and someone approaches asking for help.

But here’s the truth: strangers asking for help late at night in Boystown are often not who they seem.

Better response: Offer to call someone for them, suggest they go into a bar or business for assistance, or simply say “I’m sorry, I can’t help” and keep moving. Cruising the Belmont Rocks or Clark Street?

If you’re at a bar and someone’s buying you drinks, watch the bartender make them—never accept a drink that’s been out of your sight. This week, Gabe and Chris welcome writer and activist Leo Herrera to talk about his new manual, “(Analog) Cruising”, which offers tips and tricks for making the most out of your cruising experiences, whether you’re a beginner or seasoned pro.

A Note From the Director, Adam Baran

I was on my way home from a concert Tuesday night when I decided to check Sniffies to see what was happening at the cruisy spot at the park near my apartment.

It was so useful to have Sniffies to check and see how many people were there, and what the vibe was. But it also carries real risks, especially in a neighborhood that’s seen its share of hate crimes, robberies, and incidents that remind us we can’t take our safety for granted. Winter months (November – March) are riskier because fewer people are on the streets, darkness comes earlier, and icy sidewalks can make it harder to move quickly if needed.

You can verify identity, check for red flags, and share information with friends before meeting up. Show tunes Mondays, packed weekends, that electric energy spilling onto the sidewalk.