The name Chapinero comes from the shoemakers of bespoke shoes for chapines, the local expression for people suffering of pigeon toe syndrome.

Together with La Candelaria and Teusaquillo, Chapinero is one of the traditional neighborhoods that is distinctive of a particular era in the city's history and urban growth.

A historically upper-class neighborhood, the southern part of Chapinero is famous for areas with large Victorian houses reflecting the influence of European architectural styles in Bogotá at the beginning of the 20th century.

The zone also includes popular dining areas and nightlife centers, which include the Zona Rosa, the Parque de la 93, and the Zona G; the last one known for its wide offer of upscale restaurants (G stands for Gourmet).

[4][5] There are more than 100 bars, discos and clubs that cater to the gay community in Bogotá, many of which can be found in Chapinero.

The biggest and most popular gay disco in Bogotá,[6] Theatron, is located in the heart of Chapinero.

Furthermore, the former mayor of Chapinero, Blanca Inés Durán Hernández, is openly lesbian.

[7] The locality has a unique community center focused on the LGBT population of the neighborhood and the city.