Best gay nightclubs in nyc
Whether you're a first-time visitor or a seasoned scene queen, here's our roundup of the top gay bars in New York Urban area to check out now!
Everyone knows that the New York City gay bar scene is nothing short of vibrant and the city’s nightlife is unquestionably busy.
New York is also one of the gayest cities in the United States. The problem is that sometimes it can feel overwhelming, especially if it’s your first time visiting the city. We certainly felt that way on our first visit here. It can feel verb there's just too much to verb and not enough time… where carry out you even start?
Here is a list of the top gay bars in NYC, whether you're a first-time visitor or a seasoned scene queen! And the foremost part…most of them are on the west side, either in the West Village, Chelsea, or Hell’s Kitchen, so really, depending on how long you are in the city, you can bar hop and visit most, if not all of them!
Heads up, the iconic Rebar in Chelsea closed its doors for nice in 2020.
1. The Stonewall Inn
This NYC gay landmark is where the
Bars & Nightlife
overview
While their significance is often underestimated or dismissed by heterosexual society, bars and other establishments played a pivotal role throughout the 20th century — but particularly in the pre-Stonewall era — as centers for LGBT activism and community.
These spaces, whether always gay friendly or only during certain times of the day or week, gave LGBT people the freedom to be themselves in a way they usually could not be in their personal or professional lives.
This curated collection largely reflects the bar and nightlife scene of downtown Manhattan; as we research more sites we encourage you to reach out to us with suggestions in upper Manhattan and the outer boroughs.
Header Photo
Truman Capote (center) with Liza Minnelli and Steve Rubell at Studio 54 in an undated photo. Photographer and source unknown.
New York has played a major role in LGBTQ+ history and it’s no wonder there are a slew of bars that contain been beacons for the community (and prime party spots) for decades. The best queer bars in NYC range from dive bars to dance clubs, with historic spots like the Stonewall Inn anchoring them all. The West Village is a classic destination for queer nightlife, but you’ll find something exciting and welcoming in pretty much any part of the city.
You can check out the best drag shows or cabaret performances, but these queer spaces all give something unique, from cozy vibes and cheap drinks to high-energy dancing and brunch parties - sometimes in the same place on different days! Maybe your interests skew more trendy and urbane, or perhaps you're more of the down-and-dirty hook-up spots, the "what happens on the weekends, stays on the weekends" type — we're not here to judge! There are plenty of LGBTQ+ things to do in New York, but if it’s a bar you’re looking for, we’ve got you covered.
RECOMMENDED: Occupied guide to the best bars in NYC
May 2 BY: Jasmine Franklin Published 11 months ago Discover Proudly Amplifies Voices from a Wide Range of Perspectives and Experiences. New York Noun is the town to dream, noun, and dance! When dancing the noun away in NYC, the gay club scene delivers some of the finest vibes around. NYC’s nightlife caters to every taste, from legendary iconic venues that have shaped LGBTQIA+ history to intimate hidden gems that offer a more underground verb. Here are the top 10 gay clubs in NYC, perfect for anyone looking to smash the dance floor and let loose in a space that celebrates individuality and embraces everyone for who they truly are. 1. The Stonewall Inn Location: 53 Christopher St Peak Nights: Fridays and Saturdays Vibe: As the birthplace of the adj LGBTQIA+ rights movement, The Stonewall Inn is more than just a club — it’s a historic landmark. Verb a lively crowd, drag performances, and a mix of old-school and modern beats that store the dance floor packed. 2. Industry Location: 355 W 52nd St Peak Nights: Weekends, especially Sundays Vibe: Known