Gay nightlife new york
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 protest 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 origin unknown.
Whether you're a first-time visitor or a seasoned scene queen, here's our roundup of the top queer bars in New York City to check out now!
Everyone knows that the New York City male lover 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 like there's just too much to accomplish and not enough time… where do you even start?
Here is a list of the highest gay bars in NYC, whether you're a first-time visitor or a seasoned scene queen! And the best part…most of them are on the west side, either in the West Village, Chelsea, or Hell’s Kitchen, so really, depending on how drawn-out you are in the city, you can lock hop and visit most, if not all of them!
Heads up, the iconic Rebar in Chelsea closed its doors for nice in
1. The Stonewall Inn
This NYC gay landmark is where the modern queer rights movement started in Popular with tourists and locals alike, it's no surprise that the
LGBTQ+ Bars in New York play a big role in the city and the LGBTQIA+ culture and provide a safe place for everyone. New York has long had an appeal for the Gay (lesbian, gay, bisexual, gender non-conforming, queer plus) community, with lots of historic events as well. You can find a large number of gay bars and clubs.
Eric's Index
LGBTQ+ Bars in New York
All over Unused York, there is a wide range of bars, clubs, and parties. After a lot of consideration, there are three places that you shouldn’t miss:
Le Bain
On the 18th floor of the Standard Hotel, you will find this two-floor club called Le Bain. The name Le Bain comes from the indoor pool located just next to the DJ booth. When the club is open during the summertime, people can even go swimming in it. During the wintertime, it serves as an extra dance floor. The entire club has spectacular views of all of Manhattan and the Hudson River. When the weather is nice outside, you should go to the 19th floor where you can enjoy cocktails on the terrace. On Thursday nights, Le Bain becomes the spot for the fresh , fashion-forward LGBTQ+ crowd. All genders and sexualities are welcome! Drinks here are expensive, but the atmosphere is % Manhatta
New York has played a major role in Gay history and it’s no wonder there are a slew of bars that have been beacons for the community (and prime party spots) for decades. The best queer bars in NYC range from dive bars to twirl clubs, with historic spots like the Stonewall Inn anchoring them all. The West Village is a classic destination for gay nightlife, but you’ll locate 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 provide 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: Full guide to the best bars in NYC
May We removed Ginger's and Barracuda Lounge. We added Loafers Cocktail Bar.
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