Gay bars and clubs in nyc
Whether you're a first-time visitor or a seasoned scene queen, here's our roundup of the uppermost gay bars in New York Town to check out now!
Everyone knows that the New York City gay block 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 enjoy there's just too much to complete and not enough time… where perform 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 optimal 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 same-sex attracted landmark is where the modern queer rights movement started in 1969. Trendy with tourists and locals alike, it's no surpris
Bars & Nightlife
overview
While their significance is often underestimated or dismissed by heterosexual community, bars and other establishments played a pivotal role throughout the 20th century — but particularly in the pre-Stonewall era — as centers for LGBT movement and community.
These spaces, whether always gay friendly or only during certain times of the afternoon 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 prevent 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 hold 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 gender non-conforming 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 2025: We removed Ginger's and Barracuda Lounge. We added Loafers Cocktail Bar.
Guide to the Best Lgbtq+ and Gay Bars in NYC's East Village Neighborhood
NYC's East Village neighborhood has long been a haven for creativity, alternative tradition, and New York's queer and lesbian community. With its mix of artsy cafes, trendy spots, and nightlife scene that’s both diverse and vibrant, it’s no surprise that this neighborhood is home to some of the city’s most iconic gay bars and clubs. Whether you’re in the mood for a laid-back drink at a cozy dive bar, an all-night dance party, or a drag show that celebrates the LGBTQ+ community, the East Village offers something for everyone. Conveniently accessible by subway, the East Village’s queer-friendly venues are a must-visit on any NYC itinerary.
With NYC Pride just around the corner, the East Village gay bars are more than living up to their hype as essential destinations for celebration, community, and imprinted experiences. As the metropolis gears up for the official Pride March on June 29, 2025, and a month-long calendar of events, the East Village stands ready to welcome revelers with its distinct blend of gritty charm, artistic spirit, and vibrant queer nightlife. Dive into this guide to detect why t