Gay bars harlem
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One of NYC's last remaining lesbian bars. These establishments welcome individuals from diverse backgrounds, embracing people of all sexual orientations, gender identities, races, and ethnicities.
Hell’s Kitchen is at the center of the city’s gay scene. Click here to review.
New York has played a major role in LGBTQ+ 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.
What people love most about Julius’ is its timeless charm and welcoming atmosphere, where patrons can relax and socialize without judgment. Patrons flock to Barracuda for its dynamic drag shows featuring talented performers and dazzling costumes, adding to its popularity as a must-visit destination in the city’s gay nightlife scene.
And don’t be afraid to go inside, where an excellent DJ or drag queen is surely keeping the crowd shrieking and/or dancing.
Time Out tip: Metro is an all-seasons dive! Following the closure of G Lounge, Rebar has emerged as a fresh addition to Chelsea’s gay nightlife scene, providing a welcoming space for socializing and celebrating within the community thanks to its spectacular service and friendly bartenders.
Address: 225 W 19th St, New York, NY 10011
Phone: (646) 863-2914
3.
Go early for space!
Respect Space
Each bar has its own vibe and community. Metropolitan has the answer: their backyard is the best place in town to relax with a drink and a few pals crowded around a picnic table.
Why we love it:You’re sure to run into friends (or just friends of Dorothy).
HistoricDive BarLocal Favorite
Manhattan: The Gay Capital
Hell's Kitchen (15+ venues)
Former hardware store turned fabulous gay bar with nightly drag shows and killer DJs.
Happy Hour: 2-8pm
Flaming Saddles
793 9th Ave
Wild west-themed bar where bartenders dance on the bar and pour shots directly into mouths!
Karaoke
One of NYC's few Black-owned gay bars with signature cocktails and backyard. Weekends bring a higher out–of–towner quotient, but it’s nothing a Naughty Girl (blue curaçao, coconut rum and pineapple juice) can’t help you overlook.
Queer women focus
Queens & Beyond: Hidden Gems
Albatross Bar
36-19 24th Ave, Astoria
Friendly Queens gay bar with karaoke, pool tables, drag bingo, and trivia nights.
The high–energy dance music draws a mixed, flirty crowd.
Why we love it: Drink at one of two bars, or shake your groove thing on the dance floor upstairs. The best queer bars in NYC range from dive bars to dance clubs, with historic spots like the Stonewall Inn anchoring them all. Patrons can enjoy a variety of drinks at affordable prices while mingling with a diverse crowd of LGBTQ+ individuals.
Dance FloorDrag Shows4,000 sq ft
Since 1860s
Julius'
NYC's Oldest Gay Bar
159 W 10th St, West Village Historic Site
NYC's oldest continuously operating gay bar and site of the 1966 "Sip-In" that challenged discriminatory policies. The birthplace of gay liberation says “yes!” to empowerment and “hell, yes!” to go–go boys.
Young crowd.