Gay bars new york city
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 Diverse (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 Modern 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 new, fashion-forward LGBTQ+ crowd. All genders and sexualities are welcome! Drinks here are expensive, but the atmosphere is 100% Manha
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Best Gay Bars in New York City
Home to what is arguably the world's most famous lgbtq+ bar, The Stonewall Inn, New York is a society leader when it comes to lgbtq+ nightlife. Whilst today's gay scene is concentrated in the Hell’s Kitchen area, the historic districts of Chelsea and Greenwich Village still boast thriving collections of gay bars and clubs. Recent York’s gay bars attract a mix of locals and visiting gay travelers, which makes for an incredibly diverse scene. There is something for everyone in the municipality that never sleeps.
Line your stomach and enjoy world-class kingly talent at Successful Cheng’s; the unique home of the drag dinner. After basking in the dazzling glow of the bar’s iconic acts, it’s period to visit the world’s most celebrated gay bar. The Stonewall Inn, located in the heart of Greenwich Village, was the site of the eminent protests that kick-started the gay rights movement in the USA and is still a trendy community hang-out. Culmination your night under the pulsing strobe lights of Industry; a mainstay of New York City’s gay scene, this 4000ft sq venue guarantees an indelible gay clubbing experience.
Check out: New York Lesbian Bars,New York's Gay Dance
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. The best lgbtq+ 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 electrifying and welcoming in pretty much any part of the city.
You can check out the leading drag shows or cabaret performances, but these queer spaces all offer something unique, from cozy vibes and cheap drinks to high-energy dancing and brunch parties - sometimes in the equal 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 2025: We removed Ginger's and Barracuda Lounge. We added Loafers Cocktail Bar.