The best gay bars in NYC and LGBTQ+ hot spots for a fun night out

What is it? Cubbyhole is one of the Village’s more festive lesbian bars. Colorful paper lanterns, tissue–paper fish and seasonal decorations hang from the ceiling. Barstools are upholstered with glossy vinyl bearing pictures of Bugs Bunny, Daffy Duck and Porky Pig. Cash only.  

Why we love it: Eclectic? You bet. Like the best LGBTQ+ spaces, Cubbyhole is one of a kind.

Time Out tip: Visit daily from 4 pm – 7pm when happy hour includes great deals like $5 beers. 

Address: 281 W 12th St, New York, NY 10014

Opening hours: Mon–Thu 4pm– 2am; Fri 4pm–4am; Sat 2pm –4am; Sun 2pm–2am

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What is it? This longtime Astoria gay bar is consistently crowded, bringing out residents from across the borough and beyond for drink specials, intimate drag shows, and just a good, gay old time.

Why we love it:  It’s a dive with a vibe, and if you’re lucky enough to become a regular, you’re never leaving.

Time Out tip: Check social media for frequent updates on events, including trivia, bar crawls, and, of course, drag nights. 

Address: 3619 24th Ave, Astoria, NY 11103 

Opening hours: Mon–Fri 5pm–4am, Sat, Sun 4pm–4am

What is it? The birthplace of gay liberation says “yes!” to empowerment and “hell, yes!” to go–go boys. 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. Daytime brings gawking tourists, but the evenings are still for partying.

Time Out tip: Visit during the daytime to peruse the Stonewall National Monument visitors’ center next door and learn the history and legacy of the bar and its eponymous social movement.

Address: 53 Christopher St, New York, NY 10014

Opening hours: Mon–Fri 2pm–4 am; Sat, Sun 1pm–4am

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What is it? A Prospect Heights honky tonk that’s proudly queer, this mainstay offers a low–key option for those who want to share sangria and chill vibes with friends. 

Why we love it: It’s an after–work spot where the baked mac and cheese is as good as the queer atmosphere, particularly if you come on country music night. 

Time Out tip: Watch parties, open mics, trivia, drag brunch and more are great activities for those who prefer structured activities to socialize. 

Address: 603 Vanderbilt Ave, Brooklyn, NY 11238

Opening hours: Mon–Fri 4pm–midnight; Sat noon–1am,  Sun noon–midnight

What is it? Is the fact that this self–declared “gay pub with a local feel” is attached to a fast–casual Indian restaurant a big draw? Yes, it is. But the bar itself is also very much worth visiting, for nightly cocktail specials, karaoke and drag performances.

Why we love it: It’s casual but very fun, and karaoke happens every Wednesday, Friday and Sunday with a fabulous drag queen host.

Time Out tip: The bar shares a door with the neighboring Indian restaurant, Roti Roll, so you can fuel up with samosas and chana masala until 4am while the party rages.

Address: 992 Amsterdam Ave, New York, NY 10025

Opening hours: Mon, Tue 5pm–2am; Wed–Sun 5pm–4am

What is it? Bushwick's queer renaissance thrives at this laid–back spot, where drag is available without a high ticket price, and dirty dance parties and backyard hangs are the order of the day. 

Why we love it: Grab a cheap happy hour special and relax into a cozy couch; you're certain to make new friends. 

Time Out tip: Daily happy hour until 9pm offers $5 well drinks and beer, and $8 classic cocktails. 

Address: 63 Montrose Ave, Brooklyn, NY 11206

Opening hours: Mon–Fri 5pm–4am; Sat, Sun 3pm–4am

What is it? A can’t–miss combo of a Chappel Roan–heavy jukebox and strong drinks poured by hot bartenders has kept this lesbian spot busy since 1991.

Why we love it: Reggae and hip–hop spin most nights, inspiring a good bit of booty–shaking among the young, flirty patrons. 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. Monthly events include trivia, queeraoke, stoplight parties and more.

Time Out tip: Daily happy hour from 6pm to 8pm offers $7 drinks. 

Address: 428 Hudson St, New York, NY 10014

Opening hours: Wed, Thu 6pm–2am; Fri, Sat 6pm–4am; Sun 6pm–2am

What is it? This queer bar is all about aesthetics, high–quality cocktails, and grown–up fun that’s more for the LGBTQ+ imbiber who prefers a dirty martini in a chilled glass to house vodka sodas in a flimsy plastic cup. 

Why we love it: Don’t be mistaken—there’s plenty of fun to be had here, from boozy brunches to late–night parties, with a bit of a more upscale edge than its sticky floor counterparts. You do you.

Time Out tip: Animal is dedicated to being a judgement–free community space: Everyone is welcome as well as they uphold a code of conduct that bans any type of discrimination or harassment—it’s great for a birthday party, and cakes are welcome (as long as you bring the plates and silverware, too). 

Address: 307 Meeker Ave, Brooklyn, NY 11211

Opening hours: Mon–Fri 4pm–4am;,  Sat, Sun 4pm–2am

What is it? This trendy Park Slope gay bar is totally where the cool queers hang out and for good reason.

Why we love it: It’s unpretentious yet stylish and offers top–notch drinks, space to chat and plenty of dance floor to groove, a true crowd–pleaser for all. Follow their socials for themed nights, viewing parties, barbecues, and more. 

Time Out tip: Upstairs in the cabaret room, you’ll find live piano karaoke, comedy shows, drag performance, and more. 

Address: 563 5th Ave, Brooklyn, NY 11215

Opening hours: Tue–Thu 5pm–2am; Fri 5pm–3am; Sat 3pm–3am; Sun 3pm–2am

What is it? Named to evoke queer joy—“yasss kween”—this Astoria cocktail lounge and drag brunch spot is pure happiness. 

Why we love it: Sip fun craft cocktails, like a signature drink made with green tea–infused gin (caffeine! alcohol!) and snack on empanadas and sweet potato fries at this gay bar perfect for a friendly catch–up for date night.

Time Out tip: Book a reservation for drag brunch, every Saturday and Sunday at 1pm and 3:30pm

Address: 4-10 30th Ave, Long Island City, NY 11103

Opening hours: Mon–Thu 4pm–4am; Fri 5–11 pm; Sat, Sun noon–11 pm

What is it? Established in 1864, this is New York’s oldest operating gay bar, and the rich sense of history and community here are palpable.

Why we love it: Thanks to a resurgence in popularity in recent years, the crowd has an intergenerational mix; longtime patrons sip their drafts at the long wooden bar, while younger groups tend to gather at tables in the back and wolf down cheap eats from the in–house grill. Don’t miss this West Village staple.

Time Out tip: In addition to a bar, Julius’ is also a restaurant serving solid grilled hamburgers plus fries, onion rings and more.

Address: 159 W 10th St, New York, NY 10014 

Opening hours: Mon–Thu 4–11pm; Fri 4pm–midnight; Sat–Sun noon–midnight

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What is it? This fun Bushwick lesbian bar opened in April 2023, serving playful cocktails, Dyke Beer, wine, and non–alcoholic beverages. 

Why we love it: Visit for nightly specials, DJ dance parties under the disco balls, and overall chill but very fun vibes. 

Time Out tip: The Bush is a great spot to socialize even if you’re not into dancing—look out for WNBA and WNSL watch parties, figure drawing nights, and more. 

Address: 333 Troutman St, Brooklyn, NY 11237

Opening hours: Tue–Thu 6pm–1am; Fri, Sat 6pm–4am; Sun 4pm–midnight

What is it? Alan Cumming took over the former Eastern Bloc bar in 2017 and reimagined it as a cabaret, comedy and party hub evocative of NYC's golden era of downtown nightlife. 

Why we love it: Count on Broadway singers belting out favorites by the piano, nostalgia–fueled ’90s dance parties and stellar cabaret and comedy nights just about any time you drop in.

Time Out tip: Check the calendar for free events and other unique offerings, such as “queerlesque.” 

Address: 505 E 6th St, New York, NY 10009

Opening hours: Fri 6pm–4am; Sat 4pm–4am; Sun 5pm–midnight; Mon 6pm–4am; Tue–Thu 6pm–2am

What is it? One of the very few Black–owned gay bars in the entire city, this Harlem nightclub run by a local couple promises a good time any night of the week. 

Why we love it: Named for the Lambda vodka also started by the founders, Lambda is a place to drink, dance and just unwind on the dance floor or backyard.

Time Out tip: Reservations are accepted so you don’t have to fight for a place to sit on busy nights.

Address: 2256 Adam Clayton Powell Jr Blvd, New York, NY 10027

Opening hours: Tue–Thu 8pm–2am; Fri, Sat 8pm–4am; Sun 6–11pm

What is it? With so many exciting queer spaces to choose from, how is a New York gay supposed to stand out? 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). 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! Visit in the colder months for PBRs by the fireplace and in warmer weather for backyard BBQs every Sun between Memorial Day and Labor Day.

Address: 559 Lorimer St, Brooklyn, NY 11211

Opening hours: Daily 3pm–4am

What is it? A friendly, spacious bar with an intimacy–heightening low ceiling, Nowhere attracts Manhattan’s scruffier crowds—and the place is filled with everyone from dykes to bears, thanks to a fun lineup of theme nights. 

Why we love it: There's no official dance floor, but don't be surprised to find yourself bopping along to disco, rock, new wave and whatever else the DJ feels like spinning.

Time Out tip: Happy hour is all day on Sundays! 

Address: 322 E 14th St, New York, NY 10003

Opening hours: Mon–Sat 3pm–4am, Sun 3pm–2am,

What is it? Enjoy drinks in the lovely queer owned and operated Americana bar 3 Dollar Bill, which features shows and events like Sun BBQ parties; then head to the fabulous warehouse space in the back of the venue, for thumping dance parties every night guided by sound systems inherited from venues like the Roseland Ballroom. 

Why we love it: Some of the best drag performers and DJs in the city have begun their takeovers here; get in early and join the community. 

Time Out tip: If you like to dress up, visit for weekend themed parties, like a Charlie XCX underwear party. 

Address: 260 Meserole St, Brooklyn, NY 11206

Hours: Daily 5pm–4am

What is it? This local watering hole has been a favorite on the queer East Village circuit ever since it burst onto the scene back in the ’90s. Phoenix isn’t fussy, and that’s why it feels like home. Expect theme nights, drink specials and a straight–up good time. 

Why we love it: Recent renovations have made the OG space a bit more upscale, but still comfortable and unpretentious for all types of hangs. 

Time Out tip: Wednesday bring karaoke and happy hour starting at 10pm and every Saturday at 10pm drag queens and a DJ get the party going. 

Address: 447 E 13th St, New York, NY 10009

Opening hours: Daily 3pm–4am

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What is it? A Hell’s Kitchen gay bar primed for the 2020s, VERS is all about chic interiors (yes, that means jewel–toned banquettes and a marble bar top), plus craft cocktails, mocktails, and party food. Why we love it: Visit for drag performances, Broadway trivia nights and more weekly events and parties. 

Time Out tip: Nightly happy hour, until 8pm, offers $12 margaritas and martinis, plus two bar bites (think deviled eggs, tater tots, and chicken tenders) for $16. 

Address: 714 9th Ave, New York, NY 10019

Opening hours:  Mon–Thu 5pm–2am; Fri 4pm–4am; Sat 2pm–4am; Sun 2pm–2am

What is it? This Bed–Stuy standby is unique because it feels like several different places at once: a crowded bar on one side, lots of seating in the next room, and an intimate performance space in the back. Expect pop diva–themed dance parties, deeply chaotic drag and friendly vibes in this queer owned and operated bar and performance space.

Why we love it: C’mon Everybody is an LGBTQ+ oasis in a part of Brooklyn that’s not flush with queer spaces, and it’s not to be missed. 

Time Out tip: House cocktails are simple but fun, like the Lavender Menace made with mezcal, lime, and lavender. 

Address: 325 Franklin Ave, Brooklyn, NY 11238

Opening hours: Fri, Sat 5pm–4am, Sun: 6pm–2am, Mon: 5pm–1am, Tue–Thu 5pm–2 am

What is it? A self–described “rock and sleaze fag bar,” the Cock is just the sort of dark, sketchy dive where you can unleash your inner sexy beast. 

Why we love it: The dearth of uptown attitude (or any apparent concern for cleanliness) pulls artists, musicians, writers, fashionistas, tourists and closeted rebels in stiff polos, all of whom can appreciate a little dirty fun. Weekends get so crowded (midnight to 3am) that there’s often a cover charge. 

Time Out tip: Stuff your pockets before coming here; it’s cash only.

Address: 93 2nd Ave, New York, NY 10003

Opening hours: Wed–Sun 10pm–4am

What is it? If you like your kink with a wink and a drink, think pink. Pink Metal is a well–kept Bushwick secret that’s one–of–a–kind. 

Why we love it: Drop by for a signature cocktail (or mocktail) and stick around for fetish figure drawing, drag bingo or a burlesque show. Pink Metal might be a small space, but it leaves a big impression, especially with its model for community–centric inclusivity. 

Time Out tip: Need to fuel up between drinks? Enjoy treats like mochi donuts and potato croquettes from their all–vegan snack menu. 

Address: 253 Bushwick Ave, Brooklyn, NY 11206

Opening hours:  Mon–Thu 6pm–2am; Fri–Sun 5pm–2am

What is it? The men behind longstanding Chelsea haunts Barracuda and Elmo Restaurant bring you this high–energy midtown drinkery. 

Why we love it: Unlike cozy Barracuda, Industry is a sprawling, high–ceilinged space, featuring a long concrete bar (manned by hunky, often shirtless bartenders, naturally), a stage hosting drag and music performances and a sizable dance floor.

Time Out tip: Drinks are buy one, get one until 9pm every night.

Address: 355 W 52nd St, New York, NY 10019

Opening hours: Daily 6pm–4am

What is it? A long and narrow dance hall dressed resembling Babylon from Queer as Folk, Hombres has a more Manhattan vibe than the other gay bars on the Jackson Heights strip. 

Why we love it: Cheap tequila and vodka shots, plus frozen margaritas (and scantily–clad go–go boys atop the bar) keep the young and beautiful coming back, with the crowd overflowing the sweaty dance floor and spilling out into the street. Hombres is something of a destination for Long Islanders and Connecticut gays, perhaps thanks to the ample on–street parking just outside.

Time Out tip: A downstairs lounge is only open for private events, so if you’re not lucky enough to snag one of the few barstools, you may as well dance all night. 

Address: 37-28 85th St, Jackson Heights, NY 11372

Opening hours: Daily, 4pm–4am

What is it? The draw at this beloved West Village institution ain't the drinks—cheap beer, vodka highballs—it's the old–school piano–bar experience. 

Why we love it: Belt out a Broadway tune with the rest of the bar, which draws a mixed crowd but still has a traditional gay leaning, especially on weeknights. Expect lines out the door on weekends, when Broadway enthusiasts from all over the world wait to join the sing-along.

Time Out tip: Bring cash to tip the pianist and request your favorite songs. 

Address: 59 Grove St, New York, NY 10014

Opening hours: Daily 4pm – 4am

What is it? Whatever your kink, this fetish bar will satisfy with its array of beer blasts, foot–worship fêtes and leather soirees, plus simple pool–playing and cruising nights.

Why we love it: This cash–only venue is a bit of a trek unless you’re already in the wild west of midtown, but if you’re up for an adventure, it’s always worth the trip. 

Time Out tip: In warmer months, the roof deck is a surprisingly lovely oasis.

Address: 554 W 28th St New York, NY 10001

Opening hours: Daily 10pm–4am

What is it? Yeehaw! City folk can party honky–tonk–style at this country and western gay bar. 

Why we love it: The spot is outfitted to look like a Wild West bordello, complete with red velvet drapes, antler sconces and rococo wallpaper. Throw back a shot and wrangle yourself a mate, or chow down on hearty grub like Texas red chili or Angus beef burgers.

Time Out tip: Don't miss the entertainment—performances by bartenders dancing in cowboy boots add to the raucous vibe.

Address: 793 9th Ave New York, NY 10019

Hours: Daily 3pm – 4am

What is it? Gay nightlife honcho Josh Wood teamed up with veterans of Drom, Eastern Bloc and Splash to bring you this neighborhood homo haunt conveniently located in the middle of Hell's Kitchen's thriving gay strip.

Why we love it: Inspired by retro athletic clubs, this isn’t your typical YMCA (don’t worry, there are still plenty of abs on display). The vibe is more laid-back, so there's no need to change out of your gym clothes or favorite T-shirt to grab drinks. 

Time Out tip: Sidewalk seating is fun on a nice day!

Address: 753 9th Ave, New York, NY 10019

Opening hours: Mon–Thu 4pm–1am; Fri–Sun 3pm–4am

What is it? New to Carroll Gardens in 2024, this laid-back, stylish lounge is as reliable as, well, a pair of loafers. It’s a lovely place for queers to sip a signature martini (super gay vodka, carpano dry vermouth, orange bitters) and nosh on a cheese plate, especially if you’re more inclined to sit and chat than hit the dance floor. 

Why we love it: A neighborhood gay bar with upscale cocktails and Italian snacks? Say less. Drag bingo nights and weekend DJs add more social vibes. 

Time Out tip: Located on a prime stretch of Court St., Loafers is great for a progressive bar crawl or date night before or after a dinner reservation. 

Address: 517 Court St, Brooklyn, NY 11231

Opening hours: Sun–Thu 5pm–1am; Fri, Sat 5pm–3am