New gay bar nyc

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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

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16. Nowhere

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,

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17. 3 Dollar Bill

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

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18. Phoenix

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.

Patrons flock to Pieces for its electrifying drag shows, where performers dazzle the audience with their talent and flair. From dazzling drag shows to electrifying DJ sets, Industry Bar offers an array of entertainment options to suit every taste.

The bar’s spacious layout, stylish decor, and energetic vibe create the perfect backdrop for mingling with friends or making new connections.

Guests can enjoy signature cocktails served by friendly bartenders while taking in the spirited atmosphere that combines the best of the Wild West with the vibrant LGBTQ+ scene of New York City.

Black-owned gay bar Lambda Lounge is also popular. The club’s talented DJs keep the dance floor packed with an eclectic mix of music, while its outdoor patio offers a refreshing escape from the excitement indoors.

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. With its generous happy hour specials and late-night entertainment, including karaoke and themed parties, Barracuda offers an unforgettable experience that keeps visitors coming back for more.

Address: 275 W 22nd St, New York, NY 10011

Phone: (212) 645-8613

4.

Whether you’re looking for a quiet evening with friends or a lively night out, the Phoenix Bar provides the quintessential dive bar experience in the heart of NYC.

Address: 447 East 13th Street New York, NY, 10009

Phone: (212) 477 9979

Exclusive Lounge Experiences

Discover a world of luxury and sophistication within New York City’s vibrant LGBTQ+ scene with exclusive lounge experiences at its premier gay bars.

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

23. Industry Bar

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

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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

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8. Animal

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.

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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4. Branded Saloon

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

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5. Suite Bar

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?

Known for its eclectic array of bars in the city, the East Village is often hailed as home to some of NYC’s best LGBTQ+ establishments. 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

20. C'mon Everybody

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

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21. The Cock

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.

The bar’s colorful decor sets the stage for a lively and inclusive experience, where patrons can feel at home in its cozy confines. Rise Bar: Fusion of Modern and Classic in a Gay Lounge

Rise Bar in NYC seamlessly blends modern flair with classic charm, making it a standout fusion of a contemporary gay lounge. We added Loafers Cocktail Bar. 

Been there, done that?

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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12. The Bush

What is it? This fun Bushwick lesbian bar opened in April 2023, serving playful cocktails, DykeBeer, 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

13. Club Cumming

What is it?

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. In the decades since, gay bars have remained vital hubs for community organizing, cultural expression, and political mobilization, contributing to the ongoing fight for equality and visibility.

The gay bar scene in NYC has since improved.

Receiving accolades including having the best jukebox in the city, to being a fashion insiders party, and even as an avante grade performance venue, The Phoenix has never closed its mind after opening its door.

new gay bar nyc

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 queer spaces all offer something unique, from cozy vibes and cheap drinks to high-energy dancing and brunch parties - sometimes in the same place on different days!

One of its best parts is the historic significance it carries, having been awarded landmark status by the city’s Landmarks Preservation Commission in recognition of its cultural importance.

As one customer expressed, “Julius’ is not just a bar; it’s a piece of LGBTQ+ history. Patrons can enjoy a variety of drinks at affordable prices while mingling with a diverse crowd of LGBTQ+ individuals.

Additionally, many bars prioritize creating safe spaces through policies that prohibit discrimination and harassment, ensuring that everyone feels respected and valued.