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Less FOMO, more Homo*
*generally just more LBGTQ+
GayMapper helps you navigate your worldwide LGBTQ+ travels, with gay guides for popular LGBTQ+ destinations and Gay Friendly hotel deals. Book your next LGBTQ+ trip today.
Our favourite LGBTQ+ destinations
Check out the GayMapper gay guides for the most popular LGBTQ+ holiday destinations worldwide
Glasgow's gay nightlife scene is centred around the Merchant City area, where there is a bar or club for any taste or preference. The venues here cater to a range of identities, fetishes, and themes, with plenty of events to keep you busy throughout your stay. You can even combine the history of the city into your night out by visiting Scotland oldest gay bar. If that wasn't enough, thanks to Glasgow's accepting nature, you'll be welcome in any other venue in the city so you're safe to explore and find your ideal night out.
Head to Oxford Street and Darlinghurst and you’ll find most of Sydney’s gay and gay-friendly nightlife. The gay scene in Sydney truly has something for everyone. There are popular lesbian hangouts, mixed hipster bars, dark cruise clubs, and everything in between. Many of the community’s favourite bars are based in hotels, including Oxford and Columbian which are long-standing institutions. Find your crowd and take full advantage of what this diverse city has to offer. Bars and clubs here are busy all year round, but annual Mardi Gras celebrations take the nightlife and parties to another level.
There are so many gay bars and clubs in Berlin, and the scene is constantly changing. Nevertheless, the Schöneberg district remains the heart of the gay community, which has thrived here since the 1920's, and offers a large variety of gay bars and nightlife to choose from, focused along Fuggerstrasse and Motzstrasse. You'll also find clusters of gay bars in the Kreuzberg and Friedrichshain districts, and most recently bars have opened up in Prenzlauer Berg and Berlin Mitte. Check our comprehensive listings of Berlin gay bars below.
The main gay bars in Torremolinos can be found in La Nogalera, close to the railway station and right in the heart of the town. Set in walkways under a 1970s apartment complex, you'll find a wide range of bars, dance clubs and cruising clubs, most with outdoor seating. Close by is the gay friendly Pueblo Blanco area, built in traditional Andalucian style. Down by the beach, you'll find the gay beach club and nearby bars.
Denver is vibrant throughout the day but it's especially lively after dark, especially in the RiNo, Cherry Creek, and Capitol Hill neighbourhoods. The nightlife scene here offers a variety of different bars and clubs that each have a unique selling point that means you'll want to experience them all. You can have a pint at a simple LGBTQ bar where you can meet the local gays, or dive headfirst into the party atmosphere at a more modern club. Whichever you choose, you are sure to be surrounded by diverse groups of people who will make your trip even more memorable.
Dublin may not have as many gay bars and clubs as some of the bigger European cities, but the small selection of places conveniently located in the city centre are bursting with energy. Their characters range from traditional to modern and eccentric, putting them firmly in the heart of Dublin's diverse LGBTQ+ community, as meeting places and safe spaces. Be sure to visit The George, the longest running gay bar in the city, as well as the number of mixed venues that host regular LGBTQ+ nights and welcome in the community.
The gay life in Cologne is centred around two main areas of the city, Rudolfplatz and Heumarkt (or the Old Town.) Heumarkt has had gay venues for many years, and as such attracts a somewhat older crowd than in the area around Rudolfplatz. There are many gay bars and clubs to choose from, depending on your mood or tribe. If you're new to town or just visiting, a bar crawl across an evening or two is definitely a good way to start. Check out our listings below of all gay venues in Cologne, Germany and choose where you'll start!
Canal Street is arguably one of the most famous LGBTQ nightlife destinations in the UK. The Gay village located here is best known for its host of bars and clubs that cater for every taste and orientation, while also paying respect to the history of LGBTQ spaces in the area. dozens of gay bars and clubs offer entertainment and themed nights throughout the week, making Canal Street THE hub for gay nightlife in Manchester. It's a must-see destination for any gay tourist who is looking for a good time.
Oak Lawn is the best place in Dallas to hang out with a mixed crowd of LGBTQ+ people. There are plenty of nightlife options in this gaybourhood, including the largest lesbian bar in the country right next door to a host of other bars and clubs that all have different atmospheres and themes. Everything you need for the perfect night out is located in this queer hub, but if you want to venture out and explore the rest of the city, you'll find queer friendly venues there as well.
DC boasts a great selection of LGBTQ+ bars and clubs that keep the party going all week. The queer community here is growing in its diversity, and that is reflected in the variety of nightlife and an ever-changing scene. Big gay nights out are popping up across the city as the community is welcomed into more traditional pubs and sports, but the safe spaces of the queer neighbourhoods like Dupont Circle are still there if you need them. Whether you want a simple gay friendly pub or a night out on DC’s infamous drag scene, you’ll find your crowd here.
There are three exclusively gay bars in Auckland but all the other places in the city are gay-friendly. There's no separation of communities here. You'll find crowds of gay tourists and locals anywhere you go, with the most popular nightlife spot being K Road. As you explore the city, you'll also find more upscale areas such as Viaduct and Britomart. Across Auckland you can expect loud music, camp drag and comedy, and strong drinks. Enjoy cocktails in modern bars or chat with locals in trendy hipster hangouts and brunch spots. There's something to enjoy no matter what you're into.
Some of the best parties in the city take place on the iconic Miami Beach, where a huge local LGBTQ+ community welcomes queer visitors, and you can party with crowds of barely dressed people. That being said, if traditional pubs and clubs are more your thing, there are plenty of places in the city to hang out and relax. Centred in South Beach, you'll find everything from pool parties and classy cocktails to underground drag shows and a historic club scene.
A thriving nightlife scene is central to Orlando's LGBTQ+ community, providing a safe space and a sense of togetherness. While the city doesn't have a specific gay neighbourhood, queer focussed bars and clubs are scattered around, away from the theme parks but just as lively. Each offers a unique experience to all members of the community, and most places are mixed, so allies are welcome as well as a loyal crowd of queer regulars. Thanks to a full calendar of queer events and some super camp locals, the nightlife scene here is always buzzing!
Frankfurt has a queer neighbourhood known as the Bermuda Triangle, apparently as many people have disappeared there for many hours - bars can stay open 24 hours in Frankfurt, so it's easy to lose track of time! Head towards Alte Gasse in the Innenstadt for a number of LGBTQ+ bars and clubs.
The gay bars in Palm Springs are cool, modern, and open, reflecting the culture of the city as a whole. While most tourists here are focused on the sun and daytime fun, there's a thriving nightlife scene to enjoy as well if that's more your thing. In true Palm Springs spirit, there's a place for everyone, whether you're looking for a quick drink, a lively dance floor, a camp and sassy drag show, or even a holiday hook up. Gay venues can be found anywhere in the city, but most are concentrated in the unofficial LGBTQ+ area of Arenas Road.
Portland has a multitude of gay venues for you to explore, all offering something a little bit different. The city has a prominent feminist and lesbian scene, which is focussed on the Hawthorne District with its trendy bars and coffee shops. Meanwhile the Burnside Triangle has always been a hangout spot for local queer people of all identities and is the home of LGBTQ+ nightlife that caters to everyone. As you explore the city you can catch a drag show, grab a craft cocktail, or simply dance the night away in one of the many clubs.
The gay scene of New Orleans is centred on its bars and clubs, where people from across the community can come together and enjoy a night with friends. The city is home to a legendary live music scene as well so you can expect loud gigs and wild dancefloors alongside more traditional watering holes. In keeping with the spirit of the city, most places are mixed, so LGBTQ+ spaces welcome allies and you can find a sizeable queer crowd wherever you go. The best-known bars are in the French Quarter, right next door to the lively Bourbon Street.
In the Chueca gay district in Madrid, you'll find an enormous choice of gay bars in a relatively small area so you can hop easily from place to place and experience as many as possible. The gay scene really comes to life around midnight when people start to gather at the bars, then later the crowd moves to the clubs to party till morning. With such a variety of nightlife venues, there's a place for everyone, from bear bars to fetish clubs and everything in between. Many of the bars have darker cruising spaces as well if that's what you're looking for.
The famous Stonewall Inn stills stands proudly in Greenwich Village, reminding visitors of the political history that allows so many more modern gay bars and clubs to flourish across the city. There are countless places for the queer community today to find their crowd and feel safe doing so, from the bustling drag scene of East Village to the quirky and alternative parties of Bushwick, from nightclub to karaoke bar to dive, every destination is different. You're welcome to explore the wide range of places on offer, and you're sure to find your perfect night.
Featured gay friendly hotels worldwide
GayMapper brings you a curated selection of accommodation gay destinations around the world, which are in preferred locations and are welcoming to LGBTQ+ travellers. Grab a great deal on your hotel stay when you book via GayMapper!
3* HI Boston Hostel
Boston
Located in the heart of Boston, this hostel is within 5 minutes' walk to Boston Common and public transportation. All rooms include free Wi-Fi. Guests have access to a shared kitchen.
Dormitory style rooms at Boston – Hostelling International have individual lockers. Guests can choose between female, male, or mixed accommodations. Private rooms boast en suite bathrooms.
Guests of Hostelling International - Boston can relax in the game room complete with billiards and TV. A coffee bar and vending machines offering snacks and drinks are on-site. Bike storage is available.
Plenty of shopping and dining are within 5 minutes' walk of Hostelling International – Boston. Guests can enjoy organized activities that take them to tourist attractions and local hot spots.
5* XV Beacon Hotel
Boston
Stylish, sophisticated and situated at the top of Boston city centre's historic Beacon Hill, this luxurious boutique hotel is within walking distance to major attractions and offers state-of-the-art services and amenities.
Stroll through the scenic Boston Common park, explore the unique and luxury shops of Newbury Street, ideally located only steps from the Fifteen Beacon Hotel's front doors. Easily experience all areas of the city with the hotel's free in-town chauffeured sedan service.
Originally built in 1903, Fifteen Beacon elegantly combines historic charm with all of today's modern conveniences. Take advantage of spacious guestrooms furnished with iHome systems, flat-screen TVs and gas fireplaces. Relax at the end of the day with an in-room massage or with a cocktail from the on-site Wine Cellar.
4* Eaton DC
Washington DC
Eaton DC is a Downtown DC hotel for travelers seeking inspiration, innovation & impact. They offer coworking spaces in DC, cozy rooms, wellness services and more.
Located on the corner of 12th and K Streets NW in Downtown Washington, Eaton DC is blocks away from shopping, the Metro, and the Smithsonian.
Every room features a floor-to-ceiling window, a flat-screen TV with streaming capabilities, and a stocked minibar. Each room also has a private bathroom with a walk-in shower, bathrobes, free toiletries, in-room steamer and a hairdryer.
The hotel offers three on-site bars, a restaurant, and a cafe. The space has a radio station that promotes talk radio, live music, and recorded music. In addition to the radio station, Eaton has a 50-seat theatre for hosting speaking events and screenings. There is a wellness centre located on-site, which features traditional and new-age practices to promote peace of mind and body.
American Son is Eaton's featured restaurant, and offers a vegetable-forward, Asian-infused menu crafted by local celebrity chef, Tim Ma. Kintsugi cafe offers a full-service coffee bar and specializes in both tea and coffee-infused drinks. The bar offers an elevated drinking experience and the Rooftop provides guests with indoor and outdoor seating, as well as live music.
Eaton DC is blocks away various Metro Stations. The Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History, the Washington Convention Center and the White House are located within 1.3 km of the hotel. The nearest airport is Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport, 6.1 km from Eaton DC
3* Worthington Guesthouse
Fort Lauderdale
Gay Fort Lauderdale's Worthington Resorts is an all male clothing optional gay hotel located just 5 blocks away from Fort Lauderdale's gay Beach. Wilton Manors is a short drive way with all the bars and gay nightlife on offer. It offers a clothing optional courtyard with two 24-hour pools, a spacious hot tub and free Wi-Fi. It forms part of a complex with the Alcazar resort and Villa Venice, and all facilities are shared.
The bright, modern guest rooms at the Worthington All Male Guesthouse feature luxurious bedding with a down duvet and premium toiletries. They also include a 32-inch wall-mounted TV and DVD player. Some include a microwave and fridge.
Facilities at the All Male Worthington include a modern gym overlooking the pool and soothing waterfalls and fountains.
A continental breakfast is served daily at the hotel. Additional dining and entertainment options are a short walk away.
4* Staypineapple, Union Square
San Francisco
Staypineapple San Francisco is a newly re-imagined, posh choice in Union Square, San Francisco, featuring sophisticated and thoughtfully designed guest rooms.
It is set in a historic 1913 hotel located just 5 minutes' walk from vibrant Union Square. It offers a coffee and treats reception at check-in and free WiFi in all rooms.
A blend of modern decor and restored 1930s Victorian elegance is featured in all rooms. A flat-screen cable TV is featured in each room. A hairdryer is included in the en suite bathroom. A coffee machine allows guests to brew a fresh cup of coffee each morning.
A computer in the lobby is available for guest use. Concierge services and a 24-hour reception provide convenient guest assistance.
San Francisco's Chinatown is 1 km away from Staypineapple. Grace Cathedral is 8 minutes' walk away.
3* Number 31
Dublin
Number 31, Dublin is one of the most beloved boltholes in Georgian Dublin City Centre, renowned for its personal service, top notch breakfast and luxuriously laid-back atmosphere.
The award-winning gay friendly guesthouse has been created within in a classical Georgian townhouse. St Stephen's Green is a 5-minute walk away, with the gay bars another 10 minutes walk further. The property features a sunken guest lounge, with leather seating and an open fire.
The bedrooms at Number 31 feature a private bathroom with a shower, Dyson cooling fan and VOYA Irish toiletries.
Freshly prepared breakfasts are offered each morning.
Grafton Street, The National Museum of Ireland and National Library are under 15 minutes' walk away. Dublin Airport is 12.9 km away.
5* Steigenberger Frankfurter
Frankfurt
Established in 1876, Steigenberger Frankfurter Hof is in the middle of the historic, financial district of Frankfurt and just 1 km away from the Emperor St. Bartholomaus's Cathedral, where the emperor's coronation once took place.
The hotel features 303 luxurious rooms with traditional and modern decor as well as elegant and classic furnishings. All rooms features a flat-screen TV, a safety deposit box, an air condition unit and first-class toiletries from Aigner.
Guests are welcome to enjoy an exquisite and delicate breakfast served at the hotel restaurant Hofgarten. In the afternoon, guests can enjoy a royal afternoon tea at the Autorenbar. The bar turns into a get together place for people to enjoy a drink or two in the evenings.
The award winning and Michelin-starred Restaurant Francais offers a unique fine dining experience, whereas OSCAR'S brasserie serves an assortment of snacks and regional dishes.
The ultimate spot for relaxation is at Steigenberger Frankfurter Hof's Spa. It comes with a Turkish bath and a traditional barber shop. Guests can book a selection of massages or luxurious beauty treatments.
Willy-Brandt-Platz Station is just outside the Frankfurter Hof, and provides connections to 6 different underground lines. Frankfurt Central Station is just 1 stop away.
3* Hotel St-Denis
Montreal
Located in Montreal's Latin Quarter, not far from the gay village, this hotel is 10 minutes' walk from the Place des Arts Performing Arts Center as well as several restaurants. Free in-room WiFi is available.
Each bright and simply furnished room at Hotel St-Denis includes cable TV and a work desk. A coffee maker and hairdryer are provided.
The front desk of this Montreal hotel is open 24 hours a day. Heated indoor parking is available.
The Berri-UQAM Subway Station is just 1 block from the St-Denis Hotel. The historic St-Denis Theatre is less than 5 minutes' walk from the property.
Featured gay bars and clubs worldwide
GayMapper had details of hundreds of gay bars, gay clubs and gay cruising bars in the most popular gay destinations around the world. Here is just a small selection of favourite gay venues. Do you have a favourite? Let us know and we can feature it!
Cheer Up Charlies
Austin
There's a place for everyone at Charlie's, which unsurprisingly attracts a diverse and slightly hipster crowd. The bar is located in a colourful cabin and serves vegan food alongside fresh organic juice cocktails and a selection of local beers. Behind the bar you can find a large outdoor music venue, where events are hosted nightly and you can enjoy a drink in the shade of an afternoon. There are also regular movie screenings and storytelling events.
Contact Mens Bar
Hamburg
A bit of an institution in Hamburg, Contact Mens Bar, the gay living room is a basement cruising bar in the St Georg area of Hamburg. Known to be welcoming with good value drinks, this bar is popular with locals and visitors alike. Step away from the main bar, and you'll find a cruising room in the back with a dark maze, sling and ***s.
Pullermanns
Cologne
Everyone knows the address, after all, the "Bumslokal" in Mathiasstraße 22 since 1972 (Platzjabbeck, Hands or Boners).
Here you live out your fetish and celebrate your sexuality. Here you can meet old and new friends at the bar or chat with the bartender. And if you are free enough, you can even do both at the same time. Be free is our motto. Here at Pullermanns, the leather man meets the suit wearer, the bear and the skater boy sit together at the bar.
Whether born in 1940 or 1990, whether completely in rubb*r or completely n*ked, anything goes. The only (but very important) rule of the game is openness, mutual tolerance and acceptance.
K6 Bar
Berlin
We are waiting for you: about 500m from the KaDeWe with a large beer garden in the middle of the Motz / Eisenacher-Kiez with dance floor, Music from pop to more pop. Can get quite smoky, poplar with older locals.
PantiBar
Dublin
This cosy little watering hole is full of personality as you'd expect from the bar owned by the queen of Dublin drag. This friendly and flamboyant space acts as a meeting place for city's diverse queer community. All sorts of people hang out here during the week for a quieter drink, while come the weekend there's always a party with themed events, live performances, and a mix of music from pop to rock.
Equator Bar
Birmingham
Equator Bar welcomes everyone in for coffee, cake, and gin at a low price that doesn't compromise on service. Staff are always friendly, and the stylish decor lends itself perfectly to a chill coffee shop that transitions to a lively bar at night. The music is good, and venue is perfect for anything from parties and big groups to some alone time with a pint at the end of the day.
Stag PDX
Portland
Stag is Portland's hottest bar that's just for gay men, featuring a host of live entertainment including hot male dancers. The club atmosphere is relaxed but lively, while a combination of leather furnishings, exposed bricks, and barely dressed guys gives the venue a unique feel. Live DJs are always there to provide great music, and on Sundays there's a popular drag brunch with cheap but quality food.
Besenkammer
Berlin
A small, long-established bar, open 24 hours a day and located near Alexanderplatz. Not the place for large groups as it is very small, but rated for a cosy drink, if you don't mind the smoking and want to see a piece of Berlin gay history.
801 Bourbon Bar
Key West
Located on historic Duval Street and just a few minutes from Ernest Hemingway's House, 801 Bourbon has been central to Key West culture for years. This multi-story complex hosts cabaret featuring The World Famous Drag shows every night, and there's also live music, karaoke, and bingo nights. The bar serves speciality drinks that change daily, and the space is a well established staple for the local gay community.
Betty F***
Berlin
Betty F is a small basement gay bar in Berlin Mitte, with cabaret entertainment. The bar's small size, like a "Berlin backroom," adds to its charm and makes it a unique experience. Betty F is also notable for its decor, friendly staff, and 80s and 90s music, which often leads to dancing. Gets busy on weekends.
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