Sydney gay guide 2024, gay bars, clubs & hotels

Gay Sydney

Sydney is known for its landmarks, from the Opera House to Bondi Beach, but if you head further into the city, you’ll find a thriving gay scene as well. In the heart of it all is Oxford Street, the home of lively nightlife and the place where locals and visitors gather. Most of the LGBTQ+ people in the city live here as well, in a suburban area known as The Rainbow Ribbon. You’re sure to feel right at home here. Take advantage of the nightlife as well as a modern arts scene, beaches, and famous Mardi Gras celebrations.

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Sydney Gay Bars

GayMapper brings you information about gay bars and cruising bars in the city. Here are the top choices, read more about these bars or click below to see listings of all gay venues in this city.

Stonewall Hotel

Drag, Dancing

Stonewall Hotel is a lively gay bar in Darlinghurst, a favourite gathering place for the whole community. This large venue spreads over three floors, all packed full of music and entertainment. There's something going on every night of the week, including drag shows, dancers, and music by the best DJs in the city. There are themed nights as well plus great value happy hours. All this brings to community together with an amazingly friendly atmosphere.

Burdekin Hotel

Bear, Drag, Cocktails, Outdoor Seating

Burdekin Hotel has five floors, each offering a totally different experience. Hidden away in the basement is Dug Out, also known as Bear Bar, a hangout for bears and their admirers. Heading upstairs you'll find the popular Main Bar, and more intimate gigs hosted in Mini Bar. Viper Room has an industrial feel, while Lava Lounge is the stylish place to be. A new rooftop bar serves cocktails with regular drag shows. Find your favourite space and enjoy yourself.

The Imperial

Drag, Cocktails, Food

The Imperial is an iconic queer bar in Erskineville, hosting cabaret shows and acting as a meeting place for the whole community. In the cocktail lounge and on the terrace, you'll find a lively and friendly crowd. Sit back and enjoy drinks, stay for a meal, and watch lively drag shows at the same time. Drag queens are joined by pole dancers and other acts in a camp and community focussed atmosphere.

ARQ Sydney

Dancing

This large and lively venue is one of the biggest gay dance clubs in the country. Upstairs is the Arena, known for its incredible modern sound system. This space features a huge dance floor and state-of-the-art light shows alongside the best quality sound. Immerse yourself in the crowd or watch from the mezzanine above. Downstairs is the Vortex, a smaller space built for performances. When there isn't an act on stage, DJs transform the space into a dance floor.

The Colombian Hotel

Cocktails, Dancing

The Columbian Hotel hosts a bustling late-night gay bar, full of energy and a lively mixed crowd. There are regular themed dance parties complete with mirror balls in this bright and modern space. The bar serves up delicious cocktails and house DJs keep the party going till late. The dance floor is upstairs with amazing views of Oxford Street, while downstairs you'll find a video bar and a great place to meet people.

Ginger's

Drag, Cocktails

Ginger's is located in the iconic gay Oxford Hotel in the heart of Sydney's gay scene. The hotel boasts a number of spaces but Ginger's in the place to visit for cocktails and entertainment. There's regular cabaret shows here, which you can enjoy with delicious drinks in a modern space. It features state-of-the-art light and sound technologies, a comfortable lounge area, and a mezzanine level for a unique view of the show.

Sydney Gay Bars

Recommended gay friendly hotels in Sydney

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4.5* Vibe Hotel Sydney

Vibe Hotel is located in Sydney CBD (Central Business District), just 5 minutes' walk from the gay life and popular shopping and dining options on Oxford Street. It features a swimming pool, sauna and fitness centre. Free WiFi is available at the property. All rooms at Hotel Vibe are air conditioned, and come with satellite TV. Tea and coffee making facilities are provided. The en suite bathroom includes a bathtub, shower and hairdryer. Guests can take a dip in the hotel's rooftop pool or stay in shape at the well-equipped fitness centre. Dry cleaning and airport transfers are available upon request. Fino Par offers an extensive a la carte menu featuring Mediterranean specialities for lunch and dinner, along with local beers and wines. Vibe Sydney is situated in the city's shopping and entertainment district. Hyde Park is just 3 minutes' walk. Darling Harbour and the iconic Sydney Opera House are each a 30-minute walk away.

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Tours & Experiences in Sydney

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Tours & Experiences in Sydney