Crossing

Opened in 1953, Cafe Lafitte is the oldest continuously operating gay bar in the United States. It's open 24/7, providing a fun hangout space in the popular Bourbon Street. You'll find a characterful wraparound balcony, perfect for people watching and enjoying the atmosphere of the city. Both upstairs and downstairs areas have full bars and outdoor seating, and in the upstairs space you can enjoy a game of pool, an intimate conversation, and views over the French Quarter.

Established in 1964, The Golden Lantern maintains a reputation as one of the best neighbourhood bars in the French Quarter. It has historically been central to the LGBTQ+ community, as a traditional yet inclusive space and home to the legendary Southern Decadence event. Inside you'll find a cosy bar area with exposed brick walls, creating a no-frills atmosphere where anyone can be themselves. Enjoy draught beers or classy cocktails and watch the world go by.

Priding itself on true Southern hospitality, GrandPre's is an all inclusive gay bar. The friendly local crowd that gathers here does not care who you are, they are sure to welcome you in for a drink and to enjoy the entertainment. Tucked away in a corner of the French Quarter, GrandPre's offers good clean fun with none of the big city attitude or prices. Classic cocktails coupled with drag shows make for an enjoyable night.

This gay bar unusually doubles as a guest house, making it the perfect destination if you want to immerse yourself in the New Orleans gay scene. It's a dive bar and performance space that represents the dingy and more traditional side of the Marigny neighbourhood, hosting fabulous drag shows and offering the biggest liquor selection in town. For some good old-fashioned fun and stiff drinks, this is the place to be.

Hidden away in Metairie away from the central gay scene, Four Seasons is a reliable hangout spot for the local queer community. It's something of a hidden gem, off the beaten path but always up for a party. Parties here attract a fun and friendly crowd, and the bar also hosts regular drag revues that are especially popular. To explore a different part of the city get a taste of a smaller gay hideaway, this is the place to go.

Voted Best Gay Bar in New Orleans & French Quarter, Bourbon Pub Parade has been around for over 45 years. A central location in the heart of the French Quarter brings all sorts of people flock to this bi-level club every night of the week. Award winning drag shows are hosted here regularly, and there's always a great energy on the dance floor. For a more relaxing night, hang out in the video lounge or on the wraparound balcony.