Lookout

Twin Peaks Tavern is the gateway to the iconic Castro neighbourhood. It has long been the best spot to watch the world go by through huge panoramic windows with the neighbourhood's best cocktails, beers on tap, and plenty of wine. The outside always looks inviting with its array of rainbow lights, and inside the vintage furniture and cosy atmosphere mean that regulars enjoy the comforts of home here while newcomers are offered a warm welcome.

The Lookout is a bar, restaurant and nightclub in the iconic Castro district of San Francisco. You can find a comfortable spot on the wrap around balcony to people watch as you look out over a colourful and busy corner on Castro, while inside there's great music from a variety of live DJs. Friendly staff serve strong drinks and bar snacks, and both inside and outside spaces are often packed with regulars who love the atmosphere of The Lookout.

First opened more than 40 years ago, Midnight Sun draws a mixed crowd of bears and hot guys in minimal clothing that keep coming back for the nightly happy hour and regular events such as karaoke and TV viewing parties. The Friday evening happy hour is especially popular - watch out for the very strong cocktails! On Friday and Saturday nights you can expect hot boys dancing on the bar and the whole venue is unsurprisingly packed, with music videos and TV playing all night to complete the lively atmosphere.

The Castro's Toad Hall is open seven days a week for live DJ's and dancing. The bar is full of cocktails and beers at great prices, and you can hang out with your drinks in the booths or just enjoy the dance floor. There's a second bar on the outdoor patio if that's where you prefer to relax, and regular drag events, karaoke, and dance competitions mean there's always something going on if you want to join in.

Powerhouse is one of the most popular gay bars of SoMa, offering a unique "no style" kind of style where a mixed but fetish-loving portion of the local queer community can hang out. It tends to draw a cruisy leather crowd, so if that's what you like then this is definitely the place to be. An interior decorated like an appropriately themed movie set provides a backdrop to specialist nights and parties where nothing is off limits.

This Mission District gay bar provides a safe space for the local LGBTQ community, as well as a friendly neighbourhood bar where you can find great deals on drinks and a diverse crowd. The spacious patio is the perfect place to relax and unwind with friends, but there's also a packed dance floor inside if you're looking for a more lively night out. It's a good all-round staple in the area's gay scene.