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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.

Lone Star Saloon in SoMa is a nightlife hub for the local bears. The outdoor patio is regularly filled with a "rough around the edges" crowd of bears, otters, leathermen, and their admirers, who can all enjoy a beer and the odd game of pool. This bar is particularly busy on the weekends and when people flock here to begin their nights out, and the Sunday afternoon beers parties are especially popular.

The Cinch Saloon is the only gay bar left on Polk Street, the place where San Francisco's reputation for queer nightlife all began. It's got an old-fashioned gay bar with dive vibes and a western theme where all identities are welcome, and offers strong drinks, pool tables, pinball, DJs and absolutely no attitude. The patio at the back is a place to smoke and relax with one of the many good but very cheap beers on tap.

Pilsner Inn has an everyday bar feel with big TVs playing sports and lots of beers on tap, plus a peaceful garden patio. The bar's commitment to the community sports teams draws a loyal local crowd, so for a traditional experience of Castro's gay scene this is the place to go. Plenty of classic bar games and great special offers on drinks make for a fun and friendly experience at the Pilsner Inn.

Financial District gay bar with drag shows and DJ's, serving cocktails named after historic LGBTQ mainstays. This fairly new addition to the LGBTQ scene is a throwback to the classic gay bars that were once prominent in the area, paying homage to traditional cocktail lounges with a range of reimagined drinks. With a pool table, dance parties, karaoke, and drag shows, Ginger's is the perfect spot to unwind or catch up with friends.

The Wild Side West in Bernal Heights has been around for decades, mixing longtime lesbian bar with classic neighbourhood sports bar. On any given night you can find an eclectic array of art, a friendly game of pool, or a low-key crowd hanging out on the patio or in the beer garden. Hosting events from trivia Wednesdays to game day viewing, and with the juke box always providing the soundtrack, Wild Side West guarantees you a fun time.