Best gay dance clubs in nyc

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Rise Bar: Fusion of Modern and Classic in a Gay Lounge

Rise Bar in NYC seamlessly blends modern flair with classic charm, making it a standout fusion of a contemporary gay lounge. Pink Metal is a well–kept Bushwick secret that’s one–of–a–kind.

Why we love it: Drop by for a signature cocktail (or mocktail) and stick around for fetish figure drawing, drag bingo or a burlesque show.

From lively dance clubs to cozy neighborhood bars, each venue offers its own unique atmosphere and charm. Alan Cumming took over the former Eastern Bloc bar in 2017 and reimagined it as a cabaret, comedy and party hub evocative of NYC's golden era of downtown nightlife.

Why we love it:Count on Broadway singers belting out favorites by the piano, nostalgia–fueled ’90s dance parties and stellar cabaret and comedy nights just about any time you drop in.

Time Out tip: Check the calendar for free events and other unique offerings, such as “queerlesque.”

Address: 505 E 6th St, New York, NY 10009

Opening hours: Fri 6pm–4am; Sat 4pm–4am; Sun 5pm–midnight; Mon 6pm–4am; Tue–Thu 6pm–2am

14. Lambda Lounge

What is it?One of the very few Black–owned gay bars in the entire city, this Harlem nightclub run by a local couple promises a good time any night of the week.

Why we love it:Named for the Lambda vodka also started by the founders, Lambda is a place to drink, dance and just unwind on the dance floor or backyard.

Time Out tip: Reservations are accepted so you don’t have to fight for a place to sit on busy nights.

Address: 2256 Adam Clayton Powell Jr Blvd, New York, NY 10027

Opening hours: Tue–Thu 8pm–2am; Fri, Sat 8pm–4am; Sun 6–11pm

15. Metropolitan

What is it?With so many exciting queer spaces to choose from, how is a New York gay supposed to stand out?

From sleek and stylish settings to intimate and upscale atmospheres, these venues offer discerning patrons an escape into elegance. Yes, it is. You will find classic gay bars and queer bars in the in the city with plenty of seating for the best gay nightlife experience.

From drag shows to themed nights, the programming reflects the rich tapestry of LGBTQ+ culture, offering something for everyone to enjoy.

The high–energy dance music draws a mixed, flirty crowd.

Why we love it: Drink at one of two bars, or shake your groove thing on the dance floor upstairs. This versatile venue features two bars, offering a variety of drink options and settings to suit different moods. Visit in the colder months for PBRs by the fireplace and in warmer weather for backyard BBQs every Sun between Memorial Day and Labor Day.

Address: 559 Lorimer St, Brooklyn, NY 11211

Opening hours: Daily 3pm–4am

16. Nowhere

What is it?A friendly, spacious bar with an intimacy–heightening low ceiling, Nowhere attracts Manhattan’s scruffier crowds—and the place is filled with everyone from dykes to bears, thanks to a fun lineup of theme nights.

Why we love it: There's no official dance floor, but don't be surprised to find yourself bopping along to disco, rock, new wave and whatever else the DJ feels like spinning.

Time Out tip: Happy hour is all day on Sundays!

Address: 322 E 14th St, New York, NY 10003

Opening hours: Mon–Sat 3pm–4am, Sun 3pm–2am,

17. 3 Dollar Bill

What is it? Enjoy drinks in the lovely queer owned and operated Americana bar 3 Dollar Bill, which features shows and events like Sun BBQ parties; then head to the fabulous warehouse space in the back of the venue, for thumping dance parties every night guided by sound systems inherited from venues like the Roseland Ballroom.

Why we love it: Some of the best drag performers and DJs in the city have begun their takeovers here; get in early and join the community.

Time Out tip: If you like to dress up, visit for weekend themed parties, like a Charlie XCX underwear party.

Address: 260 Meserole St, Brooklyn, NY 11206

Hours: Daily 5pm–4am

18. Phoenix

What is it?This local watering hole has been a favorite on the queer East Village circuit ever since it burst onto the scene back in the ’90s.

The area is indeed for LGBTQ and queer community. The staff is always friendly, and the drinks are reasonably priced. With its unique blend of charm and community spirit, Cubbyhole continues to be a beloved destination for locals and visitors alike.

Address: 281 W 12th St, New York, NY 10014

Phone: (212) 243-9041

9. Follow their socials for themed nights, viewing parties, barbecues, and more.
Time Out tip: Upstairs in the cabaret room, you’ll find live piano karaoke, comedy shows, drag performance, and more.
Address: 563 5th Ave, Brooklyn, NY 11215
Opening hours: Tue–Thu 5pm–2am; Fri 5pm–3am; Sat 3pm–3am; Sun 3pm–2am

10. Kween

What is it?Named to evoke queer joy—“yasss kween”—this Astoria cocktail lounge and drag brunch spot is pure happiness.

Why we love it:Sip fun craft cocktails, like a signature drink made with green tea–infused gin (caffeine!

You do you.

Time Out tip: Animal is dedicated to being a judgement–free community space: Everyone is welcome as well as they uphold a code of conduct that bans any type of discrimination or harassment—it’s great for a birthday party, and cakes are welcome (as long as you bring the plates and silverware, too).

Address: 307 Meeker Ave, Brooklyn, NY 11211

Opening hours: Mon–Fri 4pm–4am;, Sat, Sun 4pm–2am

9. Good Judy

What is it?This trendy Park Slope gay bar is totally where the cool queers hang out and for good reason.

Why we love it:It’s unpretentious yet stylish and offers top–notch drinks, space to chat and plenty of dance floor to groove, a true crowd–pleaser for all.

Explicit sexual activity isn't encouraged: if you want to do that you can go to East Side Club.

It should be noted that The Russian & Turkish Baths is not a gay bathhouse. Why we love it: Visit for drag performances, Broadway trivia nights and more weekly events and parties.

Time Out tip: Nightly happy hour, until 8pm, offers $12 margaritas and martinis, plus two bar bites (think deviled eggs, tater tots, and chicken tenders) for $16.

Address: 714 9th Ave, New York, NY 10019

Opening hours: Mon–Thu 5pm–2am; Fri 4pm–4am; Sat 2pm–4am; Sun 2pm–2am

20. C'mon Everybody

What is it? This Bed–Stuy standby is unique because it feels like several different places at once: a crowded bar on one side, lots of seating in the next room, and an intimate performance space in the back. Expect pop diva–themed dance parties, deeply chaotic drag and friendly vibes in this queer owned and operated bar and performance space.

Why we love it: C’mon Everybody is an LGBTQ+ oasis in a part of Brooklyn that’s not flush with queer spaces, and it’s not to be missed.

Time Out tip: House cocktails are simple but fun, like the Lavender Menace made with mezcal, lime, and lavender.

Address: 325 Franklin Ave, Brooklyn, NY 11238

Opening hours: Fri, Sat 5pm–4am, Sun: 6pm–2am, Mon: 5pm–1am, Tue–Thu 5pm–2 am

21. The Cock

What is it? A self–described “rock and sleaze fag bar,” the Cock is just the sort of dark, sketchy dive where you can unleash your inner sexy beast.

Why we love it: The dearth of uptown attitude (or any apparent concern for cleanliness) pulls artists, musicians, writers, fashionistas, tourists and closeted rebels in stiff polos, all of whom can appreciate a little dirty fun.

Cubbyhole: Best-Known Lesbian Bar With an Intimate Vibe

Cubbyhole is a cherished gem in the landscape of New York City’s LGBTQ+ bars, known for its vibrant and welcoming atmosphere.

Whether you’re looking for a quiet evening with friends or a lively night out, the Phoenix Bar provides the quintessential dive bar experience in the heart of NYC.

Address: 447 East 13th Street New York, NY, 10009

Phone: (212) 477 9979

Exclusive Lounge Experiences

Discover a world of luxury and sophistication within New York City’s vibrant LGBTQ+ scene with exclusive lounge experiences at its premier gay bars.