arizona's capital city, phoenix, boasts a vibrant and diverse gay bar scene, offering something for everyone. from lively dance clubs to laid-back dive bars, the city has a welcoming atmosphere for locals and visitors alike.
this guide will explore some of the most popular and highly-rated gay bars in phoenix, providing you with all the information you need to plan your perfect night out.
nu towne saloon
located in east phoenix, nu towne saloon is a phoenix institution and the oldest gay bar in the valley.
it's known for its relaxed and unpretentious atmosphere, making it a great place to unwind with affordable drinks and a friendly crowd. the interior is decorated with quirky and kitschy items, including twinkling lights and a plaster rooster. the staff is known for being friendly and helpful, creating a welcoming environment for everyone.
the bar also has a spacious outdoor patio, perfect for enjoying the arizona sunshine.
nu towne saloon hosts various events and is a popular spot for watching ohio state games. they also have great mac and cheese!
stacy's at melrose
stacy's at melrose is a popular gay- and lesbian-friendly nightclub in the heart of the melrose district of midtown phoenix.
the club features unique gothic architectural elements, djs, karaoke nights, and a large dance floor that gets very lively as the evening goes on. the show manager, mia inez adams, is known for her comedy and adds to the fun and laughter of the nightly experience.
stacy's is known for its welcoming atmosphere and has recently been renovated with an upgraded stage, lights, and furniture.
the bar offers a range of drinks at reasonable prices.
bar 1
bar 1 is a laid-back and trendy gay and lesbian bar that has been around for a long time.
it offers a variety of entertainment options, including billiards, darts, karaoke, and themed nights. the bar also features candlelit lounge seating and an outdoor patio.
bar 1 has daily specials, including beer busts and multiple happy hours throughout the week.
the bar's bartenders are known for creating top-notch cocktails. good dogs are welcome on the patio.
cruisin' 7th
cruisin' 7th is a show bar and lounge located in central phoenix, known for its welcoming atmosphere and live entertainment.
the venue hosts some of the best drag shows in phoenix, featuring a diverse range of performances. guests can also enjoy exotic male and transsexual dance revues on special occasions. the staff is known for being friendly, and the drink prices are reasonable.
los diablos
los diablos is a lively gay dive bar in phoenix that offers american pub grub and delicious cocktails.
the bar hosts trivia nights, happy hours, karaoke contests, and hip-hop nights. it is known for its amazing service and welcoming atmosphere. the establishment has an outdoor patio and is well-managed. with a fun atmosphere and great food and drinks, it's a great place to spend an evening with friends.
oz bar
oz bar is a popular lgbt-oriented establishment known for its vibrant atmosphere and diverse range of activities.
it is a part of the alternative poker tour and offers extended happy hours, along with opportunities to play pool and darts. the bar hosts weekly poker game nights and features go-go boys on fridays and saturdays. with a spacious outdoor patio, it provides a welcoming environment for patrons to enjoy drinks and socialize.
the bartenders are friendly, and the atmosphere is welcoming.
other notable gay bars in phoenix
- cash country inn/the rebel lounge: formerly known as cash country inn, this bar has evolved to cater to diverse musical tastes, offering everything from country and hip-hop to latin music and edm.
this lgbt-friendly bar boasts a welcoming atmosphere and friendly staff.
- plazma: plazma is a neighborhood bar known for karaoke and is a nice place to relax.
- charlie's: this is also a popular gay bar in phoenix.
things to consider when choosing a gay bar in phoenix
phoenix's gay bar scene offers a diverse range of options.
here are some factors to consider when choosing a bar:
- atmosphere: do you prefer a lively dance club, a relaxed dive bar, or a show bar?
- entertainment: does the bar offer karaoke, drag shows, live music, or other forms of entertainment?
- drinks: are you looking for a bar with affordable drinks or a place with a more extensive cocktail menu?
- crowd: does the bar attract a specific age group or a diverse crowd?
- location: consider the location of the bar and whether it's easy to get to from your home or hotel.
tips for a great night out
- plan your transportation: consider using ride-sharing services or designating a driver, especially if you plan to drink.
- check the bar's calendar: many bars have themed nights or special events.
check their websites or social media pages for more information.
- bring cash: some bars may not accept credit cards, or there may be a minimum purchase requirement.
- be respectful: treat others with respect and follow the bar's rules and guidelines.
- have fun! the most important thing is to enjoy yourself and have a good time.
exploring phoenix
phoenix is a city with a lot to offer.
if you're visiting, consider exploring some of the city's other attractions, such as:
- camelback mountain: a popular hiking destination with stunning views of the city.
- south mountain park and preserve: a large park with hiking trails, historical attractions, and scenic views.
- old town scottsdale: a charming area with art galleries, shops, restaurants, and bars.
- desert botanical garden: a beautiful garden showcasing a variety of cacti and native plants.
- footprint center: a major venue for sports and concerts.
- the van buren: a historic venue for concerts.
conclusion
phoenix's gay bar scene provides a vibrant and inclusive space for the lgbtq+ community and allies to socialize, dance, and enjoy themselves.
with a variety of bars catering to different tastes and preferences, there's something for everyone. whether you're a local or a visitor, be sure to explore the phoenix gay bar scene and discover the many options that make this city so welcoming. from the historical nu towne saloon to the energetic stacy's at melrose, the phoenix area boasts many establishments that celebrate diversity and create a welcoming environment.
so, grab your friends, get ready to dance, and experience the best of phoenix's nightlife!