Are you hunting for the crème de la crème of gay bars in Phoenix? Well, buckle up, my friend, 'cause I'm your tour guide!
Let me spill the tea for you. Phoenix? It's gayer than a rainbow unicorn wearing glitter boots. And that's the tea. This city's queer community is not just a sprout, honey, it's a blooming flower with a new petal sprouting every day, creating an absolute gaytopia of social scenes, adventurous Phoenix hookups, and of course many gay clubs. A massive hat tip to our fabulous Phoenix LGBTQIA+ fam and their allies – you've turned this desert city into a flourishing oasis of queer culture.
Don't get me started on the vivacious Melrose district! It's so gay-friendly that even the cacti probably sing show tunes. It's packed with stores and eateries where the rainbow flag flies high and proud, all year round, not just during the Phoenix Pride parades. The Greater Phoenix Lesbian Chamber of Commerce? They’re busier than a drag queen at a wig sale, supporting all kinds of LGBTQIA+ businesses.
The Best Gay Bars in Phoenix
Now let’s talk gay bars. Phoenix's gay bars are the kind of places where the party never stops. Fancy a rotating menu of drink specials that change more frequently than Madonna's wardrobe? Check. How about go-go dancers that make you question your cardio routine? Double-check. And let's not forget the all-embracing ambiance, heartwarming atmosphere, top-tier drag shows, and affordably priced drinks that don't break the bank.
Plus, you'll never get bored, darling. With themed nights that rotate faster than a disco ball, every visit feels like a brand-new party. So get ready to dance, laugh, and toast to the great city of Phoenix, the desert's answer to gay nightlife! Here are my favorite gay bars in Phoenix:
Flash that cash at The Cash Nightclub & Lounge
Well, the first on my list is a real diamond in the rough - The Cash Nightclub & Lounge. It's a vibrant gay & lesbian bar that's got everything from country tunes and line dancing to darts and karaoke. Think you can't two-step? After a night here, you'll be stepping, stomping, and swinging with the best of 'em.
This old horse has been galloping for over 30 years! Talk about stamina. But, like any good diva, she had a little facelift in 2019 - a rebrand and relocation that's turned her into Phoenix's go-to spot for a night of wild-west fun.
Not only will you enjoy the harmonious twangs of country music, but there are also killer drink specials that'll have you yeehaw-ing all night long, plus drag shows that put RuPaul's runway to shame, and dancers that could give Magic Mike a run for his money.
If you're feeling fancy, saddle up for some bottle service. And, believe it or not, we've got tacos. Yes, darling, tacos! Because what's a night out without some late-night munchies, right? So pull on those cowboy boots, grab your ten-gallon hat, and get ready to kick up some dust at The Cash Nightclub & Lounge.
Hit a high note at Kobalt
Let's talk Kobalt one of the most modern gay clubs in Arizona. This place has been holding down the fort in Phoenix's LGBTQIA+ scene since 2006, back when flip phones were still a thing!
Kobalt's not just a pretty face with its snazzy, modern vibe - it's got substance, too. I mean, where else can you find mind-boggling trivia, drool-worthy pizza specials, and cocktails that would make a mixologist weep with joy?
And for all, you drag show enthusiasts, you're in for a treat. The 4Some Revue calls Kobalt home, and let me tell you, this show is a crowd-pleaser. It's been voted a local favorite, so you know it's got to be good. So, lace up your party shoes and head on over to Kobalt. Trust me, it's more fun than a barrel of disco balls!
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Hammer it up at the Anvil
let's chew the fat about Anvil, sitting pretty over at 2424 E Thomas Rd in Phoenix. Now this place is like the unofficial HQ for fans of leather and Levi's - it's basically the bear bar capital of the Southwest. And if you don't believe me, pop in for one of their Saturday shows at 7 p.m. featuring the "Wild Men of the West." One look at these fellas, and you'll be convinced faster than a tumbleweed in a tornado.
But hold onto your hats, because Anvil doesn't just stop there. They've got events like "Undie Monday" - yep, you heard that right. All you've got to do is turn up in your boxers or briefs, maybe sport a fancy beard, and boom, you get a buck off your drinks… and a lot of lovey-dovey dates. So, grab your finest undies (and your courage) and come on down to Anvil. It's more fun than a barrel of bearded... bears!
It's always a good time at Charlie's
Alright, honeys, let's talk about Charlie’s, one of the drag shows gay bars in Phoenix. This ain't just any old watering hole - it's a gay bar institution. Been around since the mid-80s - which is like the Ice Age in gay bar years. And they've been serving up fabulous drag shows (think more glitter than a disco ball), sultry go-go dancers, and drinks so cheap you'll do a double take.
Nestled right in the heart of the Melrose District, it's like the high school quarterback of gay bars - everybody knows and loves it. And size? Oh honey, it’s one of the biggest on the block. Plenty of space to dance till you drop and an outdoor patio that’s perfect for a midnight rendezvous. Plus, with two more bars outside, your night won't become a saga of "Waiting for Margarita". Charlie’s, folks - the granddaddy of fun.
Find your bliss at Bliss ReBar
This one’s really a little slice of heaven right smack in the middle of Roosevelt Row - Bliss ReBar. Why heaven? This place is gay-owned, gay-operated, and just plain gaymazing... yep, I know even I couldn’t believe it when I was researching this bar!
Here, late-night vodka cocktails aren't just drinks, they're an experience. Try the "Bye Felicia!" - it's as fabulous as it sounds. But don't just swan in for the spirits - the food's to die for, too. Their Bliss Famous Mac-N-Cheese? It's like a creamy, cheesy, carby hug in a bowl.
This place isn't just another concrete jungle, either. It's got a patio so lush and green, you'll think you've fallen into a fairy tale. Who knew you could find a secret garden in downtown Phoenix?
But the cherry on this delightful cocktail? Bliss ReBar's all about giving back to the LGBTQIA+ community. They're consistently donating their dimes and their space for community and charitable events. So not only do you get to enjoy a night out, but you're also supporting a good cause. Bliss ReBar, folks - where the drinks are strong, the food is tasty, and the heart is huge.
Rock and roll at The Rock
Let's head over to one of the gay bars in Phoenix, Arizona called The Rock. And trust me, this place doesn't just rock – it's an outright party volcano!
You like drag shows? The Rock's got 'em so fierce they'd make a lion blush. Fancy a game of bingo? It's going down every month. Karaoke fan? Strap in for a three-times-a-week sing-along extravaganza.
This place practically comes with a guarantee - boredom not included. And with $3 well drinks flowing every night, you'll be crooning into that karaoke mic, belting out your favorite tunes before you know it. Even if you usually couldn't carry a tune in a bucket, after a few drinks at The Rock, you'll feel like you're on American Idol. So, let's get the party started, darling! It's showtime at The Rock.
Get sassy at Stacy's
Alright, let's chat about Stacy’s. It's not just any old nightclub. Oh, no. This is like if a gothic cathedral and a disco ball had a fabulous love child. It's a gay & lesbian-friendly hangout that spins out wicked beats, courtesy of the DJs, and serves up a slice of karaoke on the side.
But here's the thing about Stacy's – it never sleeps. Seriously, there's something going down every single day. You'll find everything from top-notch DJs spinning the latest hits to drag queens strutting their stuff on stage.
It's upscale, but not the stuffy kind. It’s like the posh cousin who wears sequins to a brunch. Inside, it feels like you've stepped into an old-world cathedral, complete with art-adorned walls showcasing the talents of local artists. So, if you're looking for a place with a dash of elegance, a pinch of quirk, and a whole lotta fun, then Stacy’s is the place to be.
It's always a hoot at Nu Towne Saloon
So, there's this joint called Nu Towne Saloon, one of the oldest Phoenix gay clubs. Don't let the fancy spelling fool ya, it's as down-to-earth as they come - a proper gay bar with an easygoing vibe, an outdoor patio for those starry nights, and décor that's so kitschy, it's like Christmas threw up on Halloween.
And you know what? It's the oldest gay bar in the valley - a monument to good times from noon till two in the morning, every darn day. They've got this Shirley Temple drink that's so good, it'll make you tap dance. It's got a little citrus twist that'll tickle your taste buds like nobody's business.
It's like your favorite pair of jeans - comfortable, familiar, but still stylish. You walk in, and you'd think you've stepped into an antique store - full of odds and ends that give it a quirky charm. Yeah, it's changed over the years, but at its heart, it's still the same old Nu Towne Saloon we all know and love.
Be numero uno at Bar1
Alright, you classy tipplers, listen up! There's a joint in Midtown called Bar1 that’s breaking all the boring-bar boundaries. It's got style, sophistication, and craft cocktails so good they'll make your taste buds do the cha-cha.
Let me set the scene for ya. Imagine sipping on Bourbon Berry Lemonade so tangy, it'll make your lips pucker. Or maybe you're feeling daring? Go for the Halle Berry Martini – it’s so seductive, you'll be asking for round two faster than you can say "Shaken, not stirred".
Oh, and the best part? It's got a patio where dogs are not only welcome but treated like royalty. So, if you've got a four-legged pal who likes the finer things in life, this is the place. Bar1 – where pets are posh and cocktails are king.
Head west for the best at BS West
Let me introduce you to BS West. No, it's not a wild west theme park, but it's been serving up pure gold good times to the Arizona LGBTQIA+ community since way back in '88. Yes, when big hair was in, and cell phones were the size of bricks!
The folks at BS West have one mission, one hope, and one goal - to make sure everyone who steps through their door has a safe, enjoyable, and downright fantastic time. Think of it like a fun factory - you walk in, get hit with the good times, and walk out with a big grin on your face.
Plopped right in the heart of Old Town, this bar and nightclub have been a pillar of the LGBTQIA+ community for decades. So if you're looking for a place that mixes history with a heck load of fun, BS West is your best bet. Plus, the name's kind of catchy, don't you think?
It's always a family affair at Cruisin 7'th
Got your weekend plans sorted? No? Well, let's head over to Cruisin'7th in Midtown. You see, in Phoenix, finding a decent drag show is easier than finding a cactus, and cold drinks. They're practically falling out of the sky. But a good weekend happy hour? Now, that's as rare as a polar bear in the desert.
Enter Cruisin'7th - the hero we need but don't deserve. They're serving up well drinks for just $3.50 every Saturday and Sunday from 4 to 8 pm. I know, I know, I can hear your wallets thanking me from here.
And if you're in the mood for some eye candy, they've got a "Hunk Happy Hour" that starts at 4:30 pm on Saturdays. Talk about kicking your night off with a...bang! So save the thank you notes, folks, just raise a toast to the weekend at Cruisin'7th instead.
