San francisco gay bars and clubs

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This guide was written by Bay-Area based writer Clara Hogan.

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Best gay bars in San Francisco

Queer artistic expression thrives at Oasis, a club and cabaret theater in SoMa.

san francisco gay bars and clubs

Inside it can be slow on weekdays but wend your way to the rear, past the pool table, past the DJ booths and bathrooms, down the hallway lined with decades of gay memorabilia, to find the crowd chomping cigars and sharing cigarettes on the outdoor patio. Live music on Thursday nights is a nice counterpoint to the often wild and unexpected Friday and Saturday night parties that feature everything from lube wrestling to gaymer nights.

Big, meaty men gravitate to this self-styled Bear Bar in SoMa.

From its early days as the home of the gay rights movement to its current status as one of the most LGBTQ+-friendly cities in the world, San Francisco's nightlife scene has always embraced equality and self-expression. It’s a great place for the community to come together, enjoy cocktails, and relax in a friendly, non-pretentious environment.

  • Castro’s The Lookout – Castro District: With stunning views of the city from its rooftop, The Lookout offers a fun, casual atmosphere with a lively crowd.

    The dance floor, brightly lit and papered in tasteful black-and-white breasts, thumps to the beat of DJs on Friday and Saturday nights. The rest of the week, the Wild Side is a great spot for a laid-back evening beer.

    • Been there, done that? Whether you’re looking for friendly lesbian bars, balls-to-the-wall Latinx dance parties or a very memorable drag show, these are the best gay bars in SF right now.

    The night ended with new friendships, and they couldn’t stop raving about the inclusive and welcoming atmosphere of this iconic venue.

  • Case 2: The Lookout’s Rooftop Fun – A local couple shared their experience at The Lookout, where they enjoyed cocktails on the rooftop while watching the sunset over the city.

    Whether you're a local or a visitor, the city's bars provide a welcoming and lively atmosphere for everyone.

    In this guide, we’ll explore the top LGBTQ+ friendly bars in San Francisco, highlighting the unique experiences they offer. Look out for your first newsletter in your inbox soon!

    • Discover Time Out original video

    These events are a fantastic way to engage with the community and experience the creativity and energy that define San Francisco’s LGBTQ+ culture.

    Be sure to bring singles and plan to tip every girl. Here are ten must-visit spots for a memorable night out:

    • The Castro Theatre – Castro District: Although primarily a historic theater, The Castro Theatre is a cornerstone of LGBTQ+ culture in San Francisco. Think again, my friend.

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    This postage-stamp-sized, pink-lit cocktail lounge and piano bar features the Hot Boxxx Girls, a long-standing drag show, on Friday and Saturday nights (reservations advised). It's a great place to enjoy a drink while people-watching in the heart of the Castro.

  • Smuggler’s Cove – Hayes Valley: For a more adventurous experience, Smuggler’s Cove offers an eclectic atmosphere with a vast selection of rum and unique cocktails.

    The friendly staff and great vibes made it the perfect spot for a relaxed evening out with friends.

    • These personal stories highlight the joy and inclusiveness that these bars bring to the LGBTQ+ community. A true neighborhood bar in every sense of the word, the drinks are strong, the patrons are friendly, and the back patio is generous.

    If you’re in the mood for a lively night out, Badlands is one of the best spots in the city.

  • Beaux – Castro District: A stylish gay bar offering a modern take on the classic club experience, Beaux features drag shows, dance floors, and a vibrant crowd. Whether you’re in the mood for a relaxed drink, a vibrant dance floor, or an inclusive space for making new friends, these bars represent the best of what San Francisco has to offer for the LGBTQ+ community.

    2.

    This legendary biker bar is especially known for its Sunday afternoon beer busts when dozens of revelers pack cheek-to-jowl on the massive outdoor patio to get sh*tfaced on $15 all-you-can-drink beer. Introduction: San Francisco’s Vibrant LGBTQ+ Nightlife

    San Francisco is widely recognized as a haven for the LGBTQ+ community, boasting a rich history of activism, inclusion, and celebration of diversity.

    Dark even in the middle of the day, this cowboy-themed spot with a pool table and patio is hung with erotic art, and, although it’s a little rough around the edges, the Cinch is as friendly as they come. 

    • Once upon a time, El Rio was a Brazilian Leather Bar. Today, this brightly colored space caters more to the lesbian crowd, with plenty of indie bands and nights dedicated to worthwhile causes to draw those from diverse corners of the city.

    Wednesday nights are for Miss Kitty's trivia, half comedy show, half competition.