Gay sex bars nyc

3.4

Rise is a laid back gay bar in Hell's Kitchen a few blocks away from Flaming Saddles and Industry. Maybe your interests skew more trendy and urbane, or perhaps you're more of the down-and-dirty hook-up spots, the "what happens on the weekends, stays on the weekends" type — we're not here to judge!

It's usually busy and the crowd is mixed though mostly gay men.

There are regular events such as karaoke nights, Drag Race screenings and late night dancing at weekends. Like the best LGBTQ+ spaces, Cubbyhole is one of a kind.

Time Out tip: Visit daily from 4 pm – 7pm when happy hour includes great deals like $5 beers. 

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

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

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What is it? This longtime Astoria gay bar is consistently crowded, bringing out residents from across the borough and beyond for drink specials, intimate drag shows, and just a good, gay old time.

Why we love it:  It’s a dive with a vibe, and if you’re lucky enough to become a regular, you’re never leaving.

Time Out tip: Check social media for frequent updates on events, including trivia, bar crawls, and, of course, drag nights. 

Address: 3619 24th Ave, Astoria, NY 11103 

Opening hours: Mon–Fri 5pm–4am, Sat, Sun 4pm–4am

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12. The Bush

What is it? This fun Bushwick lesbian bar opened in April 2023, serving playful cocktails, DykeBeer, wine, and non–alcoholic beverages. 

Why we love it:Visit for nightly specials, DJ dance parties under the disco balls, and overall chill but very fun vibes. 

Time Out tip: The Bush is a great spot to socialize even if you’re not into dancing—look out for WNBA and WNSL watch parties, figure drawing nights, and more. 

Address: 333 Troutman St, Brooklyn, NY 11237

Opening hours: Tue–Thu 6pm–1am; Fri, Sat 6pm–4am; Sun 4pm–midnight

What is it?

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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

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

• Why It’s Top: Rainbow Playground Men’s Club in Long Island City offers booths, slings, and Latin-themed nights.

  The birthplace of gay liberation says “yes!” to empowerment and “hell, yes!” to go–go boys.
  
  Time Out tip:The bar shares a door with the neighboring Indian restaurant, Roti Roll, so you can fuel up with samosas and chana masala until 4am while the party rages.

  Address: 992 Amsterdam Ave, New York, NY 10025

  Opening hours: Mon, Tue 5pm–2am; Wed–Sun 5pm–4am

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What is it?Bushwick's queer renaissance thrives at this laid–back spot, where drag is available without a high ticket price, and dirty dance parties and backyard hangs are the order of the day. 

Why we love it: Grab a cheap happy hour special and relax into a cozy couch; you're certain to make new friends. 

Time Out tip: Daily happy hour until 9pm offers $5 well drinks and beer, and $8 classic cocktails. 

Address: 63 Montrose Ave, Brooklyn, NY 11206

Opening hours: Mon–Fri 5pm–4am; Sat, Sun 3pm–4am

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What is it?A can’t–miss combo of a Chappel Roan–heavy jukebox and strong drinks poured by hot bartenders has kept this lesbian spot busy since 1991.

Why we love it:Reggae and hip–hop spin most nights, inspiring a good bit of booty–shaking among the young, flirty patrons.

Fetish nights draw a kinky, mixed crowd.

1. Hawk’s PDX – Portland (NYC Guest Events)

• Why It’s Top: Portland’s Hawk’s PDX hosts NYC takeovers with mazes and blackout nights.

  From leather-clad dungeons to sleek modern retreats, NYC’s sex club scene caters to every taste, whether you’re a curious newbie or a seasoned regular. These aren’t just places to get off—they’re where you connect to NYC’s gritty, glorious past and its pulsing present. Jockstrap nights and fetish events keep it raw and rowdy.

• Finding It: Search “gay leather bars NYC” online.

  If it’s not mutual, no sweat—move on with a smile.

• Bring a Wingman: First time? Finish your night under the pulsing strobe lights of Industry; a mainstay of New York City’s gay scene, this 4000ft sq venue guarantees an unforgettable gay clubbing experience.

  Check out: New York Lesbian Bars,New York's Gay Dance Clubs and Gay Cruise Clubs.

Gay Bars in New York City by area

Hell's Kitchen