Brooklyn's Best Gay Bars: A Guide to the Thriving Nightlife Scene
Brooklyn's gay nightlife scene is vibrant and diverse, offering something for every taste. From intimate dives to spacious dance floors, these bars cater to a range of ages and interests, providing a safe and inclusive environment for the LGBTQ+ community. Navigating the scene can feel overwhelming, but this guide helps you find the perfect spot for your next outing.
Top Picks for a Night Out in Brooklyn
Whether you're looking for a lively dance party, a cozy gathering, or a unique experience, these are some of the most popular and well-regarded gay bars in Brooklyn:
Macri Park: The Laid-Back Dive
Known for its relaxed atmosphere, Macri Park is a great spot for a casual night out. Regular drag nights and even Eurovision screenings add to the fun. Its recently improved backyard and iconic bathroom make it a popular choice, though it might be less crowded than pre-pandemic times.
Metropolitan: Where the Dance Floor Rules
Renowned as Brooklyn's best gay bar for dancing, Metropolitan offers an energetic atmosphere and a spacious dance floor. Its iconic backyard and inviting pool table create a social hub for making new friends and connecting. Regular events and a daily happy hour keep the energy high throughout the week.
The Exley: A Slightly More Mature Scene
The Exley draws a slightly older crowd, creating a comfortable environment for those looking for a sophisticated atmosphere. While sometimes crowded, its front patio offers a great spot to enjoy the night. The recently added second bathroom helps to manage the crowd flow.
Rosemont: Fun and Excitement
Rosemont is perfect for a night of youthful energy and fun. The vibrant atmosphere is always energetic, though its backyard might not be as up-to-date as other spots. Still, it's a fantastic place to make friends and mingle, with regular karaoke, comedy, and movie screenings.
Pink Metal: East Williamsburg's Unique Vibe
Tucked away in East Williamsburg, Pink Metal offers a unique blend of burlesque nights and delightful cocktails. Its spacious backyard provides a great escape from the main bar area, making it perfect for a breather or a summertime party. The venue also hosts themed nights to keep the fun going.
Oddly Enough: A Hub for the Lesbian and Queer Community
Located in Bed-Stuy, Oddly Enough is a lesbian and queer-friendly bar that goes beyond the typical nightlife experience. This isn't just a bar; it's a community hub. Its special events and advocacy opportunities have made it a vital space within the community. However, it's important to note that with the closure of Oddly Enough, this welcoming space is now gone. This loss is a reminder of the importance of diverse and inclusive spaces in the community.
Singers: A Beautiful Backyard Oasis
In the heart of Bed-Stuy, Singers boasts a lovely, spacious backyard, often hosting outdoor movie screenings, karaoke, and trivia nights. Its candlelit interior and thoughtful design create a warm and inviting ambiance, making it ideal for a memorable date or a laid-back night out.
Good Judy: A Park Slope Gem
Good Judy, which filled a gap in Park Slope's gay nightlife scene after the pandemic, offers a dynamic social environment with an upstairs performance space for drag shows and special events. The back room features a dance floor, occasional DJs, and a cute yard, perfect for meeting people.
Purgatory: A Diverse Bushwick Hub
Purgatory, situated in Bushwick, is known for its eclectic design that creates a truly unique, house-like ambiance, attracting a diverse crowd from the LGBTQ+ community. The venue hosts wild parties and offers a lively atmosphere with weekly trivia, delicious bar food (including happy hour deals on wings!), and friendly bartenders.
Boobie Trap: A Quirky Bushwick Spot
Located in the trendy Bushwick neighborhood, Boobie Trap is a uniquely decorated bar with artistic depictions of boobs on the walls. Beyond the quirky decor, the bar also has a great food special of burgers and beers. This spot definitely has its own distinct vibe.
Mood Ring: Astrology-Inspired Fun
In Bushwick, Mood Ring combines astrology with vibrant nightlife. This unique bar attracts the local queer crowd with its back room hosting a variety of events, including comedy shows, music performances, and Monday night karaoke. Its distinctive atmosphere is sure to leave a lasting impression.
The Current State of Brooklyn's LGBTQ+ Scene
Brooklyn's gay nightlife has faced challenges in recent years due to a number of factors, including assimilation of queer people into the mainstream, economic conditions and evolving societal attitudes. However, a resurgence is underway, fueled by inclusivity efforts in mainstream spaces, and the return to in-person events, leading to the reemergence of inclusive nightlife venues. Safety remains a vital concern, especially for members of the trans community and people of color, though organizations and movements are working to improve inclusivity and security in these spaces.
Tips for Your Next Night Out
Research the specific events happening at each bar, as these often determine the typical crowd. Checking online reviews can provide further insight into the vibe and atmosphere of each location.
Ultimately, the best bar for you will depend on your individual preferences. This guide offers a starting point for exploring Brooklyn's vibrant and diverse gay nightlife scene. Enjoy the experience!