11 unforgettable classic bars where you’ll meet more guys than on Grindr

Many have said that the Grindr Generation has made hooking up as easy as ordering take-out and that gay bars are dying. But there’s something about our favorite local haunts that keep us coming back for more.

There’s so many magical reasons to love these places like the bartender who knows your go-to drink and the familiar go-go boy who always gets too many of your dollars. Or the excitement (or dread) of seeing the guy you made out with last month. Hashtag drunk goggles.

Whether you love ’em or hate to love ’em, these classic bars are area institutions and are likely to be around for much longer than the guy you met on Grindr. Check out the list.

Roscoe’s

Hate huge crowds? Don’t go here. This Boystown bar is a great place to get lost inside. Sadly they stopped serving popcorn, but occasionally flip burgers.

Roscoe’s Tavern

Iconic drag, bingo, booze & babes 3356 N Halsted St · Chicago, IL 60657
(773) 281-3355
Website

Badlands

For such a tiny Castro bar, this place knows how to pack ’em in! There’s often a line to get in and boys packed like dancing sardines under the disco ball.

Badlands

Iconic dance and video bar 4121 18th St. · San Francisco, CA 94114
(415) 626-9320
Website

Micky’s

A popular dance spot along the Santa Monica Strip in WeHo, once you enter Micky’s you won’t want to leave.

Micky’s

Iconic WeHo dance club 8857 Santa Monica Blvd · West Hollywood, CA 90069
(310) 657-1176
Website

The Monster

Monster has been a safe-haven for New York City gays since the dawn of time. Ok… maybe not that long, but there’s a piano player and it attracts a diverse age demographic.

The Monster

A West Village institution 80 Grove St · New York, NY 10014
(212) 924-3558
Website

Stonewall

The dive bar downstairs is a mix of local regulars and photo-happy tourists. Pay a few extra dollars to go upstairs and you’ll find a dance floor packed with sweaty boys.

The Stonewall Inn

Where it all began 53 Christopher St · New York, NY 10014
(212) 488-2705
Website

Hunters Palm Springs

Come for the go-gos and the dancing. The options in Palm Springs are few, and this dark thumping institution is here to fulfill your sexy desert desires.

Hunters Palm Springs

Long time favorite 302 E Arenas Rd · Palm Springs, CA 92262
(760) 323-0700
Website

Georgie’s Alibi

It’s noisy and boisterous here and that’s just the way we want it. Drinks are often 2 for 1 and the food isn’t bad either. Try the seafood chowder.

Georgie’s Alibi

Neighborhood bar and cafe 3100 3rd Ave N · Saint Petersburg, FL 33713
(727) 321-2112
Website

JR’s Bar & Grill

Get drunk and wild at this neighborhood bar where “everybody knows your name.” The place is usually crowded and the drinks are always strong.

JR’s Bar

Serving since 1986 1519 17th St NW · Washington, DC 20036
(202) 328-0090
Website

Round-Up Saloon

This Cedar Springs destination has been an institution for over two decades. After a few cocktails, you’ll be two-stepping to country music in no time.

Round-Up Saloon

Country bar and dance hall 3912 Cedar Springs Rd · Dallas, TX 75219
(214) 522-9611
Website

Woody’s

Whether you’re visiting Philly or have a permanent residence, Woody’s is the place to be. Downstairs is a chill dive and upstairs is the popular dance area with a diverse crowd.

Woody’s

Must stop lounge/dance bar 202 S 13th St · Philadelphia, PA 19107
(215) 545-1893
Website

Missie B’s

Known for the lively drag shows, Missie B’s has been around forever. The bartenders and nice and the performers are campy. It’s a gay ol’ time.

Missie B’s

Queers here for beer 805 W 39th St · Kansas City, MO 64111
(816) 561-0625
Website
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