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