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The nation's capital is home to a lively LGBTQ+ nightlife scene with plenty of gay and lesbian bars just waiting for you to join in on the fun.
Larry’s Lounge is a gay neighborhood pub, with always-affordable drinks, solid happy hour specials, mouth-watering pub fare (see: sweet potato tots) and one of the city’s friendliest patios (you can bring your dog, too!). The downstairs area resembles a suburban living room, cozy and welcoming upon entrance, the perfect intro to the bar’s home-like atmosphere.
Number Nine comes to the bustling Logan Circle courtesy of co-founder Ed Bailey, who helped DC’s gay nightlife scene to grow during his days as a DJ. Decked out in mirrors, leather banquettes and dark wood paneling, the lounge is perfect for nighttime socialization. The music video bar upstairs is also a must-see. Get there before 9 p.m. to enjoy two-for-one drink specials.
Green Lantern is tough to find, but certainly worth the hunt. Tucked into an otherwise unassuming alleyway off of Thomas Circle near Downtown, the bar is located in a converted two-story carriage house. The first floor’s lounge vibe is complete with a central granite bar perfect for peering into patrons on the opposite side. Groove to your heart’s content on Green Lantern’s multi-level dance floor (with disco lights!) and chat with its bare-chested bartenders, and don’t miss the “Shirtless Men Drink Free” event Thursdays 10-11 p.m. and Saturdays and Sundays 6-7 p.m.
This Shaw neighborhood bar is Sunday Funday central, especially when the popular rooftop can be enjoyed to the fullest. Hit the top floor for music and dancing with a side of jumbo wings.
Situated right in the heart of Adams Morgan’s bustling 18th Street is Pitchers, a gay sports bar, and A League of Her Own, the adjacent bar for lesbian and queer women. The brainchild of DC LGBTQ+ nightlife veteran Dave Perruzza, the 10,000-square-foot space features plenty of room for games, as well as two patios. A sports-themed menu of bar favorites includes stadium dogs, chicken tenders and burgers.
A casual cafe converts into a lively lounge and dance floor at As You Are. The charming Eastern Market establishment welcomes LGBTQIA+ patrons and allies in a vibrant, celebratory space for queer expression and connection. Its exciting events calendar includes themed karaoke nights, open mics, craft nights, drag shows, Latin nights and maker markets. Service-industry stars Jo McDaniel and Rach “Coach” Pike wanted to create a haven where guests can feel safe and supported, so AYA checks all bags at peak hours and requires enthusiastic consent in the space.
