Best Gay Bars and Clubs in New Orleans in 2025
New Orleans is a city that knows how to have a good time, and its gay nightlife scene is no exception! Whether you’re here for Mardi Gras, Southern Decadence, or just an unforgettable weekend in the Big Easy, you'll find everything from legendary gay bars to high-energy dance clubs and some late-night mischief. The French Quarter is the center of it all, where rainbow flags fly proudly, drag queens rule the stage, and the drinks keep flowing—bonus points for the open container law, meaning you can sip and stroll with your cocktail in a classic "go cup."
In this guide, we’re diving into the heart of the city’s gay nightlife, exploring everything from historic haunts and balcony-lined Bourbon Street icons to after-hours scandal. Whether you're craving a perfectly crafted cocktail, a packed dance floor, or a no-holds-barred late-night adventure, we've got you covered. So grab a drink, hit the streets, and let’s uncover the best LGBTQ+ nightlife that NOLA has to offer!
In this guide, we’re diving into the heart of the city’s gay nightlife, exploring everything from historic haunts and balcony-lined Bourbon Street icons to after-hours scandal. Whether you're craving a perfectly crafted cocktail, a packed dance floor, or a no-holds-barred late-night adventure, we've got you covered. So grab a drink, hit the streets, and let’s uncover the best LGBTQ+ nightlife that NOLA has to offer!
Good Friends – Best Gay Bar for Strong Drinks & Local Vibes. Located just off Bourbon Street, Good Friends is a laid-back neighborhood-style gay bar known for its friendly bartenders, strong drinks, and welcoming crowd. The upstairs Queens Head Pub offers a cozy yet lively setting with a balcony and great views, making it the perfect place to warm up for a big night out. Whether you’re sipping their famous Separator (a boozy frozen coffee cocktail) or chatting with locals, this is a great stop to kick off your night.
Lafitte's –Oldest Gay Bar in the U.S. & Best for Historic Charm. Lafitte’s Blacksmith Shop may be the oldest bar in the country, but Lafitte's (formerly Café Lafitte in Exile) holds the title of the oldest continuously operating gay bar in the U.S. since 1933. With two levels of bars, a wraparound balcony, and outdoor seating, it’s a must-visit for history lovers and partygoers alike. This Bourbon Street staple gets especially wild during Mardi Gras and Southern Decadence. Weekly events like Underwear Pool Night, Trash Disco, and No Judgment Karaoke guarantee a fun time no matter when you visit!
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🌟 Pro tip – Some links on this page are affiliate links, meaning we earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. By booking services or shopping through these links, you’ll save money AND help keep our blog posts and videos coming your way. Thanks for the support!
Bourbon Pub – Best for People-Watching & Themed Parties. A cornerstone of New Orleans’ LGBTQ+ nightlife, Bourbon Pub is a two-story institution with nonstop entertainment. The balcony provides one of the best people-watching spots in the French Quarter, while inside, DJs keep the dance floor packed with pop and house beats. Karaoke nights, drag performances, and themed parties make it a go-to for both tourists and locals looking for high-energy fun.
Oz – Best Gay Dance Club in New Orleans. If you’re looking for a high-energy, all-night dance party, Oz is where you want to be. This Bourbon Street institution has been the heartbeat of gay nightlife since 1993, with infectious pop music, go-go dancers, and dazzling drag performances. The dance floor stays full till sunrise, with themed nights like strip contests, bingo with go-go dancers, and show-stopping drag queen performances. Whether you're dancing on the floor or watching the action from the balcony, the energy here is electric.
Corner Pocket – Best for Sexy Go-Go Dancers. If scantily clad men dancing on the bar is your idea of a great night out, Corner Pocket is calling your name. This legendary gay dive bar is famous for its go-go boys, who know how to work the crowd. Every weekend, the energy ramps up with amateur strip contests and themed nights like "New Meat" Fridays. It’s the kind of place where anything can happen, and that’s exactly why people love it.
Rawhide – Best for Leather & Cruising Vibes. Rawhide is one of New Orleans’ most infamous leather and cruising bars, offering a mix of party in the front, business in the back—but let’s be real, the action is everywhere. This no-frills spot draws a mix of bears, daddies, and adventurous guys looking for a good time. Expect dark corners, strong drinks, and bartenders who aren’t afraid to show a little skin. If you're in the mood for something spicy, this is the place to be.
🌟 Pro tip – Planning a trip to New Orleans? From the best LGBTQ+ hotels to must-visit attractions, dining, and travel tips, find it all in our Gay Travel Guide to New Orleans.
The Phoenix – Best for a Wild Local Crowd. For those looking to meet local men, The Phoenix is a favorite for leather, fetish, and cruising. This two-story bar caters to an alternative crowd with kinky theme nights, a strict no-phone policy in certain areas, and a famously wild upstairs play space (with a red-lit bar!). The bartenders keep things friendly (and sometimes flirty), while the weekend crowd ensures the party doesn’t stop till the early morning.
Golden Lantern – Best for Drag & Southern Decadence History. Known as the birthplace of Southern Decadence, Golden Lantern is a small but mighty bar with a huge personality. This neighborhood favorite offers cheap drinks, a friendly crowd, and some of the best drag shows in town. Whether you’re there for a casual afternoon cocktail or a full-on drag extravaganza, this spot is full of history, heart, and unforgettable performances.
Bonus Bars & Must-Visit Spots – While not exclusively gay, these iconic New Orleans bars are worth a visit:
- Carousel Bar at Hotel Monteleone – A rotating bar with craft cocktails and classic NOLA charm. Always our first stop in the city!
- Napoleon House – The perfect spot for a Sazerac or Pimm’s Cup (our favorite) in a historic setting.
- Lafitte’s Blacksmith Shop – The oldest bar in the U.S., where ghost stories and candlelit ambiance make for a spooky good time.
🌟 Pro tip – Be sure to check each bar’s websites (and socials) linked above for the latest information like happy hour specials, drag performances, and theme nights.
Final Thoughts
New Orleans is a city that thrives on celebration. Whether you’re here for Mardi Gras, Southern Decadence, or just a weekend of debauchery in the Big Easy, there’s a bar, club, or underground hotspot for every mood.
With its open container laws, historic venues, and unapologetically wild energy, New Orleans truly stands out as one of the best LGBTQ+ nightlife destinations in the country.
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