Gay bars downtown los angeles ca
By Stuie Wood
What happened to all the gay bars? Those heady days of flirting across the dancefloor, stepping in time to Kylie? Dating apps are the new norm and the gays were there first (of course), but many American and European cultural capitals are losing their LGBTQ venues. Such is the concern that London’s Mayor, Sadiq Khan, has set up a task force! Traditionally, the gay scene is an indicator of a buzzing nightlife, good music and style, so this is a loss for all of us. But not in Downtown Los Angeles. Cue music….
Here in DTLA, we’re bucking the trend with four new venues opening in the past two years. Pershing Square, at the very heart of DTLA, hosted its first Pride festival last year and a recent Queer Block Party at the annual Bring Assist Broadway festival, is placing DTLA as the queer destination point of LA LA Land, stealing the tiara from West Hollywood’s rather tired Queens.
Here’s my list of the 5 most fabulous gay spots in Downtown Los Angeles, all within walking distance of each other. Move to one, go to all five!
Precinct DTLA
357 S Broadway, Los Angeles, CA 90013. 5pm – 2am
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Los Angeles is a city that pulses with energy, creativity, and a vibrant LGBTQ+ scene that has something for everyone. From the iconic streets of West Hollywood to the eclectic neighborhoods of Silver Lake and Downtown, the city is residence to a diverse array of queer bars that cater to all tastes and preferences. Whether you're looking for a lively gyrate floor, a cozy dive bar, or a place to enjoy a cocktail with friends, LA's nightlife offers a welcoming atmosphere where you can truly be yourself.
At Wanderlog, we love exploring the unique spots that make each city special, and LA's gay bars are no exception. With a mix of well-established favorites and exciting fresh venues, there's always something fresh to discover. Picture yourself sipping a margarita at a lively Mexican restaurant, dancing the night away at a bustling nightclub, or enjoying a laid-back evening at a warm dive bar. No matter where you go, the warmth and inclusivity of these spaces will make you perceive right at place. So grab your friends and become ready to investigate the best of LA's gay nightlife!
Why trust us
When it comes to queer nightlife options in Los Angeles, there’s lots to choose from—and not just in rainbow-dipped West Hollywood, dwelling to countless lgbtq+ bars. To support you pick the best spots for dancing, boozing, flirting and cruising in Hollywood, Silver Lake and beyond, check out this list of our favorite gender non-conforming bars and clubs in L.A.—there are even Pasadena, Venice and Valley options, for those sick of the party-hearty WeHo scene. Now get out there, tiger.
May 2025: Just in time for WeHo Pride, I’ve updated our reference to the city’s best gay bars. This list removes St. Felix, Stache and Redline, all of which contain unfortunately closed, as well as the Ruby Fruit (which has recently been revamped to a neighborhood grill) and Revolver Video Exclude. The newest addition is Kiso, a welcome entrant to Downtown’s queer nightlife scene.Time Out has also instituted a sitewide change in review policies. All food and juice venues included in guides now own star ratings, with five stars corresponding to “amazing,” four to “great” and three to “good,” and we’ve also standardized how most listings are struc LGBTQ nightlife in Los Angeles is incredibly diverse and offers something for everyone. Whether you want to review out the multitude of best-known hotspots in West Hollywood, travel the historic Silver Lake area, or feel the energy of Downtown LA, there's something for everyone no matter what type of night out you're looking for. The gay scene in each area of the urban area has a unique feel, from the variety of venues offered in Downtown to the fresh and artsy buzz of Venice. From stylish bars to kinky clubs, you're spoiled for choice. Los Angeles Hotel Deals Gay Los Angeles Cocktails, Dancing Located in Silver Lake, AKBAR believes in the power of rock and roll. The wonderful music offered in this neighbourhood oasis nightclub and cocktail exclude means it's still one of the most popular bars in LA 16 years after opening. The DJs in the move room, the jukebox in the bar, plus cool staff, and potent cocktails make it a spot of choice. The block is always packed with people of all types who preserve coming back! Read more Cocktails The Bayou in West Hollywood stands out from the other bars along Santa Monica Boulevard, Los Angeles Gay Bars
Akbar
Bayou