Beyond the Gay Bar: Where to Meet “Nice” Gay Guys

As fun as gay bars can be, many of us eventually get tired of the club scene and start yearning for something of more substance.  If you’re looking to meet a nice gay guy for something a little more serious than a one night stand, you’re going to need to leave to gay bar and move on to something else.  But what?

• Explore the gay community. If you live in a city, it should be no problem at all to find gay community events to take part in.  There may also be a political group of gay rights activists that you can get involved in.  Find a gay gathering near you and strike up a conversation with someone new.

• Volunteer your time. Doing charity work doesn’t necessarily mean that you will meet other gay men (unless you volunteer for a gay-related charity, which is a fabulous thing to do), but it is a great way to do something good for mankind, while also meeting other people (gay or straight).  Also, in general, volunteer work often makes us feel better about ourselves and, not to sound like your mother, but it also builds character.  Just think, when you meet that strong handsome man of your dreams, you can wow him with your strong moral fiber.

• Go online. There are countless numbers of gay chat rooms, meet-up groups, dating websites, etc for gay people.  Even if you live in the middle of nowhere, there is something out there for you on the internet.  Don’t be afraid to send someone a message; you never know where it will lead to.  Use technology to your advantage and go connect with someone.

• Become involved in an extracurricular activity. Whether it’s a gay chorus, an adult education class, or a local book club, there are plenty of ways to get out into the community to meet people.  Anytime you meet someone, even if they are straight, it is an opportunity to network.  Think about it: almost every straight person has at least one token gay friend.  You could be set up with that nice friend!  And again, having a hobby or activity you’re involved in only makes you more attractive to your potential new date.

• Put the word out. Tell family and friends that you’re interested in meeting someone.  You never know where it could lead.  With facebook and other social networking sites, people are in contact with so many more people than ever before.  You have no idea what kinds of new people you might be able to be exposed to if you just ask.