NYC Gay: a list of the best gay bars and clubs in New York City

If you’re traveling to New York City in hopes of finding some lively gay bars, you won’t be disappointed.  New York City has a vibrant nightlife, both gay and straight, seven days a week.  While a stroll through either the West Village or East Village will surely lead to you stumbling across many fabulous gay bars, here’s a list of some stellar stand-outs that are not to be missed.

Boots and Saddle – 76 Christopher St. Located in Greenwich Village, the gayest neighborhood in New York City, this club is open every day from noon to about 4 am.  There are diffierent events each night including karaoke, 80s night, drag shows, etc.  There’s no bad night to go to Boots and Saddle, especially from noon to 8 pm when they have $3 well drinks and beers for Happy Hour.

Therapy – 348 W. 52nd St. A trip to New York City isn’t complete without checking out the nightlife in Hell’s Kitchen.  This large two-floor bar attracts a diverse gay crowd, and offers a variety of cocktails named after your favorite mental disorders.  There’s free entertainment each night, including gay comedians, DJs, and open-mike nights.

9th Avenue Saloon – 656 9th Ave. One of the older gay clubs in Manhattan, the 9th Avenue Saloon has been around for over 30 years.  They’re open daily from 11 am to 4 am, and offer happy hour specials on weekdays.

Eastern Bloc – 505 East 6th Street. The drinks are strong and cheap (at least by New York City standards), here at this communist themed gay bar which attracts many the bearded bear.  The Wednesday night Good Times party is not to be missed.

XES Lounge – 147 West 24th Street. This bar has a little of everything: karaoke, cruising, and even the chance to catch up on some episodes of Desperate Housewives. Weeknights there’s a happy hour special where drinks are two-for-one until 9PM.  And if the weather’s nice there’s a large patio outback  to hang out with the smokers.
GYM Sports Bar – 167 8th Ave. Sports and gay bars might not be everyone’s favorite mix, but this is the one and only gay sports bar in New York City.  There are comfortable couches, pool tables, and nine flat screen TVs showing sports from football to rodeo. And of course there are plenty of good-looking  athletic types to chat with.

Henrietta Hudson – 438 Hudson Street. This bar has easily been the most popular lesbian bar for the past 20 years. Henrietta’s is a laid-back bar with a jukebox, a pool table, and a back room conducive to making all sorts of new friends. Wednesdays through Sundays get pretty packed with free bands and DJs.