Our Guide to LGBTQ+ Nightlife in Washington D.C.

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Washington D.C.'s LGBTQ+ scene is vibrant and diverse, offering everything from relaxed neighborhood bars to high-energy dance clubs. Whether you're in the mood for a casual drink, a lively party, or a cozy café with queer-friendly events, the city has a spot for you. Many LGBTQ+ venues are concentrated in Dupont Circle, Logan Circle, U Street Corridor, and Adams Morgan, but new spaces open across the city every year. Here are some of our favorite LGBTQ+-friendly bars to check out.

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Ok … On to the list

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Washington D.C.’s Top Lesbian & Gay Bars

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Larry's Lounge

Larry’s Lounge is a long-standing neighborhood bar known for its welcoming atmosphere, affordable drinks, and spacious, dog-friendly patio. The cozy indoor space, reminiscent of a suburban living room, makes it a relaxed and inviting destination. Regulars and out-of-towners come for its reliable happy hour specials and the comfort of a bar that feels like home.

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Pitchers

Located in Adams Morgan, Pitchers is a sprawling gay sports bar offering multiple patios and ample space to catch a game or enjoy a casual night out. The venue serves classic bar fare such as burgers and chicken tenders, catering to sports fans and the broader LGBTQ+ community alike. Its inclusive atmosphere and expansive layout make it a favorite for both small gatherings and lively game nights. The venue also houses A League of Her Own, a dedicated bar for lesbian and queer women.

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A League of Her Own

Housed in the basement of Pitchers, A League of Her Own (ALOHO) is one of the few remaining lesbian bars in the U.S. Since its opening in 2018, it has provided a vital safe space for lesbian and queer women in D.C. The bar features pool tables, foosball, and a welcoming environment for its diverse clientele, just like its male counterpart upstairs.

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JR's Bar and Grill

A fixture on Dupont Circle’s 17th Street for over three decades, JR’s Bar and Grill is known for its lively happy hours and engaging themed events. While food options are limited for a place called a grill, the bar makes up for it with an energetic atmosphere, including drag performances, showtune nights, and film screenings. The welcoming crowd and well-priced drinks make it a go-to destination for both locals and visitors.

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As You Are Bar

More than just a bar, As You Are (AYA) doubles as a café by day and a dance lounge by night, creating an inclusive space for all members of the LGBTQ+ community. The Eastern Market venue offers a diverse event lineup, including karaoke, craft nights, drag shows, and Latin dance parties. Originally conceived of as a lesbian bar, while it may not fully dedicate itself to the L, it does put a large focus on sapphics compared to the other bars in this guide.

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Licht Café

Licht Café is an intimate, European-style bar tucked above a comic book store on U Street NW. Inspired by a gay bar the owner frequented in Germany, it specializes in classic cocktails, quality coffee, an impressive collection of gay art and light snacks. Its small size creates a cozy, artsy vibe, making it a hidden gem in DC’s LGBTQ+ nightlife scene.

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Green Lantern

Hidden in an alleyway near Thomas Circle, Green Lantern embraces its underground feel with a dimly lit, no-frills aesthetic. The venue features a multi-level dance floor, go-go dancers, and shirtless drink specials on select nights. Known for its underwear parties and gritty charm, it caters to those looking for an “edgier” bar experience.

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Kiki

One of DC’s newer LGBTQ+ venues, Kiki opened in 2022 in the former Velvet Lounge and Dodge City spaces. The bar features two floors, with a lively lounge downstairs and a second-floor dance space hosting themed parties and drag performances. While still establishing its identity, Kiki’s energetic atmosphere and strong but pricey drinks have made it a promising addition to D.C.’s nightlife and drag scene.

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Uproar Lounge & Restaurant

A multi-level gay bar with a strong bear community focus, Uproar offers a welcoming atmosphere with a rooftop deck perfect for socializing. The lower level serves as a traditional bar, while the upper floors provide space for dancing and themed events. It’s a go-to spot for those looking to mix a relaxed environment with lively weekend parties and burly men.

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Trade

Trade is a stylish gay bar that combines quirky decor with a laid-back atmosphere. Known for its XL happy hour, it has quickly become a favorite among locals, offering a mix of humor and high energy in a no-frills environment. The central dance floor and offbeat decorations, including quirky art pieces and playful signage, create a fun vibe that keeps patrons coming back for more.

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BUNKER

BUNKER, D.C.’s last remaining dedicated gay nightclub, stands out with its post-apocalyptic theme and raw, industrial vibe. The venue hosts themed nights, including popular shirtless dancing events, and offers a high-energy atmosphere for fans of house, circuit, and disco music. Although it has a pricey cover charge, BUNKER is a must-visit for those looking to experience the city's dwindling LGBTQ+ nightclub scene that once dominated the neighborhood.

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Thurst Lounge

The only Black-owned LGBTQ+ lounge in D.C., Thurst Lounge offers a welcoming space for the Black LGBTQ+ community with a focus on inclusivity. Featuring vibrant art, live performances, and a mix of hip-hop and R&B music, this spot is known for its relaxed yet energetic atmosphere. The venue also hosts themed events and parties, making it a dynamic hangout for locals and visitors alike.

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