From Liberace to Cross-Dressing Showgirls, you would think Las Vegas would have a gay scene to rival even San Francisco (or Boulder, which actually has more self-identified gay people per capita) but Vegas has been notoriously lacking in this field. Blame the bright lights and vibrant colors – thinking about it the whole thing is a little gay, so maybe exclusive clubs and restaurants aren’t so necessary, at least that’s how we like to look at it. Either way though, there are a handful of escapes catering specifically to the gay crowd.
This is Vegas’s one and only gay resort, located just off the Strip on Westwood Dr. It’s not the full casino experience by a long shot, but does offer amenities, a spa, lounge, and a lagoon-style pool area. If a resort catering specifically to gays is a must, this is the spot to be, otherwise check out our Hotel section for great places to stay on the Strip, Downtown, or just off the Strip.
There are actually quite a few, both bars that are specifically gay, and many that are popular with the gay community. The bars and clubs directly across from the Hardrock are a great place to go, and here is a short list of some of the gay bars in town:
Backdoor Lounge – The name says it all. Located on Charleston Blvd. it’s easy to spot with its pink trim.
Badlands Saloon – Located on Sahara, Badlands has a Western theme complete with lasso in the front and a log cabin exterior. This is a true local’s gay bar. The regulars even have their names on their very own mugs.
The Buffalo – Another local favorite, this one on Paradise Rd. Many like the low-key nature, just your average bar with great beer specials, pool table, juke box, etc.
Charlie’s Las Vegas – Another Western bar located on Arville. Charlie’s is also popular in Chicago, Phoenix, and Denver.
Escape Lounge – Right on the Strip, tucked away behind the Statue of Liberty in front of New York-New York, Escape Lounge combines a Sports Bar feel with gaming and great food.
The Las Vegas Eagle – On E. Tropicana, Eagle has some great drink prices.
Ramrod – Either another clever title with innuendo or someone is a huge Super Trooper fan (never mind). This is a long time favorite located on Karen Ave only a couple miles from the Strip. Ramrod is under new management and features a new dance floor, billiards, darts, video poker, and wireless internet access.
Snick’s Place – Downtown on 3rd Street, a cozy destination with great drink prices.
Spotlight Lounge – On E. Sahara, they offer all kinds of drink specials along with free pizza on Friday. And Saturday is Underwear Night from midnight to 3 a.m. Ask for details.
Who doesn’t like a Vegas Club? It’s one of the things this town is known for. Every club in Vegas, from those on the Strip, to the lesser known off-Strip and Downtown locales, has at least a bit of a following in the gay community. However there are also a handful of clubs that cater specifically to the gay community and here are a few of them.
8 ½ Ultra Lounge and Piranha Nightclub – On Paradise Road, across from Hardrock in the area sometimes called “Fruit Loop”, this club is unassuming from the outside but has a beautiful interior and is one of the more popular spots in town.
Flex – Perhaps the most well-known gay club in Vegas, Flex is located on W. Charleston Blvd and hosts events like Tuesday Underwear Night when anyone in underwear drinks free, and drag shows on Wed and Sat.
FreeZone – Buff bartenders without shirts and all kinds of special events. FreeZone is on Naples Dr.
Gypsy – Also on Paradise by the Hardrock in what is known as the “Fruit Loop” area, this is the place to go if you love to dance.
Goodtimes – 4,500 sq ft of dance space, this is another great place to go if you love to shake your thing. Located on E. Tropicana.
Krave – Not officially a “gay club” but it has quickly become a favorite in the gay community. It sells itself as the only “alternative” club in Vegas, and is the only gay club (if one would call it that) with Vegas Strip prices. Bottle service starts at $350. Dress codes apply and are discretionary to Krave personnel. It is located just across from Planet Hollywood.
Secret Nightclub & Cabaret – There is a $20 cover charge, but locals are free with ID. It is a combination of alternative lifestyle and adult fantasy, and the largest gay venue in town with over 15,000 sq ft. It is split into three areas, one with a DJ, another more intimate setting, and the third for any who would like to play out some erotic fantasy. Secret Nightclub & Cabaret is located on Valley View and Twain.
Temptation at Luxor – Like your parties wet? This is the only pool party in town catering to the LGBT community, 21 and over only. It is located at the Luxor’s South Pool and is specially tailored for the alternative crowd with special events, DJ’s, and much more.
Whether you’re a local or just visiting, Las Vegas does have quite a bit to offer anyone looking for a good time.