Meeting people in NYC can be both exciting and overwhelming. There are so many queer folks in this city that sometimes I hardly know what to do with myself—but when I first started looking for ways to connect, everything seemed to revolve around nightlife. And don’t get me wrong, I love that NYC has such a thriving queer bar scene. It’s one of the many reasons this city is an incredible place to be LGBTQ+. But the older I get, the more I realize that meeting people in a packed bar, trying to have a conversation over blasting music and rounds of tequila shots, doesn’t always lead to the kind of connections I’m looking for.
For me (and a lot of people I know), the friendships that stick tend to start in spaces where there’s already something to talk about—whether it’s playing basketball, joining a writing workshop, or bonding over a shared hyper fixation on sapphic historical fiction. Just the other day, I had dinner with a couple who casually mentioned they’re part of an invite-only lesbian backgammon club for people in the arts. Because of course, that exists.
While this list isn’t quite that niche, it’s a great place to start if you’re looking to meet other queer people in NYC without the bar scene. Whether you’ve lived here forever and want to expand your circle or you’re new to the city and figuring out where your people are, these events, clubs, and activities are an easy way to make it happen—no cocktails required.
Crux Queer Rock Climbing
If you’ve ever watched a rock climber scale a wall and thought, That looks both terrifying and kind of amazing, you’re not alone. Climbing is one of those sports that looks intimidating from the outside but is actually incredibly accessible—especially when you have a supportive, queer-affirming community like CRUX to cheer you on.
CRUX Climbing is a nonprofit dedicated to making rock climbing more accessible for LGBTQ+ folks in NYC. They offer a mix of indoor and outdoor climbing events, so whether you’re a total newbie or someone who can casually ascend a boulder like a mountain goat, there’s a space for you. Their Monthly Newbie Nights are perfect if you’re just getting started, while their weekly climbing sessions give experienced climbers a chance to link up with other queer adventurers. If you’re feeling bold, their outdoor summer trips are a great way to take your skills from the gym to real rock faces across the East Coast.
One of the best things about CRUX? There’s zero pressure to be “good” at climbing—just show up, have fun, and push yourself at your own pace. According to their FAQ, there’s no experience level required for most events, and if you don’t have gear, you can rent it when climbing with them at BKBoulders. Whether you’re looking to build strength, challenge yourself, or just meet cool queer people in a setting that isn’t a bar, CRUX is an incredible place to start.
Queer NYC Pickleball
If you haven’t hopped on the pickleball train yet, consider this your official invite. Pickleball has been the fastest-growing sport in the U.S. for three years running, and honestly, it makes sense—it’s the perfect mix of social, competitive, and just chaotic enough to keep things interesting. Now add a group of queer players, some aesthetic paddles, and a Slack channel to keep the vibes going, and you’ve got Queer NYC Pickle.
Queer NYC Pickle meets Fridays from 6-8 PM at CityPickle LIC and every other Sunday from 8-10 PM at Gotham Pickleball LIC, making it super easy to jump in, whether you’re a total beginner or already have a killer backhand. The smaller court size means games move quickly, and you’re constantly chatting with your doubles partner (or friendly opponents), making it one of the best ways to meet new people while actually being active. Plus, I’m not saying the Queer Pickle NYC paddles will make you play better, but they will make you look cooler, which is half the battle.
If you’re looking for a low-pressure, high-energy way to connect with other queer folks in NYC, this is it. Join their Slack channel to stay in the loop, grab a paddle, and get ready to dink your way into a whole new social scene.
OutBox Gym
If you’ve ever wanted to throw a punch in a safe, supportive, and incredibly queer space—OutBox is where it’s at. This trans-owned and operated boxing gym in Williamsburg is all about making fitness fun, accessible, and completely free of the usual gym bro energy. Whether you’re stepping into the ring for the first time or you’re already shadowboxing in your apartment, they’ve got 60-minute boxing, kickboxing, and strength classes for all levels.
What sets OutBox apart—aside from being one of the few queer-centered fitness spaces in the city—is its dedication to community. They offer free boxing and strength classes for trans women of color, monthly collabs with Butch Monthly, and a welcoming, beginner-friendly environment where no one is judging your footwork. And if the locker room situation at traditional gyms gives you anxiety? OutBox has gender-neutral bathrooms, so you can focus on the workout—not awkward changing room interactions.
They also run a donation-based program to keep their classes accessible for as many people as possible, so if you’re looking for a way to support queer fitness spaces, this is a great one. Whether you want to sharpen your jabs, build strength, or just find a community that makes moving your body feel good, OutBox is the spot.
Queer Brown Babes NYC
If you’ve ever scrolled through social wondering where all the Black and Brown queer events were, you’re not alone—and that’s exactly how Queer Brown Babes NYC was born. What started as a casual brunch meetup in response to a Lex post has grown into a thriving community that gathers regularly for good food, good company, and all-around joyful vibes.
Brunch is the heart of it all—because, let’s be real, there’s nothing better than gathering around a table with people who just get you—but they also host picnics, game nights, and other cute hangouts throughout the city. Think: potluck spreads, chart readings, tarot, bubbles, and the kind of laughter that makes strangers feel like friends. Events pop up all over NYC, from Harlem to Park Slope to LIC, so no matter where you are, there’s probably a meet-up near you.
The best way to stay in the loop? Instagram. Give them a follow, keep an eye out for the next event, and get ready to join a space that’s all about celebrating and uplifting queer Black and Brown joy.
Queer Walks and Hikes
If you love the idea of escaping the city for a breath of fresh air but don’t have the energy to figure out where to go and how to get there, Queer Walks and Hikes NYC has you covered. This free, community-driven group organizes public-transit-accessible walks and hikes in and around NYC, making it easy to get outside without the hassle of planning.
They post upcoming hikes on Instagram about a week in advance, with all the details you need—meeting spot, start time, and exactly what trail they’re tackling that day. Most of the time, folks meet at a train station and ride up together, sometimes even splitting Ubers to trailheads to keep costs low whether you’re up for a casual city stroll (think: The High Line) or a full-on forest adventure (like Fahnestock State Park), there’s an option for you.
Schedules and locations vary, so it’s easy to find one that fits your weekend plans. Plus, it’s the perfect way to connect with other queers, soak up some nature, and give your nervous system a little reset—all without having to do the logistical heavy lifting yourself. Just show up, take a deep breath, and enjoy the walk.
Butch Monthly
Butch Monthly is exactly what it sounds like—a space created by and for butches to build community, share experiences, and celebrate butch visibility. With three meetups a month, they’re keeping the butch energy alive with everything from board game nights to boxing classes to history deep dives at the iconic Lesbian Herstory Archives (complete with a butch-led tour).
There’s no one way to be butch, and this group embraces that fully. If the word butch resonates with you in any way, this space is yours. Whether you’re looking to throw some punches at OutBox’s monthly Butch Boxing class, have deeper conversations in their group talk space, or just meet other butches who are committed to showing up for each other, Butch Monthly is here for you.
Beyond meetups, the community is also dedicated to giving back, and hosting fundraisers for trans youth, OutBox Gym, and Palestine. The group’s organizer has described it as a true labor of love—intentionally creating space for butches to connect, support one another, and be seen.
If you’re craving a space where butch identity is not just accepted but celebrated, this is it.
Queer Soccer League
Queer Soccer League is more than just a game—it’s a thriving community where queer folks of all skill levels come together to play, socialize, and build connections. Whether you’re here to compete, meet new friends, flirt on the sidelines, or just enjoy the post-game hang, QSL is an inclusive space where everyone is welcome.
Founded in 2021 by Hannah Kate Kelley (she/her), QSL started as a way to reconnect after a long pandemic winter. Since then, it’s grown into a 1,000+ strong community that meets weekly for pickup games, followed by drinks at a local gay bar. There’s even a QSL Book Club and plenty of spontaneous meetups, from weekend trips to dance nights.
⚽ April – November: Outdoor games on grass or turf
⚽ December – March: Indoor season
Show up, play, cheer from the sidelines, or just come for the post-game fun. QSL is about soccer, but even more about community.
Living Lesbian Archive
Living Lesbian Archive is a Black lesbian zine-making, scrapbooking, and social club dedicated to documenting and celebrating the lives of Black lesbians in NYC. Created by Elysia and Tajh, LLA was born from a desire to build a stronger, more visible Black lesbian community—one that exists beyond the club and party scene.
Each month, LLA hosts a zine night, where members contribute art, writing, and personal reflections to a collective zine, capturing the beauty and diversity of Black lesbian experiences. The zine is available for purchase on Etsy, and there are plans to launch a digital newsletter as well.
Who is this space for? LLA is open to those who align with the label of Black lesbian—understanding that identities and relationships to Blackness and lesbianism can evolve over time. While all are welcome to support, the space is intentionally designed for Black lesbians to gather, create, and find community.
Sapphic Creative Writing NYC
Sapphic Creative Writing NYC is a space for sapphic, trans, and non-binary people to write, share, and connect. Whether you’re looking for inspiration, hoping to workshop a piece, or just need a dedicated space to write, this group offers a welcoming and supportive environment.
Each session includes writing prompts across different themes to spark creativity, along with opportunities to share work and receive feedback. No prior writing experience is necessary—all skill levels are welcome. Bring a notebook, laptop, or whatever you love to write with, and spend an afternoon exploring new ideas and building community.
Workshops take place every third Friday. Sapphic Creative Writing NYC is part of a larger network with chapters in cities like Boston and Seattle.
Follow on Instagram for updates and event details. Registration is required to attend.
Queer NYC Supper Club
There’s no better way to build community than by sharing a meal. Queer NYC Supper Club is a monthly gathering where queer folks come together to cook, eat, and connect over good food. Whether you love to cook, want to bring a dish, or prefer to pick something up, everyone has a place at the table.
Respect for all cultural cuisines is at the heart of these gatherings, and participants are encouraged to approach each meal with openness and appreciation. The supper club has been running for two years, creating a space for queer people to bond over food in a welcoming and COVID-conscious environment.
Due to the nature of the event, seating is limited. To reserve your spot, fill out the Google form linked on their Instagram.
EveryQueer Group Trip
Travel has a way of bringing people together like nothing else. EveryQueer Group Trips aren’t just about seeing the world—they’re about building a global community of queer travelers who share experiences, meals, and plenty of laughter along the way.
As a Brooklyn-based business, we’ve found that many of our travelers come from NYC, but our trips create friendships that stretch far beyond city limits. One of the best parts? The group chats stay active long after we’ve returned home.
The 2025-2026 lineup is one of our most exciting yet, with upcoming adventures to Stockholm, Everest Base Camp, Peru, and Playa del Carmen. If you’re looking for a way to explore the world with like-minded travelers, EveryQueer trips are for you.
