Where to Find the Best Nightclubs, Parties, and Events for Queer Women
New York is a diverse and vibrant city bursting with culture, nightlife, and amazing opportunities to meet like-minded people of all backgrounds. As one of the most LGBTQ-friendly cities in America, New York offers a thriving LGBTQ scene, with countless bars, nightclubs, and events catering specifically to the community. For lesbian travelers, the city boasts several iconic lesbian bars that are well worth adding to your itinerary. From the trendy and sophisticated to the laidback and friendly, here are the best nightlife spots for queer women in New York.
Henrietta Hudson
Located in the heart of the West Village, Henrietta Hudson affectionately known as Hen’s is one of the most beloved lesbian bars in New York and is a must-visit spot for anyone looking to experience the city’s queer women’s party scene. The atmosphere is lively and welcoming, with a discerning crowd of queer women, transgender and nonbinary people of all ages, as well as an array of events throughout the week. Head to Hen’s on Friday or Saturday for dance party vibes.
Cubbyhole
Cubbyhole is an intimate lesbian bar in the West Village that has been serving the community for over 25 years. The cozy atmosphere and cheap drinks make it an ideal spot for a casual night out with friends, while the lack of pretension and friendly vibe make it a great place to meet new people. Don’t let the small size fool you; Cubbyhole regularly hosts themed events and parties, often drawing crowds that spill out onto the sidewalk.
Ginger’s Bar
Nestled in the heart of Brooklyn’s Park Slope neighborhood, Ginger’s Bar is the kind of place that makes you feel at home the moment you walk through the door. It’s known for its laid-back vibe, making it the perfect spot to unwind after a long day. The bar offers a variety of events throughout the week, including karaoke nights and pool tournaments, creating a sense of community among patrons. Plus, their outdoor patio is a fantastic spot to enjoy a drink on a warm summer night
Mary’s Bar
Mary’s Bar is a queer Irish pub in Greenpoint is all about hospitality and connection. The bar has a relaxed atmosphere with a focus on conversation and community. They have a wide selection of beers on tap, as well as cider, cocktails, and mocktails. They host themed lesbian events like the “Queer Me Out” LGBTQ+ Book Club, live music, and karaoke nights.
The Bush
A hidden gem in the heart of Brooklyn’s queer epicenter, The Bush is known for its vibrant atmosphere and eclectic crowd. It’s a popular spot for locals and visitors alike who are looking for a fun and inclusive night out. It’s described as a “dyke bar for the queers” with a focus on community, dancing, and connections. They have a dance floor with a DJ, as well as a selection of cocktails and mocktails.
EveryQueer’s VIQ
VIQ is an elevated queer women’s dinner party held quarterly in a new venue for each event. It’s an opportunity to dust off those heels or tie and get a bit boujie for a change of pace. Each event is themed with dinner, open bar, DJs and dancing. Check out the photos from our last VIQ: A Queer Cabaret.
Misster at The Woods
Nestled in Williamsburg, The Woods is a spacious bar with an outdoor patio perfect for summer nights. Known for their diverse crowd and energetic vibe, it’s a great spot to dance the night away. On Wednesday nights the Woods turns into the queerest place in NYC with hundreds of girls, gays, and theys piling into the indoor outdoor space. Head inside to dance to NYC’s hottest DJ Amber Valentine or go out back to grab a taco from the in house taco truck and people watch the artsy queer crowd.
Hot Rabbit
Hot Rabbit has been a queer institution in NYC for well over a decade. Known for their themed parties, live performances, and rotating DJs, it’s a fantastic way to experience the city’s vibrant queer scene
Whitney Day Events
Whitney Day is a DJ and event producer known for her high-energy parties that cater to the LGBTQ+ community. Her events are a celebration of diversity and inclusion, featuring live music, special guest performances, and an electric atmosphere. Each summer she blesses NYC with her Queer Garden party series that combines music, art, and community.
Scope Tonight
Scope is a bi-monthly astrologically themed event for queer women, transgender & non-binary individuals to meet, dance, and celebrate the star signs. The Brooklyn-based party is known for a late 20s -30s crowd of see-and-be-seen queers.
Body Hack
Body Hack is a dance party for transgender and nonbinary cuties and their friends. It’s a party that celebrates self-expression and body positivity. With a welcoming atmosphere that prioritizes the experiences of black, brown, and trans folks, it’s a very diverse crowd. Follow Body Hack’s instagram for some of the funniest party advertising on the internet.
Pat
One Thursday a month in Williamsburg just got a whole lot fiercer. Dive into DJ JD Samson‘s “PAT,” a queer-fueled party pulsating through Union Pool every month. This early-to-late bash welcomes a vibrant tapestry of genders and orientations, all set to ignite the dance floor with open minds and open hearts. Friendly faces abound, eager to break necks and musical horizons. Whether you’re seeking fresh sonic adventures or need a dancefloor refuge from a recent ex, PAT’s got you covered. Two rooms pump with diverse DJ sets, so switch gears on the fly or melt into the groove – the choice is yours.
Honey Burlesque
Honey Burlesque hosts their monthly Hot Honey party in NYC, but you can also catch them dancing at other events around the city. Honey Burlesque isn’t your average dance vibe this vibrant collective of LGBTQ+ dancers in New York City and Los Angeles serves up a potent cocktail of feminine power, playful sensuality, and unapologetic queer joy. Founded in 2017 by the mesmerizing Scarlett Snow, Honey Burlesque has blossomed into a thriving community, showcasing the diverse talents and stories of queer women artists. Their performances are anything but cookie-cutter: expect electrifying mashups of classic burlesque with contemporary dance, comedy, and even political satire.
Boyfriend Co-Op
Boyfriend Co-Op is a daytime/nighttime cafe and cocktail bar that hosts events and parties for the queer community. It’s a Co-Op because all of the owners and guests have the opportunity to buy into the membership of the space creating a balance in equity. They’re prioritizing queer community events through radical thinking, nonhierarchical managerial practices, and paying their workers a living wage, which truly means everything in NYC.
Dave’s Lesbian Bar
Dave’s Lesbian Bar is one of the most unique events in the NYC metro area. A mutual aid center by day and a live music venue + bar by night, Dave’s is always a community sanctuary where queer folks can exist fully and wonderfully as their true selves. Each of their events features vendors, bands, and community partners.
Oddly Enough
Oddly Enough isn’t just a bar, it’s a living room for Brooklyn’s LGBTQ+ community. From seasoned regulars to wide-eyed newcomers, everyone finds their welcome mat tucked beneath the rainbow disco ball. Friendly bar staff sling creative concoctions like the Earth Baby and New Moon in Leo, each concoction a tribute to inclusivity and individuality. Nestled in the heart of Bed-Stuy, Brooklyn, Oddly Enough,is a queer haven that’s equal parts cocktail haven and community refuge. Forget dimly-lit dives—this space bursts with sun-soaked charm and booth seating that invites long conversations and lingering laughter.
Maite
Maite is a queer-friendly restaurant and bar in Bushwick known for its delicious food and welcoming atmosphere. It’s a great spot for a date night or a meal with friends. They frequently host queer events like comedy shows, women’s sports viewings, and Pride events. Maite’s menu is a delectable adventure, drawing inspiration from Colombian, European, and American cuisines. Chef Ella Schmidt, with her passion for fresh, local ingredients, crafts dishes that tantalize the palate and showcase her culinary prowess.
