Philadelphia’s LGBTQ community has a new place to gather.
Val’s Lesbian Bar officially opened its doors in Queen Village this spring, bringing a dedicated lesbian bar back to the city for the first time since 2021. Located just off South Street, the new space has already become one of Philadelphia’s most talked-about LGBTQ openings, drawing packed crowds and creating another welcoming place for queer women and the broader LGBTQ community to connect.
Whether you’re a Philadelphia local or planning a weekend in one of our favorite East Coast LGBTQ destinations, Val’s is well worth adding to your list.
Located at 605 S. Third Street in Philadelphia’s Queen Village neighborhood, Val’s was created by partners Julia Harris and Clover Gilfor after years of searching for the right location. Their vision was simple: create the kind of neighborhood bar they wished already existed, somewhere people could stop in for a casual drink during the week, celebrate with friends on the weekend, or find community through regular events.
The two-story bar blends the comfort of a neighborhood hangout with the energy of a lively queer nightlife spot. Inside, you’ll find cozy booths, vintage-inspired décor, a pool table upstairs, and an outdoor patio, while the menu features cocktails, mocktails, beer, wine, and light bites. Regular programming includes karaoke nights, dance parties, book launches, and other community events that give visitors plenty of reasons to come back beyond grabbing a drink.
One of the things we love most about spaces like Val’s is that they’re about much more than nightlife. They’re places where friendships begin, first dates happen, celebrations unfold, and travelers can experience a city’s LGBTQ community beyond the typical tourist attractions. If you’re visiting Philadelphia, spending an evening at a neighborhood queer bar is one of the best ways to get a feel for the local community, and Val’s is quickly becoming one of those places.
Philadelphia has long been one of the most LGBTQ-friendly cities in the country, with an established queer community, a vibrant Pride celebration, and no shortage of LGBTQ-owned businesses to explore. Val’s adds another meaningful stop to that list while creating a dedicated space centered on lesbian culture and community. As new queer spaces continue to open around the country, each one is another reminder that these gathering places still matter and continue to evolve for a new generation.
If you’re planning a trip to Philadelphia, consider making Val’s part of your itinerary. The bar is located in Queen Village, an easy walk from South Street and many of the city’s other popular neighborhoods, making it a natural stop during an evening out. Before you visit, check Val’s social media for the latest hours, special events, and programming to see what’s happening during your trip.
