The 6 Most Popular Gay & LGBTQ Bars and Clubs in Columbus

Columbus, Ohio, has one of the most exciting LGBTQ+ nightlife scenes in the Midwest. From the buzzing Short North to Olde Towne East, the city is packed with gay-friendly bars, nightclubs, and drag shows that keep the party going. Whether you're looking for live music, an epic karaoke night, or a wild dance floor, Columbus has it all.

And if you want to connect with LGBTQ+ people before heading out, check out Lex, the app designed for meeting queer folks and making real lesbian and gay connections. Download it here!

1. Union Cafe – The Ultimate LGBTQ+ Hotspot

Address: 782 N High St, Columbus, OH 43215

No list is complete without Union Cafe - a gay bar and restaurant in the heart of Short North. It’s the perfect place to start your night with delicious food, strong drinks, and a welcoming crowd. If you love karaoke nights, drag shows, and vibrant energy, this is your spot.

Union Cafe is one of the most vibrant gay bars in Columbus, located on High St in the heart of the Short North district. Known for its friendly atmosphere and welcoming staff, this LGBTQ+ hotspot offers a fun mix of karaoke, live music, and drag shows that make it a must-visit for anyone looking to enjoy the city's nightlife.

Whether you're in the mood for a laid-back drink or a high-energy dance party, Union Cafe's extensive drink menu and spacious dance floor cater to all kinds of partygoers. On Fridays, it transforms into a lively club, perfect for dancing the night away with friends. The outdoor seating area is ideal for enjoying a cold beer or a cocktail during warmer months, and their cabaret-style entertainment adds to the diverse offerings.

If you're in the mood for something special, don't miss the drag shows that are a highlight of the weekend. And with its prime location, Union Cafe is easily accessible whether you're coming from the bustling High St or from other popular areas in Columbus. The friendly, inclusive vibe makes it one of the top spots for LGBTQ+ folks to gather, relax, and make memories. Their operating hours are Monday to Thursday: 11:00 AM – 2:30 AM and Friday to Sunday: 11:00 AM – 2:30 AM. On Sundays, they open at 10:00 AM for brunch.

💡 Pro tip: Try their signature cocktails and visit on the weekends when the patio is packed with Columbus' most stylish LGBTQ+ crowd.

2. Axis Nightclub & Lounge – Drag, Dancing & High Energy

Address: 775 N High St, Columbus, OH 43215

Located in Short North, Axis Nightclub is the city’s biggest gay nightclub and home to some of the most legendary drag performances in Ohio. With two floors, a rooftop patio, and live DJs spinning high-energy sets, it’s the ultimate destination for a wild night out. This gay night club typically open from Thursday through Saturday, 9 PM to 2 AM.

💡 Pro tip: Get there early for the best view of the stage - Columbus’ best drag queens perform here weekly.

3. AWOL Bar – Laid-Back Vibes & Live Music

Address: 49 Parsons Ave, Columbus, OH 43215

If you’re looking for a more relaxed gay bar with a friendly crowd, head to AWOL in Olde Towne East. This bar has a spacious patio, strong drinks, and great live music on the weekends. It’s the perfect place to grab a drink before hitting the dance clubs.

Their operating hours are:Monday to Thursday: 2:00 PM – 2:30 AM and Saturday and Sunday: 12:00 PM – 2:30 AM. They are open until 2:30 AM every day of the week. For more information or to inquire about events, you can contact them at (614) 621-8779.

💡 Pro tip: Their karaoke nights bring out some serious talent—get ready to sing your heart out.

4. Slammers – Pizza, Beer & LGBTQ+ Love

Address: 202 E Long St, Columbus, OH 43215

One of the only lesbian bars in Columbus, Slammers is a historic gay-friendly bar known for its delicious pizza, cheap beer, and inclusive vibes. Whether you're LGBTQ+ or an ally, this spot is a must-visit. Come for the pizza and drinks, stay for the LGBT friendly atmosphere at the restaurant. 

💡 Pro tip: Slammers is part of a fun queer pub crawl event very year, check the cal and make sure you don't miss out

5. District West – Columbus' Newest Drag & Dance Spot

Address: 145 N 5th St, Columbus, OH 43215

District West is Columbus' newest LGBTQ+ performance space and nightclub, featuring top-tier drag entertainment, themed dance parties, and over-the-top events. If you love high-energy nightlife and jaw-dropping performances, this is the place to be. The opening hours is daily 7 PM to 1 AM (Open later on weekends - until 2:30 AM at Friday and Saturday).

💡 Pro tip: Follow them on Instagram for surprise guest performers - you never know who might show up!

6. Club Diversity – Cocktails, Piano Nights & Chill Vibes

Address: 863 S High St, Columbus, OH 43206

Located in Merion Village, Club Diversity is a cozy LGBTQ+ cocktail lounge with a welcoming vibe. They have an extensive martini menu, a fireplace for the winter months, and live piano music. It's perfect for a date night or a relaxed evening with friends.

💡 Pro tip: Their karaoke nights are legendary—grab a beer and take the stage!

For those who want to explore even more, Columbus is full of friendly bars, restaurants, and lounges offering unique experiences, from dance parties to karaoke nights. If you’re looking to meet people, Lex is the perfect app to connect with others in the city before heading out. Download Lex today and discover all the exciting events happening at Union Cafe and beyond!

Find your perfect plans on Lex

There’s always something queer happening on Lex. Download Lex and filter your feed by Events to see everything happening in your area. Nothing speaking to you? Take charge and make your own! Create an Event and get friends (read some tips on finding new queer friends here) together to check out a lesbian bar in your city. Queer cuties in your neighborhood are right at your fingertips - go meet them!

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Looking for something a little less nightlife-related? We’ve got tips for sober activities, too for those times where the gay bar and lesbian bar won't cut it. And check out our other city guides here.

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