Ah, Charlotte—the Queen City! Famous for its Southern charm, but did you know it also has a killer LGBTQ+ nightlife scene? Whether you're looking for laid-back vibes, drag shows that will leave you speechless, or a high-energy dance party, Charlotte's got your back. If you're new in town or just visiting, let me take you on a fabulous gay tour of the best bars, lounges, clubs, and hangouts in Charlotte. Whether you're cruising through Plaza Midwood or hitting up NoDa, these spots are where the party’s at! And for those wanting to connect with other LGBT folks outside the bar scene, you’ve got to check out Lex, an app that lets you find your people in the community. Download it here.
Bar Argon: More Than Just Drinks and Dancing
Address: 4544 South Blvd, Charlotte, NC 28209
Let’s kick off this night with Bar Argon, Charlotte's only video dance bar and lounge. Seriously, only one—what are the odds? The vibe here is chill but upbeat, like that perfect friend who can both party hard and have a deep convo. Weekly drag shows light up the stage, while the drinks keep the mood high. Pro tip: Opens Wednesday through Saturday from 8 PM to 2 AM. Try their Latin Nights if you want to shake your hips and burn off those cocktails. And hey, don’t be shy about showing off your karaoke skills on Wednesday nights—you’ve got star power, I can feel it! Bonus points: Their crowd is always a welcoming mix of LGBTQ+ folks who come as they are. Did I mention the drinks are strong? Like, strong-strong. And if you're looking to meet people before the night out, check out Lex, the app that connects LGBTQ+ folks effortlessly. Download it here.
Chasers: The Dance Party You Didn’t Know You Needed
Address: 3217 The Plaza, Charlotte, NC 28205
No list is complete without Chasers, located just minutes from Plaza Midwood. It’s one of Charlotte's longest-running gay bars, and honey, it’s still going strong. If you're looking for a night that doesn’t slow down until the lights come on, Chasers is the spot. Whether you're into drag shows or just want to dance like no one’s watching (even though everyone is), Chasers has you covered. The go-go dancers and theme nights are the cherries on top. Opens Wednesday through Sunday from 8 PM to 2 AM. If you're visiting during Charlotte Pride, this is the place to be! Want to connect with other LGBTQ+ folks before hitting Chasers? Lex is the perfect app to make new friends or more. Download it here.
Petra’s: The Artsy Hangout with a Soul
Address: 1919 Commonwealth Ave, Charlotte, NC 28205
Ready for something a bit more laid-back but with all the queer magic? Head to Petra's in Plaza Midwood. Opens Monday through Saturday from 7 PM. Shows and events are subject to change, be sure to check their calendar often to see about their events. This place is not just a bar; it’s a community hub where LGBTQ+ folks come together for art shows, live music, comedy, and, of course, drag shows! The vibe is artsy, a little quirky, and 100% queer-friendly. Petra’s attracts a crowd that loves everything from poetry slams to burlesque. Their back patio is an oasis for anyone who wants to escape the club scene but still be surrounded by the community. It’s the kind of place you can sip a cocktail and talk about life—or just your latest Tinder date. And if you’re not sure where to go next or want to meet people, use Lex to find new LGBTQ+ friends. Download it here.
The Woodshed: Leather, Lace, and All in Between
Address: 3935 Queen City Dr, Charlotte, NC 28208
Next up: The Woodshed. This one is for my leather and BDSM-loving family, and yes, it’s as fabulous as it sounds. Tucked away in the Queen City, The Woodshed is Charlotte's only gay bar specifically geared toward leather culture. But don’t let that intimidate you—everyone’s welcome here. If you’ve ever wanted to dive deeper into this part of the LGBTQ+ community, this is the safe, fun space to do it. With pool tables, a massive patio, and friendly bartenders, The Woodshed is less “intense” than you might think but every bit as exciting. Opens Monday through Saturday from 5 PM - 2:30 AM. And for those who want to connect beyond just the nightlife, check out Lex—you might just meet someone who’s into the same kinks as you. Download it here.
The Scorpio: A Charlotte Institution
Address: 225 Fairwood Ave, Charlotte, NC 28203
Open since 1968, The Scorpio is one of the longest-running LGBTQ+ nightclubs in the South, and it has all the retro vibes. Want a diverse crowd and some of the best drag shows in Charlotte? The Scorpio is your jam. Whether you're looking to dance all night or hang out on the patio, you'll find a mix of people here, all having the time of their lives. A personal favorite of mine during Charlotte Pride! Opens Wednesday through Saturday from 6 PM to 2:30 AM.
NoDa's Queer-Friendly Scene: Common Market
Address: 2007 Commonwealth Ave, Charlotte, NC 28205
Alright, so technically Common Market in NoDa isn’t a gay bar, but it’s so queer-friendly it might as well be! This place is a perfect pit stop for some chill time before or after the party. They've got a killer beer selection and comfy patio seating—great for striking up convos with fellow LGBTQ+ folks. Plus, the people-watching? Chef’s kiss. Opens Sunday through Wednesday from 8 AM - 10 PM.
Whether you're in Plaza Midwood dancing at Chasers, soaking up artsy vibes at Petra’s, or exploring the leather scene at The Woodshed, Charlotte has LGBTQ+ nightlife that’s just waiting for you to explore. And don’t forget, Lex is your perfect companion for meeting new people in the LGBTQ+ community. Download Lex now and get social before you hit the bars!
Find your perfect Charlotte plans on Lex
Lex is your perfect companion for meeting new people in the LGBTQ+ community. Find some lesbian, gay or queer friends on Lex and get social before you hit the bars!
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 queer bar in your city. Queer cuties in your neighborhood are right at your fingertips - go meet them!
Looking for something a little less nightlife-related? We’ve got tips for sober activities, too for those times where teh gay bar and lesbian bar won't cut it. And check out our other city guides here.
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