10 best gay bars & LGBTQ Nightlife in New Orleans

New Orleans is a city that knows how to party and its LGBTQ nightlife scene is no exception. From legendary drag shows to high-energy dance clubs and intimate lounges, the Big Easy offers a diverse array of venues catering to the queer community. Whether you're seeking a wild night on Bourbon Street or a cozy neighborhood lesbian pub with strong cocktails and friendly locals, there's a bar for every vibe. Here's your updated guide to the top gay bars in New Orleans, each offering a unique experience filled with history, entertainment, and, of course, delicious drinks.

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The Most Legendary Celebrations in New Orleans

New Orleans is a city that thrives on celebration, and two of its most iconic events—Southern Decadence and Mardi Gras—bring an explosion of color, music, and unfiltered joy to the streets. Southern Decadence, often called the "Gay Mardi Gras," is a Labor Day weekend festival that transforms the French Quarter into a haven of queer expression, wild parties, and extravagant costumes to gay community. Meanwhile, Mardi Gras, a centuries-old tradition, floods the city with parades, masked crowds, and endless festivities. Both parade events showcase the city's vibrant spirit, embracing diversity and creativity to LGBT community.

Where to Experience the Best of LGBTQ Nightlife in New Orleans

New Orleans is home to a thriving LGBTQ nightlife scene, with many bars and nightclubs open 24 hours daily, ensuring that the party never stops. Whether you're looking for an iconic venue steeped in history or a vibrant dance club with energetic crowds, you’ll find it here. The heart of the action is in the French Quarter, especially along Bourbon Street, where legendary establishments welcome locals and visitors alike.

For those seeking a more relaxed or alternative atmosphere, the Marigny and Bywater neighborhoods offer laid-back queer-friendly spots with live music, creative cocktails, and an inclusive vibe.

Now, dive into the best gay bars in New Orleans that you absolutely must visit with Lex!  

1. Lafitte's

Address: 901 Bourbon St, New Orleans, LA 70116

As the oldest continuously operating gay bar in the U.S., Lafitte's is a must-visit for history buffs and party lovers alike in New Orleans’ historic French Quarter. It offers strong drinks, friendly bartenders, and a balcony perfect for people-watching. Weekly events include karaoke nights, drag shows, and themed parties such as Underwear Pool Night, Trash Disco/Napkin Toss and Bearly Clothed, making it a lively spot for both locals and tourists. Lafitte's is particularly popular among all gay bars in New Orleans during Southern Decadence, attracting crowds from all over. It opens 24/7 that you won't miss out any chance to have fun and enjoy drinks.

2. Oz New Orleans

Address: 800 Bourbon St, New Orleans, LA 70116

If you’re looking for a high-energy and a premier gay dance Club, Oz New Orleans is the place to be. With an electrifying dance floor, nightly drag performances, and go-go boys, it’s one of the most exciting gay bars in New Orleans. Oz is famous for its balcony views of Bourbon Street, where the party never stops. Be sure to check out their weekly dance parties and special DJ nights! The operation hour is Mon to Wed, 6 PM to 4PM and Thu to Sun, 12 PM to 4 PM .

3. Bourbon Pub & Parade

Address: 801 Bourbon St, New Orleans, LA 70116

One of the most famous gay bars in the heart of French Quarter, Bourbon Pub & Parade is a hotspot for drag shows, dance parties, and balcony views over Bourbon Street. This two-story LGBTQ bar is packed with entertainment, offering a mix of DJs, karaoke nights, and themed events throughout the week. It’s especially lively during Southern Decadence and Mardi Gras! The largest gay night club in New Orleans opens daily for 24 hours.

4. The Golden Lantern

Address: 1239 Royal St, New Orleans, LA 70116

A true hidden gem, The Golden Lantern is known as the birthplace of Southern Decadence, the city’s biggest LGBTQ festival. This intimate, friendly bar is famous for its drag performances, strong drinks, and welcoming vibe. If you’re looking for an authentic New Orleans experience with a queer twist, make sure to stop by. This gay bar opens daily for 24 hours, gives you the full experience of queer nightlife.

5. The Phoenix Bar

Address: 941 Elysian Fields Ave, New Orleans, LA 70117

A staple for the leather and bear community, The Phoenix Bar is a multi-level bar that offers themed nights, DJ sets, and a notorious upstairs area. This Marigny hotspot is the perfect place for those looking for a more alternative queer scene. Special events include fetish nights, underwear parties, and themed dance nights. The queer gay bar opens daily for 24 hours.

6. Mag’s 940

Address: 940 Elysian Fields Ave, New Orleans, LA 70117

This cozy bar in Marigny offers live performances, burlesque, and drag shows in an intimate setting. Mag’s 940 is a great place to grab a cocktail and enjoy eclectic entertainment ranging from circus acts to poetry readings. It’s perfect for those looking for a queer-friendly dive bar with a strong local following. The gay bar for drag shows, male revues, and cold daiquiris opens daily from 10 AM–2 AM, yet the closing time varies by day.

7. Poor Boys Bar

Address: 1328 St. Bernard Ave, New Orleans, LA 70116

One of New Orleans’ newest LGBTQ spaces, Poor Boys Bar is a welcoming, relaxed bar with a focus on community and mostly queer bartenders. With a mix of live music, karaoke nights, and queer-friendly events, this is the perfect place for an easy-going night out in a safe, inclusive space. The gay bar opens at Wed-Sun from 8 PM–4 AM. At Saturday and Sunday, you can even stay till 6 AM.

8. GrandPre’s

Address: 834 N Rampart St, New Orleans, LA 70116

For those seeking a casual yet lively spot, GrandPre’s offers a great mix of drag shows, karaoke, and cheap drinks. Located just outside the French Quarter, this New Orleans gay bar is known for its friendly vibe and welcoming atmosphere.It opens daily from 4 PM–2 AM. However, the operation hour extends to 3 AM at Friday and Saturday.

9. Napoleon’s Itch

Address: 734 Bourbon St, New Orleans, LA 70116

Napoleon's Itch is a perfect gay night club for those looking for a more intimate, upscale LGBTQ-friendly environment. With expertly crafted cocktails and a stylish setting, Napoleon’s Itch offers a unique alternative to the usual bar scene in New Orleans.The spot that cannot missed by New Orleans gay community opens at Wed-Sun from 5 PM–12 AM.

10. Rawhide Lounge

Address: 740 Burgundy St, New Orleans, LA 70116

A staple in New Orleans’ LGBTQ scene, Rawhide Lounge is a leather-friendly bar with a no-frills atmosphere. Popular among locals and tourists alike, this bar provides a unique, edgy experience within the French Quarter. It opens daily from 3 PM–3 AM(Yet Fri. to Sun. opens at 11 AM). 

Find Someone to Explore New Orleans’s LGBTQ Nightlife Scene on Lex

New Orleans is a city with plenty neighborhoods embraces its LGBTQ community with open arms. Whether you want to dance at Oz, sip cocktails at Napoleon’s Itch, or enjoy historic charm at Café Lafitte in Exile, there’s something for everyone. Cheers to a fantastic gay night out in New Orleans!

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 New Orleans gay friends (read some tips on finding new LGBTQ friends here) together to check out a gay bar in your city. LGBTQ 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 the gay bar and lesbian bar won't cut it. And check out our other city guides here.

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