Best Palm Spring Gay Bars

Palm Springs' Best Queer Bars, Gay Bars, Gay Clubs, Gay Lounges, and Gay Nightlife

Palm Springs isn’t just a relaxing desert retreat—it’s also a vibrant LGBTQ+ haven brimming with fabulous nightlife. Whether you're looking for a chill hangout, a dancing scene, or a place to sip cocktails with a side of drag performances, this desert oasis has it all. As a local queer person, I’ve rounded up the best spots for you to check out next time you're in town! From laid-back lounges to high-energy clubs, here's where to go for the best queer nightlife in Palm Springs.

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1. Hunters Palm Springs

Address: 302 E Arenas Rd, Palm Springs, CA 92262

Welcome to Hunters Palm Springs, the premier LGBTQ+ nightclub in the heart of Palm Springs, California. Our vibrant gay and chill bar blends top-tier entertainment, exciting nightlife, and a welcoming, inclusive atmosphere to create an experience you won't forget.. Indulge in the finest cocktails and savor the essence of the desert at Hunters, where exceptional nightlife meets unforgettable drinks. Dance, mingle, and enjoy unbeatable drink specials in a stylish setting. With over 20 years of hosting memorable events, Hunters remains a beloved cornerstone of the Palm Springs LGBTQ+ scene.

2. Tool Shed

Address: 600 E Sunny Dunes Rd, Palm Springs, CA 92264

At Tool Shed, we're proud to be a cornerstone of Palm Springs' vibrant gay nightlife. More than just a bar, we're an iconic dive that’s expanding to serve Los Angeles County, San Diego County, and nearby communities. Driven by our passion for inclusivity and good times, we've created a space where everyone can enjoy a refreshing drink, dance freely, and embrace their authentic selves. As a key part of the gay bar scene, we invite you to experience a night that's as diverse as it is unforgettable. Whether you're here for our special events or just enjoying the classic gay bar experience with drinks, go-go dancers, and a DJ, Tool Shed offers something for everyone. Join us and feel the Tool Shed difference on your next night out. For decades, we’ve been a trusted hub for Palm Springs’ gay leather community.

3. QUADZ Palm Springs

Address: 200 S Indian Canyon Dr, Palm Springs, CA 92262

Quadz Palm Springs is an inclusive LGBTQ+ gay video bar nestled in the heart of the Arenas District. For nearly two decades, we've been entertaining both visitors and locals with the best musical theater clips from stage and screen every Friday, Saturday, and Monday night. Audience participation is a must—sing along, shake a tambourine, wave a flag, or toss a napkin or two! You'll find a diverse crowd of twinks, bears, gym bunnies, and ladies dancing on the floor of this lively LGBTQ+ video bar. Be sure to check out our weekly events, including Trivia Tuesdays, Karaoke Thursdays, and our Sunday sing-along, featuring VJs playing both classic and obscure music video clips loved by the LGBT community.

4. Toucans Tiki Lounge

Address: 2100 N Palm Canyon Dr, Palm Springs, CA 92262

Toucans Tiki Lounge in Palm Springs is the ultimate LGBTQ+ hotspot, hosting the fabulous 5-Day Weekend with Drag Nights including Slayhouse, LIPS, LOOKS & LASHES, KICKXYLAND, DREAMGIRLS, and MAYHEM MONDAY. The club also features top-tier cabaret and performance talent as part of its ongoing "Live on Stage" series. Toucans is the go-to venue for major Coachella Valley events, including Palm Springs Pride, IBC (International Bear Convergence), Palm Springs International Film Festival, and more. With its festive and welcoming atmosphere, friendly staff, refreshing cocktails, world-class drag shows, and thrilling cabaret performances, Toucans Tiki Lounge & Cabaret has earned its reputation as "The Desert’s Number One Gay Bar," "Best Dance Club," and "Best Drag Show." It’s a favorite among locals and a must-visit destination for LGBTQ+ tourists and travelers alike.

5. Street Bar

Address: 224 E Arenas Rd, Palm Springs, CA 92262

Enjoy stunning mountain views from one of Street Bar’s outdoor patios while sipping your drink at this lively gay bar. Known as the friendliest gay bar in Palm Springs, Street Bar is the perfect spot for martinis, shows, karaoke, and great vibes. With fantastic entertainment, the valley's best bartenders, and top-notch drinks, it’s a must-visit on Arenas Road. Whether you're enjoying Karaoke, hanging out on the smoking patio, or taking advantage of the extended happy hour and daily top-shelf specials, there’s always something happening here. Anyone can be a performer at this fun gay bar, offering classic cocktails and live entertainment that makes every night unforgettable.

6. Oscar's Downtown Palm Springs

Address: 125 E Tahquitz Canyon Way #108, Palm Springs, CA 92262

Oscar's Downtown Palm Springs is the ultimate gay bar and dance club, where the night comes alive with electric drag shows and non-stop fun! This vibrant spot is a must-visit for anyone looking to dance the night away, sip on delicious cocktails, and be entertained by world-class drag queens. As one of the hottest gay dance clubs in the city, Oscar’s offers a welcoming atmosphere where the energy is always high, and the performances are unforgettable. Get ready to sashay, shimmy, and make new friends at this iconic gay bar and dance club!

7. Chill Bar Palm Springs

Address: 217 E Arenas Rd, Palm Springs, CA 92262

Chill Bar, an award-winning hotspot on Palm Springs' vibrant Arenas Road, offers the ultimate gay nightlife experience. With two distinct spaces, it blends relaxed vibes and high-energy fun. The front bar features stunning views of the Arenas Strip and San Jacinto Mountains, perfect for unwinding or meeting new friends. Meanwhile, the back bar boasts the largest dancefloor in Palm Springs, with top DJs and live performances setting the stage for an unforgettable night. Chill Bar combines California’s laid-back indoor/outdoor style with lively LGBTQ culture, making it the coolest spot to socialize, dance, and flirt.

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Whether you're here for the whole weekend or just a few hours, Palm Springs' queer nightlife has something for everyone. Whether you want to go all-out dancing,gay club, karaoke, enjoy a drag performance, or sip cocktails while chatting with the locals, these venues are sure to make your visit one to remember!

There’s always something queer happening on Lex in Palm Springs. 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. And check out our other city guides here.

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