Manhattan's West Village in NYC is more than just a neighborhood, it’s a cultural landmark that has long been home to the LGBTQ+ community and a center for queer, gay, and lesbian nightlife. From the iconic Stonewall Inn to the beloved lesbian bar Cubbyhole to chic underground clubs and bars, the West Village remains a vibrant and essential part of the LGBTQ+ community.
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The Best Queer, Lesbian and Gay Bars and Clubs in West Village
From neighborhood dive bars and speakeasy's to DJs playing music that will get you dancing, the West Village has a range of bars and clubs to fit every vibe and leave you full of queer joy. Check out our top 8:
1. The Cubbyhole
Address: 281 W 12th St, New York, NY 10014 | (212) 243-9041
Self-described as "The friendly welcoming lesbian bar", The Cubbyhole is a cozy, bar for lesbians and queer women located in the heart of the West Village. It is known for its eclectic décor with ceiling decorations that change with every season. The bartenders are always welcoming and friendly, and they have drink specials until 7pm daily. On weekend nights Cubbyhole can get packed (in a good way!), so be sure to get there around 9pm to avoid lines. But even if you have to wait in line, it's the perfect place to make a new lesbian friend or two. No matter the time of day, it’s the perfect place to grab casual drinks with friends or a hot date, sing along with music queued up on the jukebox, or walk away with new queer friends.
2. Henrietta Hudsons
Address: 438 Hudson St, New York, NY 10014 | (212) 924-3347
Henrietta Hudsons is located in the West Village and is self-described as a "human space built by lesbians." On most days they will have live music or a DJ mixing beats to get people dancing. Hens, as it's known by locals, is a cross between a living room and a petite cafe dressed in rich mid-century modern color palettes, with comfy chairs, plush ottomans, and a dining area. But don't let the cute lounge vibes fool you, at night it turns into a queer dance club where you can come with friends or walk away with new ones. They have daily drink specials, and on weekends you can definitely expect a fun queer and lesbian crowd.
3. The Stonewall Inn
Address: 53 Christopher St, New York, NY 10014 | (212) 488-2705
As the epicenter of the LGBTQ+ rights movement, The Stonewall Inn is far more than just a bar, it’s a national landmark steeped in history. Located in the heart of the West Village in NYC, The Stonewall Inn was the site of the 1969 Stonewall Riots, a pivotal moment that ignited the LGBTQ+ rights movement across the world. It continues to honor that legacy creating a queer inclusive space that the gay, lesbian and trans community can come to mingle, dance, and even play pool. On any given day you can find a mix of events, including drag shows, karaoke nights, live music, and dance parties upstairs. Whether you’re a history buff or just looking for a fun night out, The Stonewall Inn offers an unmatched blend of cultural significance and high-energy nightlife.
4. Art Bar
Address: 52 8th Ave. New York, NY 10014| (212) 727-0244
Art Bar is a cozy lounge with a bar seating and booths in the front and comfy couches and a fireplace in the back. While this is not explicitly a queer bar, it prides itself on being an inclusive space for all LGBTQ+ people. You will always find a groups of gay and lesbian friends hanging out after work or a queer bartender slinging drinks behind the bar. Art Bar offers a daily drink specials, seasonal specialty cocktails, and has a digital jukebox with thousands of music choices. The food menu contains a broad array of selections (including vegetarian options), and the kitchen is always open late.
5. The Duplex
Address: 61 Christopher St, New York, NY 10014 | (212) 255-5438
One of NYC's longest-running queer cabaret bars, The Duplex has been a cornerstone of LGBTQ+ nightlife in the West Village. Featuring nightly drag shows, live singers, and comedic acts, this intimate venue is a great place to experience some of the best queer talent the city has to offer. With its warm, inviting atmosphere and excellent drinks, it’s the perfect place to enjoy a night out full of laughter, fun, and, if you're inclined, singing along for bar-wide karaoke to your favorite song.
6. Marie’s Crisis Café
Address: 59 Grove St, New York, NY 10014 | (646) 470-6040
Marie's Crisis Cafe opened its doors in 1929 and has prided itself on being a safe space for all, especially the gay community. This piano bar is a must if you love Broadway and show tunes. Sing your heart out with other musical theater fans in a fun, queer inclusive space. Marie's doesn't charge a cover, but does have a two drink minimum and is cash only.
7. Julius Bar
Address: 159 W 10th St, New York, NY 10014 | (877) 746-0528
Julius' Bar is one of NYC’s oldest neighborhood gay bars, making it a piece of LGBTQ+ history. Located just a few blocks from The Stonewall Inn, it’s a laid-back, unpretentious spot perfect for a casual drink with friends. The bar has been an LGBTQ+ sanctuary since its early days, and with its low-key charm and friendly bartenders, it’s a great place to relax for a cold drink after work.
8. Pieces
Address: 8 Christopher St, New York, NY 10014 | (212) 929-9291
Pieces Bar is self-described as "America's favorite gay bar". It has been serving the LGBTQ community for over 31 years located on Christopher Street in NYC's historic gay neighborhood in the West Village. They open at 2pm daily and have nightly drag shows and drink specials, and karaoke every Tuesday. In the evenings, it turns into a gay club where you can dance to the latest music or queer classics.
The Heartbeat of NYC’s Queer Culture
The West Village’s queer nightlife is more than just a fun night out, it’s a living, breathing celebration of LGBTQ+ history, culture, and community. Whether you’re seeking an iconic, historic bar or a hidden gem with new friends, the West Village remains a must-visit destination for queer nightlife in New York City.
Throughout the year, the West Village hosts various LGBTQ+ events that showcase gay, lesbian and queer culture. From events all Pride Month to LGBTQ+ film festivals, there’s always something happening in this little gay oasis that attracts NYC locals and visitors alike.
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 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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