Lex’s Guide to Queer Boston Nightlife | LGBTQ+ Bars

Though smaller and more hidden than that in big cities like New York, Boston’s LGBTQ+ nightlife scene is robust with an array of LGBTQ+ bars, each with its own unique charm and sense of belonging. Here you'll find the best gay bars, lesbian and trans friendly venues in Boston acrossSouth End, Dorchester, Savin Hill, Fenway Park, Back Bay and more neighborhoods. Whether you're a local or just visiting for a weekend, here's a guide to some of the best queer bars in neighborhoods in Boston.

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1. Club Café

South End - 209 Columbus Ave. Boston, MA 02116

Nestled in the South End, Club Cafe is a Boston queer institution that has something going on every night of the week from Karaoke Wednesdays to Drag Race Fridays to a lively Sunday brunch. Boston’s long-standing restaurant, piano bar, cabaret space and dance club will satisfy all of your LGBTQ+ nightlife cravings. Whether you're enjoying dinner and a show in the cabaret room, dancing the night away in the dance club, or mingling with friends on the outdoor patio, Club Café promises a memorable night out in Boston's LGBT scene.

2. Jacques Cabaret

Back Bay - 79 Broadway St. Boston, MA 02116

A beloved fixture in Boston's LGBTQ+ community, Jacques Cabaret offers an eclectic mix of drag shows, queer karaoke nights, and dance parties. With its colorful decor, lively atmosphere, and friendly staff, Jacques Cabaret invites you to let loose and celebrate in the heart of the Back Bay neighborhood. They have weekly drag cabaret, so be sure to check out their calendar of events on their website or Instagram.

3. Midway Cafe

Jamaica Plain - 3496 Washington St. Jamaica Plain, MA 02130

Located in Jamaica Plain, Midway Cafe stands as a cherished cornerstone of the local LGBTQ+ community. Boasting an inviting and inclusive atmosphere, this beloved neighborhood haunt offers an eclectic mix of live music, karaoke nights, and themed events, including Thursday Dyke Nights and karaoke dubbed "Queeraoke", that cater to the entire LGBTQ+ community. With its retro-inspired decor, friendly staff, and laid-back ambiance, Midway Cafe serves as a welcoming haven where anyone can unwind, connect, and celebrate queer culture in all its forms. Whether you're sipping cocktails with friends on the outdoor patio or dancing the night away, Midway Cafe promises an unforgettable experience filled with warmth, camaraderie, and plenty of good vibes.

4. Blend

Dorchester - 1305 Dorchester Ave. Dorchester, MA 02122

Located in Dorchester bordering South Boston, Blend offers a trendy atmosphere and creative cocktails. They host queer trivia on Wednesdays, RuPaul Drag Race watch parties on Fridays, and a really fun drag brunch on Sundays. Whether you're enjoying a cocktail on the outdoor patio, mingling with friends at the bar, or dancing to the DJ's beats, Blend promises a night to remember in Boston's LGBT nightlife scene.

5. Cathedral Station

South End - 1222 Washington St. Boston, MA 02118

Situated in the bustling South End neighborhood, Cathedral Station is a casual gay sports bar and neighborhood pub that has welcoming atmosphere and friendly vibe. Whether you're catching a game on one of the numerous TVs, enjoying brunch or a cocktail with friends, basking in the sun on their large outdoor patio or want to play a game of pool or darts, Cathedral Station is a fun and laid-back addition to the Boston LGBTQ+ bar scene.

6. Trophy Room

South End - 26 Chandler St. Boston, MA 02116

While Trophy Room isn't strictly a gay bar, it dubs itself as one of the most inclusive queer and trans-friendly sports bar. Located in Boston's South End neighborhood, Trophy Room has a colorful atmosphere, superb food and drink options, and lively weekend brunch. Not feeling the standard drink list? Trophy Room's friendly bartenders are always happy to mix you up your favorite cocktail or mocktail. 

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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. And check out our other city guides here.

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