Washington dc gay clubs
Nightlife Directory
List of LGBT Clubs & Bars for D.C., Maryland & Virginia
Last update: 08/14/2024 | Sort Names| Neighborhoods
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Washington, DC
ADAMS MORGAN AREA
Favorite for Both Men & Women, Sports,
more info | photos
CAPITOL HILL AREA
DOWNTOWN AREA
Favorite for Mostly Men, Leather/levi, Billiards,
more info | twitter | photos
Favorite for Both Men & Women, Dancing,
more info | twitter | photos
DUPONT AREA
Favorite for Restaurant,
more info | photos
Favorite for Mostly Men,
more info | photos
Favorite for Mostly Men, Video,
more info | twitter | photos
Favorite for Mostly Men, Video,
more info&nbs
Prior to 1960
Leading up to 1960 the LGBT community faced a number of discriminatory acts from federal and local government. Congress passed a law outlawing sodomy in D.C. Under the Lavender Scare the federal government fired same-sex attracted individuals en masse.
Despite this, there were a number of LGBT spaces across D.C. to provide collective and support. , one of D.C.'s longest continuously operating gay bars and one of the oldest African-American male lover bars in the country, opened in 1957.
These weren't wholly sheltered places, however. were both raided by the Metropolitan Police Department's Vice Squad.
The '60s
LGBT activism moved more to the public forefront starting in the 1960s. The Mattachine Culture of Washington, which assisted federal employees and residents targeted for their sexuality, was formed. The Washington Blade, America’s oldest LGBT newspaper, began in 1969. More clubs, publications, and services catered directly to the LGBT community.
Barracks Row became an important part of the LGBT community. was the 'first gay-owned lock to offer lgbtq+ dancing', essentially breaking the owner exclude on dancing. also contributed
Lex’s Guide to Queer DC Nightlife | LGBTQ+ Bars
From the trendy neighborhoods of Dupont Circle to the bustling streets of Adams Morgan, DC offers an array of LGBTQ+ bars, queer clubs, and even a queer-owned brewery. TL;DR, DC is super queer , and you're going to contain a great time exploring the queer and lesbian bars they have to offer! Whether you're a local or a visitor, here's a guide to some of the best LGBTQ+ bars in Washington, DC.
Download Lex to find LGBTQ+ friends in DC!
1. A League of Her Own
Quickly becoming a popular destination on every lesbian bar road trip, A League of Her Hold is a laidback, easy going lesbian sports bar serving the queer community of DC. With fun events and a lively dance floor, you’re sure to have a fun night out when you stop by ALOHO.
A League of Her Own
2317 18th St. NW
Washington DC, 20009
2. As You Are
A favorite among the local queer scene in DC, As You Are is a chill spot that is a cafe/bar/dance boutique in one. As the name suggests, they urge you to come as yourself and have a fun evening out with some new local LGBTQ+ friends and crushes.
As You Are
500 8th St SE
Washington, DC 20003
3. Nellie's Sports Bar
Nell
As You Are is home! Please come in and visit. AYA offers coffee, food, drinks & FREE WiFi.
Safety & Cultural Standards:
-AYA checks all bags at the door during climax hours. Self defense objects, weapons, drugs, outside diet & outside drink are prohibited. Some of these items can be held with Safety Management and retrieved upon departure of AYA.
-We check all IDs before serving alcoholic beverages. There will not be service without physical presentation of a valid, government issued ID.
-After 9pm daily the establishment is 21+ only. Prior to 9pm As You Are is open to ALL ages.
-Enthusiastic consent is mandatory in all cases
-Respect & affirm identies, boundaries, & pronouns
-Celebrate & respect LGBTQIA+ culture
Covid precautions: We are requiring masks when patrons are walking through the vacuum and ordering at the bars. We have masks on hand if people do not have one. We ask that you hang on to them so we can hold it to one per person and provide them to as many people as possible. Bringing a mask from home is also helpful in spreading the love. We will be masked and negative tests are required before all shifts.
ACCESSIBILITY:
- ASL understanding provided for e