NYC on a Monday Night: Where to Find the Best Gay Bars
New York City. The city that never sleeps, and for the LGBTQ+ community, it's a vibrant playground full of possibilities. But what happens when the weekend ends, and Monday rolls around? Don't worry; the fun doesn't have to stop!
Let's dive into the best gay bars NYC has to offer, especially those keeping the party alive on a Monday night. Because let's be honest, sometimes a little weekday revelry is just what the doctor ordered.
Greenwich Village Gems: History and Hospitality
We'll kick things off in Greenwich Village, a historic neighborhood that's practically synonymous with LGBTQ+ culture.
This area is brimming with bars that have stood the test of time, offering a warm welcome to locals and tourists alike.
The Stonewall Inn: A Legacy of Pride
No exploration of NYC gay bars would be complete without mentioning The Stonewall Inn.
This iconic landmark at 53 Christopher Street isn't just a bar; it's a symbol of the modern gay rights movement. Step inside, and you'll feel the energy of history, the spirit of community, and the promise of good times. The Stonewall Inn is open every day from 2 pm until 11 pm.
Julius': A Toast to Tradition
Ready for something a little different?
Consider Julius' (159 W 10th St), the oldest continuously operating gay bar in NYC! Its old-school ambiance and fantastic burgers offer a welcome respite from the usual club scene.
Julius' is open Tuesday — Friday from 2 pm until 10 pm and weekends from midday until 10 pm.
Pieces: Where the Party Never Stops
If you're looking for a bar with a consistently lively atmosphere, look no further than Pieces (8 Christopher Street).
This spot is famous for its drag shows and diverse crowd. Pieces is open daily from 2 pm until 4 am.
Ty's: Welcoming the Leather and Levi's Community
For those who appreciate a more traditional vibe, Ty's (114 Christopher St) offers a welcoming atmosphere, with a focus on the bear, leather, and Levi's community.
With an easy-going vibe and a friendly attitude, it is a place to make new friends and have a good time.
Hell's Kitchen Hotspots: Dance, Drag, and Downtown Beats
Next up, we head to Hell's Kitchen, a vibrant district known for its theater district, thriving nightlife, and a dazzling array of gay bars and clubs.
This neighborhood is always buzzing, especially on a Monday, with plenty of options for those looking to dance the night away or enjoy a fantastic drag show.
Industry: Dance the Night Away
For those who want to dance, Industry (355 W 52nd St) is your go-to.
It's one of the few gay bars with a proper dance floor and is popular with a younger crowd. Industry is open every day from 6 pm until 11 pm.
Flaming Saddles: Where Country Meets Queer
If you're feeling a little more adventurous, Flaming Saddles (323 W 48th St) offers a unique experience.
This Wild West-themed bar combines country music with a gay dance party, creating a truly memorable night. The bartenders often jump on the bar to dance, adding to the lively atmosphere. Flaming Saddles is open from 3 pm until 4 am Monday to Friday and 2 pm until 4 am on weekends.
Hush: Drag and Cocktails
Hush (200 W 52nd St) has quickly become a top entertainment venue in Hell's Kitchen.
Known for its craft cocktails, drag divas and parties, Hush is open Monday — Wednesday from 5pm until 2am, Thursday and Friday from 5pm until 4am and on weekends from 3pm until 4am.
The Dickens: A Literary Twist
For those who like a more refined experience, The Dickens (213 W 35th St) offers a unique literary-themed space.
This establishment has a restaurant, a lounge, and several bars, ensuring a more sophisticated night out. The Dickens is open Monday to Friday from 4pm until 2am and on weekends from 1pm until 2am.
Chelsea: A Variety of Vibes
No list of gay bars in NYC would be complete without Chelsea.
This neighborhood is home to various establishments catering to a range of tastes and interests.
The Eagle NYC: Leather and Dance
If you're looking for something a bit more edgy, The Eagle (554 W 28th St) is a staple. It's known for its leather scene and a lively dance floor.
The Eagle is open Monday — Saturday from 10am until 4am until 3am on Mondays and on Sunday from 5pm until 4am.
Gym Sports Bar: For the Athletic Crowd
If you love sports and a good time, Gym Sports Bar (8th Ave in Chelsea) is a great option, and the first gay sports bar in the city.
It is open on weekdays from 4pm and on weekends from 1pm. The bar closes at 2am from Sunday until Thursday, staying open until 4am on Friday and Saturday.
Barracuda: The Entertainment Hotspot
Barracuda (275 W 22nd St) is known for its entertainment, and its lively atmosphere.
This location also hosts drag shows every night. Barracuda is open every day of the week from 6pm until 4am.
Other Notables to Explore
Of course, this is just a glimpse into the diverse world of NYC gay bars. Here are a few more places to keep on your radar:
- Boxers HK: A popular spot that's recently reopened at a new location (33 W 51st St).
- Nowhere Bar: Known for its unique events and is open during the week (56 E 1st St).
- Flex: (30 W 52nd St), offers a fun atmosphere and unique art.
- Kween: (133 W 27th St) offers dinner, and brunch, as well as drag queen events.
The Search for Monday Night Fun
So, are gay bars open on Mondays?
Absolutely! While individual opening hours may vary, many of the establishments mentioned above, including The Stonewall Inn, The Eagle, Industry, and The Dickens, are open on Mondays. Always double-check specific hours on the bar's website or social media pages, as they can change.
Planning Your Perfect Night Out
To make the most of your NYC gay bar adventure:
- Check opening hours: Confirm the bars' hours before you head out.
- Consider transportation: Use public transport or a ride-sharing service.
- Embrace the diversity: NYC's gay bars welcome people of all backgrounds.
- Be respectful: Have fun, but always be mindful of others.
Conclusion: Your NYC Night Awaits
From historic landmarks to modern dance clubs, New York City's gay bar scene offers something for everyone, every night of the week.
So, whether you're a local or a visitor, grab your friends, find your style, and get ready for an unforgettable night out. The city is waiting, and the fun is just beginning!