The Most Fun Gay & LGBTQ+ Bars in Louisville, KY
Finding a place where you can let loose and enjoy being your true self in Louisville, KY is important. We’ve found some of the best gay and LGBTQ+ friendly bars and restaurants throughout the city. It’s a chance to hang with like-minded individuals, enjoy fun cocktails, and even some LGBTQ+ style entertainment along the way. Check out this list with some of the best gay/ LGBTQ bars in Louisville, KY.
Play Louisville
1101 E Washington St, Louisville, KY 40206
(502) 882-3615
Play Lousiville is a dance club where you’ll find live DJs, VIP booths and tables, and some incredible music. Disco balls hang from the ceiling, everyone is up and dancing, and you can feel the energy the moment you walk through the door. As a heads up, there may be a cover charge when you get to the door, but it is well worth it to experience all that the club has to offer. You’ll also find drag performances and other events when you check out their monthly calendars.
Big Bar
1202 Bardstown Rd, Louisville, KY 40204
(502) 618-2237
Big Bar identifies as a “festive gay haunt,” so you know exactly what to expect when you arrive. The cozy venue offers quirky décor, fun lighting, and lots of drink specials. There’s also a patio space if you need to escape some of the music for a bit. You’ll find plenty of drinks, whether you want a classic martini or a cucumber aloe margarita. It is 21+, but when you arrive, you’ll know you’ve found a super fun spot.
Chill Bar Highlands
1117 Bardstown Rd, Louisville, KY 40204
(859) 913-8679
When you want to find Louisville’s neighborhood gay bar, Chill Bar is it. The place is all about fun, with a calendar of events that includes show tunes sing-alongs and trivia nights. A DJ is there to spin tunes almost every night of the week. You’ll know you’ve found the place when you find the rainbow flags waving proudly from the two-story venue. Once inside, you can relax at the bar, at one of the many tables, or on the patio under an umbrella.
Nowhere Bar Louisville
1133 Bardstown Rd, Louisville, KY 40204
(502) 552-6942
While not officially a “gay bar,” Nowhere Bar has become a mixed crowd where anyone and everyone is invited and welcomed. The nightclub offers an upbeat vibe with a lot of EDM pulsing through the place. You’ll find a bit of everything to keep yourself busy including a bar with lots of drinks, TVs, pool tables, and a patio to chill. Drink specials are abundant, and you’ll also find bar snacks, sandwiches, and flatbreads when you’re ready to sit down and eat.
CC’s Kitchen @ The Marketplace
651 S 4th St, Louisville, KY 40202
(502) 215-0797
CC’s is a place where you can enjoy a number of health-conscious dishes. You’ll love the outdoor patio with umbrella-covered tables as well as the quaint interior. The owner is a member of the LGBTQ+ community, so it’s also a chance to support local. The menu is fun, and the drag brunch on the weekend has been voted as one of the best in the U.S.! The Bloody Marys list is almost as long as the menu itself, so be prepared for all sorts of excitement as you dine and indulge in a bit of fun.
The Wiggle Room
1066 Bardstown Rd, Louisville, KY 40204
You’ll find the Wiggle Room with ease because of the colorful mural on the outside of the building. Once you go inside, you’ll be captivated by the red lighting and the plush seating. TVs play movies while bartenders serve fruity cocktails, including those of the sober variety. While you can’t enjoy a full meal here, there are plenty of snacks that you can order, including vegan jerky and pork rinds.
Magnolia Bar
1398 S 2nd St, Louisville, KY 40208
(502) 637-9052
Magnolia Bar has been on the scene since 1962. While it’s not officially known as a gay bar, you’ll notice that it is LGBTQ+ friendly the moment you walk through the door. The casual vibe is inviting, and a stage is set up for live music throughout the week. Art lines the interior walls. Meanwhile, there’s a patio to enjoy yourself outdoors. Chalkboard menus tell you what all of the specials are, and that includes plenty of locally made craft beers.
Le Moo
2300 Lexington Rd, Louisville, KY 40206
(502) 458-8888
Le Moo is a glitzy steakhouse with a dimly lit dining room of intrigue. You’ll find an impressive menu featuring traditional steakhouse fare. There’s also an elevated cocktail bar where you can find everything from gin & tonics to martinis. What really helps this place to stand out is its drag brunch, which has become a Sunday Funday must within the city. A variety of other events take place as well, helping you to enjoy yourself in incredible fashion.
For more recommendations on where to eat and drink in the city, check out our Louisville city page!
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