San Francisco

Gay bars

Both themed events & street-facing windows enhance the people-watching scene at this Castro gay bar.

Edge

Global biodynamic & organic wines, plus unique snacks, in a cozy lounge with sidewalk tables.

Yield Wine Bar

Eyes are on the videos at this Castro gay bar with strong drinks & a mixed crowd.

Midnight Sun

This small, quirkily decorated watering hole is a hangout for beer-drinking locals.

Phone Booth

Darts, pool & TVs tuned to sports are standards at this gay bar, which also boasts a garden patio.

Pilsner Inn

Laid-back gay bar & restaurant serving American fare & weekend brunch, plus pool, dancing & shows.

Jolene’s Bar and Restaurant

Arcana is a bar in San Francisco. Located at 2512 Mission St, San Francisco, CA 94110, USA.

Arcana

Castro hangout for drinks & a variety of DJs, with a wraparound balcony overlooking Market Street.

Lookout

Versatile space draws gay crowds with DJs, a lengthy bar, a smoke-friendly patio & happy hours.

Toad Hall

A casual gathering spot for beer, wine & cocktails named for San Francisco’s historic haunts.

Ginger’s

Rustic-modern bar with lounge seating for creative cocktails, craft beer, happy hours & pool.

Blackbird

Trendy hangout in a converted warehouse with an array of craft cocktails & eclectic small plates.

Trick Dog

Anything-goes gay leather bar with basic decor, stiff drinks & weekend crowds in the mood to cruise.

Powerhouse

Gay bar & local hangout with a pool table, patio & events like Sunday afternoon beer parties.

Lone Star Saloon

DJs, live bands & more in a dimly lit, retro setting complete with disco ball above the dance floor.

Make-Out Room

Gays & straights dance the night away at this vibrant club with top DJs & popular theme nights.

The Cafe

In business since 1966, this cash-only gay bar hosts events like drag shows, karaoke & more.

The Stud

Drinks & events draw casual, bearded crowds to this local gay hangout.

440 Castro

Brewery serving original IPAs, lagers & more, plus American fare at night, in a relaxed space.

Local Brewing Co.

Gay bar serving classic cocktails & beers on tap, also boasts vintage furniture & big glass windows.

Twin Peaks Tavern

Exposed brick & plank floors outfit this cozy cocktail den with an Irish flair & upscale bar snacks.

Casements Bar

This longtime gay watering hole exudes a laid-back vibe with pool, pinball & video games.

Moby Dick

Mother is a bar in San Francisco. Located at 3079 16th St, San Francisco, CA 94103, USA.

Mother

Eclectic Tenderloin gay bar known for really cheap drinks & drag shows on select evenings.

Aunt Charlie's Lounge

A Mission standby since 1978, this local bar with an expansive patio draws a diverse crowd.

El Rio

Revival of a legendary LBGT leather bar with periodic drag shows, theme nights & big heated patio.

SF Eagle

San Francisco is internationally renowned as a LGBTQ+ mecca, with the Castro District serving as the heart of the gay community. The city has been at the forefront of LGBTQ+ rights and culture for decades, from Harvey Milk's activism to the AIDS crisis response. The Castro features iconic venues like Twin Peaks Tavern, The Mix, and Castro Theatre. San Francisco Pride is one of the largest Pride celebrations globally, and the city's progressive politics and diverse queer community make it a beacon for LGBTQ+ individuals worldwide.

Gay Bars & Queer Bars in San Francisco