Minneapolis is an LGBTQ-friendly city with vibrant gay neighborhoods, a big Pride Month celebration, and countless gay bars scattered throughout Downtown Minneapolis and surrounding districts. LGBTQ+ nightlife in Minneapolis is something to be proud of—it’s energetic, diverse, and packed with great drinks and all kinds of entertainment.
Want to see the top ten bars and the most anticipated events? Here are some of the highest-rated LGBTQ+ hotspots that are worth your attention.
5 Best Gay Bars in Minneapolis
Gay 90’s
Address: 408 Hennepin Ave, Minneapolis, MN 55401
Gay 90’s is claimed to be the number one mega-mall of dance clubs in the Downtown Minneapolis. It gathers the biggest and most diverse crowds—the dance floor is on fire here every Friday and Saturday night. Just take a look at the lineup of their monthly events: Foam Party (2nd Friday of the month), La Femme Drag Show, Latina Nights dance parties (last Friday of every month), and midweek Drag Shows on Wednesdays.
For younger people (who are already 18+ but not yet 21), there’s still plenty to enjoy: drag shows, karaoke in the Happy Hour Bar (Wednesdays), and the 90’s gay bar, which runs from 9 p.m. to 2 a.m.
Eagle MPLS
Address: 515 Washington Ave S, Minneapolis, MN 55415
Eagle MPLS is one of the friendliest queer spaces in Downtown Minneapolis. It welcomes people of all races and genders—and even pets, who are free to hang out on the dog-friendly patio. You can enjoy this spot year-round; the heated section keeps things warm and cozy even in winter.
The gay bar serves a solid menu featuring burgers, pizzas, and sandwiches. They also host brunches and a wide range of fun night time events each month—from DJ sets to Underwear Nights.
Lush Gay Bar
Address: 990 Central Ave NE, Minneapolis, MN 55413
Lush is one of the top gay bars in Minneapolis, known for its vibrant drag scene. It features glamorous drag performances, drag brunches, burlesque, and live music. Every show feels like theater, with each performer perfectly cast for their role. With exclusive entertainment, a comfortable lounge, and a full bar, Lush is the perfect spot to hang out and unwind with your gay friends.
Black Hart of Saint Paul
Address: 1415 University Ave W, St Paul, MN 55104
Black Hart is the oldest gay bar in St. Paul, formerly known as the Town House. Gay folks come here to watch soccer matches, drink beer, catch drag and burlesque shows, and take part in other fun events. This year, Black Hart is kicking off a brand-new tradition—the annual Dildo Derby—bringing fresh energy to the Twin Cities’ queer nightlife.
Daddy Issues
Address: Check their Instagram.
Daddy Issues is a dance party and DJ collective—it’s more of a pop-up event than a traditional dance club with a fixed location. For nearly three years (they’ll celebrate their third anniversary this August), they’ve been hosting parties at various venues around town, including The Brass Rail Lounge, Sneaky Pete’s, and even the basement of BEAST Barbecue. Daddy Issues delivers some of the most exciting experiences and unforgettable gay dance nights, bringing queer people together and making Minneapolis’ LGBTQ+ scene even more vibrant.
One of the biggest highlights of June is the Pride Street Party hosted by Daddy Issues. Queer folks from across Minnesota and St. Paul gather for a big celebration to dance and soak up every beat of the DJs spinning their hottest tracks.
5 Best Lesbian Hotspots for Dance Parties and Chill Nights in Minneapolis, MN
The Saloon Minneapolis
Address: 830 Hennepin Ave, Minneapolis, MN 55403
The Saloon Minneapolis is a spacious LGBTQ+ bar with a laid-back atmosphere, drink specials, and a grill menu featuring delicious chicken wings, fried mushrooms, cheese curds, and other goodies. But it’s not just about the food—lesbian and gay folks come here to enjoy karaoke nights, watch drag shows, take part in talent contests, and much more.
In June, the entire local LGBTQ+ community looks forward to the fabulous Saloon Block Party—a grand celebration of the freedom to express yourself, featuring great dance music, cocktails, and moments of pure joy.
CC Club
Address: 2600 Lyndale Ave S, Minneapolis, MN 55408
CC Club is a low-key gay bar not far from Downtown Minneapolis that proves a venue doesn’t have to be fancy to be great. Simple things like pool tables, a jukebox, a cozy patio, and a laid-back, friendly vibe are exactly what many lesbians and gay folks need after a long week at work.
Originally established in the 1930s, CC Club started as a tavern serving beer and classic pub grub. Decades later, it has become an iconic spot in the city and an LGBTQ-inclusive space where Twin Cities Pride participants love to hang out.
Ground Zero Nightclub
Address: 15 SE 4th St, Minneapolis, MN 55413
Ground Zero Nightclub is a unique space with a gothic vibe and horror-inspired atmosphere. A diverse crowd comes here for dancing, bondage shows, fire and aerial acts, and cosplay evenings. So if you’re ready to escape into another world and play the role of a gothic creature, this is your place to be. Come and enjoy the immersive performances that make Ground Zero unlike any other gay-friendly bars in Minneapolis.
Hook & Ladder Theater and Lounge
Address: 3010 Minnehaha Ave, Minneapolis, MN 55406
Hook & Ladder is an inclusionary, multi-use event center located in South Minneapolis. It serves as a theater, lounge, and a venue for parties and fundraising events. It’s a true gem for LGBTQ folks who consider themselves theater enthusiasts, music lovers, or partygoers. Many of their events are tailored specifically for gay and queer audiences—follow them on social media to stay updated on upcoming shows.
Roxy’s Cabaret
Address: 1333 Nicollet Mall, Minneapolis, MN 55403
Roxy’s is a popular cabaret bar in Downtown Minneapolis, on Nicollet Mall. Lesbians and gay folks come to this space to enjoy spectacular shows, indulge in delicious brunches, and simply hang out together. The atmosphere feels safe and welcoming, making it a regular weekend spot for many locals. The bar accepts both cards and cash.
Wrapping Up: LGBTQ Bars of the Twin Cities Welcome New Visitors
Downtown Minneapolis and the surrounding neighborhoods of the Twin Cities are filled with some of the best gay bars, dance clubs, and lounges in the country. Inclusive spaces like Black Hart of St. Paul and Lush, friendly bartenders, and talented performers—all located within easy reach—create an exciting, welcoming scene. Come to Minneapolis to join in the Pride celebration and take part in the many big and small events that help build and sustain the LGBTQ+ community.
Minneapolis is just as beautiful during the day. You can explore the Walker Art Center, visit the iconic Sculpture Garden, and stop by the Minneapolis Institute of Art—which often features special Pride Month exhibitions.
Feeling lonely and hoping to find someone your age to connect with? Try finding your perfect match in the Twin Cities using a dating app. Match, Bumble, OkCupid, PinkCupid (for lesbians), and MenNation (for gay men) are all popular choices in Minneapolis and St. Paul.
But the top choice is Taimi—a safe and welcoming app for the entire LGBTQ+ spectrum. Its advanced matching algorithm works quickly and effectively, helping you connect with the right people in just seconds. Plus, it works not only in Minneapolis but all over the world, so you can create an account and use it during future travels too.
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