Columbus Ohio. It sits directly in the center of the state, is the largest city in Ohio with the largest metropolitan area in the entire state. It is also the capitol of the state. In recent years, Ohio is no longer considered a “purple” or swing state in state and national elections. It has become decidedly “red,” or very conservative, with Republicans now in control of the state legislature, 10 of the US House 15 seats, and both senatorial seats.
The other side of this coin is positive. Within the large cities of Ohio (Columbus included), there are anti-discrimination ordinances, conversion therapy bans, and other pro-LGBTQ+ regulations. And in 2020 a federal judge threw out a law banning sex change identification on birth certificates. And it looks like that general population, especially in central Ohio, is at odds with state legislators on LGBTQ+ rights, according to recent surveys.
With all of this in mind, it’s time to look at the best gay and lesbian in Columbus Ohio spots for the LGBTQ+ population to meet, congregate and have fun – especially those bars and clubs in the Columbus area.
LGBTQ+ Nightlife in Columbus Ohio
Central Ohio, especially High Street in the Short North district is a queer-friendly gayborhood where the entire LGBTQ+ community is embraced and welcome. Time to take a look at specific bars, clubs, and cafes, in this area.
Union Cafe
Located on High Street, in the middle of the Short North district, this club provides a full mix of live music, drag shows, and karaoke. There is outdoor seating during warm months, and a large dance floor. The weekends are for drag shows. The entire LGBTQ+ community sees Union Cafe as a gathering spot from 11 am – 2:30 am on weekdays, and Sunday brunch goes from 10 am and on into the night until 2:30 am. For details on upcoming events, go to Union’s Instagram account.
Axis Nightclub and Lounge
Another wildly popular club on High Street in Short North. This is the largest dance club in central Ohio sporting a modern rooftop patio, and two floors for viewing a great dance floor. It’s been in business for over 10 years now, with DJs and some international entertainment in the way of drag shows. This is not the site to go for a chill night – it’s raucous, rowdy, and full of energy.
Important to note. Axis is closed Mon. – Thurs. and is “on” Friday – Sunday from 10:30 pm – 2:30 am. Best to get tickets early ($15) and arrive on time, so you get the best view of everything.
For their full menu of food as well as the latest updates on the entertainers, you can access their website or Facebook page.
Short North is not the only neighborhood where the LGBTQ+ population finds venues that are welcoming, designed for them, and where they can enjoy themselves in any vibe they want, and make new friends. The big advantage of Columbus is that these spots are all over town. Read on.
Slammers
There are only 21 lesbian bars in the US, and Slammers is probably the only one located in the Midwest. But it’s not just for lesbians and their allies. Over 30 years in business, it is located in the heart of Columbus and has become a gathering place for the entire LGBTQ+ community, offering a chill, laid back atmosphere, cheap beer, and an amazing menu – mostly pizza and other Italian food items, as well as some menu surprises.
Another cool feature. It’s “on” 7 days a week but is totally family-friendly on the weekends, at least until about 7 pm.
It’s important to make note of Slammer’s hours. It’s open from 4 – 11:30 pm Mon. – Fri., from noon until 2 am on Saturday, and from noon – 11:30 on Sunday.
To see the full menu, hit the Slammers website. For news on upcoming events, check its Facebook page.
AWOL Bar
AWOL is located in the heart of Columbus at Old Towne East. It’s a more chill atmosphere and is a bar that caters to gay guys more than others, but the entire LGBTQ+ community is welcomed and embraced. There’s a large patio, live music on the weekends, and strong drinks.
There’s a lot going on at AWOL’s, some of it regular recurring events like Karaoke Mondays and Thursdays with some great talent. But they have special events all the time, so you will want to check out their website for updates.
Hours at AWOL are Mon. thru Thurs., 2 pm til 2 am, weekends, 12 noon until 2:30 am.
A word about the Hanky Code. For gay guys, there are colors of hankies they should sport. Wear them on the left or right depending on what you are looking for. Colors range from light to dark. If you are looking for any kind of a hookup, review the code on the website.
District West
District West has only been open since 2020 and sits right behind Slammers. If you are looking for a nightclub with themed dances, drag shows and other wild events, you’re going to want to check this club out – not a cozy dark bar by any means. Full of glam and something to write home about.
District West is open 7 days a week, until 1 am on weekdays and until 2:30 am on Friday and Saturday. Each night has a theme:
- Mon. – Whiskey Tango Bingo
- Tuesday – Dragaoke – sing your heart out
- Wednesday – Wiggin’ Out Wednesday – visit and find out what this means
- Thurs. – Melanated Free-ish and Fierce
- Fri. – Stadium Pride
- Saturday – Stadium Pride
- Sunday – Stadium Pride Brunch – 1 pm; Sunday Funday starts at 8 pm
More details on what each of these means can be found on their website or on their Facebook page. Hint: It’s all about drag.
Club Diversity
Club Diversity is just what its name implies. It is an inclusive and welcoming cocktail lounge for the entire LGBTQ+ community and all friendly straights. A big advantage is that its patrons range in age from young to seniors, and it could just be the perfect place to meet new people, making new friends among this eclectic group.
Above all, the club is usually a host to a variety of musicians who play all types of music from jazz to contemporary, and Diversity’s website will keep you updated on who’s playing each night, so you can pick and choose. It has a reputation in Columbus for having the best martinis and piano bar in the city.
Another advantage is its patio atmosphere in the warm weather. It has large gazebos rather than just table seating. In the cold months, there’s a fireplace where the piano bar sits.
The weekly events vary by day, such as karaoke on Wednesday and Sunday or movie nights. Access the website for details.
Happy hour runs from 4 – 7 pm with different specials each night of the week, making it a great stopping place after work.
Columbus – Something for Everyone
Even in the heart of the conservative center of the country, Columbus is a wonderful oasis for the LGBTQIA+ population, especially when looking for coffee shops, restaurants, and a vibrant nightlife – dance parties with DJs, karaoke, stages for drag performances, music videos on large screens, bingo and trivia, and more.
Explore Columbus Via Taimi
If you haven’t heard of Taimi, then it’s time to join the largest LGBTQIA+ exclusive dating app on the planet. Taimi is more than just a dating service. It operates its own social media platform with a huge number of groups to join, and that includes Columbus. Download the Taimi app from the website and join groups from Columbus. You’ll get all sorts or recommendation of popular gay spots open year-round and may even hook up with someone who is willing to act as your guide (or more).
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