Austin

We're Out Here

Discover LGBTQ-welcoming hotels in top destinations, plus tips and inspiration on where to go

We're Out Here: A New LGBTQ Travel Vertical

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Drink

Find the best spots daily to eat and drink in hipster neighborhoods. Hit the roof, drink a beer and eat delicious at top-tier restaurants. Plan your nightlife adventure with maps and reviews of unknown micro-brews, rooftop parties, and independent drink.

Best Restaurants & Bars - Places to Eat & Drink - Thrillist

Pride in Austin may not be until August, technically, but it’s always a good time to show up for the LGBTQ+ community.

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Nation

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Travel

Explore adventure guides and design a custom itinerary for the destination of your choice in and around the city.

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In retrospect, perhaps I got a little too comfortable.

Now Is the Best Time to Visit the Galápagos Islands

Chicago

Party Noire

Chicago has transformed into a true queer destination in recent years, no longer looked at as some little Midwestern city cast in the shadow of coastal meccas like New York and Los Angeles.

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Las Vegas

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Lifestyle

In Las Vegas, we celebrate Pride in October (officially LGBT History Month).

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New York

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Nestled between East Williamsburg and Greenpoint, Mary’s Bar is a recent addition to Brookyn’s growing string of queer spaces.

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San Diego

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Home to one of the largest Pride celebrations in the country, the San Diego neighborhood of Hillcrest is where much of the city’s queer community has been traditionally centered, but in recent years, gayborhoods have also emerged in North Park, University Heights, Normal Heights and beyond, creating welcoming havens for locals and visitors in search of queer-friendly bars and clubs, as well as restaurants, theatres, retail shops, and other businesses.

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Boston

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When it comes to queer nightlife in New England, Provincetown might be the first to come to mind when thinking of big events and celebrations—but sprinkled throughout Boston, you’ll also find a thriving scene of LGBTQ+ friendly parties, sports bars, theme nights, karaoke, brunches, cabaret, and more.

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Atlanta

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Atlanta is one of America’s most underrated LGBTQ+ capitals, and that’s largely due to its diverse groups of passionate activists, talented queer artists, and, of course, legendary bars and clubs.

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Washington DC

TRADE

Along with landmarks like the White House, National Mall, and Washington Monument, our nation’s capital has a rich history of queer community and activism.

The Best Spots for LGBTQ+ Nightlife in Washington DC

Denver

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We’re refreshing the list of Denver’s best gay bars at the kickoff of Pride Month, but obviously following bars are a good time all year long.

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Houston

Thrillist Weekend Guides

Thrillist's weekly guide to everything you can do this weekend—from hot new restaurants to art exhibits to outdoor activities.

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Events

While last week’s holiday weekend may have been more about partying your face off, this weekend eases into summer with things like free jazz in the park, a Pride-themed yoga stretch on a rooftop, and a decidedly less relaxing but still totally cool tattoo convention.

Emo Karaoke, Pride Events, and More Fun Things to Do in Houston This Weekend

San Francisco

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I’m standing calf-deep in icy water, panning for gold, while I worry the rest of me is getting a sunburn even though I’m wearing SPF 50.

Feeling Lucky? Here’s How to Pan for Gold in California Right Now

United States

Inspire

Mix incredible views with great drinks at the best rooftop bars in Sin City and this is what you get.

Photo courtesy of BrewDog

Everything's better with a view in Las Vegas, and that's especially true for drinking. There's nothing wrong with a <a href="https://www.thrillist.com/drink/las-vegas/las-vegas-speakeasy-bars" rel=" noopener" target="_blank">secluded speakeasy</a> or <a href="https://www.thrillist.com/drink/las-vegas/best-sports-bars-las-vegas" rel=" noopener" target="_blank">rowdy sports bar</a>, but sometimes you need a little fresh air and elevation. Fortunately, we've got plenty of rooftop bars to showcase this town's neon lights and other surroundings. Check out the following lineup, and don't forget to book a reservation when applicable to score the best seats.

Everything's better with a view in Las Vegas, and that's especially true for drinking. There's nothing wrong with a <a href="https://www.thrillist.com/drink/las-vegas/las-vegas-speakeasy-bars" rel=" noopener" target="_blank">secluded speakeasy</a> or <a href="https://www.thrillist.com/drink/las-vegas/best-sports-bars-las-vegas" rel=" noopener" target="_blank">rowdy sports bar</a>, but sometimes you need a little fresh air and elevation. Fortunately, we've got plenty of rooftop bars to showcase this town's neon lights and other surroundings. Check out the following lineup, and don't forget to book a reservation when applicable to score the best seats.

We All Scream figured out a way to give Vegas something new – a nightclub with its own ice cream shop. That already makes the place pretty awesome, but you'll have an especially good time on a second-level patio deck overlooking Fremont Street. It's just one of multiple spots with DJs playing tunes throughout the night, including a back alley and indoor dance floor. The entire club is wrapped in trippy, hand-painted murals with chandeliers and colorful lighting. Head to the bar for a fun cocktail (like the Pumpkin Pie Martini or an Apple Cider Margarita) and order a treat from the ice cream counter with a variety of sticky sweet flavors (and at least one vegan option) available. Cover all your bases and cut to the chase with a boozy milkshake. How to book: Show up and get in line. We All Scream opens at 5 pm Thursday-Saturday. Feel free to <a href="mailto: info@weallscream.com" rel=" noopener" target="_blank">email the club</a> with questions about bottle service.

Photo courtesy of We All Scream

We All Scream

It's rare to find a rooftop bar with so much comfortable outdoor space. BrewDog first launched in Scotland and is now on the Strip with a high-profile location on the third and fourth floors of the Showcase Mall. You can hang around inside and play arcade games or shuffleboard, but the real fun is on the top level with 30,000-square-feet surrounded by the bright lights of Vegas. Even without the views, it's got a sleek design and overachieving food menu, ranging from salads and plant-based recipes to oak-fired ribeye steaks and a $150 Wagyu Burger (among the <a href="https://www.thrillist.com/eat/las-vegas/best-burgers-las-vegas" rel=" noopener" target="_blank">best in town</a>) with shaved truffles and a fun tableside presentation in a black treasure chest. BrewDog advertises 96 taps, but roughly half of them repeat since they're split between two floors. Still, that's a lot of beer – most of which is brewed on site in small batches. Try the Elvis Juice. How to book: Reservations are <a href="https://www.brewdog.com/usa/las-vegas" rel=" noopener" target="_blank">available online</a>.

BrewDog

BrewDog Las Vegas

Big things are happening on the corner of 7th and Fremont. Zai Las Vegas just opened its doors on the ground level, serving up ambitious global cuisine with Chef Noé Alcalá drawing heavily on Latin and Asian influences. Pregame at the bar with a mezcal cocktail, mashed potato french fries, and buffalo-style edamame before heading upstairs to check out the latest DJ at the venue formerly known as Zoo Nightclub at 700 Fremont. The rooftop deck still looks the same and you can continue to order the signature Red Bull punch bowls, but some new developments are taking shape under the Zai brand (including plans for a party brunch). The views absorb the energy of the Downtown Container Park across the street, where a giant praying mantis shoots fireballs by the entrance. How to book: Reservations for the downstairs restaurant are <a href="https://zaivegas.com/zai-las-vegas/" rel=" noopener" target="_blank">available online</a>.

Photo by Rob Kachelriess for Thrillist

Zai Rooftop Nightclub

Drink, eat, and swing golf clubs while marveling at the views of the Las Vegas Strip. Not a bad combination. The Sin City version of TopGolf is a four-level driving range – and so much more. Rent out a bay, pick your club, and aim for targets while a digital screen automatically keeps score. In between swings, feast on boneless chicken wings, donut holes (with injectable sauces), and other bites with beer buckets, sangria, or a powerful Topgolf Tea (a play on a traditional Long Island Iced Tea). If you just want to hang out in the bar area, that's fine too. There's even a swimming pool to help take the edge off the brutal summer heat in Vegas. How to book: Just walk in to sit by a bar. Go online to <a href="https://topgolf.com/us/las-vegas/plan-a-visit/" rel=" noopener" target="_blank">book a bay in advance</a>.

Photo courtesy of Topgolf

Topgolf

Taverna Costera is a few different concepts in one. The ground floor is a Mediterranean restaurant with a cocktail bar and patio, while Dragon's Alley (in the same space, but hidden on the other side of a tight corner) serves an odd but effective combination of fresh-brewed coffee and Asian street food. The rooftop deck is a beautiful, casual space with string lights, lounge furniture, and its own dedicated bar. It's usually open at night for special events (comedy, poetry slams, live bands, that kind of thing), although a weekly Wednesday happy hour runs 3-6 pm. Not a lot of landmarks to see, but the views are a nice change of pace for the Arts District. How to book: <a href="https://tavernacostera.com/" rel=" noopener" target="_blank">Head online</a> to make a reservation or check out the lineup of <a href="https://tavernacostera.com/las-vegas-arts-district-taverna-costera-events" rel=" noopener" target="_blank">upcoming events</a>.

Photo courtesy of Taverna Costera

Taverna Costera

VooDoo Nightclub never returned after shutting its doors during the pandemic, but sister restaurant VooDoo Steak is back open Friday and Saturday nights. The dining room is surrounded by panoramic views of Las Vegas from the 50th floor of the Rio hotel, providing a dazzling backdrop during dinner. Find time between courses to take your drink out to a spacious outdoor patio for an up-close look at the lights and beauty of the Strip in all its glory. The menu features the expected steakhouse fare with a three-course prix fixe menu that includes a surf n' turf main entree. Bring a few friends and try the Witch Doctor, a shareable rum cocktail served with dry ice in a fishbowl.

Photo courtesy of VooDoo Steak

VooDoo Steak

Voodoo Steakhouse

Commonwealth is one of those places that seems to equally attract both locals and tourists. The two-story bar is easy to spot, thanks to its dramatic brick exterior, and hard to leave, thanks to free-flowing beer and a rooftop patio with Downtown Fremont Street views. Commonwealth is full of neighborhood charm and increasing its reputation for exceptional cocktails, reflecting the success of the <a href="https://www.facebook.com/laundryroomlv/" rel=" noopener" target="_blank">Laundry Room</a>, a hidden in-house <a href="https://www.thrillist.com/drink/las-vegas/las-vegas-speakeasy-bars" rel=" noopener" target="_blank">speakeasy</a> that usually requires a reservation to enter and serves personalized custom cocktails for intimate parties. If you prefer to keep things casual, Commonwealth has a <a href="https://www.thrillist.com/drink/las-vegas/happy-hours-drink-specials-las-vegas" rel=" noopener" target="_blank">weekend happy hour</a> on select beer and well cocktails Friday-Saturday 7-9 pm. How to book: <a href="https://www.commonwealthlv.com/reservations" rel=" noopener" target="_blank">Book a table reservation</a> online.

Photo courtesy of Commonwealth

Commonwealth

One of the best things about Circa on Fremont Street is the Legacy Club, a rooftop cocktail lounge on the 60th floor that pays tribute to the glory years of Old Las Vegas. The first thing you see when stepping off the elevators is a collection of busts modeled after iconic casino magnates. Yet the crazy 360-views of the Las Vegas Valley are what you'll be talking about long after your visit is over, whether enjoyed indoors at a VIP table through floor-to-ceiling windows or out on the patio by a fire pit. It's one of the few bars in Vegas that allows you to see both the Strip and Downtown at the same time. The drinks aren't bad either: well-crafted modifications on classic cocktails, prepared with careful attention to ice and glassware. How to book: Spending requirements are included with <a href="https://www.circalasvegas.com/drink-dine/legacy-club/" rel=" noopener" target="_blank">online reservations</a>.

Photo courtesy of Legacy Club

Legacy Club

When it comes to sky-high views, the top of The Strat is as good as it gets without an aircraft. And if you want to enjoy the scenery with a drink in hand, 108 Drinks is your place. Located on the 108th floor of the tower formerly known as the Stratosphere, the bar is open from noon until at least midnight seven days a week. The signature cocktails are sugary and tourist-friendly with boozy slushies well represented. Happy hour (Monday–Thursday from 3–7 pm) offers discounts on drinks and two-for-one admission to the outdoor Skypod observation deck one floor above. Let the wind mess up your hair and take a turn on the <a href="https://www.thrillist.com/sex-dating/las-vegas/best-date-ideas-las-vegas" rel=" noopener" target="_blank">thrill ride that dangles you over the edge</a>. How to book: <a href="https://tickets.thestrat.com/eventperformances.asp?evt=4&amp;_ga=2.104800768.1860468087.1620860178-1181909830.1620860178" rel=" noopener" target="_blank">Buy Skypod tickets</a> for access to 108 Drinks.

Photo courtesy of 108 Drinks

108 Drinks

The Downtown Container Park may be a tourist trap, but it's got one of the <a href="https://www.thrillist.com/drink/las-vegas/las-vegas-bars-bucket-list" rel=" noopener" target="_blank">best bucket-list bars in Las Vegas</a>. Just like every other business on the property, Oak &amp; Ivy was designed from an old shipping container. That leaves limited space inside with extra seating on the patio. If that's not enough, a few more tables are up on the roof. Both outdoor areas are now shaded, which helps during the hot summer months. The bar is known for its killer whiskey selection, barrel-aged cocktails, and Moscow Mules prepared with house-made ginger beer. The bartenders know how to put a blowtorch to good use with the Apple Pie Harvest, a cocktail that manages to be both a Whiskey Sour and dessert. Libations change frequently with each season, giving you an excuse to make plenty of return visits. Happy Hour runs Sunday–Thursday 3-5 pm and 9 pm to close. How to book: Seating is first come, first served.

Photo courtesy of Oak & Ivy

Oak & Ivy

Oak & Ivy: An American Whiskey Den

Skyfall Lounge is one of those joints that feels like it's getting ready for rebranding. The bar is holding back these days; trading in a once-vibrant cocktail program for a smaller, more routine drink menu. However, the clear, obstructed views of the Strip never get old with tall, floor-to-ceiling windows and an open-air deck on the 64th floor of the Delano resort. At least there's no cover charge. A DJ shows up on Fridays and Saturday, keeping things low-key with beats to match the lounge atmosphere. Light bites are available until 10 pm, although a table on the patio next door at Alain Ducasse's <a href="https://delanolasvegas.mgmresorts.com/en/restaurants/rivea.html" rel=" noopener" target="_blank">Rivea</a> provides a similar vantage point if you're hungry for a full dinner. How to book: Walk-ins might get lucky, but <a href="https://www.sevenrooms.com/reservations/skyfallmandalaybay" rel=" noopener" target="_blank">book a reservation online with Seven Rooms</a> to play it safe at Skyfall Lounge. If you prefer a reservation at Rivea, call 877-632-5400 to inquire about any available tables with views.

Photo courtesy of Skyfall Lounge

Skyfall Lounge

Inspire brings a taste of Strip-style nightlife to Downtown with a multi-level venue on the corner of Las Vegas Boulevard and Fremont Street. Most of the energy is on the third-floor rooftop deck with a rotating lineup of local DJs. The second floor has its own DJ (usually focusing on Latin dance music) and a wraparound terrace with hookah service. Inspire recently replaced the downstairs theater with a new nightclub space with bars, a DJ booth, and dance floor. Doors open at 9 pm Friday-Saturday and 10 pm Thursday and Sunday. Open-bar specials are frequently <a href="https://www.instagram.com/inspirelasvegas/" rel=" noopener" target="_blank">announced on Instagram</a>. How to book: Inspire takes walk-ins, but <a href="mailto: Info@Inspirelasvegas.com" rel=" noopener" target="_blank">email directly</a> to ask about reservations or table information.

Photo courtesy of Inspire

If there's one place that defines "rooftop party" in Las Vegas, it's Drai's. The nightclub and beach club combo occupies the entire top level of the Cromwell resort with sweeping Vegas views from 11 stories above the Strip. The music is heavy on hip-hop and R&amp;B headliners alternating between an indoor stage at night and a poolside party by day. Even without the high elevation, the outdoor deck is a photogenic sight all by itself, with towering palm trees, plush cabanas, and multiple swimming pools. The party continues late into the night downstairs at <a href="https://draisgroup.com/las-vegas/afterhours/" rel=" noopener" target="_blank">Drai's Lounge</a>, an after-hours hookah spot in the basement of the hotel. How to book: <a href="https://draisgroup.com/las-vegas/calendar-view/" rel=" noopener" target="_blank">Book a table and request bottle service online</a>.

Photo by Erik Kabik, courtesy of Drai's Nightclub

Drai's Nightclub

Chateau has refined its format in recent years. The venue is more of a late-night lounge than a nightclub these days with doors opening at 10 pm Fridays and Saturdays. You've still got a solid lineup of local DJs, but the crowded dance-floor and entrance fee are gone. Beverage minimums are required with a reservation, which starts at $150 per person. (Don't worry. This is Vegas. You'll drink your way through that in no time.) The outdoor deck is full of charm and character, sitting directly underneath the Paris resort's half-size Eiffel Tower replica with bistro lighting, lattice panels, and unobstructed views of the Bellagio fountains. How to book: Call 702-776-7777 or <a href="https://www.chateaunights.com/reservations/" rel=" noopener" target="_blank">book online</a> for table reservations.

Photo courtesy of Chateau

Chateau

Chateau Nightclub & Rooftop

Beer Park has a casual clubhouse vibe with lawn-sized versions of Jenga, Chess, and Connect Four, along with indulgent views of the Bellagio fountains directly across the street. The selection of more than 100 beers is relatively mainstream, but you’ll also find a fair share of local and regional craft favorites. If you can't decide, customize a flight. Beer Park also has cocktails and wine on tap plus some of the best sports bar grub you'll find in Vegas. Try a burger made with brisket smoked on the patio. Come by and watch the latest Golden Knights game or UFC showdown on one of 75 high-def TV screens. There's even an in-house sports book for placing a last-minute bet. How to book: Walk-ins are common, but to ensure a seat, call 702-444-4500 or <a href="https://www.beerpark.com/reservations/" rel=" noopener" target="_blank">book online</a>.

Photo courtesy of Beer Park

Beer Park

Originally an exclusive private club for members only, the Foundation Room sits on the 63rd floor of Mandalay Bay, offering up staggering views of the Strip to the north and airport to the east. The food menu follows a tapas format, working in a few Asian-inspired recipes like Korean fried chicken and bao buns. Meanwhile, the cocktail program takes full advantage of esoteric touches, including sage and herbal infusions. Despite a few changes over the years, the Foundation Room has resisted the urge to go modern and stays true to its moody, romantic atmosphere (although the longtime Hindu-inspired decor is now gone). How to book: Call 702-632-7631 to secure a reservation.

Photo courtesy of Foundation Room

Foundation Room

Carson Kitchen knows how to remix familiar ingredients within somewhat unconventional dishes. The Crispy Chicken Skins and Bacon Jam (staples on the menu since day one) are both great examples. The restaurant carries on the vision of founder Kerry Simon and remains in good hands with the late celebrity chef’s brother Scott Simon in charge of the kitchen team. Menus and cocktails change frequently, so ask about the latest seasonal additions. Extra seating is available upstairs on the rooftop patio, at least when the weather allows it. Whether indoors or outdoors, you'll get the same modern-industrial decor and servers wearing old concert t-shirts as uniforms.

Photo courtesy of Carson Kitchen

Carson Kitchen

Your best bet in the West Valley for rooftop drinks and dining is Public School 702, which has a long patio overlooking the water features and shops of Downtown Summerlin. The restaurant follows a schoolhouse theme with a solar system mobile hanging from the ceiling and menus that look like exam notebooks. However, there’s a very adult focus on beer: by bottle, can, or draft. Public School also sells its own metal straws for the benefit of the environment, which could be a good lesson for students of any age. Fair warning: You won’t be able to stop popping the tater tots.

Photo courtesy of Public School 702

Public School 702

Yeah, it’s a nationwide chain, but Kona Grill endeared itself to Summerlin locals long ago. The big perk is the second-level bar and partially covered terrace with a view that overlooks the Boca Park shopping complex and faces east toward the Strip. Between that and the ground-floor patio, there’s rarely a shortage of outdoor seating. Happy hour runs Monday through Friday 2–6 pm and Monday through Thursday 9 pm–close, giving you plenty of time for $3 sake shots, $6 wines, $9 Old Fashioneds, and a lineup of sushi, sliders, and other bites between $3 and $9. How to book: <a href="https://www.konagrill.com/reservations" rel=" noopener" target="_blank">Reserve a table online</a>.

Photo courtesy of Kona Grill

Kona Grill

While Oak &amp; Ivy is all about whiskey and craft cocktails, its Container Park neighbor Downtown Terrace is a little more loose and better suited for carefree day drinking. Brunch runs daily with bottomless mimosas ($25-30) and Bloody Marys ($21) available all day, every day. Get creative and build your own cocktail with a choice of spirit, garnish, and infusion for $16. The second-level terrace seating has 50 seats indoors (surrounded by floor-to-ceiling windows) and room for 80 more on the outdoor patio.

Photo courtesy of Downtown Terrace

Downtown Terrace

Downtown Terrace Kitchen & Bar

<a href="https://www.thrillist.com/authors/rob-kachelriess" target="_blank">Rob Kachelriess</a>&nbsp;has been writing about Las Vegas in Thrillist for more than nine years. In addition, his work has appeared in&nbsp;Travel + Leisure, Leafly, Supercall, Modern Luxury, and&nbsp;Luxury Estates International's seasonal publication. Follow him on Twitter&nbsp;<a href="https://twitter.com/rkachelriess" target="_blank">@rkachelriess</a>.

Bars

The Best Rooftop Bars in Vegas for Getting Lit While the Sun Sets

Best Rooftop Bars in Las Vegas: Where to Drink with a Vegas Strip View

Take in the sights of Sin City with a stiff drink in hand. 

Everything's better with a view in Las Vegas, and that's especially true for drinking.

Inspire

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The Best Rooftop Bars in Vegas for Getting Lit While the Sun Sets

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