Gay Bars in Washington, DC

With a diverse enough population to support them, gay bars in DC can appeal to all kinds of bar-goers, whether they prefer low-key watering holes or all-out campy parties. Many DC gay bars are in Dupont Circle. The neighborhood has long been gay-friendly, and its restaurants and bars welcome all types. Many bars are specifically considered gay bars, such as J.R.’s Bar and Grill. Considering the exposed brick walls, mounted moose head, and massive flat-screens above the mahogany bar, the uninitiated eye could mistake the place for a rowdy Irish pub – except that these TVs blast Lady Gaga videos and showtunes instead of sports, and there’s a large disco ball hanging from the high pressed-tin ceiling.

Those in the mood for more flamboyance can check out party spots like drag bar Town Danceboutique. Men with tiaras, whips, and curves that would make a woman jealous strut their stuff and seamlessly lip-synch classic hits or Broadway show tunes. Gay and straight men, lesbians, and cheering groups of girls are called up during the shows for lap dances and stripteases, as other performers toss out jokes, lubricants, and condoms. After the curtain closes, video and light displays erupt throughout the room, and a DJ starts spinning loud dance hits for the suddenly shirtless throngs.

Who says that it has to be one or the other? One person could want quiet beers on one night and feather boa extravagance the next. Luckily, gay bars in DC give partiers plenty of options.