Gay dark rooms new york

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And don’t be afraid to go inside, where an excellent DJ or drag queen is surely keeping the crowd shrieking and/or dancing. 

Time Out tip: Metro is an all-seasons dive! Featuring design elements like an elaborate, hand-crafted mural from local artist Jo Mar and original “Tiffany” blue glass windows, the venue also aims to become a gathering place for community events, James told W42ST.

During the 1970s, New York had several gay saunas and bathhouses that were explicitly part of the LGBTQ+ scene, with some using similar "Russian & Turkish Baths" branding. Phoenix isn’t fussy, and that’s why it feels like home. Weekends get so crowded (midnight to 3am) that there’s often a cover charge. 

Time Out tip: Stuff your pockets before coming here; it’s cash only.

Address: 93 2nd Ave, New York, NY 10003

Opening hours: Wed–Sun 10pm–4am

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22. Pink Metal

What is it? If you like your kink with a wink and a drink, think pink.

In addition to my work as Lifestyle Editor at W42ST where I write feature-length reported pieces, interviews and our weekly culture and events newsletter, I’m a contributing writer at The Kitchn, Airport Experience News, Your Brooklyn Guide and the Catskill Mountain Foundation Guide.

More by Sarah Beling

Gay Saunas in New York City

Introduction to New York City Gay Saunas and Bathhouses

Discovering a gay bathhouse in New York City can feel like navigating a maze, especially when you realize the options seem surprisingly sparse in such a bustling metropolis.

Follow their socials for themed nights, viewing parties, barbecues, and more. 

Time Out tip: Upstairs in the cabaret room, you’ll find live piano karaoke, comedy shows, drag performance, and more. 

Address: 563 5th Ave, Brooklyn, NY 11215

Opening hours: Tue–Thu 5pm–2am; Fri 5pm–3am; Sat 3pm–3am; Sun 3pm–2am

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10. Kween

What is it?Named to evoke queer joy—“yasss kween”—this Astoria cocktail lounge and drag brunch spot is pure happiness. 

Why we love it:Sip fun craft cocktails, like a signature drink made with green tea–infused gin (caffeine!

There are plenty of LGBTQ+ things to do in New York, but if it’s a bar you’re looking for, we’ve got you covered.

RECOMMENDED: Full guide to the best bars in NYC

May 2025: We removed Ginger's and Barracuda Lounge. Our theme is come alone and meet friends, come with friends and make more friends.”

Hardware Bar — 697 10th Ave (bw W47/48th St)
This former hardware store is now a happening gay bar, glammed up but designed to evoke the industrial remnants of its former tenant and full of “great vibes and drinks” per reader Mitchell.

The Dickens — 783 8th Ave (bw W47/48th St)
Inspired by the queer-coded characters in Charles Dickens’ work as well as LGBTQIA+ icons throughout literary history, the six-floor Dickens is a space where you can enjoy dinner, drinks and dancing as well as themed beverages like the Tiny Tim shot.

Yet, the spirit of communal and intimate exploration among gay men has not dwindled. As reader grace puts it, “Mickey Spillane’s is an oldie but goodie. This is a members club, so expect to pay a bit more if you don't have a membership.

East Side Club is the last fully fledged gay bathhouse in New York City.

Cheap drinks and pretty decent food!”

And for the pet owners out there, Mickey Spillane’s is the place to be. Head around the corner to NxtRoom, Daniel Villanueva’s whiskey and mezcal tasting room specializing in bespoke, intricately designed cocktails like the “Jersey Boy”. 

The Laurie Beechman at the West Bank Cafe — 407 W42nd St (bw 8th and 9th Ave)
Hungry?

It’s been really hard for me to go out and have fun since getting my puppy, and Mickey’s has provided an outlet where I get to enjoy myself with my pup.”

Mr Biggs Bar and Grill — 596 10th Ave (corner of W43rd Str)
Perfect your Texas Hold ‘Em at Mr Biggs, where you can join a weekly “Hell’s Poker” night, or keep it slightly lower stakes with regular drag bingo games while sipping on a spiked popsicle cocktail at their sidewalk cafe. Said reader Andres: “Mr.

It can't quite rival it's bigger European rivals but it's worth visiting - especially later on a weekend - if you're looking for some action.

gay dark rooms new york

Barstools are upholstered with glossy vinyl bearing pictures of Bugs Bunny, Daffy Duck and Porky Pig. Cash only.  

Why we love it: Eclectic? The age range is mixed but it skews older. Enjoy treats like mochi donuts and potato croquettes from their all–vegan snack menu. 

Address: 253 Bushwick Ave, Brooklyn, NY 11206

Opening hours:  Mon–Thu 6pm–2am; Fri–Sun 5pm–2am

23. Industry Bar

What is it?The men behind longstanding Chelsea haunts Barracuda and Elmo Restaurant bring you this high–energy midtown drinkery. 

Why we love it:Unlike cozy Barracuda, Industry is a sprawling, high–ceilinged space, featuring a long concrete bar (manned by hunky, often shirtless bartenders, naturally), a stage hosting drag and music performances and a sizable dance floor.

Time Out tip: Drinks are buy one, get one until 9pm every night.

Address: 355 W 52nd St, New York, NY 10019

Opening hours: Daily 6pm–4am

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The music is fantastic, while it largely plays country music, there is also a Juke Box which allows for customers to play some of their favorite beats.