5 of the Best LGBTQ-Friendly Bars Based in Boston
During Boston's annual Gay Pride Parade in June, these establishments are much busier than normal.
May 17th, 2004 was a monumental day for many people worldwide, but especially for Massachusetts residents. On this day, the Bay State became the first U.S. location to legalize gay marriage, setting a strong precedent both at home and abroad.
It is no surprise, then, that the state's capital of Boston is a unique environment that is especially queer-friendly. As it prides itself on equality and love, the city is one of the best in America for the LGBTQ community to work, live, and play in. Specifically when it comes to a night out, Boston covers all the bases. Here are the top 5 LGBTQ-geared bars in B-town.
Cathedral Station
Every city needs a handful of great sports bars, casual gathering places for rowdy fans to munch on buffalo chicken wings and sip a refreshing beverage while watching the big game. Luckily for Boston residents, Cathedral Station is the city's gay-friendly version, its back patio decked out in pride flag décor and jubilant energy.
The establishment is packed year-round, as Boston's sports culture is one of America's strongest with teams representing from every major league, most importantly 6-time Super Bowl Champions, the Patriots. Equipped with a large pool table, darts and, of course, various high definition flat screens, enthusiastic fans come to cheer on their football betting favorites as they watch the gridiron action take place live on T.V. Cathedral Station also boasts an extensive savory menu so hungry supporters can satisfy their appetites during gameplay.
Club Café
Situated on Boston's South End near Columbus Ave, the famous Club Café has been welcoming both locals and tourists alike since its grand opening back in the early '80s. And it isn't an exaggeration to say that this bar and restaurant is quite literally a one-stop shop for LGBTQ entertainment and dining.
Their offerings include tasty Sunday brunch, dance nights, piano shows, Broadway singalongs, Drag, and more. Since the Club Café is extremely popular for its cabaret environment, the performance spaces are stylish and unforgettable.
Dbar
For those looking to chow down on some quality eats and then burn off the calories on the dance floor, Dbar is most definitely your place. New England comfort food and great tunes combine to provide guests with the best gay-friendly nightclub, bar, and neighborhood restaurant experience Boston has to offer.
Named after its location in Dorchester, Boston's most diverse sector in terms of people and cuisine, Dbar welcomes all who enter through its Irish pub-style doors.
Jacques' Cabaret
Another local favorite, Jacques' Cabaret, is one of the city's best places to watch an entertaining live Drag show from some of the best queens in the industry. Located in the quaint neighborhood of Bay Village, the bar's small, intimate environment allows guests to feel right at home while enjoying a drag singing performance or comedy show.
The perfect locale for a special group gathering or birthday celebration, Jacques' Cabaret is sure to become the unforgettable setting for future important memories.
However, due to the locale's popularity and since many people may have the same idea, be sure to book a reservation if you're interested in having the unique bar host your event.
The Alley
Last but not least, Boston's best gay dance club/bar, The Alley, combines casual sports-bar vibes with the energetic environment of karaoke and trivia to offer one of the best overall nights out available in B-town. Soundtracks include a variety of genres from Latin Pop to Hip Hop and more.
Located in the Downtown Crossing district on Washington Street, The Alley is especially popular on the weekends as customers flock to enjoy the neighborhood's special atmosphere on their days off.