The Best lgbtq+Q+ Bars and Parties in Miami

 

For decades, lgbtq+Q+ nightlife has brought people together, creating a place where everyone can be themselves, no matter who they are or how they identify. And in Miami, a city that already lends itself to that mindset, nightlife remains at the center of the lgbtq+Q+ life.

South Florida’s history as a gay Mecca dates back decades. Stars like Grace Jones, Sylvester, and Divine were regulars at the iconic Copa Club in Fort Lauderdale, and the warm weather and lively local community made South Florida a coveted home for folks from all walks of life. Throughout the years, lgbtq+Q+ locals have found each other through nightlife, whether that be in a club with booming speakers, a drag show with high-kicking queens, or a cocktail bar over casual conversation. Today, the options for a fun night out are endless. And the fun isn’t just limited to the 305—Wilton Manors and Fort Lauderdale up north are longtime queer hotspots in their own right.

Whatever you’re looking for, Miami’s got it. Pride is a year-round celebration here, and the city’s massive Latine population makes it one of the most diverse and vibrant lgbtq+Q+ communities in the country. They don’t call it the Magic City for nothing.

Ramrod Fort Lauderdale. Located down the street from Wilton Manors, Ramrod is a tried-and-true leather bar with everything from cigar socials to jockstrap nights. Patrons wearing fetish gear get two-for-one drinks on Fetish Fridays, while Saturdays feature caged dancers and guest DJs all night long.

Azucar. Silver Bluff. Miami’s Latine population has been a driving force in the city for decades. And while other gay clubs in South Florida feature Latin nights or dedicated Latin music rooms, Azucar is the only lgbtq+Q+ venue in the city that caters exclusively to Latin crowds. Ever wanted to hear a “Suavemente” and Madonna mash-up? Now’s your chance.






Club Aqua Silver Bluff. Located just outside of downtown Miami, Club Aqua is an ideal spot for men looking to decompress after a long day of work. Sweat out your stress in the sauna, or hit the onsite gym if that’s more your speed. If you’d rather cool off instead, take a dip in the outdoor pool.

Birdcage Brunch at Sweet Liberty -South Beach.Named after the fictional drag club from the beloved Robin Williams comedy, Birdcage Brunch is a monthly drag revue that takes over cocktail staple Sweet Liberty the second Sunday of every month. Where else can you watch a sexy burlesque performance, an upbeat dance routine, and an emotional ballad all before your appetizer arrives?

Lezchic’ - Multiple locations. It’s unfortunate that the days of Miami’s longtime lesbian institutions like Cheers and Cherry Grove are over, with very few dedicated nightlife options available for South Florida’s queer women and gender non-conforming population. Founded in 2018, Lezchic’ is dedicated to giving these folks just that space via various pop-up events, including ’90s parties, silent discos, paintball, and the annual Red A Fair circus. As founder Rae Janae explains, she does it “with one specific goal in mind: to establish Miami’s ONLY lesbian nightclub.”

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