New Orleans, LA Gay Events & Hotspots
New Orleans, Louisiana is renowned for its vibrant lgbtq+Q+ community and diverse gay scene. With a rich history, lively atmosphere, and inclusive spirit, the city offers numerous hotspots for gay individuals and visitors to explore and enjoy.Every year, tourists swarming the Crescent City for Mardi Gras know to expect a raucous party, over-the-top costumes, and a whooole bunch of beads. What they may not know, is how Mardi Gras historically served as a critical outlet for self-expression and political resistance for the city’s lgbtq+Q community.
Upcoming Mega Events Nearby
popular gay and lgbtq+Q events in New Orleans:
- Southern Decadence: Known as the "Gay Mardi Gras," Southern Decadence is one of the most significant annual events in the New Orleans gay community. It usually takes place on Labor Day weekend. The festival features a series of parties, parades, and costume contests. It has a different theme each year, encouraging participants to dress up and join the revelry.
- New Orleans Pride: This event usually happens in June in alignment with global Pride Month celebrations. New Orleans Pride is a week-long celebration that includes a variety of events such as parties, lectures, and the highlight - a vibrant and inclusive Pride Parade through the French Quarter.
- Gay Easter Parade: On Easter Sunday, the New Orleans lgbtq+Q+ community hosts a festive parade in the French Quarter. Participants ride in horse-drawn carriages or floats, dressed in Easter Sunday attire, throwing beads and other trinkets.
- Halloween in New Orleans: Also known as "Gay Halloween," this event is one of the city's biggest lgbtq+Q+ celebrations. It typically includes several days of costume parties and balls leading up to a parade on Halloween night.
- lgbtq+Q Film Festival: New Orleans often hosts an lgbtq+Q film festival that showcases films by and about the lgbtq+Q community. This is usually a great opportunity to engage with the community and support lgbtq+Q artists and filmmakers.
Here are some popular gay hotspots in New Orleans:
- Bourbon Street: Located in the heart of the French Quarter, Bourbon Street is a lively and iconic destination known for its vibrant nightlife. The street is lined with bars, clubs, and restaurants, many of which cater to the lgbtq+Q+ community. It's a great place to experience the lively atmosphere and celebrate diversity.
- Oz New Orleans: One of the most popular gay clubs in the city, Oz New Orleans offers a high-energy experience with drag shows, dance floors, and themed parties. It attracts a diverse crowd and is known for its welcoming atmosphere and exciting entertainment.
- The Country Club: Nestled in the historic Bywater neighborhood, The Country Club is a popular gay-friendly destination that combines a relaxed poolside experience with a restaurant and bar. It offers a clothing-optional pool area and is a great place to unwind and socialize.
- Cafe Lafitte in Exile: Known as the oldest gay bar in the United States, Cafe Lafitte in Exile has been a staple of New Orleans' gay scene since 1933. It offers a cozy and welcoming atmosphere with a beautiful courtyard, regular events, and a rich history that attracts both locals and tourists.
- The Phoenix: A popular gay bar located in the Marigny neighborhood, The Phoenix offers a relaxed and friendly environment. It features a spacious patio, pool table, and a diverse range of patrons. It's an ideal spot for mingling, enjoying a drink, and socializing.
- Good Friends Bar: Situated in the heart of the French Quarter, Good Friends Bar is a welcoming establishment that offers a comfortable atmosphere and a mix of locals and tourists. It's known for its friendly staff, daily happy hours, and drag shows.
- Rawhide 2010: Rawhide 2010 is a leather and Levi's bar located in the French Quarter. It caters to the leather and fetish community and offers a unique and edgy experience. The bar hosts regular theme nights, attracting a diverse and open-minded crowd.
- The Golden Lantern: Founded in 1964, The Golden Lantern is a legendary gay bar known for its friendly atmosphere, strong drinks, and lively karaoke nights. Located in the French Quarter, it's a popular spot for locals and visitors alike.
- Lafitte's Blacksmith Shop Bar: Claiming to be the oldest bar in the United States, Lafitte's Blacksmith Shop Bar offers a unique experience with its historic ambiance and candlelit atmosphere. Located on the edge of the French Quarter, it's a popular gathering place for locals and tourists, including members of the lgbtq+Q+ community.
- The Corner Pocket: Situated in the French Quarter, The Corner Pocket is a gay strip club that offers male entertainers and a lively atmosphere. It's known for its energetic shows and is a favorite spot for those seeking adult entertainment.
- Rawhide: Rawhide is another popular gay bar located in the French Quarter. It offers a relaxed environment with a diverse crowd and regular theme nights. It's a great place to enjoy a casual drink, meet new people, and unwind.
- The AllWays Lounge & Cabaret: A versatile venue in the Marigny neighborhood, The AllWays Lounge & Cabaret hosts a variety of performances, including drag shows, theater productions, and live music events. It has a welcoming and inclusive atmosphere, attracting both lgbtq+Q+ individuals and allies.
- GrandPre's: GrandPre's is a neighborhood bar located in the Faubourg Marigny area. It offers a laid-back environment, affordable drinks, and a jukebox playing a diverse selection of music. It's a great spot to relax and socialize with friends.
- The Page: Situated in the Marigny neighborhood, The Page is a neighborhood bar that welcomes everyone, including the lgbtq+Q+ community. It offers a cozy setting, friendly staff, and regular drink specials, making it a popular spot for locals.
- The Swamp: Located on Bourbon Street, The Swamp is a gay-friendly nightclub with multiple floors and dance areas. It features a range of music styles, from dance to hip-hop, and hosts regular events and themed nights.
- Napoleon's Itch: Napoleon's Itch is a popular gay bar in the French Quarter, known for its friendly staff, strong drinks, and lively atmosphere. It offers a laid-back environment with a mix of locals and tourists, making it a great place to socialize and have a good time.
Here is a list of gay-friendly hotels in New Orleans:
- The Bourbon Orleans Hotel (Gay-Friendly): Located in the heart of the French Quarter, The Bourbon Orleans Hotel offers a mix of modern comfort and historic charm. The hotel features elegant rooms, a courtyard pool, and a rooftop bar with stunning views of the city. With its central location, you'll have easy access to all the vibrant nightlife and attractions that New Orleans has to offer. Check Availability and Prices: Booking.com link
- The Hotel Monteleone (Gay-Friendly): Situated in the French Quarter, The Hotel Monteleone is a landmark hotel known for its timeless elegance. The rooms are stylishly decorated, and the hotel boasts a rooftop pool, a spa, and a renowned restaurant. From here, you can explore the nearby lgbtq+Q+ bars and clubs or enjoy a leisurely stroll through the historic streets. Check Availability and Prices: Booking.com link
- The International House Hotel (Gay-Friendly): Nestled in the Warehouse District, The International House Hotel offers a chic and contemporary atmosphere. The rooms are sleek and comfortable, and the hotel features a trendy bar and restaurant. With its proximity to the lgbtq+Q+ scene, as well as art galleries and museums, this hotel provides a stylish base for your New Orleans adventures. Check Availability and Prices: Booking.com link
- The Catahoula Hotel (Gay-Friendly): Situated in a 19th-century Creole townhouse, The Catahoula Hotel offers a boutique experience in the Central Business District. The hotel showcases stylishly appointed rooms, a rooftop terrace, and a lively bar serving craft cocktails. You'll be within walking distance of popular lgbtq+Q+ bars, restaurants, and shops. Check Availability and Prices: Booking.com link
- The Hotel Provincial (Gay-Friendly): Located in the French Quarter, The Hotel Provincial is a charming hotel set in historic buildings with lovely courtyards. The rooms feature a blend of traditional decor and modern amenities. The hotel offers a relaxing pool area and easy access to the vibrant lgbtq+Q+ scene, as well as famous landmarks like Jackson Square. Check Availability and Prices: Booking.com link
- The Ace Hotel New Orleans (Gay-Friendly): Situated in a beautifully renovated Art Deco building, The Ace Hotel New Orleans blends modern design with a nod to the city's rich history. The rooms are stylish and comfortable, and the hotel boasts a rooftop pool, a trendy bar, and a vibrant music venue. Located in the Warehouse District, you'll be close to lgbtq+Q+ bars, galleries, and delicious dining options. Check Availability and Prices: Booking.com link
- Aloft New Orleans Downtown - A contemporary hotel with a lively ambiance, Aloft is a favorite among travelers seeking a blend of style and comfort. Check Availability and Prices: Booking.com Link
- Le Pavillon - A luxury hotel in downtown New Orleans, Le Pavillon boasts of its rich history and elegant interiors. It's a perfect blend of old-world charm and modern conveniences. Check Availability and Prices: Booking.com Link
- ONE11 Hotel - Situated in the French Quarter, this boutique hotel offers a unique experience with its chic design and top-notch services. Check Availability and Prices: Booking.com Link
- Lafitte Hotel & Bar - A historic hotel with a touch of modernity, Lafitte offers a cozy stay with its well-appointed rooms and friendly staff. Check Availability and Prices: Booking.com Link
- The Hotel Modern - As the name suggests, this hotel offers a modern take on hospitality with its sleek design and state-of-the-art amenities. Check Availability and Prices: Booking.com Link
- Gaythering - Located in Miami Beach, this men-only hotel is known for its vibrant atmosphere and top-notch amenities. Check Availability and Prices: Booking.com Link