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LGBTQ+ Nightlife
You'll find plenty of LGBTQ+-friendly places to visit when the sun goes down in Portland.
PQ Monthly
Note: This section was produced in collaboration with ProudQueer.com, formerly known as PQ Monthly.
Portland has no shortage of LGBTQ-owned and queer-friendly bars and clubs. Whether you’re looking for a safe space to enjoy a relaxing night with friends, a high-energy dance party or a drag show, Portland delivers.
LGTBQ+ Bars & Lounges
North Portland
Florida Room is both queer-friendly and dog-friendly. Enjoy a drink with your favorite two-legged and four-legged friends on one of their two patios.
There’s something happening nearly every day of the week at Local Lounge. This gay-owned bar and event venue hosts a weekly variety show and occasional drag queen BINGO.
Enjoy small-batch spirits and an actual meal (not just bar food) at queer-owned Shine Distillery & Grill. If the name sounds familiar, it’s because Shine Distillery made headlines during the pandemic with their “drag thru.” Patrons waiting for to-go orders could enjoy a drag show from the comfort of their vehicles.
Eagle Portland is Portland’s leather bar and home base for the Oregon Bears. Guests who wear a leather harness, vest, chaps, or full drag with “significant effort,” get in free on Friday or Saturday nights.
Downtown and The Pearl District
Vault Cocktail Lounge is an upscale bar in the Pearl District with a sizable gay clientele. The cocktail bar is known for its signature cocktails and affordable happy hour.
Scandalscalls itself, “Portland’s Gay ‘Cheers.'” The relaxed vibe makes it a great place to rendezvous with friends, or meet new ones. During warmer months, grab a seat outside and watch the summer crowd cruise by.
There are two all-male strip clubs in Portland. Silverado, located at Sixth Avenue and NW Couch (pronounced “cooch”) is the original. A few blocks away, on NW Broadway you’ll find Stag.
East Portland
Crush is a laid-back lounge located in inner Southeast Portland. It’s easily accessible from downtown and popular with locals.
Farther east, just 10 minutes from the Portland Airport is Escape Bar & Grill. This lesbian/mixed bar has a full menu, heated outdoor seating, karaoke and weekly events.
Dance Clubs and Drag Shows
If you’re in the mood for a drag show Darcelle XV Showplace has two shows on Friday and Saturday nights plus draq queen brunch on Sundays. This legendary club was recently added to the National Register of Historic Places.
For drag and dancing, check out C.C. Slaughters. This downtown dance club hosts Friday and Sunday night drag shows.
Know Before You Go
To slow the spread of the highly transmissible Delta variant, effective Aug. 27, a statewide mask mandate is in place. Oregonians and visitors ages 5 and up are required to wear face coverings in all public indoor settings, as well as crowded outdoor public spaces where physical distancing is not possible, regardless of vaccination status. This rule does not apply to individuals actively eating or drinking.
Additionally, some event organizers and venues may require proof of vaccination, or a negative COVID test, for admission. Other events may be canceled, postponed or held virtually. Please check individual event websites for the most up-to-date information.
Dance Nights
Blow Pony
Hosted at the historic Bossanova Ballroom, this bash has been known to draw celebs like Jakes Shears and John Cameron Mitchell. Fourth Saturday of the month.
Bridge Club
The city’s self-described “queer collective of DJs, artists, promoters, socialites and designers” descends upon Produce Row Cafe for laid-back mingling. First Sunday of the month from late spring to early fall.
Club Kai-Kai
This queer dance party is held at the goth- and horror-themed dance bar The Coffin Club (previously known as Lovecraft Bar). Fourth Friday of the month.
Hot Flash/Inferno
This bimonthly, age-diverse bash heats up karaoke hot spot Trio Club by offering up female- and trans-only dances. Dating back 10 years, it’s known for retro music and zero attitude. Second Saturday of the month at Trio Club and fourth Saturday of the month at Bossanova.
Jump Jack Sound Machine
This body-positive, gender-bending fete at Mississippi Studios is perfect for “art darlings and audiophiles.” Second Saturday of the month.
Judy on Duty
Currently the reigning monarch of parties for the queer women adjacent community, Judy on Duty is a pop and hip hop dance party hosted by a monthly Judy. The dance party typically happens the last Saturday of the month at The High Water Mark.
Werk
A relative newbie to the scene, Bad Weather Productions puts on queer hip hop and house dance nights to come kiki at Killingsworth Dynasty filling the void left by the departure of Lez Do It. First Friday of the month.
Portland's LGBTQ+ Community
Learn more about Portland's LGBTQ+ community and join in on festive annual celebrations.
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