Las Vegas Gay Party Guide

Nowadays most travelers know that Las Vegas offers more than gambling. With topnotch hotels, luxurious spas, A-list restaurants, beautiful pools and incredible shopping, it's really the perfect destination if you need a refreshing getaway. What is surprising, however, is that for all the flashing lights, hunky performers and sexy vibe, Vegas' gay scene isn't as obvious.

Oh, but it does exist.

Most bars are centered around the minimalls on Paradise Road and further from the Strip in Commercial Center, though there are a couple notable exceptions to that. So if you've had enough mainstream Las Vegas and want to enjoy a cocktail or 10 around some of your fellow gays, then this is the guide for you.

HELPFUL TIPS

•Cab to the bars and keep a cab company's number in your cell phone. Don't drink and drive because it's dangerous and the cops are out.

•Forgot to save the cab's number? Most bars will call one for you. If not, call your hotel and have them call you a cab. Depending on the bar's location, you may not want to walk back to your hotel.

•Vegas bartenders often measure the alcohol used in mixed drinks. That means the cocktails might not always be worth the money, especially at the more popular bars. Before you order, watch how the bartender pours other cocktails. If he pours heavy then you're good to go. If not, buy shots and a beer to get more bang for your buck.

•Be smart. Keep your ID and cash in your front pocket, don't get stupid drunk unless you have friends to watch your back, and play safe.

POPULAR BARS FOR GAYS

Charlie's
5012 Arville St.
 
Las Vegas, NV 89118

702-876-1844

Country western bar for dancing, cheap drink specials (like 3 drinks for the price of 1 offers), and more fun stuff.
Open: 24 hours a day

Closet Sundays
The Beatles Revolution Lounge
inside The Mirage
3400 Las Vegas Blvd. South.
Las Vegas, NV 89109

Las Vegas promoter Eduardo Cordova pulls out all the stops for his spectacular events, and this weekly party is no exception. If you're going out on a Sunday night, this is where the boys (and a lot of Vegas performers) will wind up.

Freezone 
610 E. Naples Dr.
Las Vegas, NV 89119

702-794-2300

Located by the other gay bars, Freezone features good drinks, karaoke, gaming, various ladies and boys nights, drag shows and hunky bartenders like these two studs. Woof!
Open: 24 hours a day

Fun Hog Ranch  
495 E. Twain Ave
Las Vegas, NV 89169
702-791-7001

Primarily a Levi and leather bar, but all are welcome at Fun Hog Ranch. A rustic atmosphere, with fun guys and a friendly staff who are always available to fix you a drink. This place will make you feel like a local.

Gipsy
4605 Paradise Rd.

Las Vegas, NV 89119

702-666-8661

Gypsy is the bar everyone knows about, so everyone went there even though they often complained about the weak drinks and touristy feel. Now their Facebook page says, "GIPSY Nightclub is the sister club to Piranha and 8 1/2, located directly across." (We assume "the street," but what do we know?) It seems to have a more urban vibe, and if it's truly part of the Piranha family then it's worth checking out again.
Open: 10:00PM

Heaven
Bare Pool & Lounge at The Mirage
3400 Las Vegas Blvd. South
Las Vegas, NV 89109

Another Eduardo Cordova event, this time by the gorgeous pool at The Mirage. This is a high-energy event with lots of killer music, A-list DJs, ultra-VIP table service, performers, sexy go-gos, and the hottest guys and gals on the Strip.

Open: 10:30PM

Krave
3663 S. Las Vegas Blvd.
Las Vegas, NV 89109
702-290-0436

Located inside Planet Hollywood on the Strip, it’s an especially convenient club if you’re walking from your hotel. Big dance floor with impressive shows and fun dancing. Cover and drinks can be pricey, so check the website to make sure you want to commit before going in.
Open: Tuesday-Sunday 11:00PM

Piranha Nightclub & 8 1/2 Ultra Lounge 
4633 Paradise Rd.

Las Vegas, NV 89109

702-791-0100

Great club with dancing, strong drinks, and a mix of both local and tourists. Cover and cocktail prices aren't bad, and after 1:00AM things get crazy so pace yourself.

Snick's Place 
1402 S. 3rd St.

Las Vegas, NV 89104
 
702-385-9298

If you have the time you should totally go because it's the oldest gay bar in Vegas (since 1976). Older clientele, very local feel, kind of trashy but that's the point.
Open: 24 hours a day

Sundanze
JET Nightclub at The Mirage
3400 Las Vegas Blvd. S.

This once-a-month event is held at JET Nightclub at The Mirage, and features sexy studs and amazing talent like Kelly Rowland, Kat Deluna, and Grammy Award-winner Estelle! Right now it's not happening, but check back in the winter.

Open: 10:30PM