San Francisco has long been a safe space for the LGBTQ+ community in the United States, leading the way for the country and the world with its landmark gay establishments, historical politicians and all-are-welcome community.
Home to one of the oldest gay bars in the U.S., San Francisco continues to open its doors to those who’d like a well-crafted cocktail and a space to dance with the person they love, whoever that may be.
See also: The Ultimate Guide To The Castro's Gay Bars & Clubs
If you’re in the city looking for a good time, try one of these queer-run watering holes with calendars full of activities, performances and drink specials that bring a touch of class.
401 Castro St., 415-864-9470 / Website
Established in 1925, Twin Peaks Tavern stands proud as one of the oldest gay bars in the United States, but it’s not just a relic of history. The Casto institution continues to be a beloved stop for cocktails and brews where folks can enjoy the lush vintage decor and watch passersby from its famously large windows. You can’t miss the neon sign!
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298 11th St., 415-795-3180 / Website
If you’re looking for a show, this nightlife staple just north of the Mission District is the stage to see. Oasis makes its home in a former bathhouse, transforming the space into a glittering theater that bursts with vibrant performances from Thursday to Sunday. Drag shows, cabaret performances, nightclub events and fill the schedule at this over-the-top safe space where everyone is welcome. It’s always a celebration at the Oasis, so bring your best looks and biggest smile into its mural-covered walls.
3158 Mission St., 415-282-3325 / Website
If you’re looking for a good time in the Mission, this tropical corner offers cocktails, performances and outdoor lounge space in a hip environment. El Rio got its start as a Brazilian leather bar in 1978. The founders retired and turned over operations to the crew a while back, and now El Rio serves a wide variety of clientele in the LGBTQ+ scene and its allies. Open Wednesday to Sunday, El Rio prides itself on supporting the local artistic and underserved communities. Service animals are welcome, too!
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424 Cortland Ave., 415-647-3099 / Website
Opened in 1962 by proud lesbians, Wild Side West brings a bit of cowgirl flair to its Bernal Heights sports bar vibe. Pool tables and a backyard garden provide lots of space for fun and games, while the jukebox lets you choose the tunes while sipping on a tasty beer or two. Play trivia, take pics in the sculpture garden, and feel free to totally be yourself, whoever you may be!
3152 Mission St. / Website
This sci-fi-themed bar is truly a destination for anyone who likes a cold drink in a cool space, but it is incredibly LGBTQ+ friendly. The event calendar is full of dance nights with DJs spinning everything from electro to cumbia, while the extensive drink menu features inventive cocktails, sharable sips by the pitcher, delicious mocktails, craft beers and wine on tap, and a great selection of cans and bottles. It’s a cool space to be!
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4230 18th St Unit A, 415-340-7358 / Website
Taking its name from its residence on the ground floor of The Hotel Castro, this craft cocktail lounge exudes chic flair without being stuffy. Open every afternoon and evening of the week, Lobby Bar offers delightful food and drink menus, so you can make a meal of its iron turkey burger and fries or broccoli rabe flatbreads while sippin' on one of its original cocktails. Try the Carly Rae Jepsen made from Casa Viejo Blanco, carrot, radish, jalapeno, agave and lime; or the Hey Toots! with house rum blends, Coca-Cola, cold brew coffee and tonic water. Non-alcoholic cocktails are also on the menu!
3079 16th St., 415-815-7386 / Website
The newest queer kid on the block, Mother opened in early 2023 in the Mission District and is already a favorite for the LGBTQ+ crowd and its allies looking to have a good drink and a bit of fun. Colorful mood lighting accentuates this hip and intimate space. Run by women and femme-centric staff, Mother plays host to trivia nights, disco dance parties, photography exhibits and low-key evenings with friends, so make sure to check it out when you’re in the area.
1221 Polk St, 415-771-2022 / Website
Get cozy in this craft cocktail lounge that creates a cool atmosphere with exposed-brick walls and a fireplace. Operating daily, Lush Lounge hosts an extremely agreeable happy hour from 3 to 7 p.m. on weekdays and 1 to 7 p.m. on weekends. Laid back and friendly, Lush is a great place to get together with friends for conversation, and folks can’t get enough of the margaritas.
Want to explore San Francisco’s queer corners even more? Check our ultimate guide to the Castro’s gay bars and dance clubs, and learn more about the city’s iconic LGBTQ+ history makers throughout the decades.
Photography by: oversnap / Getty
