The "City That Never Sleeps" got its nickname the old fashioned way: relentless, non-stop partying 24/7/365. Well... almost. In reality, the best gay bars in New York City close at 4 AM most of the time. But otherwise the fun never stops. And it's all inclusive.
That's why it doesn't come as much of a surprise to the casual tourist that there are literally hundreds of gay bars open for business all over the island. But which to choose?
Here's a list of the hottest gay night spots in NYC (arranged by age group - from "Twinks" to "Bears" to "Wally's") that even the locals find themselves drawn to irresistibly night after sleepless night.
TWINKS
Pieces (8 Christopher Street)
Entry level gay bar hi-jinks include a new age version of 'Post Office' that really gets the juices flowing as the ice breaks to the melting point. Also renowned for thrice-weekly Karaoke nights. There's nothing like warbling out a tune to get the party started. Of course, this being NYC, you just might be surprised at the high quality golden throatiness. New York, New York! It's one helluva town...
Splash (50 W. 17th Street)
THE NYC gay bar where it's easier to be seen and not heard. After 10:00 anyway. The mood changes from cavernous barn to bridge of the Enterprise at the witching hour, so arrive early and stake out a seat before they're all gone. After 10, it's a free-for-all as the giant video screens kick in with gay-themed music videos and movie clips. Be careful - you might get REALLY wet!
The Ritz (349 W. 46th Street)
Despite the famous name, this gay bar is surprisingly light on the wallet - if you get there before 11:00. With a spacious dance floor that fills up quickly, the mind-bending light show lends an other-worldly atmosphere grounded only by the nautical theme and the gorgeous Go-Go Boys. Puttin' on the Ritz!
BEARS
GYM Sportsbar (167 8th Avenue)
The only gay sports bar in NYC, the Bears shoot the bull as the giant video screens play the latest games. That, and the fabulous happy hour drinks, makes this a favorite for the settling-in crowd. The perfect place for a less-frenzied drink and a chat before or after you hit the louder clubs. After all, who doesn't love a good work out at the gym? Just bring your own towel...
WALLY'S
The Eagle (544 West 28th Street)
Dim, dingy and wide open, this gay bar caters to the older set who range from the leather-oriented Bears to the snappily dressed, dear old Queens. But the Sunday beer blasts on the open-air deck make for an eclectic crowd when the twinks come by for a glimpse of the future. The eagle reigns supreme!
THE CLASSICS
There's a reason why the gay lifestyle is much more open these days, and it's mainly because of the glorious past. Make sure you stop by some of the legendary taverns that paved the way, including The Duplex, the historic Stonewall and The Dugout. Plan on a late night.
You can sleep it off later at the hotel...
in New York
