The 5 best gay bars in Fort Lauderdale

Founded in 2012 but fresh off a recent remodel and redesign, The Pub Wilton Manors continues to cement itself as Fort Lauderdale’s go-to gay-popular entertainment venue. With goings-on, most nights of the week, the event calendar at The Pub includes both local and internationally known performers, DJs, and VJs. Any of the drag or cabaret events promise a riotously fun time, with creative themes like “Ladies Who Brunch” and “Drink and Drag.” In addition to the social atmosphere, come for the on-point menu and daily food specials. As the name suggests, the offerings sway towards pub grub with dishes like speciality burgers, lick-lipping chicken wings, and shareable starters that don’t shy away from fried favourites. You’ll find The Pub open daily from 8 am until 2 am, meaning you can enjoy this gay Fort Lauderdale neighbourhood favourite at any time of the day.

We love an intimate conversation over a stiff drink, but sometimes the night simply calls for DJs, dancing, and general debauchery that extends into the early morning hours. There are a handful of gay clubs in Fort Lauderdale, but Hunters Nightclub is hands-down the poshest. After a massive renovation and remodel, Hunters now features a spacious dance floor complete with a giant video screen, video bar, and upstairs lounge. An advanced light system, state of the art JBL sound system, sexy go-go dancers, and internationally acclaimed DJs further round out the already elevated clubbing experience. Most importantly, the atmosphere is always fun and friendly, and the staff consistently passionate and energetic. Regular karaoke, trivia, line dancing, and cabaret evenings draw a loyal crowd of locals all nights of the week. And while nightclubs aren’t typically where you expect to discover trailblazing mixology, the house liquors at Hunters are never less than mid-range spirits like Finlandia Vodka and Canadian Club. The operating hours vary slightly throughout the week; doors open Monday through Thursday 3pm – 2am; Friday 2pm – 3am; Saturdays from 3pm – 3am; Sundays from 2pm – 2am.

With outposts in Los Angeles, Manhattan, and, now, Fort Lauderdale, GYM is America’s most popular gay sports bar—and an ideal spot in Wilton Manor to cheer on your number one team. There’s always a game playing on the many large-screen, high definition TVs, but a pool table, darts, and basement lounge make this a welcoming gay Fort Lauderdale bar to amble away an afternoon no matter the affair. The menu is in-line with classic sports bars serving up mean burgers, fries, and wings. Once a month GYM also hosts Taco Bear, a monthly Taco and craft beer event where Bears and their friends will feel particularly welcome. The walls are covered in sports memorabilia brought in by customers, so bring some swag if you want to ensure your team is represented. 2-4-1 drinks until 9 pm are a steal. Stop in Monday-Friday from 4:00pm – 2:00am; Saturday from Noon – 3am; Sunday from Noon – 3am.