Guide to Gay Bars in Houston

Whatever your scene, you're covered in H-Town 

Visiting Houston and not sure which bars to hit up? Don't worry, we've got this. One good thing about H-town is that there's a scene for just about whatever you're into. From stand-and-model to boot scootin' honky tonk, here's your personalized hit list for a good time.

DANCE FREAK

Feeling the need to shake it to the latest dance mixes? The longstanding and recently revitalized nightspot Rich's is regularly ranked among the top dance clubs in the city. And small wonder with the huge dance floor and fantastic in-house DJ talent. Another popular club over in the Montrose area is South Beach which not only offers a huge dance floor but also an expansive rear patio. 

SONGBIRD

Like to belt out Beyonce like nobody’s business? Head to Guava Lamp on Wednesday and Sunday nights for a karaoke scene like no other. This hidden away video bar off Allen Parkway serves up strong drinks and a fabulous song selection. JR's on the Pacific Street strip also does karaoke on Thursdays and Sundays. 

PRETTY BOY

Over at the Eagle in Montrose, you'll find cute guys on the patio and in the history-laden upstairs bar. Or head downstairs to enjoy the beat of DJ JD Arnold. You'll also find a cute crowd at Rich's, particularly when the beat picks up on Friday and Saturday nights. 

PARTY GIRL

The top spot for ladies is Pearl Houston. This expansive club smack dab in the middle of Washington Ave. offers tons of big screen TVs to catch games as well as a large outdoor patio complete with fun games and plenty of seating. Multiple bars, darts and much more await at the Pearl. 

URBAN COWBOY

If your idea of a good time is two-steppin' and shooting pool, we have the perfect spot. Neon Boots is Texas' largest gay country bar -- more than 10,000 square feet of fun under one roof. Dance the night away on the enormous dance floor, relax in the side lounge or belly up to more than a half-dozen different bar stations. There are live shows, dance lessons and much more each week. 

CHILL KID

Sometimes you just want a relaxed night out with your friends. Enter once again JR’s and Eagle. JR’s has been a staple in Houston’s gay scene for decades, helping form the bedrock of Montrose nightlife. Here you’ll find folks from all over gathered around the numerous bar tops and on the patio from happy hour into the wee hours. Meanwhile, just a couple blocks away, you can find the Eagle, where leather meets the neighborhood watering hole. The patio and upstairs deck are fantastic hangout spots in good weather. 

TOUGH GUY

For those looking for a little edge, The Ripcord, a Montrose staple just a few blocks away offers a fun leather scene. Finally, check out The Eagle Houston, when they host one of their regular theme nights and be sure to check out the homage to Houston's LGBT history upstairs.