What are the Best Gay Bars in Minneapolis?

The Twin Cities have one of the strongest gay bar scenes in the Midwest, with dedicated LGBTQ+ venues spread across Minneapolis and St. Paul.

Minneapolis — Downtown / Hennepin Avenue

• The Saloon (830 Hennepin Ave) — One of the oldest continuously operating gay bars in Minneapolis, open since 1977. Features drag shows, BANGO bingo nights, karaoke, and DJs across a spacious multi-room layout. A true anchor of the scene.

• Gay 90's (408 Hennepin Ave) — A Minneapolis institution spanning 7 bars and 2 floors. Home to the Ladies of LaFemme show, one of the longest-running female impersonation shows in the country, dating back to 1964. Wednesday night's "So You Think You Can Drag" competition launches new local talent.

• Roxy's Cabaret (1333 Nicollet Mall) — Named after the late Twin Cities drag legend Roxy Marquis. A dedicated drag venue with shows 7 nights a week, including a popular Sunday drag brunch at noon.

• Eagle|MPLS — The hub for Minneapolis's leather and bear communities. Part of the national Eagle bar network with a welcoming, no-attitude atmosphere.

• 19 Bar — A beloved neighborhood dive bar with a loyal local following. Cozy, unpretentious, and one of the longest-running gay bars in the Twin Cities.

• Quincy Hall — A modern LGBTQ+-friendly bar and event space in the North Loop neighborhood.

Northeast Minneapolis

• LUSH Lounge & Theater (990 Central Ave NE) — An intimate drag and cabaret theater featuring Saturday drag brunch, Thursday drag bingo, and themed performance nights. A portrait of drag legend Roxy Marquis hangs near the stage.

• Jetset Underground (205 E Hennepin Ave NE) — A queer dance bar in the basement of the Garland Building with DJ-driven nightlife and a vibrant dance floor.

St. Paul

• Black Hart of Saint Paul — A queer soccer bar with drag shows, burlesque, RuPaul's Drag Race watch parties, and weekly bingo fundraisers. Strong community presence with a mixed, inclusive crowd.

• Camp Bar and Cabaret — A modern lounge and piano bar with an attached cabaret performance space. Features burlesque, comedy, and themed drag events.

• Steady Pour — A welcoming neighborhood bar with a friendly, inclusive vibe.

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