What is the Gay Neighborhood in St. Paul?

St. Paul doesn't have one officially designated gayborhood — instead, LGBTQ+ life is woven throughout several neighborhoods, giving the city a more integrated feel than many metros.

Cathedral Hill & West 7th

The Cathedral Hill and West 7th Street area is the heart of St. Paul's queer nightlife. Black Hart of Saint Paul is the neighborhood's anchor — an LGBTQ+ soccer pub with drag shows, burlesque, bingo, and karaoke that draws a diverse crowd. Nearby, Camp Bar and Cabaret brings campy queer cabaret and themed events to the area. The Brass Rail Lounge has been a neighborhood institution for decades.

Greater St. Paul

St. Paul is home to LGBTQ+-affirming shops and community spaces spread across the city, including Rainbow Road and Black Garnet Books, a BIPOC and queer-owned bookstore that hosts readings and community events. OutFront Minnesota, the state's largest LGBTQ+ advocacy organization, is headquartered in the Twin Cities.

Across the River in Minneapolis

Just a short drive or light rail ride away, Minneapolis' Loring Park area has the Twin Cities' densest concentration of gay bars, including The Saloon, Gay 90's, and Eagle|MPLS. Northeast Minneapolis adds LUSH Lounge & Theater to the mix. The two cities share a seamless LGBTQ+ scene.