Part of the Gay Columbus Guide — bars, events & things to do.
Columbus, Ohio
Military-themed Olde Towne East gay bar with a dance room and patio.
AWOL is a military-themed gay bar in Olde Towne East that's been part of the Columbus scene for more than 25 years. It splits into two distinct rooms: a classic brick-lined front bar for drinking and talking, and 'The Barracks,' a dance and event space out back — with a large patio connecting the two that does a lot of the work on warm nights. The weekly calendar runs to karaoke, showtune nights, and line-dancing, with fetish and theme parties filling out the harder-edged end of the programming. It also turns up regularly on the pageant and Pride-circuit schedule. Compared with the big Short North clubs, AWOL keeps a more neighborhood-bar feel — closer to the ground, heavier on regulars, and a short hop east of downtown.
Have feedback on this description? Let us knowHours approximate — confirm ahead.
Get the full experience — check in, follow this venue, and connect with the community.
No upcoming events
Try checking a later date or browse events in the app
Catch your city's vibe or the global LGBTQ+ scene.
No spam, unsubscribe anytime.
$105
$75
$96
$104
$20
$10
$49
$104
Experiences powered by Viator
The complete gay guide to Columbus, Ohio — the Short North gayborhood, gay bars, Pride weekend, Stonewall Columbus, and everything you need to plan your trip to one of the Midwest's gay cities.
Robbie S.
The definitive guide to the best gay bars in Columbus — Axis Nightclub, Union Cafe, Slammers, AWOL, Toolbox, Tremont Lounge, District West, and the queer spots beyond the Short North.
Robbie S.
Everything you need for Columbus Pride 2026 — march route, festival details, best parties in the Short North, where to stay, and insider tips.
Robbie S.
Where to stay in Columbus as an LGBTQ+ traveler — downtown chain hotels walkable to the Short North gayborhood, Victorian Village B&Bs, and neighborhood tips for every budget.
Robbie S.
June is Pride Month, and the chaos is real. Here are 25+ of the best gay events in June 2026 across North America, organized by week so you can actually plan your travel.
Robbie S.
Your complete guide to every dedicated lesbian and sapphic bar currently operating in the US, mapped by city, with what makes each one worth the trip.
Robbie S.
