Gay Washington, DC

Gay Washington DC

The nation's capital is more than just politics and protest; DC is a joining place for people from all walks of life and colors of the rainbow. Whether you're in the mood for an educational tour of the White House or would rather galavant around Dupont Circle looking for exciting nightlife and amazing food, there's never a dull moment in this city. Spend a day or three wandering the Smithsonian- an immense collection of 17 museums, and the world-famous National Zoological Park before catching a drag show at one of the many LGBTQ+ bars in town. Over the decades, DC has become one of the most diverse and welcoming cities in America, offering safe spaces for the LGBTQ+ community and their allies to eat, dance, entertain, and educate.

Explore what Washington, DC has to offer

coming home

LGBTQ+ nightlife in the U.S. is thriving again

queer spirit

Get a designated driver. It's time for the ultimate drunken gay road trip across America.

epic

The Fabric of Freedom: Why WorldPride DC 2025 will be a can't-miss global event

zoocation

DC tourism is in Panda-monium

political grudges

DC's most hated bar closes after a month and a half. Here's what happened.

kiss them

The best New Years Eve parties to ring in 2025

bogc

Best of GayCities: Flavors Worth the Flight nominees

bogc

Best of GayCities: Best Bar or Nightclub nominees

All Washington, DC Articles

Upcoming Events

Solid Pink Disco

Trixie Mattell brings the party

Echostage

Tuesday, June 3, 2025

WorldPride

Pride in Washington DC

Dupont Circle

May 23 - June 8, 2025

Mid-Atlantic Leather Weekend

DC's favorite leather fest

Hyatt Regency Washington on Capitol Hill

January 17 - January 19, 2026

All Washington, DC Events

Bars & Clubs

Nellie's Sports Bar

DC's gay sports bar and more
U Street Corridor

JR's Bar

Serving since 1986
Dupont

Green Lantern

Off the beaten path
Downtown

The Fireplace

A neighborhood institution
Dupont

Number Nine

Plush bar serving creative cocktails
Logan

Freddie's Beach Bar

Beachy tiki vibes
Northern Virginia

Larry's Lounge

Neighborhood bar with a mixed crowd
Dupont

Little Miss Whiskey's Golden Dollar

Great beer selection and tons of eclectic events & specials
Capitol Hill

All Washington, DC Bars & Clubs

Restaurants

Annie's Paramount Steak House

Iconic gay restaurant
Dupont

Busboys and Poets

Dining, dialogue, diversity
U Street Corridor

Mr. Henry's Restaurant

Capitol Hill legend
Capitol Hill

Logan Tavern

Logan Circle hotspot
Logan

Lauriol Plaza

Tasty Tex-Mex eats in a sophisticated, urban atmosphere.
Dupont

Hank's Oyster Bar

Modern Take on New England Seafood Stand
Dupont

Trio Restaurant

Old-time gay diner
Dupont

DuPont Italian Kitchen

Bar is on the second floor
Dupont

All Washington, DC Restaurants

Hotels

The Dupont Circle Hotel

Chic refurbished hotel in DC's gay district
Dupont

Kimpton Carlyle Dupont Circle

Gay-friendly and in the action
Dupont

The Mayflower Hotel, Autograph Collection

Across Lafayette Park from the White House
Downtown

District Hotel

A little old school, but conveniently located
Logan

Madera

Luxury urban digs in stylish gay neighborhood
Dupont

Park Hyatt Washington D.C.

Near P Street hood
Georgetown

Hamilton Hotel Washington DC

Beautiful 1920s era digs
Downtown

JW Marriott Washington, DC

Central location
Downtown

All Washington, DC Hotels