Blazing Saddle
Dancing · Des Moines, IA
About
Blazing Saddle claims the title of Des Moines' longest-running gay bar, open since 1983. It's a leather bar in name, but all are welcome. The vibe is divey, the drinks are cheap and stiff, and the crowd leans local.
Patrons report friendly regulars but also occasional rowdy straight groups. Best nights per Yelp are Tuesday, Friday, and Saturday. No cover most nights.
If you're in the East Village, Buddy's Corral is another option nearby.
Features
- ✓Open nightly until 2am
- ✓Cheap, stiff drinks from unfriendly bartenders
- ✓Friendly local regulars, dive bar atmosphere
Good for
Practical
Best nights: Tue, Fri, Sat
What people say
Rated from 35 reviews. 57 community ratings. View this venue on Yelp
From the community
“busy place”
I dropped by late on a Saturday night. The customers were friendly, and the place was crowded. I found exactly what I needed and will definitely come back.
A visitor · Over a year ago
“Dive”
Good spot for Log Cabin Republicans who keep their heads in the sand.
A guest · Over a year ago
“Love This Place!”
I come to Des Moines a couple times a year and always stop at Blazing Saddles. The bartenders are unfriendly but make strong, inexpensive drinks. The regulars are nice and happy to talk while they smoke. I love this bar.
A recent visitor · Over a year ago
“Terrible Bar”
I was visiting Des Moines and heard this was the spot to go, even though everyone said all the gay bars were bad. I don't usually believe that because people often think their local bars are lousy. Well, they were correct! It felt like all the masculinity had been drained out of the place. On Saturday and Sunday, the only people there were queens. I doubt they even check IDs, since some of these guys (using the term very loosely) acted like they were 15. On Sunday, besides the queens, there were several drunk straight guys. Don't get me wrong, I like a drunk straight guy now and then, but not these ones. They were way too drunk and way too obnoxious. Save yourself the trouble and don't go.
A local visitor · Over a year ago
“not all warm inside”
Not a place for out-of-towners. Only the lesbians would talk to me, and they get it.
A visitor · Over a year ago
Frequently Asked Questions
Is there a cover charge at Blazing Saddle? +
Cover is rare but may apply for special events. Call ahead to confirm.
What is the dress code? +
No strict dress code, but leather and Levi's are traditional. Casual attire is fine.
What nights are busiest? +
Yelp data points to Tuesday, Friday, and Saturday as best nights.
