5 Gay Bars in Burlington, VT — LGBTQ+ Nightlife

If you're looking for a high-energy dance club with live music and a mixed crowd, Red Square is your spot. This Burlington staple has been going strong since 1997, offering a full bar and an extensive selection of tap beers in a casual, loud atmosphere. Located on the Church Street Marketplace pedestrian mall, it's easy to find. The outdoor seating is dog friendly, and Thursday through Saturday are the busiest nights. You'll find a good mix of gay and straight patrons here, plus an art gallery space that hosts special events.

Near College and Main in Burlington, this cocktail lounge offers a relaxed atmosphere with comfy chairs and board games. House-infused vodkas are a specialty, and the crowd tends to be mixed gay-straight. Happy hour draws a local after-work crowd, and later evenings get busier on Fridays and Saturdays. Check their current status as Yelp lists it as possibly permanently closed.

Felt on a sticky floor under the dim lights of two pool tables, Three Needs is a dive bar where lesbians tend to frequent most often. The mixed crowd shares space around pinball machines and house beers. It's closed temporarily, so check before heading out.

You'll feel right at home at Vermont's original craft brewpub, a spot that draws a mixed gay-straight crowd and welcomes dogs on the outdoor patio. Founded by brewing pioneer Greg Noonan in 1988, it's the longest-running craft brewery in the state, churning out over 80 beer styles each year from a 14-barrel system and a half-barrel experimental rig. The full bar and full menu pair nicely with those rotating taps. Reservations are accepted, and you can bring your dog to the outdoor seating. Best nights are Thursday through Saturday. It's a casual, reliable choice whether you're a beer nerd or just want fish and chips with a local pint.

Bailey’s Place draws a steady crowd of 40- and 50-somethings, mostly locals stopping in after work. The vibe is casual and budget-friendly, with handcrafted cocktails and a small menu of American sandwiches and burgers. This is a straightforward neighborhood bar where regulars know your name. Hours can be limited: open Wednesday at 9am, then Thursday through Saturday from 5pm until late. It's the kind of place you'd swing by alone for a drink and end up chatting with the bartender.