Gay Bars & LGBTQ+ Venues in Fort Lauderdale, FL — Page 2

"Baked goods are diverse and wonderful," one reviewer notes, capturing the draw of Stork's Bakery & Coffee House. This LGBTQ-owned cafe in Wilton Manors serves pastries, cakes, sandwiches, and entrees alongside solid coffee and lattes. The atmosphere is decidedly gay-friendly, with a mixed crowd of locals and visitors. Seating spills onto a spacious outdoor patio, perfect for enjoying the Florida weather. Hours are generous: 6:30am to midnight weekdays, opening a bit later on weekends. It's a reliable spot whether you need a morning quiche or a late-evening cookie. The menu goes beyond typical coffee shop fare, with pre-prepared quiche and cookies that reviewers call incredible. While not exclusively gay, the owners clearly embrace the community. If you're exploring Wilton Manors, it's a easy stop before or after a visit to Rosie's Bar & Grill down the street.

J. Mark's isn't your typical gay restaurant in Ft. Lauderdale. It's a casual upscale spot where you can bring a date, a power lunch, or your parents without the usual scene. The crowd is mixed gay-straight, the service is excellent, and the prices stay moderate. Regulars rave about the Cajun prime rib and the cool specialty martinis. The menu is solid American fare with seafood and steak options, all in a refined but relaxed atmosphere. This LGBTQ-owned Wilton Manors staple has been around for years, earning its reputation as 'South Florida's best kept secret.' The dining room is comfortable, not flashy, and the staff is genuinely gay-friendly. It's open daily from 11am to 10pm, making it a solid choice for a relaxed dinner any day of the week. If you're in the neighborhood, Casablanca Cafe is another nearby option worth checking out.

Fort Lauderdale Beach's The Royal Palms is a resort that shifted from a gay men's exclusive to a mixed, family-friendly crowd. It offers 2 pools, a bar, restaurant, and spa, with all-white minimalist rooms. The vibe is now mixed LGBTQ+ and straight, attracting families and couples, while some regulars still visit for daytime hangs. The resort operates 24 hours, so the pool and bar are accessible at any time. It's a place with history: what was once a gay men's tea dance and drag show spot now caters to a broader audience. If you're seeking the old scene, you may find it changed. For a more traditional gay resort, consider visiting other nearby options.

Tropics Grille is open daily from 2pm to 10pm, offering a piano bar atmosphere with cabaret acts most nights. This venue has drawn mixed reviews, with some longtime regulars reporting a decline under current ownership. The food is described as just okay, and drinks can be pricey despite advertised specials. You'll find an older crowd here, with some reviews noting a sugar-daddy vibe. The space is large, but the venue could use more events to draw a wider audience. Yelp suggests this spot may be permanently closed, so check before planning a visit. Nearby, Rosie's Bar & Grill offers an alternative option.

J. Alexander's Redlands Grill is an upscale casual dining chain that's become the unofficial favorite for Fort Lauderdale's gay crowd. Located just outside Wilton Manors, it offers steaks, chops, and American cuisine in a refined yet relaxed atmosphere. The mixed gay/straight clientele and excellent service make it a go-to for dates or business lunches. Open daily from 11:30 am, the restaurant extends hours until 11 pm on Fridays and Saturdays. It's a reliable choice for a power lunch or a dinner where you want to impress without the formality of a white-tablecloth venue. Regulars praise the consistency and the welcoming vibe.

The smell of fresh coffee mixes with the hum of conversation from a mix of 20-somethings, 30-somethings, and regulars hunched over laptops. Java Boys has been an anchor of Wilton Manors' gayborhood for years, offering a place that's as much about community as caffeine. It's a fast-casual cafe where the clientele is mixed LGBTQ+ and straight, and the vibe stays casual whether you're grabbing a scone or settling in for a Sunday brunch. The owner is often around to chat, according to regulars. Hours run from 6:30am to midnight every day, making it one of the few late-night coffee options in the area. The outdoor seating and family-friendly atmosphere draw a steady crowd. Just note that Yelp lists this venue as possibly permanently closed, so call ahead or check before heading out.

The crowd at Alcazar Resort skews friendly and social, with a mix of ages from late 20s to 60s. Regulars make it feel like a gay summer camp by the end of the week. This men-only resort in Fort Lauderdale Beach offers a clothing-optional 24-hour heated pool and a small gym. It partners with Worthington Guesthouse, connected by a pathway, giving access to a hot tub and more amenities. Rooms are spacious and clean, with a fridge for your drinks and snacks. Most guests end up lounging by the pools instead of hitting the beach. The vibe is relaxed rather than cruisy, with friendly staff and a welcoming atmosphere. It's not luxury but a solid value. Short cab ride to clubs. Open 8am to 6am overnight, so you can swim and chat in the hot tub late into the night. Check ratings and hours.

A queer speakeasy hiding behind velvet curtains in Wilton Manors. Johnsons combines prohibition-era decor with a men-only strip club featuring go-go boys and lap dances. The interior is intimate and chic, drawing a crowd of 20-somethings to 40-somethings, both locals and travelers. Step through the velvet curtains for live entertainment and strong drinks at reasonable prices. Formerly PJ's Corner Pocket, this spot still holds onto a bottle club vibe. Check their website for go-go boy schedules and special events.

Tee Jay Thai Sushi stands out in Wilton Manors by pairing Thai and Japanese cuisine with a proudly queer-friendly atmosphere. Located in the heart of the gayborhood, this spot draws locals for its combination of sushi rolls and classic Thai dishes. The vibe is laid-back and welcoming, with a full bar that makes happy hour a regular draw. While the food is consistently solid, reviewers note service picks up once you're seated. Regulars appreciate the consistency and convenience. Hours run daily from late morning to 10 or 10:30 pm, making it a reliable option for a weeknight dinner or a weekend catch-up. If you're exploring the neighborhood, nearby Rosie's Bar & Grill offers another casual stop just a short walk away. It's a place where the crowd is as friendly as the service -- once you get a table.

Out of the Closet in Fort Lauderdale is open daily from 10am to 7pm (Sundays until 6pm) and has free HIV testing on site. As a thrift store owned by the AIDS Healthcare Foundation, every purchase supports community health programs. You will find a range of second-hand clothing, accessories, furniture, antiques, and housewares at budget-friendly prices. The shop has a 4.2-star rating from 88 Yelp reviews, and many customers appreciate the cause. If you are in the neighborhood, you can also visit their sister location, Out of the Closet - Wilton Manors, for a similar experience. The store is in Downtown Fort Lauderdale, making it an easy stop.

On Fort Lauderdale Beach, Flip Flops Dockside Restaurant sits in a multicolored building that used to be Taverna Opa. This waterfront spot is gay-friendly, not exclusively gay, and it draws a mixed crowd. The head cook, a little Spanish lady, might offer to make her specialty if you stay. There's a two-for-one happy hour, and drinks are prompt. The Sunday Tea Dance here attracts 200+ people with $3 drinks and drag performers like Serena Cha Cha from RuPaul's Drag Race. Service can be a bit slow with food, but the view of the intracoastal waterway is great. Pay parking is available across the street. Note: Yelp indicates this venue may be permanently closed.

Walk into a cozy, no-frills bar where regulars greet you by name. Smarty Pants is a true local's spot with drag shows, karaoke, and a quirky Spin the Wheel Duck Game that can win you a bar tab. Owners Mark and Fritz are known for being down-to-earth and genuinely invested in their customers. The crowd is low-key and friendly, and karaoke here is wonderfully awful in the best way. Friday and Saturday nights pack the house. Note: Yelp indicates this venue may be permanently closed, so check ahead before making a trip.

Unlike typical single-stage venues, this performing arts megaplex includes a smaller theater that hosts local companies like Slow Burn Theater Group alongside its main stage for Broadway tours and major concerts. You can catch opera, ballet, and Grammy-winning acts, plus a free behind-the-scenes tour the first weekend of every month. Easy access and safe parking make it a downtown staple.

Old-school charm meets indie cinema at Gateway, Fort Lauderdale's oldest movie theater, operating since 1951. The lobby and screening rooms still carry that mid-century feel. They show a smart mix of independent and first-run films, with a consistent lineup of gay-themed titles. It's a straight-friendly space in Wilton Manors, where both quality film and respectful audiences are the draw.

You can find designer jeans for $15 here, still with store tags on unworn shirts. The Poverello Center Thrift Store in Wilton Manors funds an HIV food bank that provides groceries for people with financial difficulties. Shoppers support a direct cause while browsing furniture, bric-a-brac, and a huge collection of household items. Prices are budget-friendly, and regulars praise it as one of the best thrift stores in the area. The vibe is hands-on and donation-driven, with less clothing selection than typical thrift stores. If you're furnishing a new place, this is where to start. The store is open daily from 10am to 6pm. Check the back for deeper deals on furniture.

You'll notice the muscle twunks dancing behind the square bar the moment you walk in. LeBoy is a men-only adult nightclub with Latino, Black, and white dancers, indoor and outdoor seating, and a lap dance area in the back hall. Cover is free, and drinks come strong for the price. The crowd skews younger and leans toward twinks and mixed males. DJ Richie Rich spins music that keeps the vibe rowdy. Lap dances run $20 to the dancer per song plus $15 to the house. Check the schedule for occasional drag shows or BBQ on the patio. Hours are 7pm to 2am most nights, 3am on Fridays and Saturdays.

Manor Inn is a men-only clothing-optional B&B in Wilton Manors, within walking distance of the area's gay bars. The property offers outdoor seating and a swimming pool but has drawn criticism for its dated decor and inconsistent service. While some guests found rooms clean, others reported issues with reservations and noise.

Walking in, you're greeted by a relaxed, welcoming vibe where clothing is optional and body shaming is not tolerated. The Big Coconut Guesthouse (formerly Coconut Cove) is a men-only, gay-owned guesthouse near Fort Lauderdale Beach. Its spacious rooms feature full kitchens and separate living and dining areas. A full breakfast, not just a muffin, sets it apart from other nearby gay guesthouses. The pool area is a social hub, sun-drenched and clothing-optional. Guests are mostly bears, creating a non-judgmental atmosphere. The location gives easy access to both the beach and Wilton Manors nightlife. Pets are welcome. It's an island paradise on the beach, perfect for soaking up sun and enjoying naked pool time. A friendly host sets the tone for a relaxed stay.

Don't mistake this for a typical chain hotel. Worthington Resorts Fort Lauderdale Beach (formerly Villa Venice Men's Resort) is an all-male, clothing-optional resort just two blocks from Sebastian Street Beach, offering a 15-man Roman spa and a clothing-optional pool. The vibe is relaxed and social, with continental breakfast included. Reviews are split: some guests praise the friendly staff and stylish rooms, while others note cleanliness issues that new owners are reportedly addressing. The location in the gay guesthouse district is a plus. If you're considering other gay-friendly stays nearby, W Fort Lauderdale offers a different, more upscale scene.

"I had the fish sandwich which was hot and tasty," one Yelp reviewer notes about Aruba Beach Cafe in Lauderdale by the Sea. This beachfront spot channels a casual Caribbean atmosphere, with indoor and patio seating that catches the ocean breeze. It's a family-style American bar and restaurant serving seafood and American fare, from a breakfast buffet to Greek salads and portobello mushroom burgers. Parking is difficult, but valet parking is available and worth using. The crowd leans straight, which might be a factor for queer visitors. Hours run late every night, especially weekends. Live music sometimes plays inside. It's a busy place, especially on weekends, so expect a full house.

"I couldn't have been more wrong" — that's what one Miami reviewer said after trying Sozo Sushi Bar in Wilton Manors. This cozy family-run spot earns a 4.6/5 Yelp rating from 171 reviews, praised for first-rate sushi that's fresh and well-executed. The space is small with limited seating, so plan accordingly. Diners rave about the Mangotango and Sozo rolls, plus spicy seafood soup that's "excellent and spicy as advertised." You'll find reasonable prices compared to Miami, and the team makes you feel at home, especially solo diners at the sushi bar. Open Tuesday through Sunday from 4:30pm, with later hours until 10pm on Friday and Saturday. If you're exploring Wilton Manors, you can also walk over to Rosie's Bar & Grill for a drink after dinner.

The quiet galleries here hold stories from the early days of the epidemic to the present. The World AIDS MUSEUM and Educational Center in Wilton Manors uses two intimate art galleries to convey the human impact of AIDS, with exhibits designed to pull at your heartstrings. It's a space for reflection and learning, not a conventional museum. You'll find it open Tuesday through Saturday, noon to 6pm, with a high Yelp rating of 4.7. The museum is a short walk from other local spots, including Island City Stage, a nearby LGBTQ-focused theater. Best visited on a weekday afternoon when it's less crowded, allowing you to take your time with each exhibit.

Cheston House is one of the last remaining male-only clothing-optional resorts in Fort Lauderdale, a distinction that sets it apart as other guesthouses move to "gay friendly" models. Located in the gay guesthouse area near the beach, this adults-only property offers quiet, discreet stays with a 24-hour heated pool, a clothing-optional courtyard, and evening cocktail parties. It's LGBTQ-owned and attracts a mix of 20s to 40s guests looking for a lively but not overly cruisy atmosphere. The rooms are standard and clean, though some recent reviews mention wear. A continental breakfast is included, and there is a daily parking fee. The pool area has some visibility from neighboring buildings, which may affect the clothing-optional experience. Hours are limited: the office is open 8:45am to 6pm daily. It's a short walk to the beach and a quick drive to Wilton Manors. If you want more privacy, you might prefer B Ocean Resort Fort Lauderdale. Check recent reviews before booking, as service and cleanliness have drawn mixed feedback.

RockHard Lovestuff is a shop in Wilton Manors where the name tells you exactly what to expect: adult toys, porn, and gay-themed gifts. The tagline says it all, and the shelves back it up with a focused selection of lube, greeting cards, and paraphernalia. It's a no-frills stop for essentials or curiosities. Drop by when you're in the neighborhood, and if you're exploring further, check out LeatherWerks nearby for apparel and gear.

Rendez-Vous is open from 8am to 9pm or later most days, making it a reliable spot for breakfast through dinner in Wilton Manors. The French bistro serves authentic cuisine without pretense, with a staff that speaks both French and English. Menu favorites include moules frites, the brisket sandwich, and several egg dishes. The bakery case offers a selection of French treats for a quick bite or takeaway. Customers mention the omelettes and the crispy fries; expect about $25 per person for a full meal. If you're in the area for a longer visit, you could also check out Rosie's Bar & Grill for a different vibe.

First-time visitors notice the sprawling casino floor and the massive guitar-shaped hotel. The Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino in Hollywood is a major concert venue, hosting big-name artists like Adam Lambert and Kathy Griffin. It's a performance space that blends high-energy gaming with top-tier entertainment. The venue's theater and gallery spaces attract a diverse crowd. If you're looking for more arts in the area, check out NSU Art Museum Fort Lauderdale. Best time to visit is during a show you want to see; otherwise, the casino is always buzzing.

You'll find a relaxed, upscale crowd of men in their 30s to 50s lounging by the pool at Pineapple Point Guest House. This clothing-optional resort is LGBTQ-owned and designed like a Key West-style retreat, with high thread-count sheets and fully-equipped kitchens in the rooms. Guests consistently praise the attentive staff and lush tropical grounds. The property is a couple miles from the beach, but many guests never leave the pool area. A short drive takes you to Las Olas Boulevard with restaurants and shops, or to Wilton Manons for more gay nightlife. Open 24 hours, it's a favorite annual getaway for locals and visitors alike. Get directions and hours.

What you'll notice first at Le Patio is how small the space is, but the outdoor back patio makes it feel intimate and charming. Owned by couple Jean & Vero, this Wilton Manors spot serves comfort food classics like French onion soup, lasagna, shepherd's pie, and mac and cheese. It's a favorite among locals who appreciate the personal welcome and passion for the food. Lunch runs from 11:30 to 2:00, closed Sundays, with dinner service starting at 5:30. Plan to settle in with a glass of wine and take your time, this isn't a quick in-and-out place. If you're looking for a low-key meal away from the bigger restaurants nearby, consider stopping by Rosie's Bar & Grill afterward for drinks.

This is a good spot for gay men who want a fresh swimsuit for pool parties or the beach, without the worn-out look. Ball Beachwear in Wilton Manors specializes in men's swimwear and beach attire, carrying their own line of suits with a distinctive push-up feature. Prices are moderate to standard for specialty swimwear. The store offers clothing and accessories, plus sporting goods. One reviewer noted the return policy only offers store credit, so ask before you buy. If you're exploring Wilton Manors, To The Moon is another nearby shop worth checking out.

You'll find a mixed crowd here — locals and tourists, gay and straight — all digging into hefty portions of Greek food. Greek Islands Taverna sits around the corner from Dudes, a popular gay bar, making it a convenient pre- or post-drink stop. The vibe is casual and bustling, with outdoor seating that fills up fast. The menu covers classics like lamb, shrimp, and hummus, with most plates landing at reasonable prices for the beachside area. Service can be inconsistent, so be patient. A regular's tip: skip the complicated entrance and head straight for the host stand in the middle of the room. The hummus is fresh and comes with warm bread. If you're nearby, Casablanca Cafe is another option worth trying.