Gay Bars, Hotels & Venues in Bloomington, IN — 8 LGBTQ+ Spots

Bloomington's only lesbian bar stands out by packing drag shows, dancing, live bands, and karaoke into one welcoming space. The Back Door has been a women-led fixture since 2013, drawing a mixed crowd of 20-somethings and 30-somethings who come for nightly events and a casual vibe. The outdoor patio and smoking area give you room to breathe between acts. It's pet-friendly, so your dog can join. Friday and Saturday hours stretch until 3am, making it a late-night anchor for the local queer scene.

The scent of fresh herbs and brewing coffee greets you at FARM, a Bloomington spot committed to local, organic ingredients. Their brunch draws a crowd, especially when paired with a Bloody Mary from the FARMbar. It's a place where a mix of liberal locals, including LGBTQ+ patrons and university folks, gather. The chef often comes out to show some love, making everyone feel welcome. FARM serves American fare, including pizza, and operates on a split schedule: early mornings for breakfast and lunch, then reopening for dinner. Sunday hours are unconfirmed, so check ahead. If you're exploring the area, Sweet Grass is another queer-friendly nearby spot worth a visit.

Bloomingtons College Avenue has been home to Trojan Horse since 1978, a Greek and Mediterranean staple. You can go for the gyros and hummus, but the homemade baklava ice cream is the real draw. The place is casual, with free WiFi and a full bar that pours sangria. Its a straightforward, no-frills spot that locals rely on for consistent Greek favorites. Regulars know to save room for dessert. The baklava ice cream is made in-house and often sells out, so get there early if you want a scoop. Friday and Saturday hours extend to 10pm, making it a decent option for a relaxed dinner out.

Sweet Grass brings a taste of the Carolinas to Bloomington, offering cajun-creole and southern comfort food since 2009. Reinvented in 2018, it's transitioning to a modern southern kitchen with an upgraded style. You'll find live music five nights a week, plus a full bar and dog-friendly outdoor seating. The vibe is casual and welcoming, kid-friendly too. They take reservations, so you can plan around the music schedule. If you're exploring downtown, take an evening stroll to Trojan Horse for another local favorite.

This Hilton Garden Inn sits right on the Bloomington Square, placing you in the center of downtown. Indiana University and the Monroe County Convention Center are no more than six blocks away in either direction. Coaches Bar and Grill, the hotel's own full-service restaurant and bar, serves breakfast and dinner plus late-night drinks. A 24-hour Pavilion Pantry handles other cravings. The hotel also offers free WiFi and an on-site ATM. Rooms are spacious with marble bathrooms and flat-screen TVs. You'll find over 5,000 square feet of meeting space for events or business. The hotel is a short drive from Lake Monroe and Brown County State Park. For a different vibe, consider the Scholar's Inn Bed & Breakfast, a nearby option with its own character.

This place is for travelers who want the charm of a historic B&B without the creaky floors. The Grant Street Inn offers 40 unique rooms, each different: Victorian, Cottage, or Chic Contemporary. It's an award winning B&B located four blocks from Courthouse Square in a quiet Bloomington neighborhood. The inn serves a gourmet breakfast buffet every morning. A LEED certified building houses the fitness center. Hours show it's open 24/7, so late arrivals are fine. If that's booked, the Scholar's Inn Bed & Breakfast is another local option."

Scholar's Inn Bed & Breakfast draws a mix of visitors who appreciate historic charm and modern comfort. This 1903 property, originally the Showers-Graham House, is on the National Register of Historic Properties. The inn combines art-nouveau and arts-and-crafts aesthetics with conveniences like Keurig coffeemakers, free WiFi, and flat-screen TVs. All rooms are private and include down comforters and Gilchrist & Soames toiletries. The inn is located three blocks from the courthouse square and five blocks from Indiana University, making it easy to explore Bloomington on foot. Free parking is included. The owner loves sharing the home's history and comforts with guests. Hours are 7am to 5pm daily.

Anyetsang's Little Tibet is open for lunch and dinner daily, with a midday break between 3pm and 5pm. It serves Tibetan, Thai, and Indian food in a casual setting. Bloomington locals love the curries and samosas, and the restaurant's $ price range makes it an easy choice for a relaxed meal. You can make reservations here, which is handy on busy nights. The outdoor patio is a nice spot when weather cooperates. Beer and wine are available, but no full bar. If you're planning a bigger night out, nearby Sweet Grass is a popular option for Southern-inspired fare.