Gay Bars & LGBTQ+ Venues in St. Louis, MO — Page 2

Think piano bars are stuffy? This Soulard spot flips that. It's a divey, casual lounge where the piano drives the vibe and the crowd sings along. Open until 1:30am most nights, with outdoor seating and happy hour deals. The 40s-50s crowd keeps things relaxed but social. It's budget-friendly, so you can grab a few rounds without breaking the bank. If you're bar-hopping Soulard, HandleBar is another nearby stop.

Expect a mix of students, professors, and locals settling in for conversation over pints. Dressel's Public House is a Welsh-inspired intellectual pub, opened by poet Jon Dressel in 1980 as a meeting place between two universities. The vibe is deliberately low-tech: no televisions, just classical or jazz music playing in the background. It's a spot built for talking, reading, or working through a crossword, not for sports or loud nights. The pub recently reopened after a long Covid closure, now featuring the Rock & Horse Brewing Company in the basement brewhouse. They've got a full bar, free wifi, and dog-friendly outdoor seating. If you're braver than the average patron, the menu includes cockle and laverbread, a nod to the Welsh theme. Best nights are Thursday through Saturday, but the quieter weekdays suit the conversation-first atmosphere better. Just across the street, Square One Brewery & Distillery offers another craft beer option if you want to pub-hop.

The smell of fresh bread and Boar's Head meats greets you as you step into Pickles Deli, a Central West End staple since 2007. Voted St. Louis' #1 Delicatessen eight years running by River Front Times, this casual cafe offers build-your-own sandwiches plus award-winning daily soups. The crowd is a friendly mix of gay and straight locals grabbing breakfast or lunch. Open weekdays 8am-3pm, it's a reliable spot for a hearty sandwich or house-made soup. Regulars love the Reuben, Italian, and the Famous Veggie. Beer and wine are available. Nearby, Rooster is another gay-friendly option for brunch.

This isn't your typical pho shop. Saigon Cafe brings Vietnamese flavors to St. Louis's Central West End with a full bar and a genuinely mixed gay/straight crowd. The manager Ando doubles as bartender, shaking up martinis that regulars praise. Dog-friendly outdoor seating makes it an easy stop year-round. You can reserve a table, which helps on weekend evenings. The vibe is casual, fitting the budget-friendly price tag. Happy hour runs daily, and the full cocktail menu goes beyond the usual beer-and-wine setup you'd expect at a Vietnamese spot.

Square One Brewery & Distillery is a brewpub in St. Louis's Lafayette Square that became the first micro-distillery restaurant in Missouri in 2008. It has a mixed-gaystraight vibe, with Yelp categories covering American (traditional), distilleries, and brewpubs. Owner-listed specialties include a multi-culturally influenced menu focused on appetizers for sharing, plus house-made desserts. Confirmed amenities include outdoor seating, happy hour, full bar, free wifi, and dog-friendly access. The kitchen has slightly earlier closing times than the bar: 9 pm on weeknights. One reviewer described a negative experience in which they felt discriminated against for being gay. Yelp rating is 3.9 out of 5 over 853 reviews.

Burger joints often lean on a fixed menu, but Bailey's Range in downtown St. Louis breaks that pattern. This spot lets you build your own burger and also offers an ice cream bar for a DIY dessert. The vibe is classic Americana, and the crowd is mixed gay and straight, making it a comfortable place for anyone. You'll find it on 10th Street, a straightforward walk from the Gateway Arch. Hours are listed as 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. daily, though you'll want to double-check before heading over. Regulars appreciate the flexibility of customizing everything, from patty to toppings. If you're in the area for a meal, you might also stop by Pappy's Smokehouse for a different kind of St. Louis flavor.

Downtown St. Louis is home to The Schlafly Tap Room, the city's original craft brewery. Opened in 1991 at 2100 Locust Street, it was the first new brewpub in Missouri since Prohibition. The space occupies a beautifully restored historic building originally built for the Swift Printing Company. Its steel girders and wood-and-brick interior create a casual earthy vibe. You'll find a mixed crowd of 30-somethings and a mix of gay and straight patrons enjoying European-style pub fare and a wide selection of beers. This place is a local staple for good reason. They serve lunch and dinner daily with a full bar and happy hour. Outdoor seating and free wifi are available. Their menu focuses on salads, soups, and sandwiches crafted to complement their beers. They also offer brunch specials on weekends. The brewery's commitment to sourcing from local farms and businesses adds to its neighborhood feel. If you're exploring other food options nearby, Pappy's Smokehouse is another great stop. The vibe here stays consistently relaxed and welcoming.

This isn't your typical hotel gym. Sante Fitness at The Chase Park Plaza is a full-feature fitness and wellness center with multi-level plans and options for personal training or general membership. It's a mixed-gay-straight space in St. Louis's Central West End, offering more than just weights and cardio. The amenities include massage, yoga, and spinning classes. Hours vary by day, so check before you go. It's a solid choice if you're staying at the hotel or live nearby and want a well-rounded gym without the locker room scene.

Eleven Eleven Mississippi is best for diners who want upscale farm-to-table cuisine with a serious wine program, in a setting that nods to St. Louis history. This award-winning restaurant, open since 2003 in Lafayette Square, occupies part of the old International Shoe factory. The space that once made women's shoe heels now serves Tuscan and Californian dishes crafted from seasonal ingredients, many from the restaurant's own hydroponic greenhouse. The patio is a local favorite, and the full bar and happy hour keep regulars coming back. It's a dressy but comfortable spot, popular with mixed crowds including queer diners. Reservations are recommended, especially on busy nights like Friday and Saturday. The wine list is a highlight here, alongside non-traditional Italian options (one regular calls it "great non traditional Italian food"). Note the split hours on Saturday: open 10am-1pm and then again 4pm-10pm. Late diners appreciate that they serve later than many nearby places, and the heated patio extends the season for al fresco dining. You'll find parking availability less of a hassle than in many other city neighborhoods.

Unlike a typical bar with a neon sign, this speakeasy hides behind a secret alley entrance in the historic Thaxton Building. It's password protected and requires getting on "The List" to know the code, and there's often a cover even with the password. The crowd is mixed gay and straight, and the venue is women-led.

This spot is best for budget-minded travelers craving Southern comfort food with a side of local color. C.J. Mugg's keeps it casual with a menu that spans American classics, Cajun-Creole dishes, and breakfast staples. The mixed-gay-straight crowd and outdoor seating make it a relaxed stop in Clayton. Hours run from 11 am to 11 pm Monday through Saturday, with shorter Sunday hours. The smoking area is a distinctive feature for those who want it. If you're exploring further, Pappy's Smokehouse is another local favorite for barbecue.

Frazer's Restaurant & Lounge in St. Louis stands out from other American restaurants thanks to chef-owner Frazer Cameron's globetrotting background. Since 1992, this Benton Park spot has served globally inspired dishes blending French, Moroccan, Italian, Mexican, and Cajun influences. The homemade desserts and full bar (with signature martinis and a careful wine list) round out the experience. It's a mixed-gaystraight crowd here, so you'll find a diverse, welcoming vibe. The outdoor patio is a prime spot when weather cooperates. Reservations are accepted; happy hour runs during the week. Best nights are Tuesday, Thursday, and Saturday per regulars. If you're exploring the area, Pappy's Smokehouse is another local favorite worth a stop.

Walking through the lobby, you'll see baseball memorabilia and floor-to-ceiling windows framing the ballpark. This Hilton is the baseball lover's dream, with city views that will have anyone in awe. It's just steps from Busch Stadium, making it ideal for game-day stays. The family-friendly vibe extends to the outdoor pool. You'll find it perched on Market Street, close to downtown attractions. For another nearby option, check out the Hyatt Regency St. Louis At The Arch.

Neon and velvet set the mood at this massive burlesque club, housed in a former 1920s speakeasy. It claims the title of the largest cabaret venue in the country, with dinner shows ranging from comedy-burlesque to cirque-inspired acts. The owners, Jim and Brandy Callahan, built the space on a shoestring budget and opened in 2015. Shows run about two hours, and you can book VIP packages that include fedoras or boas for your group. Sunday brunch brings a burlesque buffet. It's women-led and trans-friendly, drawing a mixed crowd in their 20s and 30s. Dressy attire is expected, so skip the shorts.

The teetering luggage statue by the main entrance sets the tone for one of the most eclectic hotel stays in St. Louis. Angad Arts Hotel, part of Tapestry Collection by Hilton, lets you choose a room based on the emotion of color: Freedom Blue, Rejuvenation Green, Empowerment Red, or Curiosity Yellow. Each floor's monochromatic, vivid rooms make for a bold backdrop. The hotel is LGBTQ+-friendly and less than a mile from the Grand Center Arts District, Powell Symphony Hall, and The Fabulous Fox Theater. You'll enter through an art gallery-like corridor and take the elevator to the 12th-floor lobby, filled with rotating art. Lobby hours are funky, so check the paperwork when you book. The ART rooftop bar offers skyline views, and there's outdoor seating and happy hour specials. Rooms are mostly the same layout but with unique art touches. Comfy beds, cool lobby, and easy layout. A car or Uber is best since walkable options are limited, but the nearby bathhouse is half a mile away. Short 1-2 night trip? This is the place to stay.

Warm colors and lush fabrics set the mood at Aya Sofia, a Turkish and Mediterranean destination in St. Louis's Southside. Chef-owner Mehmet Yildiz, born in Bergama, Izmir, brought his mother's recipes here when he opened in 2005 with architect-designer Alicia Aboussie. The menu spans traditional Turkish dishes like kofte and moussaka alongside Lebanese classics such as kibbe and tabouli. Vegetarian and gluten-free options are plentiful. A full bar with international wines and martinis complements the food. Brunch runs Saturdays and Sundays from 10am to 2pm, while dinner service is Wednesday through Sunday evenings. Reservations are accepted, and the outdoor seating is dog-friendly. If you're looking for more local flavor, nearby Pappy's Smokehouse is a popular stop for barbecue.

Hammerstone's has been a Soulard staple since 1997, serving American comfort food with live music every night. This family-owned spot is known for its Mardi Gras celebrations, an eight-foot TV screen, and a friendly mixed crowd. The patio is dog-friendly, and the vibe is divey and welcoming. You'll find solid bar food and a full bar with happy hour specials. Breakfast, lunch, and dinner are served daily, with late hours on Fridays and Saturdays. It's a laid-back place where regulars and newcomers alike feel at home. For live music and good food without pretension, this is your spot.

Hotel Saint Louis, Autograph Collection, is a historic downtown hotel that welcomes a mixed gay/straight and family-friendly crowd. Part of Marriott's Autograph Collection, it offers upscale amenities and a swimming pool for guests. The vibe is relaxed and inclusive, perfect for travelers seeking a comfortable stay in St. Louis. The hotel sits in the heart of Downtown, putting you close to attractions like the Gateway Arch. Locals appreciate the blend of historic charm and modern service. If you're looking for another great option nearby, check out the Hyatt Regency St. Louis At The Arch.

The Westin St. Louis occupies the historic Cupples Station with 263 oversized loft-style rooms and suites. This pet-friendly hotel welcomes all ages and offers a family-friendly vibe while being mixed gay and straight. You'll find the Clark Street Taphouse and Grill, a fitness studio, and free WiFi on site. It's steps from Busch Stadium, the Gateway Arch, and the MetroLink stop right outside. The hotel's 24-hour front desk and overnight hours mean you can check in anytime. Rooms are modern and spacious, perfect for travelers who want downtown access without the noise. Regulars like the convenience of walking to Ballpark Village or the Arch grounds. Check ratings and hours.

You might think a fritanga is just a quick snack bar, but Fritanga Nicaraguan Cuisine offers full restaurant options and is St. Louis' only Nicaraguan restaurant. It has a welcoming, mixed gay-straight crowd and outdoor seating when weather permits. The place is known for its carne asada, and the vibe of a traditional Nicaraguan snack bar comes through in the decor and service. Hours are limited: Wednesday through Sunday, with earlier closures on Sundays. It's located near Ann Ave, and the straightforward menu makes it easy to try something new. If you're exploring the city, you'll find it a distinct alternative to barbecue places like Pappy's Smokehouse nearby.

Iron Barley's High Hog Ridge might look like your typical dive bar, but it's got a traditional Irish feel and a regulars-only warmth that's anything but ordinary. The crowd is mixed gay-straight, the price is standard, and the fare is simple but tasty. Don't expect a fancy menu: this is a breakfast and sandwich kind of place, served in a no-frills setting where everyone seems to know each other. Go on a weekday afternoon if you want a quieter vibe. Weekend hours can be a bit loose (unconfirmed), so call ahead or check their social media. It's the kind of spot where you'll hear your name called out before you've even ordered. If you're in the mood for something different, Square One Brewery & Distillery is a nearby option for craft beer and pub food.

You'll find a mixed crowd here, from families to regulars enjoying Celtic-American fare and a huge beer selection. Llywelyn's Pub in Webster Groves offers over 30 beers on tap and a menu built around their Famous Steak and Cheese Sandwich with homemade chips and pepper cheese sauce. It's dog-friendly on the outdoor patio, and they serve late into the night on Fridays and Saturdays. The pub takes reservations and has a full bar plus happy hour specials. Best nights are Thursday through Saturday. If you want something different nearby, try Pappy's Smokehouse.

At The Cheshire, you'll find complimentary coffee and tea available around the clock, plus nightly chocolates and a free breakfast. This family-friendly hotel welcomes pets and offers a swimming pool, with a mixed gay/straight crowd that makes it inclusive for LGBTQ+ travelers. The hotel operates 24/7, so check-in is flexible. With a Yelp rating of 3.1 from 278 reviews, it's a solid choice for a comfortable stay. If you're looking for more upscale options, the nearby Angad Arts Hotel St. Louis offers a different vibe. Free wifi is included.

Black Sheep Whiskey & Wine in St. Louis is a cocktail bar that doubles as a wine bar with shareable plates and entrees. It offers an extensive list of wines and whiskeys, plus a craft cocktail program. Unlike a typical dive bar, this spot has a cozy vibe with outdoor seating and happy hour specials. It has a full bar and free WiFi, and it takes reservations. Mama2s Brunches runs in the same space Thursday through Sunday from 8 am to 2 pm. However, Yelp data suggests this venue may be permanently closed. If you're planning a visit, check current status before heading out. For a different St. Louis brunch experience, you might try Rooster nearby.

Chef Rob Connoley’s Ozark cuisine at Bulrush StL Restaurant is rooted in centuries of research, reflecting the region’s diverse populations and local sourcing. This LGBTQ+-owned spot earned Connoley a James Beard nomination and 2022 Best Chef from St. Louis’s Riverfront Times. It's a bold, hyper-seasonal menu that makes you think about foodways and their impact. The restaurant opened April 2019 in the Grand Center Arts District, near the Fox Theater and Symphony. It's a short walk from Pappy's Smokehouse if you want barbecue before or after. Yelp lists it at 4.9 stars from 133 reviews, but note the venue may be permanently closed. Reservations are accepted, and there's a full bar.

Bicycles line the walls at HandleBar, a bike-themed pub that embraces diversity with an eclectic menu. The two-story patio offers ample outdoor seating, and the bar stocks a huge selection of craft local beers. Russian-born owner Tatyana Telnikova serves authentic Russian dishes alongside pizzas and vegetarian options. The crowd skews 30s and 40s, with a mix of locals stopping by after work or on weekends. Thursday through Saturday are the busiest nights, with music and parties. Reservations are accepted, and free WiFi is available. The full bar and outdoor seating make it a solid choice for a relaxed evening.

Don't expect a hushed cocktail lounge. Prism is a cabaret and dive bar hybrid where drag shows run nightly and the patio stays busy late. This is St. Louis's newest LGBTQ+ hot spot, drawing a mixed crowd from 20-somethings to 50-somethings who come for the lively energy and budget-friendly drinks. Happy hour runs daily from 5 to 7 PM. There's a weekly drag brunch with mimosa and Bloody Mary specials, and you can reserve a table online. If you're bar-hopping, HandleBar is another nearby gay spot worth a stop.

This spot is for anyone who wants a frozen drink in a laid-back brick-walled bar with a side of drag. Tropical Liqueurs brings the energy with drag shows that keep the crowd entertained through the night. The exposed brick gives it an industrial feel, but the vibe stays casual and lively. You'll find outdoor seating when the weather cooperates, and happy hour specials draw an after-work crowd. Weekend nights are the busiest, with the bar open until 1:30am on Fridays and Saturdays. If you're bar-hopping, HandleBar is another local spot nearby worth checking out.

The crowd at Crown Candy Kitchen is a mix of families, date-night couples, and solo wanderers looking for a sugar fix. This retro soda fountain has been running since 1936, and the jukebox, Coca-Cola collectibles, and counter stools make the vintage vibe feel authentic, not staged. It's one of St. Louis' oldest sweet shops. You'll mostly find American comfort food like sandwiches and breakfast plates, but ice cream is the main event. You can also grab candy to go. For something savory afterward, Pappy's Smokehouse is nearby. there's outdoor seating if the weather cooperates, and dogs are welcome at those tables. Hours run 10:30am to 5pm daily, so plan an early visit. No alcohol here, just old-fashioned milkshakes and floats. This place is cash only, so bring bills.

Llywelyn's Pub is a solid choice if you're craving Celtic-American fare and a huge beer selection in a relaxed pub setting. This Soulard spot is one of six locations in the St. Louis area, with the original opening back in 1975. It's family-friendly and welcoming to a mixed gay-straight crowd, with late-night hours and a menu that includes their Famous Steak and Cheese Sandwich paired with house-made chips and pepper cheese sauce. Over 30 beers on tap give you plenty to sip on. Reservations are accepted, and there's outdoor seating when the weather cooperates. Happy hour and free WiFi are pluses. Note that Yelp lists this venue as potentially permanently closed, so check ahead before heading over. If you're exploring Soulard, you might also check out Square One Brewery & Distillery nearby.