Gay Local Tips in Phoenix

A Gay Oasis in the Desert

Justin & Zach, a couple of amazing hosts from Phoenix, invite you to discover their LGBTQ oasis in the American Southwest. The boys explain how to take advantage of this unique city that prizes both local fare and a relaxed atmosphere. Get ready to write down their 'must' addresses. Phoenix is a great destination for nature lovers where you can enjoy the mountains in the morning and a crisp beer with the guys in the evening. So go on, experience your pride here.

How gay-friendly is your city? What’s gay life like there?

Phoenix is a large city, so there is a pretty gay-friendly and progressive vibe. Even some of the outlying smaller cities that you wouldn't think would be, really have been open and inviting in our experience. If you are feeling very adventurous, you could rent a car. It is not necessary but it would allow you to travel around the region and find the perfect spot to take a great photo of the desert's natural beauty.

What are the best gay events that take place in your city each year?

We enjoy going to Phoenix Pride and Rainbow's Festival (similar to Pride). One of the great things about our city is the no-fuss queen scene. Here, everyone is welcome to come as they are. It is really refreshing. It makes the term oasis appear even more apt. There are also various circuit parties, music festivals and rallies. Being a capital city means there is generally something going on. For us it is the perfect blend between the big city life and a closeness to nature.

We only have 48 hours in your city. What can’t we miss?

Phoenix has a passion for everything 'local'! I would check out some of the best local restaurants in Central Phoenix. If you have never been to Phoenix before, or never spent much time in the desert, hike up one of the many mountains in or around the city (Camelback, Piestewa, South or North Mountain) and get a great view of the topography and the city's sprawl. The Desert Botanical Gardens is always a great time too.

What’s your favorite gay place to grab a bite for lunch? A nice dinner?

We love going to Hula's on 7th Street in Uptown Phoenix. This is one of our favorite local restaurants and it tends to be popular amongst the gay community. For a nice dinner, we love Bitter & Twisted in Downtown Phoenix. They offer tasty and trendy food with an upscale-lounge feel.

A gay place for brunch on weekends?

Oh! There are so many good brunch spots! It would be hard to choose just one. Our favorite is St. Francis in Central Phoenix with their eggs benedict with fingerling potatoes *heart-eyes-emoji*. They have exceptional meals. They offer healthy meals for kids and a seasonal menu that incorporates the freshest ingredients available. But I would encourage people to explore downtown because you will find something unique and sure to surprise.

Best gay place and day for a cheap beer or happy hour?

Friday nights at Anvil is our ‘go-to’. It's a 'Leather & Denim' bar but loved by all. The bar is not pretentious, offering a very friendly staff and atmosphere. It is a great place to go to just chill and be yourself. Everyone is welcome. Sundays are popular at Charlie's for Sunday-Funday. They have amazing drink specials and the entertainment is always top-notch. It is currently the largest gay bar in Phoenix.

We’re ready to party! What are the best gay clubs?

The bar scene is where it is at. Charlie's is the largest, and has a dance floor inside where they also host drag shows. You can enjoy their huge patio outside which is where everyone hangs out. Otherwise, BS West in Scottsdale is a nightclub where you can really enjoy yourself on a Saturday night. SO MUCH FUN.

What are the best alternative gay bars and clubs where you live?

Anvil is a lot of fun and has many different themed nights, from Leather to Puppy Play to Gear, if that tickles your fancy. In you're feeling festive, there are also similar events at The Rock like Bearracuda. Phoenix has gorgeous weather all year long. The warmth of the city really creates an environment in which nightlife can really flourish.

Any beaches, parks or best other places to chill out?

There are a number of parks and such to hang out. Some offer more than others. We enjoy going to Tempe 'Beach' Park, which is right off Mill Ave (like Downtown Tempe). It's quite a large park, which hosts a number of festivals and events, and it is right off the canal (man-made river extension). The park has a path around it where you can walk/run/skate. We like to call it the boardwalk of Phoenix. It's a really charming place to take a stroll. This can be a fun place to hang out and not feel like you’re in the middle of the desert. This is where you will find some of the bars and restaurants we have mentioned.

Where can we get the best view of Phoenix?

Again, I would recommend hiking up one of the aforementioned mountains. Depending on where they are, you can get a different view of the city. The parks and peaks that make up the Phoenix Mountains Preserve are surrounded by civilization, but they feel as remote as the Sonoran Desert outside the city. It's a great place to meditate, enjoy the scenary and hike with friends. Located in the heart of Central Phoenix and just 20 minutes from downtown, the preserve offers hiking, biking, and views from prominent summits such as Piestewa Peak and Camelback Mountain.

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Thinking of visiting Phoenix? Check out our Accommodations for this great gay city!

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