Los Angeles is a vast and varied city, so it’s only to be expected that it offers more than just one gayborhood. Not only that, they’ve each developed their own identity in the crowd...
Los Angeles is a vast and varied city, so it’s only to be expected that it offers more than just one gayborhood. Not only that, they’ve each developed their own identity in the crowd they attract and the type of bars and clubs they offer. So in terms of gay places in LA, the options are endless, the only difficulty you’ll have is choosing the niche that best fits you!
West Hollywood (WeHo)
If history is your benchmark for the best gay district in a given city, then in Los Angeles you can’t go past West Hollywood (WeHo). This is the original district for LGBT LA, and its main artery is Santa Monica Boulevard. Here you will find plenty of lively gay bars and clubs, with rainbow flags abound. The Abbey is quite simply an LA icon, serving as a restaurant, bar, nightclub, and function centre for key LGBT-related events. Mickey’s and Rage are also well worth the visit thanks to their impressive club nights with DJs and drag performances.
Silver Lake and Downtown
Silver Lake is now commonly referred to as LA’s new gay mecca. It attracts a slightly more alternative scene, and is on the rise with new restaurants, gay bars, and gay clubs continuing to pop up. It is also the place to be if you are into leather, and is home to a large Latino population. Sunset Boulevard and Hyperion Boulevard are the main gay thoroughfares in this district.
An equally alternative gay scene can be found in upcoming Downtown. A melting pot of Little Tokyo, Chinatown, and a strong Latin community, Downtown hosts various one-off LGBT nights, called DTLA’s, in different venues throughout the area. Redline and Precint are also two excellent gay bars in Downtown that serve great cocktails and put on some pretty entertaining shows!
