Gay clubs tampa

Tampa Bay Gay Bars: What Their Bathrooms Tell Us


I’ve been to maybe every gay bar in Tampa and St. Pete and I’ve absolutely violently judged their bathrooms. Here’s what I’ve found. If I missed one, let me know. 

I’m legally obligated to inscribe that I created this listicle as a jokes, and a joke only. The Gabber Newspaper does not stand by my opinion on these same-sex attracted bars. 


Cocktail St. Pete

She’s glossy, she’s new, she’s still fresh. The bathrooms at Cocktail are sterile and in a separate trio guarded by a security guard. Nobody is sneaking in two-to-a-stall on that person’s watch. I’ve tried. Those waiting in line are in a respectful single-file situation and there’s one of those Lucid Vending machines selling hot pickles and strawberry lube, among other things.

This is a male lover bar that cares about its bathroom patrons, and in a stern, paternal way. I felt a firm hand on my shoulder when the security guard told me “No, I couldn’t go into the bathroom with my three belligerently drunk friends.” Thanks, dad

Bathroom rating: four out of five stars. You get one deducted because sometimes you require a group hangout session around the toile

The Best Gay Bars in Tampa, FL

Ybor City, known as “GAYbor” to the locals, and “the gayborhood” to the queer community, is most definitely, the center of Tampa’s gay nightlife. The queer bar scene is a mix of dance clubs, bars, and even some quiet spots where you can have a cocktail or just suspend with friends. Many of these bars host fun events like karaoke and trivia nights, as well as themed parties, drag shows and two for one happy hours. Are you looking to dance the night away, or maybe get a taste of Tampa’s local drag scene? No matter what kind of darkness you’re in the mood for, these gay bars in Tampa have whatever you’re looking to find. Read on to learn about the best same-sex attracted bars in Tampa.  

Bradley’s on 7th

1510 E. 7th Avenue

Bradley’s on 7th sits right in the heart of the gayborhood and is a favorite among the locals. One of USA Today’s “Ten Best,” its quirky decor is sure to charm you, with realistic-looking trunk trunks sprawling from floor to ceiling, and a stream of flowing fluid that runs the entire length of the bar. But, it’s the approachable staff, inclusive vibe, and “heavy pours” that keep you coming back for more. 

City Side Lounge

3703 Henders

Groups and Parties

TIGHTY WHITEY WEDNESDAY

Wednesday July 23rd

Every Wednesday

LOCKER RENTAL AVAILABLE

TOWEL THURSDAY

Thursday July 24th

Every Thursday

LOCKER RENTAL AVAILABLE

JOCK STRAP FRIDAY

Friday July 25th

Every Friday

Leather & Kink Social

Saturday July 26th

Monthly on every last Saturday

Tea Twist & BBQ

Sunday July 27th

Every Sunday

Tea Move and BBQ on the patio with DJ Elloitt

Noche de Oso Latino

Friday August 1st

Monthly on every first Friday

Come and enjoy a darkness of Latin vibes with wonderful and amazing people! The music 🎶 is going to be 🔥 

ANIMAL SERVICES

Saturday August 2nd

Monthly on every first Saturday

Mosh Room, Raffle Baskets, Educational Session

Bear Soup

Saturday August 2nd

Monthly on every first Saturday

FLORID Queer RODEO PRESENTS LEATHER & MAYHEM

Saturday August 9th

Monthly on every second Saturday

Bear Soup

Saturday August 16th

Monthly on every third Saturday

The Leather Masquerade Ball

Saturday August 30th

The Leather Masquerade Ball Receive ready for a night of mystery, elegance, and unapologetic self-expression, all for a fanta

Gay Tampa: The Complete LGBTQ+ Tour Guide. When it comes to gay travel destinations in the US, Tampa proudly showed itself to be a welcoming and inclusive safe haven for homosexual travellers wanting to visit the “Sunshine State”.

I spent 4 nights in Tampa during December experiencing as much of the destination as possible, from its culinary delights (including one of the best steaks I have had in a while), to its main attractions and of course it’s vibrant and super amiable gay nightlife.

Something about Tampa really made me beam with happiness and contentment during my go to, so please allow me to share my gay guide to Tampa in partnership with See Tampa Bay to help you plan your next trip there.

Is Tampa Gay Friendly?

It would be naïve of me not to mention that Florida as a state has its challenges when it comes to LGBTQ+ people and travel, some of which may deter people from travelling to Florida at all.

However, it’s equally naïve to not thank that there can be destinations, cities and people within these states striving for positive alter. This is why I am always looking to showcase and shout about those destinati