When you’re looking to have a little fun in a space that welcomes you as you are, the LGBTQ+ bar scene just can’t be beat.
Whether you’re gay or straight or somewhere between, Silicon Valley’s long-running queer spaces welcome you to explore your truest self-expression with a cold drink and a few lifelong friends. Everyone is someone, after all.
See also: The Ultimate San Jose Neighborhood Guide
The Silicon Valley queer scene was once a thriving and bustling community, and while there are only a handful of LGBTQ+ specific bars still running today, the group of individuals who people these bars and clubs keep the energy of the past alive.
Whether you’re looking for a rowdy drag show, a long night of dancing, karaoke, trivia night or just a chill place to get together with your best buds, these LGBTQ+ bars are happening spots proven to make good nights a regular.
39 Post St., San Jose; 408-288-8221 / Website
San Jose’s oldest gay bar has seen some things in its 50-or-so-odd years of experience. From police raids to the AIDs epidemic, this historical establishment has weathered the decades with grace and a smile. Though it changed buildings in 1998, Mac’s continues to thrive thanks to its friendly atmosphere and laidback patio. It’s still a favorite for an intimate drink with friends in a relaxing space.
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65 Post St, San Jose; 408-292-2222 / Website
Dance the night away at this award-winning nightclub boasting two levels of dance floor space and a weekly lineup of DJs, performances and karaoke fun that fills every night of the week. A favorite hangout for the local LGBTQ+ community, Splash brings RuPaul Drag Race icons for meet and greets, hosts trivia and ladies' nights, and keeps a high-energy vibe going with lots of lasers, hanging decor and club-fueling cocktails.
501 W Taylor St., San Jose / Website
If you’re looking for a show, Renegades is the neighborhood bar serving the LGBTQ+ community and its allies with lively performances six nights a week. From the campy antics of WooWoo's Cirq-us to the Trousers Down men-only underwear party, Saturday's weekly open-call Drag competition, and What The Blank?! Wednesday trivia, there’s always something fun and flirty going down at this watering hole!
Ready to explore even more of the Bay Area’s LGBTQ+ scene? If you’re willing to take a drive, our list of the best LGBTQ+ bars in San Francisco has lots of variety and activities to offer. Maybe you want to party a little closer to home? Mix up a bit of fun with this Pride cocktail recipe from Madonna—yes, that Madonna!
Photography by: AK2 / Getty
