Los Angeles is a sprawling canvas of queer culture, from the glittering drag stages of West Hollywood to the leather dens of Silver Lake. Each neighborhood brings its own flavor—some rooted in activism, others in late-night revelry. This guide highlights ten institutions that have shaped, and continue shaping, LA’s LGBTQ+ scene—whether you’re sipping a cocktail, hitting the dance floor, or honoring history.

Akbar (Silver Lake)

A beloved dive bar since 1996, Akbar melds grungy charm with creative energy. It draws a mixed crowd—including LGBTQ+ locals and hipsters—thanks to its affordable drinks, back-room dance floor, and ever-changing lineup of events like "Bears in Space" DJs. 

Source: Advocate

The Abbey (West Hollywood)

An international icon since the late ’80s, The Abbey is a multi-room destination with strong cocktails (hello, original appletini), drag brunches, and Gothic-Mediterranean flair. Despite its tourist draw, it remains a community hub and was among the first to ban bachelorette parties pre-marriage equality. 

Source: Los Angeles Times

Hi Tops (West Hollywood & Los Feliz)

A gay sports bar with roots in San Francisco, Hi Tops balances camaraderie and nightlife. Expect solid cocktails, tasty bar food (their fried chicken sandwich steals the show), and crowds gathering for games or dancing.

Source: Travel Gay

Roosterfish (Venice)

Resurrected by local owners, Roosterfish blends dive-bar warmth with friendly pricing and weekly specials. Its cozy layout—complete with bar games—makes it a neighborhood gem. 

Source: Q Voice News

Micky’s (West Hollywood)

Known for its high-energy drag nights and two-floor layout, Micky’s thrives on cheap drinks, crowded dance floors, and vivid nightlife—open late and always humming. 

Source: Where to find Drag

Schmitty’s (West Hollywood)

This long-standing spot keeps things casual with a cocktail bar, piano, patio seating, and transparent windows overlooking Santa Monica Boulevard—a favorite for people-watching and relaxed evenings. 

Source: Weho_times (Instagram)

Mother Lode (West Hollywood)

A dive bar staple built around a pool table and classic video games. With its sturdy mixed drinks and no-nonsense vibe, it’s beloved for crowding strength over style and offering genuine happy-hour value.

Source: WeHo Times

Or Bar (West Hollywood)

Craft cocktails meet plush glamour in this lounge-and-coffee hybrid. By day, it’s a stylish café; by night, a shimmering LGBTQ+ cocktail spot—with candlelit tables, espresso, and plush seating for an intimate vibe.

Source: TheOrBar

Eagle LA (Silver Lake)

A leather-and-BDSM landmark since the early 2000s, Eagle LA offers dark, rugged spaces and monthly themed events like Leather Mondays. It’s a cornerstone for the bear and leatherman communities. 

Source: Eagle LA

Black Cat Tavern (Silver Lake)

Dating back to the 1960s, this historic bar played a pioneering role in LGBTQ+ resistance. Today, it’s a lively and welcoming spot with drag bingo, DJ nights, and cocktails—honoring its legacy while embracing the future.

Source: LA Conservancy

These ten bars are more than places to dance, drink, or flirt—they're threads in the fabric of queer Los Angeles. They’ve held space through generations, welcomed new faces with open arms, and kept the lights on when the world outside felt dim. However you show up, these bars are waiting.