Much has changed since the nightclub scene of the 20th century. With the embracing of queer culture and self-recognition of identities beyond just lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender, a whole new world has opened up. It’s impossible not to recognize the advent of the internet; hook-up, dating and social apps; and the legalization of same-sex marriage. By 2015, our culture had dramatically changed.
It became okay to be gay in a straight space. Lots of younger individuals in the LGBTQ+ community preferred being in environments that were welcoming to a diverse crowd with a blend of genders, orientations and more.
Then came 2016 and the Trump era.
That changed the socio-political environment. Much that we had accomplished felt as though it was being lost and undone. Hostility towards the LGBTQ+ community became more commonplace again. And the pandemic forced us to ostracize ourselves from socializing in crowded settings.
Statistics begin to show that gay clubs were on a down slope and closing around the country in droves. Bars and clubs catering to specific lesbian crowds all but vanished across the country.
These days, it appears that tide is changing. Typically, nightclubs and bars have a lifespan of about five years, as proven by many right here in North Carolina that have outlived that expiration date many times over. It is quite possible, if not downright successful.
Why is that? Despite the legalization of same-sex marriage, in the years that have followed, our community has seen many major legal setbacks from right-wing politicians motivated by Donald Trump and his followers. Outright hate attacks generated by maniacal MAGA conservatives, aimed mostly at the trans and drag communities, have led to introspection and a need for support and connection within our own community.
Across the country and our state, bars and nightclubs geared towards the LGBTQ+ community regularly open and close. One thing’s for sure: there are far more such businesses catering to our community now than there were just five years ago.
Ultimately – despite the fact we poured over the state of North Carolina – this list is by no means completely exhaustive, but it is extensive and as in-depth as possible.
Here’s our look at many of the welcoming and specific LGBTQ+ nightclubs across North Carolina. You’ll find them listed in alphabetical order by city or town and with a little bit of something for everyone in our community.
• Asheville
O. Henry’s
At 237 Haywood Street, O. Henry’s is touted as having amazing staff, stiff drinks and one of the best drag shows in town. It’s also one of the oldest bars in North Carolina
Scandals Nightclub
Located at 11 Grove Street. It’s a mix of dance club and stage performance.
27 Club
It’s at 180 Patton Avenue and boasts a live performance bar and cocktail lounge. It’s popular with a LGBTQ+ and straight clientele who flock to the club to see counterculture Indie bands.
• Boone
Lily’s Snack Bar
The mountain town of Boone boasts Lily’s Snack Bar, a LGBTQ+ welcoming bar that promises “dank sandwiches and drinks” and frequently hosts regular drag shows. It’s located at 455 Blowing Rock Road.
• Charlotte
The Queen City appears to be queer central when it comes to LGBTQ+ bars and clubs in North Carolina, with a total of eight currently serving the city. Chances are, that number will increase in the near future.
Bar Argon
Video and dance bar welcoming to the entire lgbtq+ community. Implodes drug shows and dedicated video bar for relaxing. Located at 4544 South Boulevard.
Chasers
This bar has been in business for over 30 years and continues to welcome LGBTQ+ patrons to the extended NoDa area. The club regularly hosts karaoke night, country dance nights, and FURnace, geared towards the gay bear community. They are located at 3217 The Plaza.
Club Myxx
Established in 1992, Club Myxx describe their entertainment as culturally diverse and artistically funky with DJ Nikki the Kee spinning “the sounds of the underground.” They’re in uptown Charlotte at 225 N. Caldwell Street.
Hattie’s Tap and Tavern
Described as a friendly neighborhood joint that’s great for a low-key night out, this bar allows you to bring along your canine pals and features live music, comedy shows, burlesque and more. While not specifically a LGBTQ+ bar, it’s popular with the femme lesbian set. Also in the general NoDa area, their address is 2918 the Plaza.
Petra’s
Located in Plaza Midwood in the Thomas Street area, Petra’s features live music on occasion and often attracts the neighborhood LGBTQ+ crowd. You’ll find this business at 1919 Commonwealth Avenue.
Scorpio
The granddaddy of them all. Big dance club with a huge history, drag performances, dancing and now in an all-new upscale location at 225 Fairwood Avenue in Charlotte’s South End neighborhood.
Sidelines
It’s located at 4544 South boulevard, just next door to Bar Argon. Sidelines is a laid-back drink and get comfortable kind of place, with pool tables and a friendly welcoming environment.
The Woodshed
Leather-bear-fetish bar that was a barbecue restaurant and previously somebody’s house. It’s fun and welcoming and located at 3935 Queen City Drive in West Charlotte, parallel to I-85.
• Durham
Pinhook
Located at 117 West Main Street, Pinhook describes itself as a “queer owned and operated 200 capacity music venue and event space with great sound and an amazing supportive and ‘badass’ staff.” While they are a performance venue and not a bar and do not have regular hours, they frequently hold special events.
Arcana Bar and Lounge
One of only two known clubs that cater to a lesbian clientele located in North Carolina, Arcana features a full bar, tarot readings, queer craft nights, figure drawing and more. They’re located at 331 West Main Street, with an entrance in the rear.
• Greensboro
Chemistry
At 2901 Spring Garden Street, it’s a popular dance club that features drag and multiple theme party events.
Twist Lounge
Touted as a friendly bar similar to a Queer Cheers, Twist Lounge features a comfortable environment with drag, lesbian-focused nights and fetish events. It’s located at 435-M Dollar Madison Rd.
• Hickory
Club Cabaret
For more than 35 years Club Cabaret has provided a home for LGBTQ+ folks in Hickory and the surrounding area. Lauded for entertainment from top male and female impersonators, the club offers dancing and drink specials every Saturday night. Additionally, the space is available for special events. They’re located at 101 North Center Street.
• Raleigh
Legends has been in business for 33 years. A popular nightclub for the LGBTQ+ community, it features drag shows, a dance floor and plenty of space to get comfortable. It’s currently located at 330 West Market Street, but there have been unconfirmed conversation of plans to move to a new address in the near future.
Flex
This club can be found at 615 West Hargett Street. It’s been around for almost a quarter of a century now and features track shows, karaoke, underwear parties and male dancers.
The Green Monkey
Popular with a Lesbian crowd, this spot is a blend of different things: a gift shop selling souvenirs and locally made clothing and jewelry, as well as a craft brew and wine bar. Located at 215 South Washington Street.
The Night Rider
A welcoming spot for everyone in our community, This spot features live performance, karaoke nights and a full bar. It’s at 416 West South Street.
Ruby Deluxe
This club is geared towards a youngish queer crowd. The features drag kings and queens, karaoke, seasonal parties and more, designed with the counterculture set in mind. It’s located at 415 South Salisbury Street.
The Wicked Witch
Inclusive club welcoming to our community. Overall general counter-culture feel that includes a goth vibe, dance floor, retro new wave night, art exhibits and occasional live performance. Also at 416 West South Street.
• Wilmington
Club Ibiza
This one appears to be quite the happening spot for Wilmington. Big dance parties, big drag and even a personalized drink menu with cocktails that have names like “Ibiza Sunset,” “The Lesbian” and “Ninja Turtle.” Their address is 118 Market Street.
• Winston-Salem
Euphoria Dance and Nightclub
Euphoria promotes an inclusive vibe that welcomes the LGBTQ+ community and allies to experience a daytime lounge, evening karaoke, dancing and various theme parties. They’re located at 701 North Trade Street.
