Gay bars michigan

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You’ll find it on Sheldon Avenue across from the Veterans Memorial Park, marked by the fabulous rainbow road out front.

The Dunes Resort
333 Blue Star Hwy, Douglas|dunesresort.com

In Saugatuck, The Dunes Resort is known as one of the top American LGBTQ+ resorts. Whether you call yourself woman, alternative, transgender, fem, curious, homosexual, boi, daddy, drag king, questioning, drag queen, man, cross dresser, bisexual, butch, male, gal, transsexual, leather, boy, girl, lesbian, female, gay, bear, gurl, guy, or simply human - where to find a fun place to meet or scene to free your life.

Travel from south, central, city, north, downtown, east, country, west, uptown, or midtown - driving directions from your address to the location of the new Detroit, Michigan gay watering hole.

There is seating and some billiards tables near the dance floor as well for the more reserved patrons or if you need to catch your breath a little.

Eli Tea

Eli Tea is a modern tea café and specialty shop with a flagship store in downtown Birmingham, Michigan. More diverse groups of people = more fun. Look out for trivia nights and special events during the week as well.

Pronto!

As the TikTokers say, be mindful of why you were invited to the section.

That said, here’s a quick rundown of the gay bars in the region!

Rumors Nightclub
69 S. Division Ave., Grand Rapids|rumorsnightclub.net

An absolute cornerstone of the LGBTQ+ nightlife in Grand Rapids, Rumors Nightclub has been a staple since 1988.

WOW. As one of the oldest gay spaces in Detroit, this spot is true to its gay roots but is always open to anyone who wants to join the fun. We compiled a list to make it easier for you to have fun this summer while being your authentic self.

Layla McMurtrie is the digital editor of Detroit Metro Times.

It’s perfect as your mainstay for the evening or as a nightcap. Enjoy the lively cabaret performances on the lower level or dance the night away in their upstairs bar. It’s an ideal spot for those seeking a more intimate and low-key setting to socialize and make new friends.

General Wood Shop
507 Bridge St., Grand Rapids|generalwoodshop.com

General Wood Shop joined the ranks of the ever-growing Bridge Street opened last year and has been lit ever since.

This bar is glamorous and glitzorous, yet plenty casual and welcoming, with plenty of colorful cocktails alongside non-alcoholic “mock cocks.” But they’re not just a bar—they have a kitchen serving up tasty fusion food, including a variety of bao, a ramen burger and even sweet cheesecake wonton bites.

When you’re looking for a safe space to hang out with likeminded people, gay bars are the place to be.

While West Michigan could certainly use more dedicated LGBTQ+ spaces, the spots we do have are excellent institutions who have persisted for a reason. One of the largest LGBTQ+ resorts in the Midwest, The Dunes offers a wide variety of amenities including bars, a nightclub, a pool, and weekend events that draw crowds from all over the region.

Adam’s Apple is a smaller space in Warrendale that is known for karaoke nights on Thursdays, so get those singing pipes tuned and ready to belt. It’s a popular getaway spot that combines relaxation with vibrant nightlife, making it a beloved destination for many in the Grand Rapids area.

Club Vortex
502 S.

Burdick St., Kalamazoo

While Kalamazoo sadly doesn’t have a dedicated gay bar, Club Vortex is a pop-up LGBTQ+ club hosted at Blue Dolphin once a week (typically Saturdays). Luckily, in metro Detroit, there are a handful of LGBTQ+-centered venues and other spots that frequently hold queer-specific events. Located in the former gay mecca of Detroit, Palmer Park, the complex includes the Menjo’s Bar, the Eagle Leather Bar, and the Olympus Theater.

Try these LGBTQ bars and clubs for a guaranteed good time.

Gay-Friendly Bars & Clubs in Metro Detroit

Adam’s Apple

Oh, she’s understated and she’s fun! People go wild for the chicken wings and at night the stage is packed with enthusiastic party-goers. Depending on your device, get turn by turn driving directions from Google, Apple, Waze.

Not only does June mark Pride Month, but the summer season means it’s also time for the hotties to step out of the house and show out.

These bars and nightclubs are filled with people who want to dance and let loose. In other words: It’s a must-visit.

The Apartment Lounge
33 Sheldon Ave. NE, Grand Rapids|apartmentloungegr.com

The Apartment Lounge, affectionately known as The Apartment, holds the title of the oldest gay bar in Grand Rapids—possibly in Michigan.