Your guide to the best St. Louis gay bars, LGBT venues and events
Missouri, United States
The Gateway City, thus named for the famed Gateway Arch that offers incredible views over the city and beyond, has a long history of Midwestern diversity, slowly expanding to include the LGBTQ+ community.
Explore the progress of LGBTQ+ rights across the world all in an easy to read charts, graphs, and tables. From public sentiment to protections find it all here so you know when holding hands gets you a look or a sentence.
Visit EqualdexEmbark on your St. Louis adventure at the iconic Gateway Arch, a towering monument to the city's role as the "Gateway to the West." This shimmering stainless steel curve is more than just an architectural marvel; it's a symbol of the city's warm welcome to all. Take the tram to the top for breathtaking views of the city and the Mississippi. It's not just a monument; it's a gateway to understanding the boundless possibilities of the human spirit.
There are a few queer epicenters, some having better-known St. Louis gay bars than others. Currently the most popular is The Grove, where the rainbow flag flies proudly along Manchester Avenue. This is where you will find the best gay bars in St. Louis along with other queer and LGBTQ+ spaces. Just always be aware of your surroundings as in any city, because safety in St. Louis has been an issue in recent years.
For a splash of green amidst the urban landscape, meander over to Forest Park, an emerald oasis that boasts it rivals the grandeur of New York's Central Park. This sprawling haven is home to some of the city's most cherished institutions, including the St. Louis Zoo, the St. Louis Art Museum, and the Missouri History Museum – all free of charge, embodying the city's generous spirit. Whether you're picnicking under ancient oaks, paddling on picturesque lakes, or basking in the cultural glow of the museums, Forest Park is a microcosm of St. Louis's inclusive and vibrant community.
As the day wanes, the Delmar Loop beckons with its siren song of eclectic shops, international cuisines, and live music venues that keep the city's pulse thumping long into the night. This six-block entertainment and shopping district is a playground for the curious and the creative, where the spirit of St. Louis's legendary musicians like Chuck Berry still echoes through the streets.
And for those who seek solace in nature's embrace, the Missouri Botanical Garden is a plant paradise waiting to be discovered. This 79-acre botanical garden is not just a place to admire exotic plants and serene landscapes; it's a sanctuary where nature and human creativity meet in harmony.
The historical center is Central West End, once the home of Tennessee Williams and the apartment building on which he based the setting for The Glass Menagerie. South Grand hosts the city’s PrideFest STL and parade each year and is year-round one of the most diverse neighborhoods, plus hosts one of the country’s biggest Mardi Gras celebrations.
Love markets? Soulard is a farmer's market that has been the soul of St. Louis since 1779. This bustling bazaar offers a variety of flavors, scents, and sounds. From fresh, locally sourced produce to international delicacies, every stall tells a story of tradition, innovation, and the melting pot that is this city.
The list of neighborhoods truly goes on and on, with something a little different in every one. St. Louis invites you to explore its wonders, to immerse yourself in its unique culture, and to find, amidst its historic streets and parks, a little piece of yourself. So, if you find yourself traveling the Mississippi River, be sure to make a stop in one of the best St. Louis gay bars!
View the index of more than just the best LGBTQ events + gay bars in St. Louis, Missouri, United States
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