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Gay Vancouver, Canada | The Essential LGBT Travel Guide!

Gay Vancouver, Canada | The Essential LGBT Travel Guide!

Welcome to Gay Vancouver, the glittering ocean-fringed metropolis with a vibrant gay village, incredible dining, a world-class creative scene, and jaw-dropping nature. Everyone is welcome here because – love is love, baby!

While some people might assume Vancouver is just your average soulless North American city with tall skyscrapers and no substance, don’t let them fool you: Vancouver is one of the most multiculturally diverse cities on Earth and exceptionally welcoming to everyone.

While foodies can rejoice in Canada’s dine-out capital with North America’s best Asian cuisine, the biggest draw for most gay people will be the famous Davie Village.

The undeniable heart of Vancouver’s gay community, the Davie Village is covered in rainbow flags and offers epic nightlife options, an inclusive community center, magnificent restaurants, quirky bars and plenty of unique shopping. 

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Outside of the Davie Village, Vancouver is also bestowed with many other wonderful neighborhoods of interest tempting travelers with new adventures and delights, including the edgy, vibrant Mount Pleasent, the stylish and historic Gastown, North America’s second-biggest Chinatown, after San Francisco’s and Vancouver’s Crown Jewel, Stanley Park.

Downtown is just the start of Vancouver, and the city’s distinct and peculiar mini-districts mean you’ll never be bored here – and will always wish you had longer, no matter how long you plan to stay. 

Lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender rights in Canada are some of the most advanced in the world, and in modern times the Government of Canada has a strong history of commitment to protecting and advancing the rights of LGBT people – both within Canada and worldwide.

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While Toronto’s Church and Wellesley village is the biggest in Canada, you can also see the physical manifestation of Canada’s queer spirit in Montreal’s Gay Village, Vancouver’s Davie Village, and Ottawa’s Bank Street Gay Village. Or attend the annual Vancouver Pride Parade in August – it is utterly fabulous!

While we love the energy, passion and queer spirit that flows from the LGBT spaces, travelers should know you can hold hands and you can kiss on the street almost anywhere here. People won’t even raise an eyebrow because Vancouver loves and accepts you just the way you are!

…Why can’t the whole world be like this?


Are you relocating? This guide will help travelers discover the queerer side of the city. However, if you are lucky enough to be considering a move here, we recommend reading our article about moving to LGBT Vancouver or getting in touch with a local gay realtor. They can happily give you no-obligation advice and all the information you’ll ever need to know about your new city.

And if you then want their help to find your dream home, you are guaranteed fair, equal, and honest representation. No surprises or awkward conversations are necessary!

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Gay Real Estate USA

Attractions in Gay Vancouver 

Experience the best of Vancouver’s LGBTQ+ scene with our insider tips on the top things to see and do in this vibrant city. From the breathtaking natural beauty of the beaches and parks to the electric energy of the Davie Street Gay Village, there’s something for everyone.

As the sun sets, take an enchanting stroll along the harbor, hand in hand with your loved one, and revel in the stunning views of the city’s skyline. When night falls, head to the hottest dance clubs with your rainbow family and dance the night away.

During the day, explore the pristine sandy beaches and immerse yourself in the natural wonders that surround this world-class destination. Don’t miss the opportunity to indulge in the unique culinary experiences on offer in Gastown featuring cobblestone streets and a plethora of diverse restaurants, bars, and specialty shops.

And, of course, no trip to Vancouver is complete without dedicating some time to the Davie Street Gay Village, home to the city’s most vibrant and colorful LGBTQ+ scene. Soak up the vibrant atmosphere, marvel at the rainbow crosswalks, and discover the latest fashion trends at the chic boutiques.

Above all, Vancouver is a progressive and safe city for LGBTQ+ travelers, so rest assured that you can enjoy all the city has to offer without any extra precautions. So come and explore this amazing destination, where diversity and inclusivity are celebrated every day.

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Top Places To See in Vancouver 

Seaplane Flight to Victoria and Whale-Watching Cruise

Discover the natural wonders of Vancouver and Victoria, an exhilarating whale-watching excursion! Delight in lovely aerial views on the 35-minute crossing of the Strait of Georgia by seaplane—the most eco-friendly transport to Victoria. From the island capital, set off on an exciting cruise through Haro Strait, native home to orcas (killer whales), sea lions and seals, followed by a return flight to the mainland.

Snorkel and Kayak Near Seals

Kayak in Howe Sound and snorkel with Vancouver’s resident harbor seals during this 5-hour eco-adventure. Board a boat from Horseshoe Bay with your adventure guide, headed toward the Pam Rocks seal colony.

Slip into the provided snorkel gear and wetsuit, then dive in for an up-close experience with seals, following their lead. Kayak around the bay and the rocks, experiencing the marine environment while in a low-profile boat.

A sightseeing-only option is available for those passengers who wish to stay dry on the boat. All kayaking and snorkeling equipment, refreshments and light snacks are included.

Gastown Walking Food Tour

Explore Vancouver’s oldest neighborhood, and gain insight into Canada’s culinary offerings on this Gastown walking food tour. Listen as your guide—an improv comedian—shares insight into Gastown’s 150-year-old Wild West heritage. Learn of the hip urban regeneration now sweeping the district, and experience the area’s vibrant buzz for yourself.

Sample delicious food and drinks, including Carolina-style, pulled-pork sandwiches, organic ice cream, award-winning cheesecake, Quebec maple syrup treats, and local craft beer—as you pass by top city attractions.

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Hop-on Hop-off Tour

Customize your sightseeing tour of vibrant Vancouver with multiple pass options for a hop-on, hop-off tour aboard a clear-top bus. Let someone else drive you around town, and choose when to disembark at any of the stops, such as Chinatown, Stanley Park, and Gastown.

Choose between the City Route or the Park Route, or the Dual Pass if you’d like to do both. Explore historical landmarks and shop along Robson Street at your own pace.

Vancouver Aquarium

Discover the hidden secrets of the oceans as you admire over 50,000 different species of marine life, including dolphins, sharks and otters. Learn about marine conservation at the Pacific Canada Pavilion and catch any of the exciting shows at your leisure.

Explore the aquarium’s interactive exhibits, and gain insight into the creatures’ life cycles and habitats. See three-toed sloths and piranhas in the Amazon rainforest, handle marine wildlife at the interactive pools and catch a 4D movie theater show.

Grouse Mountain

Escape to the picturesque alpine landscape just outside Vancouver at Grouse Mountain, a cultural and outdoor park that is one of Canada’s top attractions. Enjoy the chance to observe endangered animals like owls and bears or watch the park’s collection of birds of prey as they soar through the air.

You can also enjoy a ride on one of the longest aerial trams in North America, go snowshoeing, and watch a lumberjack show, plus much more. Along with your Grouse Mountain admission, a shuttle is available (first-come-first-serve basis) from downtown Vancouver, and you can ride on the park’s peak chairlift.

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Behind-the-Scenes Brewery Tour

Enjoy a taste of Vancouver’s hip craft brewery scene at three highly-rated breweries. You’ll sample a nice variety of locally crafted brews while someone else does all the driving. Meet downtown at the Waterfront Station for a small group tour that includes VIP tours at each of the breweries, plus priority seating to get you to the beer quicker!

Granville Island Market Tour

Give your Vancouver trip a twist with a 2-hour walking tour of the vibrant Granville Island Public Market. Head to the island and get ready to learn about Vancouver’s eclectic food culture, browse diverse products and meet local artisans and vendors.

In a small group, taste regional foods, from fine cheeses and meats to local wine and fresh baked goods. Get a dose of culinary education as you explore, sample and get insider tips on the area’s best eateries from your expert guide.

Victoria and Butchart Gardens Day Trip

Experience Victoria’s signature beauty on a full-day tour from Vancouver. Traveling by coach and ferry, witness the region’s stunning waterways and mountains en route to British Columbia’s capital.

Spend the day snapping photos and visiting the city’s top attractions like the world-famous Butchart Gardens, a 55-acre (22-hectare) haven for nature enthusiasts. This tour combines guided coach tours and free time to explore on your own.

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Gay-Friendly Tours Around The World

Gay Things To Do in Vancouver 

QueerProv

A unique queer Improv Comedy night is bringing laughter to festivals, events and a weekly show to Vancouver every Wednesday night at the Junction. They are a not-for-profit society dedicated to creating a queer community that creates, supports, enjoys, and teaches improv theatre – and a great way to get involved in the local queer scene without drinking.

Qmunity Centre

A queer, trans, and Two-Spirit community center located on Bute Street in the Davie Village.  They provide a safer space for LGBTQ/2S people and their allies to fully self-express while feeling welcome and included, and their building serves as a catalyst for many community initiatives and collective strength.

Alongside peer-facilitated support and social groups, special events and volunteer opportunities, there is free counseling, information and referrals and access to gender-affirming chest wear.

Mary’s on Davie

The evolution of a classic Vancouver diner reinvented for 2018. After an extensive renovation, a bold new design concept, and a fantastic new menu, Mary’s on Davie is a fabulous food and drink destination for locals and visitors alike.

Part upscale neighborhood diner, part sassy brunch spot, and 100% part of the community, Mary’s on Davie is a place where everyone’s a little bit, Mary. No longer part of the iconic Hamburger Mary’s chain, but their alcohol-infused boozy milkshakes are worth visiting alone.

Mary's on Davie Vancouver

HIM Health Initiative For Men

With five health centers throughout the Lower Mainland, Health Initiative for Men is a non-profit society that aims to strengthen the health and well-being of gay men.

They offer the full spectrum of gay men’s sexual health testing, as well as professional counseling, sexual health education, and an engaging mix of social and volunteer opportunities. If you are in need of their services, the most convenient location is likely to be right in the heart of the Gay Village.

Top Drawers

A gay menswear store located in downtown Vancouver since 1992.  They pride themselves on being one of the first men’s “underwear stores”, both in a brick-and-mortar setting as well as online.

Stop by to admire their sexy gay male underwear, swimwear, and activewear apparel, including a wide selection of good underwear brands for men by Andrew Christian and AussieBum, amongst others. They also offer men’s swimwear, casual clothing, workout wear, fetish wear, and accessories.

The Vancouver Men in Leather

A community focussed group for gay men with an interest in leather, uniform, and fetish.  The club is dedicated to having fun, meeting new people, and learning more about the leather lifestyle. They offer gay men interested in leather a place to meet on a regular basis with a range of monthly and special annual events.

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Vancouver Gay Volleyball Association

Whether you are new to volleyball or an old pro who is up for some non-competitive play, you are welcome to join this fun group for games every Friday.

Wreck Beach

An officially clothing-optional beach though the water quality is low, meaning it is not ideal for swimming. Most people here are less interested in swimming than in the other distractions on offer. Public sex is still very much illegal, but that does not stop a lot of gay men from getting lost in the private setting of trail 7.

Out for Kicks

A Vancouver-based, volunteer-run soccer club with more than 240 members.  Their mandate is to facilitate a safe, fun and recreational environment for LGBTQ players and their allies to enjoy the game of soccer.

OFK believes in inclusiveness and diversity and, as such, strives to reduce the barriers that have kept many queer people out of team sports. If you are looking to connect with the local community outside of bars and clubs, this is a great option.

Little Sister’s Book And Art

An LGBT+ bookstore on Davie Street offers a great selection of queer reads for all ages, vital coming-out info, sexy advice & hot erotica for all. Besides books, there is an award-winning greeting card section, the latest quality adult toys & supplies (*including transgender supplies, like binders & packers!) and fun clothing.

All in a friendly, relaxed, non-judgmental environment. Why not drop by and show your support for this fabulous queer business with a purchase – we are sure you will find something of interest.

Little Sister's Book And Art Vancouver

Gay  Annual Events in Vancouver 

Whistler Pride and Ski Festival 

What out as a small weekend gathering of gay ski enthusiasts in 1992 has become one of the largest queer-focused ski weeks in the world. The biggest festival of its kind in Canada and welcomes guests from around the globe.

Revelers enjoy an unparalleled mountain experience and world-class event programming hosted by a team of friendly ski & snowboard guides and festival staff. This is Canadian hospitality at its finest. Taking place for one week in late Jan every year, join them for a packed winter sport, culture, and entertainment.

Each day begins with daily guided ski/snowboarding groups followed by a free festival après skis at the host hotel and nightly entertainment programming. Located a 1 hour 40 min drive from Vancouver. 

Rubbout (April)

The longest-running gay rubber weekend in North America (possibly the world).  The first Rubbout in 1992 was billed as “A weekend of Rubber Events” and included a Friday meet & greet, a Saturday play party, and a Sunday Potluck dinner with demos. 

This successful format continues today with a few minor improvements.  In 1994, brunch replaced Sunday’s potluck dinner, and over time, additional events were added, like a swap meet, puppy play, and workshops. 

Attendance has grown to around 160 weekend pass holders and over 250 people at the Saturday night party. Rubbout will likely set new attendance records in 2021 when it celebrates its 30th Anniversary.

The Vancouver Queer Film Festival (August)

A vibrant space for queer arts, culture, and community. It showcases dynamic and thought-provoking films from British Columbian filmmakers as well as other Canadian and international directors and storytellers.

As Western Canada’s largest queer arts event, the Festival curates films that contextualize and celebrate queer lives and experiences and prioritize foregrounding diverse identities in their communities, including narratives from trans people, queer people of color, and Indigenous people.

A wonderful way to explore the local LGBT+ scene for those who might be seeking an alternative to boozy nightlife.

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Vancouver Pride (August) 

A fabulous Pride Week and festival takes place in Vancouver’s West End every August.  Vancouver Pride celebrates the city’s LGBTTQ community and includes a world-famous Pride Parade, as well as political protests, panels, parties and more.

Hundreds of thousands of people turn out each year to enjoy the good vibes, glittery rainbow colors and outrageous costumes. Prime Minister Justin Trudeau has even joined in recent years. Easily the best time to visit Gay Vancouver and experience it in all of its queer glory – just be sure to have your pride outfits sorted in advance! 

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Gay-Friendly and Gay Hotels in Vancouver

As you would expect in such a progressive country, pretty much every hotel and hostel in Vancouver can be considered gay-friendly – after all, being gay-friendly is not all about upscale luxury but about providing friendly and open service and welcoming everyone with open arms!

Having said this, everyone likes to be surrounded by people with common interests, and as such, there are a few well-known hotels in Vancouver that are known hot spots for gay travelers to stay!

The Burrard Vancouver Canada

The best locations for gay travelers are in the downtown area close to the Davies Street Gay Village –  which is also close to all the top tourist sites and attractions by day. However, as long as you are close to a metro/ bus stop or considering hiring your own car, then everything is relatively easy to reach – and there are hundreds of other hotels in Vancouver you could consider. 

We have put a Gay Vancouver map at the end in case you need some help getting an idea of where everything is. Whether you want a fun and social hostel, a cheap place to crash after a night of partying or a chic designer option to sip cocktails and surround yourself with fabulous people – Gay Vancouver is something for everyone!

The Listel Vancouver Canada

The Listel ☆☆☆☆☆

Vancouver’s “most artful” downtown boutique hotel. The Listel Hotel is so much more than simply a place to sleep; it is a cultural tourist’s dream, as well as a leader in environmental responsibility. 129 boutique rooms and suites are filled with limited edition and original artwork and modern amenities, including high-speed Wi-Fi.

The Listel is also home to Forage and Timber, showcasing award-winning, sustainable fare. Relax in confidence, knowing that this hotel makes every effort to conserve energy, reduce waste, and minimize its environmental footprint.

Opus Vancouver ☆☆☆☆☆

A world where boutique hotel meets lifestyle and style, fashion, art, cool vibes, and iconic design merge. A boutique hotel with curated experiences in the heart of Yaletown offering amazing service and personalized touches.

With picturesque rooms, an area shuttle, loaner bikes, in-room spa treatments, an Italian restaurant, a fashionable cocktail bar, and a 24/7 fitness center. Is it any wonder Opus often tops the list of best hotels in Canada?

Opus Vancouver

Landis Hotel & Suites ☆☆☆☆

Perfectly located in the heart of downtown Vancouver, experience 1,000+ square feet of luxury right in the middle of one of North America’s top destinations with deluxe, executive and penthouse suites to choose from.

Each suite features excellent downtown views, two bedrooms, a fully-equipped kitchen, and separate living and dining areas. One of the few hotels in Vancouver featuring all-suite accommodations and an indoor pool to play around in, Landis Hotel & Suites is your ideal home-away-from-home.

Sheraton Vancouver Wall Centre ☆☆☆☆

Embrace the spirit of one of Canada’s most exciting cities in this gay-popular hotel nestled in the center of the thriving downtown district. Equally suited to business and leisure travel, this property allows you to refresh and renew in comfortable rooms with complimentary Wi-Fi, comfortable beds and floor-to-ceiling windows with city and ocean views.

Fuel your adventure with a buffet breakfast, grab an iced coffee at the on-site Starbucks, enjoy the on-site pool and sauna or dine in the chic on-site restaurant featuring cutting-edge glasswork. Whatever you desire, you can find it here.

Sheraton Vancouver Wall Centre
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Hotel Belmont Vancouver ☆☆☆

Cute but devilish inside, this modern hotel embraces being in the heart of the entertainment district and paying homage to its historic lights and legendary nights.

A hotel that attracts a mindset more so than age or sexuality demographics, come open-minded and experience this unique party hotel with straightforward rooms, an on-site Irish pub and free passes to a nearby gym.

With vivid walls, eclectic decor, and an engaging vibe, you are welcome to come as you are, kick up your feet and stay awhile.

The Burrard ☆☆☆

A retro, chic, boutique hotel in Vancouver that is very gay-popular thanks to its location in the heart of downtown Vancouver, only a short walk to the Davie Village gay scene. A wonderful city base, the Burrard is a converted Vancouver motor hotel from 1956 that exudes character from every joist, railing, and sightline.

And with extras like free WiFi, Nespresso machines in all 72 rooms, and their insider city guide, you’ll stay inspired here every time. You’ll find everything you need to feel right at home, plus a few extras to make your stay stand out.

Samesun ☆☆

A top-rated Vancouver Hostel in the heart of downtown and close to the gay village! Samesun is run by a passionate group of backpackers and adventurers who seek to bring the world together through travel and hostel life. Affordable, fun and perfect for queer travelers on a budget or looking for a more social space to stay and find friends to explore with.

Samesun Gay Hostel Vancouver

Gay Nightlife in Vancouver

Vancouver is not only one of the most gay-friendly destinations in the world, but it also has a fierce and fabulous gay nightlife scene that caters to all tastes. And you know what, being in such an inclusive and tolerant society means you can live your best life without any worries about public displays of affection or being turned away from any bar or club in the city.

But let’s get down to business. If you’re looking to mix and mingle with both queers and straights, you can go pretty much anywhere in Vancouver. However, if you’re after the ultimate gay experience, then you need to head to Davie Street Gay Village. This is where the party really gets started, and the rainbow flags will guide you to the most sizzling spots in the area.

Now, let’s talk about the main gay nightlife areas. In the West End, you’ll find plenty of clubs and bars, like the Pumpjack Pub, Celebrities Nightclub, and Score on Davie. The party usually starts to heat up around 10 pm and doesn’t stop until the early hours of the morning. But be warned, honey, the lines can get long, and the clubs can get crowded, so make sure you get there early to secure your spot on the dancefloor.

If you’re looking for a more laid-back vibe, then Commercial Drive is your go-to spot. The Junction is one of the most popular gay bars in this area and boasts a fantastic patio and great drink specials. But make sure you bring your ID, as they can be strict on entry requirements.

And finally, let me spill some piping hot tea on the queer monthly events in Vancouver. Queer culture is always in flux here, so be sure to keep an eye out for one-off parties, film screenings, art shows, readings, and gaming meetups on Facebook event listings. So, grab your girls, put on your dancing shoes, and get ready to slay the night away in Vancouver’s fierce and fabulous gay nightlife scene.

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Gay Bars & Clubs in Vancouver

Numbers

A gay nightclub offering live DJs 7 days a week with a large dance floor, karaoke room, video screens, two pool tables and darts. Spread across three different levels, Numbers is the oldest gay venue in Vancouver and still remains one of the most popular nightlife spots with something for everyone.

Daily drinks specials are listed on their website for those who are on a budget, as is their full line-up of events and a guestlist request form. Never too overly crowded so that you can dance your pants off, and the perfect place to end a night of club hopping in Vancouver.

The Fountainhead Pub

A straight-friendly watering hole that is one of the original Davie St gayborhood pubs and a mainstay of the Vancouver gay scene. The perfect spot for pool & people-watching with a variety of cold beer taps, delicious comfort food, and fun weekend brunch.

The staff is always friendly and chatty; there is a sun-drenched outdoor patio for summer and always awesome music that impeccably matches the vibe.

The Fountainhead Pub

The Junction

A premier gay entertainment destination in the heart of the Vancouver West End. Junction boasts a versatile atmosphere that blends the best of what a pub and nightclub have to offer, leaving you wanting more. Their staff ensures everyone feels welcome, and many straight people can be found partying here as well.

Whether you’re looking for a comical drag show, appreciating an erotic striptease, or just wanting to spend a chilled afternoon on the front patio enjoying daily drink specials and their delicious fried pickles, this is a not-to-be-missed highlight of the Gay Canda scene.

PumpJack Pub

A gay bar in Vancouver’s Davie Village gayborhood is open to everyone but specifically welcoming the bear and leather community. A great place to start that night that gets progressively wilder as the night moves on.

Sundays are one of the best times to visit the PumpJack Pub with amazing drink specials that run til close, rotating resident DJs, and a great crowd – but arrive early as there is usually a lineup to get in! Jacked on Fridays is also popular with strippers and go-go boys or the less risqué Wednesday night musical theatre piano bar and sing-along.

PumpJack Pub

1181

A small space with a big personality. 1181 is an iconic, award-winning club/lounge located in Vancouver’s Davie Village, saved at the 11th hour from closure in 2019 and since reopened under new ownership with a new sound system and new weekly parties, such as drag shows as well an open-deck night on Thursday.

A long and narrow dance floor draws in large crowds of loyal gay men who come to see the gorgeous bartenders and dance in this upscale modern space. Stylish, hip, and unique – with surprisingly creative and innovative cocktails.

Celebrities Nightclub

An institution in Gay Vancouver with a reputation as a premier after-dark destination for dance music dating back to the 1980s. Celebrities have grown along with the community as a mainstay for entertainment and will always push boundaries.

In early 2013 Celebrities received a major renovation with the addition of 2 luxury VIP sections, a new sound system, and over-the-top visuals and light show were added, all in the spirit of making the most of every experience.

Open to everyone; Celebrities is the most inclusive dance club for people of all identities offering chart-topping electronic music and energetic live performances enhanced by its world-class sound and visual systems.

Celebrities maintain their legacy of safety for the LGBTQ2 community by fostering a zero-tolerance of hate policy and strive to engage and support all members of the community by bringing in a diverse array of shows.

Whether it be hosting the infamous Search for Vancouver’s Next Drag Superstar or presenting current chart-toppers like Loud Luxury or Sofi Tukker, Celebrities welcomes all to celebrate music, dance, and individuality. The place to be when an event is on, and our favorite queer venue in Canada. 

Celebrities Nightclub

The Cobalt

A dark, nostalgic, funky underground venue –think brick, dark wood beams, chandeliers, candles– hosting a wide variety of events from live music and pinball tournaments to art showings and dance parties with drag kings and queens.

Sprinkle on the amazing staff and laissez-faire approach to life, and you will start to get this unique space with is home to local and international music, artists, beers, and queers who like to party.

Central Studios

(Temporarily or permanently closed. If you know something, please suggest an edit.)

A newly opened art and culture hub in downtown Vancouver providing a multi-level space to service Vancouver’s LGBTQ2+ and Alternative Artist communities.

Queer-owned and managed with a full range of events with something to interest anyone, from art showcases, workshops, and panels to sickening drag performances and internationally renowned events. Fabulously different, you will not be disappointed here.

Central Studios

The Club House

One of Vancouver’s newest queer spaces hosting goofy shenanigans, dance parties and community making a few times a month in a delightfully industrial, ruggedly handsome warehouse space. Still, in their soft opening, check out their upcoming events and see if anything tickles your fancy. Level Up YVR, Vancouver’s only monthly queer rap, hip hop, and R&B dance party, takes place here.

Man Up

A multi-gender drag spectacular and queer dance party in East Vancouver takes place in the Eastside Studios warehouse space on the last Saturday of each month!

Still settling into its new digs, Man Up, along with many other queer parties in the city, is now a part of a shifting landscape in LGBTQ+ nightlife culture, as venues have become increasingly scarce, and roving “monthlies” become more the norm.

Because of this history and the absence (to this day) of an exclusively lesbian venue in Vancouver, it’s a priority for Man Up to stay true to its roots as a women’s and trans-folk-focused event. Therefore they strive to create an affirming space firstly for queer folks but also for our allies. Also, hosting other one-off events around the city listed on their Facebook page.

Man Up Vancouver

Other Gay-Friendly Spots We Love In Vancouver

Club 816

An after-hours club in Vancouver’s Downtown for those who are not ready to go home at traditional closing times. Water, sports drinks, energy drinks, pop, and juice are served, but not alcohol. Queer-friendly and popular with a mix of euro/trance and dance hits.

The Pint

An animated sports pub is popular with the local gay community offering cold beer pitchers, classic pub grub and wings in 40 different sauces. With amazing happy hour specials, this is a good bar to visit if you want to relax or bring a large group of friends to have a good time.

Score on Davie

An award-winning neighborhood hangout serving delicious Canadian pub grub, craft beers, plus weekend brunch in the heart of the local gay scene. Go here for their epic Caesars, which are nothing sure of breathtaking and are guaranteed to end up on your Instagram.

Score on Davie

Two Parrots

A casual bar and grill beloved for its decent food at very good prices. They have a famous Thursday 49¢ wing special, $1.75 Tuesday tacos, and delicious burgers!

The Capital

(Temporarily or permanently closed. If you know something, please suggest an edit.)

A fun, energetic place where you can come and grab a meal on the cheap or have amazing conversations with the staff and regulars. Very gay-friendly and located in the center of the Vancouver gay village.

The Bottleneck

(Temporarily or permanently closed. If you know something, please suggest an edit.)

A beautifully restored modern tavern in downtown Vancouver with a West Coast-inspired seasonal menu offering fresh, organic, locally grown ingredients Events are key to The Bottleneck’s community spirit, and there is plenty of music by local and international artists, weekly vinyl nights, and a variety of creative programming.

The Bottleneck Vancouver

Gay Sauna And Cruise Clubs in Gay Vancouver

Had enough of gay cruising in Vancouver – either in the bars or elsewhere? Want to explore the naughtier side of Vancouver?

Well, you are in luck since Vancouver has one of the largest gay scenes in Canada, including a variety of popular bathhouses and sex clubs which should not disappoint you (unlikely all those faceless accounts on Grindr or the other hookup apps…).

Life is made a little difficult with only one gay sauna venue located in the Vancouver gay village – but you have multiple options if you are willing to travel a little. In such a foreign-friendly city, you will have no issues visiting any of the Vancouver gay saunas/bathhouses and will be welcomed openly, as in the rest of the Vancouver gay scene.

If you are a little nervous, however, we recommend reading our first-time gay sauna guide to give yourself a little more courage for your steamy adventure. 

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F212 Steam

The only Canadian-owned gay sauna in Vancouver. F212 boasts Vancouver’s largest hot tub, a fully equipped gym, wet steam room, rooms with or without video, darkrooms with play areas, dark video room for open play, cruiser showers, a free coffee bar, free Wi-Fi, and free computer access in the lounge with big screen cable TV.

They offer clean and modern facilities for gay men to relax, socialize, work out, and play. F212 is located on the second floor, Numbers Dance Club, with a private back alley entrance and within a minute’s walk from all the gay hot spots.

Steamworks Vancouver

A private men’s gym, sauna, and bathhouse for men looking for other men! A well-known chain in North America with locations in Chicago, Toronto, Berkeley (near San Fran) and Seattle – with their Vancouver location being just as clean and popular.

Open 24/7 on the edge of downtown – through a bit of a walk from the Davie Street Gay Village. There are theme nights, lower prices during the off-peak periods and plenty of action on Friday and Saturday nights.

There are all the amenities you could wish for, including a multi-man hot tub, red cedar dry sauna, eucalyptus steam room, automatic motion sensed showers, private rooms including Xlarge and Xtreme rooms and live DJs spinning their signature mix of sexy masculine grooves to get you in the mood.

Steamworks Vancouver Gay Sauna

Steam1

A gay bathhouse in New Westminster, a 35- to 45-minute drive southeast of Vancouver’s West End.

Popular with locals more than tourists due to its suburban location, they offer a fully equipped weight room, large wet steam room, double and single rooms, large ramped dark room with a large video screen and video booths, raised cruisy showers, a snack bar, free Internet access, and a comfortable lounge room.

If you are staying in the city without renting a car, then Steam1 is only a short walk from the Columbia Sky Train station (about 30 minutes from downtown Vancouver).

Hastings Steam & Sauna

Often reported as a gay sauna, but it is open to all genders now and more focused on health and well-being. Suppose you are looking to relieve stress while also boosting your health. In that case, you can try a dry sauna or steam sauna at this clean and professional establishment based on the traditional Finnish sauna experience we fell in love with in Tampere, Helsinki, and Turku

Located in the up-and-coming Strathcona Village, you never know who you will meet here, but we definitely would be going more to properly purify the body and mind than for any hot and steamy action.

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Gay Map Of Vancouver

Finding it hard to envisage where everything is in Vancouver? Hopefully, this queer-centric map helps where we have marked all the bars, clubs, parties, hotels, saunas, massages and more will help you stay in the spot best suited to you!