The American capital has a sizable gay and lesbian community. It traditionally hangs out around the Dupont Circle area, home to gay and gay-friendly bars, clubs, and restaurants. You'll find that a large number of the people you meet is not originally from the city. In most cases it was their careers that brought them to DC, and you'll see mostly young professionals at the most sophisticated bars and restaurants. Pretty much anywhere you go you'll find well-dressed crowds, more restrained and less edgy than at similar places in New York or Los Angeles. But don't think that means "boring," as the city has quite a number of attractive venues, in both style and atmosphere. Look for locals and outsiders at a cocktail bar or on a dance floor, and you'll have a night out as fun and enjoyable as in any other major American city.
Gay Bars
DC Eagle
It's huge, it's cruisy, and the destination for those who worship leather. Special events include pool tournaments and shirtless happy hour.
Website: www.dceagle.com
Green Lantern
Free drinks for shirtless men, karaoke, underwear dance parties and other events keep regulars coming back to this bar. It includes a dance floor where a variety of music from the 80s to today can be heard.
Website: www.greenlanterndc.com
JR's Bar
Located in the gayest part of town, by Dupont Circle, this bar welcomes guys of all ages, who enjoy show tunes and drag-themed nights. Some days are dedicated to divas like Cher, Madonna and Lady Gaga, and there are always drink specials.
Facebook Page: JRsBarDC
Number 9
Spread over two floors plus sidewalk seating (in the summer), this bar is known for its multiple screens showing TV shows, movies, sports, and music videos. Rotating VJs select different musical styles, as everyone enjoys classic cocktails and conversation.
Website: www.numberninedc.com
Larry's Lounge
A neighborhood bar where everyone knows your name (or would like to), located in the Dupont Circle area, it’s known for its generous pours and as a dog-friendly place (in the patio). It’s the perfect spot to relax with a drink before or after dinner.
Facebook Page: LarrysLoungeDC
The Fireplace
Things get hot at this bar with a real fireplace in a corner, offering pre-dinner happy hours. It’s split into two floors, each with its own musical style, and with one of them showing music videos on four screens.
Facebook Page: thefireplacedc
Gay Hotels
There are no "gay hotels" in DC, but gay travelers will want to stay at the following properties:
Dupont Circle Hotel
Named after and located in the gayest part of town, this hotel has different types of rooms, some of them quite spacious. There’s a good bar for light meals and cocktails, and a brasserie-style restaurant.
Kimpton Donovan Hotel
This eco-friendly hotel has a rooftop pool with city views and a good gym. The location is excellent, just a short walk from the White House.
Washington Court Hotel
The Capitol and the museums of the National Mall are all just a few blocks from this 4-star hotel. Gay travelers like its fitness center, the bar, and the views of the Capitol’s dome from many of the rooms.
Washington DC Accommodation
Look for the hotel or apartment that best matches your budget, type of trip or personality. You may guarantee your reservation but do NOT pay anything at the time of booking. Payments are only made at the property, and there are no booking fees. Most hotels and apartments allow cancellations with no penalty if done up to 24 or 48 hours in advance. You'll see that information at the time of booking and again in the confirmation email:
Search for Washington DC hotels or Washington DC apartments
