11 San Diego Gay Bars for a Fantastic Night Out

San Diego has long been a haven for the LGBTQ+ community, even if the reputation doesn’t scream out from the sidelines about it. There’s a long and storied history of San Diego gay bars and its community that stretches back to World War II, when San Diego stationed a lot of the military. Some of those bars still exist, including some that were even here before that in the early 1900s. Most of the San Diego gay bars center around Hillcrest, often known as the “gayborhood,” and provide a welcoming space for people on any end of the LGBTQ+ spectrum. If you are looking for more places to celebrate, check out our guide on the best bars in Hillcrest as well. Here are 11 LGBTQ+ bars you can find in San Diego. Note that none of these bars serve food, save for one that has a drag brunch on Sundays. Many of the bars are near food trucks or stands if you need a little snack while you drink, but other than that, they’re alcohol only. Whether you’re looking for a smooth night in with the locals or a wild night out with your friends, here are the gay bars you won’t want to miss. Rich’sAddress: 1051 University Ave, San Diego, CA 92103WebsiteIf you’re on the lookout for nightclubs, Rich’s is the place to go. One look at the line wrapped around the corner on any given night when it’s open will tell you that. Even the Real Housewives of Beverly Hills stopped in and filmed there, and for good reason. The club has two separate rooms. The bigger room in the back has more house music, whereas the smaller room in the front focuses more on hip-hop and contemporary jams. There’s also a large outdoor area to enjoy when you need some fresh air. This section also opens up on weekend days during the summer and for Pride as well. If you’re able to book ahead for nights when there’s a cover, you’ll be able to skip. You can also subscribe to text notifications through them for special discounts and offers.FlicksAddress: 1017 University Ave, San Diego, CA 92103A hop, a skip, and a jump down the street from Rich’s is Flicks, which is another go-to bar everyone has to experience at least once. This one caters a little more to the younger crowd, especially on Wednesdays when the bar celebrates Welfare Wednesday. Although this place packs in the people, it’s worth it for the $5 well drinks. Outside of Welfare Wednesday, you can also come here during the week and enjoy karaoke. Keep an eye out for some drag performers and specialty dance nights, too, since some of the hottest go-go dancers frequent here. I saw my first ever drag show here with some of the main stars from RuPaul’s Drag Race at the time, so the talent they book isn’t anything to balk at.PecsAddress: 2046 University Ave, San Diego, CA 92104WebsiteIf you want to get out of the heart of Hillcrest but still be near it, head down University Avenue and stop at Pecs. Located halfway between Hillcrest and North Park, Pecs is the bar where the bears frequent — otherwise known as the big, hairy men. Anyone in the gay community knows bears are some of the nicest and most welcoming people, which you can easily see on display at Pecs. If you’re into the idea of Welfare Wednesday without the screaming college kids around, Pecs also offers $5 well drinks on Wednesdays from 7 pm until close. They also have “Furriday Bear Happy Hour” on Fridays from 5 pm to 9 pm on the Garden Patio. Baja Betty’sBaja Betty’s is one joint in Hillcrest you most certainly do not want to miss. They’ll have you feeling “home sweet homo” in a safe and inclusive space with one of the most fabulous experiences in the area. Known for one of the best Happy Hours in San Diego, delicious Taco Tuesday offers, heavy pours, and always a fun atmosphere, Baja Betty’s has to be on your list of best gay bars to check out in San Diego!Check out our full review here>>Number One Fifth AvenueAddress: 3845 Fifth Ave, San Diego, CA 92103WebsiteNumber One Fifth Avenue is a great place to hang out and let loose, and it’s one of my personal favorites in town. They’re one of the oldest gay bars in the area, having stood tall for the last 40 years. During that time, they received numerous “Best Gay Bar” and “Best Neighborhood Bar” awards, and they’ve deserved every one. This is one of the key places for dive bar fans to pay a visit. Among their various events include the Game Nights held on Mondays, as well as the After Show Dance Parties on Fridays. They’ve got something going on almost every night, whether it be Karaoke or Pictionary, and recently expanded to include a separate room for more dancing.The LoftAddress: 3610 Fifth Ave, San Diego, CA 92103WebsiteI have a bit of a confession here: I don’t ever remember leaving The Loft. I remember arriving, sure, but two drinks here is enough to get you to the same level as what you’d find with six drinks Downtown. The Loft is the ultimate dive bar and one of the best places for regulars and people in the community to gather. They have a pool table here, but due to how busy they are, it’s rare to be able to get yourself a slot on it. They also have daily specials ranging from Industry Mondays to Tequila Tuesdays. Regardless of whenever you visit, this is the location where you’ll have to take the “drink responsibly” advice to heart.The EagleAddress: 3040 N Park Way, San Diego, CA 92104WebsiteI’ll kick this one off by saying The Eagle is not the bar for everyone, but it is the bar for people who like to get kinky. It’s San Diego’s only leather bar, and the whole place has a sexually charged vibe that you most likely won’t find anywhere else. They have Happy Hour daily until 7 pm, where they charge $5.50 for small well drinks and even let you buy a pitcher of any well drink for $13.50. If you like to wear a pup mask, a harness, or anything leather-related, The Eagle should be the first stop on your list. SRO LoungeAddress: 1807 Fifth Ave, San Diego, CA 92101WebsiteThe SRO Lounge is another great dive bar that has a more dark and old-school vibe. Although it’s open to everyone, the SRO Lounge is one of the top spaces for transgender individuals to come and enjoy safely. In fact, most people regard it as the only transgender bar in San Diego, but that’s not a requirement to get in. Those in search of a good cabaret show should also put their sights on the SRO Lounge, which has an extremely welcoming staff and friendly atmosphere. During the weekdays, they open at 2 pm and open earlier at 10 am on the weekends. Their Happy Hour runs daily from 2 pm to 7 pm. The RailAddress: 3796 Fifth Ave, San Diego, CA 92103WebsiteThe Rail, formerly known as The Brass Rail, is among the oldest gay bars in San Diego. It’s been through quite a few changes since it originally opened in the 1930s, but is now under gay ownership for the first time through Urbano Pelicon and Isaac Vargus. The bar hosts a number of circuit parties, from Trick to Revolution, but also has a great drag brunch on Sundays (which is the only time they serve food.) For parties like Trick, Revolution, and similarly-themed circuits, they offer a clothes check if you want to walk around in jockstraps or underwear. The Hole in the WallAddress: 2820 Lytton St, San Diego, CA 92110WebsiteThe Hole in the Wall, also known simply as “The Hole,” is a staple for San Diego gay bars. 2024 marks their hundred-year anniversary, so, like The Rail, they’ve been through a lot and seen many changes throughout the years. It became known as an LGBTQ+ establishment during the 40s, then known as “The 19th Hole” due to its proximity to the Sail Ho Golf Club. In the 60s, under new ownership, it became one of the few openly gay bars at the time, which is when the nickname “The Hole” started. Nowadays, they host the Out and Abt event every Thursday, have Karaoke throughout the week, and have a monthly Slutter Camp that features a wet underwear contest.AWOLAddress: 1469, 1475 University Ave, San Diego, CA 92103WebsiteAWOL is one of the newer kids on the block, having only opened in 2021. This military-themed bar has great drink prices and is in close proximity to food trucks for those who want a snack while they drink. It’s also a great place to come for a RuPaul viewing party that still draws a crowd without the overcrowded feeling you may find elsewhere. They have a nice outdoor patio area, as well as some live DJs every so often to pump the music. While they’re another location that offers karaoke, it’s more fun to join every third Thursday for Big Bear Bingo with Tim, which is free to play.Urban MO’sAddress: 308 University Ave, San Diego, CA 92103WebsiteUrban MO’s is an absolute staple in the San Diego community. The location originally started as Hamburger Mary’s, a chain known for their drag shows. When things fizzled out, the building rebranded to Ubran MO’s — short for “homo” — and has gone on to be one of the largest hospitality companies in the area as MO’s Universe. This is a great place for both drinks and food, and the bar stays open later than the restaurant. If you’ve got food on your mind when you come here, stop in on a Tuesday night. While everyone else celebrates Taco Tuesday, MO’s has Showtunes night with unlimited spaghetti. They play iconic scenes from the best musicals and keep the pasta coming. You can even order a serving to go. EQ/The MerrowAddress: 1271 University Ave, San Diego, CA 92103WebsiteEQ operated as The Merrow for years until it underwent a rebrand and new ownership in 2023. Although people were nervous at first that the straight owners would take away the gay-focused events, that hasn’t yet been the case. EQ is most known for the Bear Night party, which happens the first Saturday of every month and frequently sells out. Besides that, they’re open from noon until 2 am daily and every so often hosts other events, as well. If you’re looking to host something privately, they’re also available to book your own event.Gossip GrillAddress: 1220 University Ave, San Diego, CA 92103WebsiteAs Gossip Grill is one of the few lesbian bars in the entire nation, it’s well worth paying them a visit. Like MO’s, Gossip Grill is both a restaurant and a bar, but the nightlife continues well after they stop serving food. On the food side of things, however, they have a twice-monthly drag cabaret show that’s always worth checking out. Their “Welcome Home Beautiful” sign is also an homage to the queer community as a whole, acting as a beacon to remind anyone that they’re welcome in those doors to be whoever they want.& BarAddress: 1023 University Ave, San Diego, CA 92103Website& Bar, like Gossip Grill, is owned by Moe Girton and is a branch-off of the charcuterie bar and restaurant, Barrel & Board. The bar along the street is a blink-and-you’ll-miss-it venture, but you won’t be sorry if you stop in for a drink. Inside, there’s an additional speakeasy known as The Boardroom hidden in the back that connects & Bar to Barrel & Board. You can book a private event if you’d like, but Fridays are the best day to pay this bar a visit. It’s their Frigay Fridays, which comes with a $5 Happy Hour from 8-10 p.m. and $10 Call Cocktails for the rest of the night. Uptown TavernAddress: 1236 University Ave, San Diego, CA 92103WebsiteAlthough Uptown Tavern is more of a restaurant than a bar, it’s still a great place to hang out on a weekend evening after they’ve shut the restaurant down. The weekends include plenty of dancing and DJs, but there’s also a more intimate Arrow Lounge that’s a private bar toward the back. The front patio is a great place to sit and people watch while you drink. On the second Saturday of every month, you can also join in for the Silent Disco. Each participant wears a wireless Sound Off headphone that lets you control your own volume and choose between three channels with a live DJ and genre-specific playlists. With no cover charge, it’s easily one of the most fun and affordable things you can do on a Saturday night. AlibiAddress: 1403 University Ave, San Diego, CA 92103WebsiteThe Alibi has three different locations between Hillcrest, Mission Gorge, and La Mesa, so it’s not necessarily an exclusively “gay” bar. That said, the Hillcrest location sits smack dab in the middle of all the other nightlife and between Rich’s and AWOL, so it still gets a lot of good gay foot traffic. Like the Chee Chee Club, this dive bar offers pool and only allows cash.Hillcrest Brewing CompanyAddress: 1458 University Ave, San Diego, CA 92103WebsiteWhen in Hillcrest, why would you ever skip out on the world’s first gay brewery? The Hillcrest Brewing Company is the proud owner of that title, and beer drinkers should flock to this location for some of the best brews in town. San Diego doesn’t have a shortage of breweries in the area, but the Hillcrest Brewing Company’s rich taste and spectacular pizza choices easily make this one of the best choices in the county. Plus, they have a daily “Hoppy Hour” that’s $2 off any of their draught beers, especially the ones they brew in-house. Despite this being a brewery, it’s also the only location on this list that always serves food and alcohol at all open hours, so you’ll never be limited to just a drink here.Chee Chee ClubAddress: 929 Broadway, San Diego, CA 92101WebsiteIf you want to get out of the “gayborhood” but still want to enjoy a good gay bar, check out the Chee Chee Club downtown. Originally established in 1941, this is a landmark gay/dive bar that doesn’t always get the shine it deserves. Part of that is due to its location outside of Hillcrest, but the other part is due to the fact it has more of a gay history than a gay present. It’s still worth checking out for the jukebox, the pool table, the darts, and the history. If you do come here, please note it’s cash only. They do have an ATM on site if you need it, so don’t let that be a deterrent if it’s on your list.There’s always something going on in San Diego, even during the winter when business slows down. Whether you’re a local or paying us a visit, these San Diego gay bars will fit the bill for anything you’ve got on your agenda. As long as you know what you want, what you’re looking for, and where to go, these bars are sure to be a hit. Remember to drink responsibly at all of them — Hillcrest has a reputation for the affectionately known “Hillcrest pour,” which usually indicates around two drinks per one.The post 11 San Diego Gay Bars for a Fantastic Night Out appeared first on San Diego Explorer.

View more

Best San Diego Pumpkin Patches You Must Visit in 2024

Nothing says fall more than pumpkin. From pumpkin spiced lattés to pumpkin pies, the orange crop is everywhere. So what better fall activity do we have than going to a pumpkin patch? We are lucky in San Diego, as we have several to choose from. Here are some of the best San Diego Pumpkin Patches, sorted by region. San Diego Pumpkin PatchSan Diego Pumpkin Patches CentralPumpkin Patch at Liberty StationNorth East Entrance of Liberty Station2830 Perry Road, San Diego, CA 92106WebsiteOpening Hours: September 20 – October 31, 2024Friday-Saturday: 9 AM – 9 PMSunday-Thursday: 9 AM – 8 PMAdmission: FreePumpkin Station Mission ValleyAddress: 2, 1640 1, Camino Del Rio N, San Diego, CA 92108Phone: (858) 566-7466WebsiteOpening Hours: September 27-October 31, 2024 | Mo-Th: 11 AM – 9 PM | Fr-Sun: 9 AM – 9 PMDogs on leashes are allowed.Located right by the Mission Valley Mall, this is a great option for a centrally located pumpkin patch in San Diego. They offer various rides, a petting zoo, and of course a bunch of pumpkins. You can even bring your dog (on leash). How awesome is that? Halloween Trail at Petco ParkAddress: 100 Park Blvd, San Diego, CA 92101Customer service: (619) 795-5025WebsiteOpening Hours:October 2024 – TBDNo DogsSince the Padres are in the Playoffs this year (wohoo!!!), my guess is that this wont be happening this year. This Halloween-themed Pumpkin patch at Petco Park is a great way to get into the fall spirit right in the heart of downtown and especially a must if you are a Padres fan. They also have scary movie night on various dates in October.Coronado Pumpkin PatchAddress: 1201 1st St, Coronado, CA 92118(619) 435-1053Opening Hours:October 2024 – TBD Dogs on leash allowedThis pumpkin patch is a fun event right there at the Coronado Ferry Landing Park. You’ll not only get to enjoy some fun fall activities but enjoy the view of the San Diego skyline. Activities include face painting, concessions, games, balloon art, costume contests, and more. Take a look at the website, as the activities and opening hours change frequently. PB Pumpkin PatchAddress: 870 Garnet Ave, San Diego, CA 92109Phone: (858) 483-0329Opening HoursOctober 2024 TBDDog-friendly pumpkin patchThe Pacific Beach pumpkin patch is a fun one. Bring your little ones, your dogs, and the rest of the family for some yummy apple cider, pick your pumpkin and start carving. They have cool stencils and all the tools you need and you won’t have the mess at home. Mr. Jack O’ Lanterns Pumpkin PatchAddress: 6710 La Jolla Blvd, La Jolla, CA 92037Phone: (844) 452-2567WebsiteOpening Hours:Daily October 4 – 31, 2024 | Mo-Th: 12 AM – 8 PM | Fr-Sun: 11 AM – 8 PM Dog friendly (on leash)Bounce houses, photo station, a haunted corn maze and of course a bunch of pumpkins are on offer at this pumpkin patch in La Jolla. This pumpkin farm also offers pumpkin carving kits to go, if you prefer this option. San Diego Pumpkin Patches East CountyBates Nut FarmAddress: 15954 Woods Valley Rd, Valley Center, CA 92082Phone: (760) 749-3333WebsiteOpening Hours:September 19 – October 31, 2024 Dogs on leash are welcomeThis is the ultimate fall farm experience. From pony rides to hayrides, petting zoo, corn maze, and the good ol’ pumpkins, this is one of the oldest and most traditional pumpkin patches in San Diego. Also, check out the farm store and the food. Yum!!!Summers Past FarmAddress: 15602 Olde Hwy 80, El Cajon, CA 92021Phone: (619) 390-1523WebsiteOpening Hours:October 1 – October 31, 2024 (Thurs-Sat 9 AM – 4 PM & Sun 10 AM – 4 PM)Dog friendlyThis farm/nursery doesn’t have any kid activities, but it is simply gorgeous and great to pick out some unique-looking pumpkins and take some fall photos with a stunning backdrop. They also have some really cool gifts and plants for sale. Oma’s Family FarmAddress: 14950 El Monte Rd, Lakeside, CA 92040Phone: (619) 390-2929WebsiteOpening Hours:October 1, 2024 – November 1, 2024 | Tues-Fri 10 AM – 7 PM | Sat 9 AM – 7 PM | Closed Sunday & MondayImportant: Must buy tickets online, no tickets are sold on-site!Not dog friendlyReservations required. Get your tickets here>>This pumpkin patch works a little differently. Instead of charging for the pumpkin and activities, this one offers a package deal. The kids get to play on the farm and take a pumpkin home. Remember to buy tickets before you go.Mountain Valley Ranch Pumpkin PatchAddress: 842 CA-78, Ramona, CA 92065Phone: (760) 788-8703WebsiteOpening Hours:September 21, 2024 – October 31, 2024 9 AM – 6 PMCorn maze, corn cannon, petting zoo, and pony rides (Tuesday – Friday 3 PM – 6 PM) are on offer at this historic farm. You’ll definitely get the country charm at this beautiful pumpkin patch out in Ramona.Pumpkin ExpressAddress: 750 Depot St, Campo, CA 91906Phone: (619) 478-9937WebsiteOpening Hours:October 5 – October 27, 2024 | Weekends Only | Trains leave 10:30 AM, 1 PM, and 2:30 PMAdvance Reservation Required!Not dog friendlyFirst, take a scenic train ride through the hills of East County, perfect to catch some fall feelings. Then go through the spookily decorated train depot building to get some pumpkins… if the ghosts and ghouls don’t get you!Peltzer FarmsAddress: 39925 Calle Contento, Temecula, CA 92591Phone: (951) 695-1115WebsiteSeptember 22, 2024 – October 31, 2024 | Monday – Friday 4 PM – 8 PM & Saturday – Sunday 9 AM – 8 PMNo dogs allowedPumpkins for the kids, and wine for the adults. Sounds like a winning combination, if you ask me. This farm offers pony rides, a petting zoo, and lots of other fun stuff to explore. San Diego Pumpkin Patches North County Rancho Bernardo Pumpkin StationAddress: 13421 Highland Valley Rd, San Diego, CA 92128Phone: (858) 566-7466WebsiteOpening Hours:September 27 – October 10, 2024 9 AM – 6 PM | October 11 – October 31, 2024 9 AM – 7 PMDog-friendly pumpkin patchThis is another Pumpkin station location in San Diego. Here you can get lost in a corn maze, go on a tractor ride, have fun at a petting zoo, cut your own sunflowers and of course do the whole pumpkin thing. Farm Stand WestAddress: 2115 Miller Ave, Escondido, CA 92025Phone: (760) 738-9014WebsiteOpening Hours:October 12 & 13, 2024 10 AM – 5 PMThis is a pick-your-own pumpkin patch with some really cool-looking pumpkins. Carlsbad Pumpkin PatchAddress: 1050 Cannon Rd, Carlsbad, CA 92008Phone: (760) 603-9608WebsiteOpening Hours:September 20 – November 3, 2024 | Sun – Thurs 9 AM – 6 PM | Fr – Sat 9 AM – 10 PMThis Carlsbad pumpkin patch at the Strawberry Farm has some cool stuff to do for the whole family – from corn maze to apple canons, and tractor rides, and even a “haunted” corn maze (Fr & Sa). There are plenty of San Diego Pumpkin Patches to choose from and they will definitely put you in the fall spirit, even if you are going through a heatwave. Take a look at these other Fall Activities in San Diego:8 Ways to Celebrate Fall in San DiegoThings to do on Halloween in San DiegoApple Picking in JulianBest Haunted Houses in San DiegoBest Pumpkin Patches in San Diego Web StoryBest Pumpkin Patches in San Diego – Pin for later: Last Updated on October 3, 2024 by Maria HaaseThe post Best San Diego Pumpkin Patches You Must Visit in 2024 appeared first on San Diego Explorer.

View more

San Diego Scavenger Hunt: A Fun Way To Explore Downtown

You might not think random letters etched into a bathroom’s exterior would have anything to do with the statue of a recipe three blocks over, but the San Diego Scavenger Hunt & Urban Adventure Quest proves that even the most random things can connect. What to expect from the San Diego Scavenger Hunt Downtown The Urban Adventure Quest takes you on a San Diego scavenger hunt reminiscent of The Amazing Race throughout the city. It’s just as exhilarating without the cash prize at the end, but if you play against your friends, you might get away with bragging rights instead. Each game has a time limit and you receive your scores at the end, so time management matters just as much as getting the answers correctly. It is a fantastic way to explore downtown San Diego, whether you are a visitor or a local. Although the company has hunts in cities throughout the country, its Downtown San Diego journey has plenty of memories to create and head-scratchers to figure out. It lets you “salute our nation’s naval power” as you “breathe in the great sea air and discover one of the best things you can do in San Diego.” It’s also a great option for anyone in your family, so long as they’re able to walk.You begin at the Waterfront Memorials on Harbor Drive and start the game through the website. You’ll have to dedicate someone to operate the phone for the riddles and clues. Remember to sign in through the account you used to book your ticket. Everyone can follow along on their own phones for the questions, but only the main answer holder can input any of your answers.Scavenger Hunt TipsMy first tip before you even start is to read the clue the whole way through before you guess anything. We started solving the first one sentence-by-sentence, only to discover it came in three parts. Once we’d found our mistake, we had to use one of our guesses and start over.My next tip for this adventure is not to underestimate the difficulty of some of the questions and challenges. It’ll help if your team has a brain whiz on it, so I recommend you comprise it of an even mixture of locals and people good at puzzles.As you get going, you’ll rely on each other’s logic to help you sort out the clues, which can be anything from wordplay to scrambles to downright “what are they talking about?” questions. Over the 3.5 hours of game time, you and your team will navigate through 23 challenges (and two bonuses!) that cover around 2.5 miles of area Downtown. Scavenger Hunt RulesWhen it comes to submitting your answers, remember that you only get four tries. Be mindful to hit submit when you mean to, and only input your answers once. While you’re at it, don’t exit out of the window completely before you finish a challenge. You might not need all four of your attempts, but it’s better to save yourself from accidentally using a guess when you don’t need to. You never know when it’ll save you, and you never know which challenge will leave you totally stumped. Remember the first clue we didn’t read all the way through? Our first attempt wasn’t the only one we got wrong.Outside of that, you can come up with the answers however you wish. As long as you’re safe (i.e., don’t run into oncoming traffic and pay attention to your surroundings), there aren’t any hard or fast rules when it comes to solving the puzzles. You can Google whatever you want, reference your maps for possible answers, or ask random people if they can help you out. While we’d love to provide you with a full list of answers to the challenges here, we won’t spoil the fun for you. But we encourage you to beat our 2.5-hour completion time. Let us know in the comments if you did!!!Downtown San Diego Scavenger HuntThis route showcases various highlights of downtown San Diego. You start at the Waterfront and then make your way to Little Italy. The smells from nearby restaurants may tempt you, but remember this is a timed game. Take note of anywhere you might want to return and come back to once your scavenger hunt ends.Little Italy San DiegoAlong the way, you’ll see iconic landmarks like the Maritime Museum, the USS Midway, and the Bob Hope Memorial. There’s a lot of naval history throughout the challenges. The more you know about your wars and the military roots in San Diego, the easier some of these challenges will be.By the time we finished our scavenger hunt, we were ready for a beer and a break. The game had us doing anything from counting tiles on fountains to making out words from nothing as we ran around the city. Even though there weren’t any cash prizes, the passersby who watched us struggle probably thought we were going for a million dollars at any given moment. Ready to book your ticket? Balboa Park Scavenger HuntDon’t want to hang out Downtown but still want to do the scavenger hunt? Great! Check out their Balboa Park offering to see if it’s a better fit for you. It’ll showcase The Old Globe Theatre, the Veterans Museum, and the Spreckels Organ, among others. This one is shorter, with only 15 challenges, and maybe a bit more accessible than Downtown, with easier parking. Although I have yet to try this one out myself just yet, stay tuned for when I do!If you are looking for a fun way to explore San Diego, then add this San Diego Scavenger Hunt to your list of things to do in San Diego!The post San Diego Scavenger Hunt: A Fun Way To Explore Downtown appeared first on San Diego Explorer.

View more