A complete LBGTQ+ guide to Nashville

When I moved to Nashville from New York City 8 years ago, desperate to find a sizable city I could actually afford, I suddenly found myself a queer single mom in the South – and I did not have high hopes. Not for finding queer community, not for dating, certainly not for feeling like I could or should kiss a woman in public. After all, this is Tennessee, y’all. (See, I’m a local now! I say “y’all”!)

Boy, was I in for a surprise. LGBTQ+ Nashville has blown me away with its vibrancy, its inclusiveness and (of course) its lesbian karaoke bar. 

Nashville may be known for bluegrass, Broadway and bachelorettes, but this is one Southern hub whose LGBTQ+ scene stands out – and not just because of the gay country stars who call the city home. From fantastic (banned and then unbanned again) drag shows to queer dance parties in famous music venues to shops and eateries owned by queer and trans entrepreneurs, Nashville is an LGBTQ+ destination not to be missed. 

Don’t get too gung-ho, though, for Tennessee itself is a largely conservative state that continues to push disastrous anti-queer and anti-trans legislation. Always travel smart, especially if you plan to venture outside of the city. 

But when you’re in town, feel free to let your hair down. For Nashville – particularly the artsy and independent east side I call home – sees you, New York and San Francisco. And raises you a honky-tonkin’ good time.

The best gay bars, clubs and parties in Nashville

From lady parties to drag shows, these are the best places in town to go out if you are out (and if you’re questioning, or an ally).

Play Dance Bar: If there’s anything that can heal us during these trying times, it’s a drag show and a dance floor, right? Known for its high-energy jams and incredible drag divas, Play Dance Bar is Nashville’s most popular LGBTQ+ nightclub. With theme nights, lip-sync battles and talented performers putting on a show, Play’s deserves its title of must-visit nightclub. The bar also hosts drag brunches on Sundays, so you can enjoy mimosas and eggs along with your Dolly Parton impersonator. On “U be U” Thursdays, everyone 21+ gets into Play for free before 9 pm, when the show kicks off.

Tribe: Does Nashville have a “gayborhood”? Debatable – but if it does, it’s a toss-up between East Nashville and downtown’s Church St, where Tribe holds down the fort. Expect a sleek, upscale bar where you can chill and enjoy cocktails – and maybe even some flirting – in a laid-back atmosphere. The owners are known for being super supportive of the LGBTQ+ community. 

Lipstick Lounge and Upper Lip: There’s nothing quite like wandering into this cozy bar on a rainy night and seeing owner Jonda Valentine gracing the stage with her presence, belting out the classics and dancing alongside the jewel-toned streamers. Valentine and her partner Christa Suppan opened the Lipstick Lounge in 2002, and since then it’s become an iconic inclusive space known for its emphasis on women, non-binary folks and allies of all stripes. It’s more than a bar, really – it’s a beloved community space. Just one with karaoke, trivia nights and drag. For an experience more craft cocktails than cheap beer, head upstairs to the aptly named Upper Lip. 

Pecker’s Bar & Grill: Pecker’s is an excellent dive bar that’s a hidden gem for the LGBTQ+ crowd. Owned by married couple Mike Brown and Will Pulley, the bar bolsters its welcoming attitude with affordable drinks, Mexican American bar fare, outdoor seating and casual vibes. Unsurprisingly, Pecker’s often hosts karaoke, drag shows and trivia nights (are you sensing a theme here?) as well as line dancing and sassier happenings like fog parties. 

Old Glory: This swank spot for cocktails is located – really – in the former boiler room of an old steam-cleaning facility from the 1920s. It’s owned by the Soler siblings, Alexis and Britt. Britt self-identifies as “gay AF” – and the bar has become a beacon for upscale date nights and group happy hours alike among Nashville’s queer community.

Blueprint Underground Cocktail Club: Opened in 2024, Blueprint is already a fan favorite of queer celebs like Miley Cyrus. The chic spot offers small bites, high-end cocktails, nightly DJs and live-band karaoke on Thursdays. 

Trax: With its late hours (it opens at midnight), DJs, drag shows and other fun, this LGBTQ+ bar has been a standby in Nashville’s industrial-artsy Wedgewood-Houston neighborhood for years. While it lost its longtime home in 2024, a new iteration, Trax at The Tea Room, is now up and running.

Queer Dance Party: Those in the know just call it QDP – and it’s a monthly celebration of queerness that’s always one of the best times I have Nashville. So get glammed up, grab some pals and head to one of these joyful dance fests every third Thursday at the Basement East.

Dee’s Country Cocktail Lounge: If you’re a fan of 1970s style, country music or just a darn good dive bar time, you can’t beat Dee’s. This is where locals and travelers flock for multiple live music acts a night – and it was included on gay country singer Fancy Hagood’s list of best LGBTQ+ and ally spots. Dee’s is in Madison, on Nashville’s edge – but an Uber will get you here from downtown in just 15 minutes.

Other LGBTQ+-friendly spaces

Beyond the bar scene, there are plenty of fun and LGBTQ+-geared gatherings in Nashville, from music venues to storytelling events. Oh, and places to meet queer cuties IRL – even during the daytime.

DRKMTTR Collective: This music venue and self-proclaimed safe space welcomes all genders, orientations and even all ages – the last a bit of a rarity for Nashville’s nightlife. DRKMTTR showcases up-and-coming local artists of the underground music scene, from metal bands my partner is obsessed with to the sweet sounds of my friend’s teenage kid’s band. It also hosts events like a masked queer dance party and Heather Mae’s “Queer Royalty Disco”–themed album launch. 

The Station Inn: Although not exclusively an LGBTQ+ bar, the Station Inn is a beloved venue in Nashville for its live bluegrass and acoustic music, and you just plain can’t miss it. But don’t let its down-home-country spirit freak you out: the Station Inn is known for its inclusivity, with plenty of LGBTQ+ patrons frequenting the venue to enjoy the intimate setting and epic tunes. Although this place is anything but fancy and has maybe three different kinds of beer, it just might be the most underrated venue in all of Nashville. Just go.

The Blue Room: Also not an LGBTQ+ bar per se, but a welcoming space where I’ve been able to catch many of my queer and trans friends and neighbors – from Hunter Park (aka She Returns from War) to local Grammy darling Allison Russell – absolutely crush it on the stage. Owned by Jack White of the White Stripes, the otherworldly Blue Room is a music venue with a memorable curved and fused floor that’s also the wall. You’ll feel like you’re at a concert inside of a skateboarding bowl, in the best way. It also hosts movie nights, LGBTQ+ singles nights and other fun events.

Never Sent: This recurring storytelling event is run by Emmy-nominated documentary producer Alie Stewart. Its premise is this: performers brave the stage to read aloud text messages, emails or other missives they wrote to someone but never sent. It’s intimate, inviting and fantastically queer. 

Dyke Jello: Dyke Jello wrestling, that is. And yes, it’s just what it sounds like. Local tattoo studio Sage & Serpent hosts this event, which welcomes anyone who feels “Sapphic, dyke-y, or in community with queer women.” Potential wrestlers should note that every meet is BYOT(owel).

Diskin Divas Drag Brunch: Local maker Diskin Cider hosts this show on a monthly basis, combining a delicious buffet-style brunch, the chance to sample the cidery’s originals (Bob’s Your Uncle is the standout favorite cider) and local drag performers from The Missfits. Note that unlike some of Nashville’s delightful kid-friendly drag events, this one is strictly 18+.

Drag’n Brunch at Suzy Wong’s: On weekends, Nashville’s longest-running and most-booked drag shindig lives up to the hype. Drag’n Brunch at Suzy Wong’s is a 1-hour drag-stravaganza featuring killer queens like Blush, Aquamarine and Perplexity. Show admission is included in your table reservation, as are apps and entrees; alcohol and gratuities are extra. This one is also 18+.  

Eddie’s Attic: Eddie’s Attic has it all: intimate acoustic performances, comedy nights and a friendly atmosphere. Its open-mic nights and showcases for up-and-coming talent often feature LGBTQ+ artists, and the supportive community makes it perfect for enjoying an excellent show while feeling like you truly belong. More-established gay artists play here, too: Eddie’s hosted “Drag Queens in Limousines,” a celebration of Mary Gauthier’s debut album, featuring special guest Jaimee Harris. 

The Bowery Vault: There’s not much that feels more Nashville than swinging in here for a standout music show and some drinks…and emerging a couple hours later with the perfect pair of jeans for only $12 (yes, this happened to me). A music venue–bar–vintage store, the Bowery Vault is co-owned by two lesbian entrepreneurs, Emily Zimmer and Vero Sanchez. It’s a must-visit for LGBTQ+ travelers looking for a fun and affirming nightlife experience.

Where to eat

International Market: This delicious Thai spot is owned by gay dad, James Beard Award semifinalist and Nashville native Chef Arnold Myint (who’s also known as his fab drag alter ego, Suzy Wong). He and his sister Anna run it as a “tribute restaurant” to the original owners, their parents Win and Patti Myint. Serving the freshest, most delicious Thai cuisine in town, it’s one of Nashville’s gems. Don’t miss the cafeteria steam table from 11am to 2pm.

D’Andrews: One of my favorite bakeries, D’Andrews is queer-owned – and makes a mean croissant. Run by native Nashvillian David Andrews, it’s a James Beard semifinalist bakery serving up famous Southern biscuits, cookies, croissants and pancakes. 

Where to shop

Music City Creative: This print and apparel shop is owned by Steven Romeo (they/them) and Jared Sizemore (he/him), who were inspired to create clothing emblazoned with messaging that shows the inclusive side of the South. Nab one – or four – of their viral rainbow “Y’all Means All” tees to take home.

Nook Living: If you’re here with your car (or unfazed by a 30-minute Uber), this adorable lifestyle shop in the Nashville suburb of Mount Juliet is co-owned by a gay couple who moved here from Rochester, New York. Marc Veira and Rick Reiter have a mix of some of the best books, prints, jewelry, candles, tea and stationery around.

Things to do

Belcourt Theatre: One of Nashville’s oldest and most charming theaters is today one of the country’s most celebrated independent art-house cinemas. The Belcourt screens indie, classic and art films – including many on LGBTQ+ themes – in an inclusive and historic setting. This is Nashville’s nonprofit film hub, and the best movie theater in town.

Karst Studio: This queer-owned, neuro-affirming, radically inclusive art studio geared toward kids and families was founded by Nic Sommers (she/they) and opened in early 2025. They offer an array of process-oriented art classes, spring break camps, performances, outdoor sound baths and much more. For LGBTQ+ parents traveling with your crew in tow, this one is a must-do.

Styled by Michael: If you’re looking to head home from this trip twice as stylish as when you arrived, look no further than stylist and chic gay dad about town Michael Mott-Kanneberg. Make a private styling appointment and Mott-Kannenberg will pull out all the stops, crafting a style inspo board unique to you and sourcing all the fashion you never knew you needed. When I worked with him, I emerged with not only my favorite jeans of all time (finally!) but also a two-piece green power suit that has become…well, basically my entire brand.

Hannah Ellis Skincare: A speciality of this East Nashville skin expert is helping people who are on hormone therapy or anyone transitioning who may be having skin issues due to their medications. “It’s very common, but sadly most feel helpless on where to go. We are a safe space,” says Ellis. While I’m a cisgender woman who is not on hormone therapy (yet – I see you up ahead there, menopause), I know how healing it feels to have Ellis truly take care of my skin.

Emily April Allen Photography: And speaking of traveling LGBTQ+ families: what better way toremember your Nashville trip together than with an affirming family photo session? Emily April Allen has made a name for herself as the photographer of the Nashville queer and trans communities; scroll through her gallery of “people-centered portraits” of individuals, couples and entire families to see why. Plus, Allen is so easy to work with, she makes even the most camera-shy of us queer folks (hi!) feel at ease, gorgeous and, well, seen.

LGBTQ+ hiking: The many beautiful hiking trails on the outskirts of Nashville are a treat for travelers, but challenging to navigate alone. LGBTQ+ visitors will find excellent, supportive company plus great guidance in the Outdoorsy Queers and OUTdoors Nashville communities, which host group hikes, camping and meetups. 

Inclusive yoga studios: If you’re more into hitting the yoga mat than the trail, numerous studios and teachers in Nashville are both skilled and supportive of all genders, orientations and bodies. Shakti Power Yoga will get you sweating on Music Row anytime – and we love the studio’s special Pride Flows in June. Mindful Nashville offers trauma-informed yoga, including a specific LGBTQ+ community class. East Nashville woman-owned studio Hola Yoga is another top pick that’s notably inclusive.

LGBTQ+ events in Nashville

Nashville Pride: The crown jewel of queer Nashville’s year, the Nashville LGBTQ+ Pride Festival is a true standout (and I’ve been to Pride celebrations across the country). Held (naturally) every June, the festivities celebrate love, equality and diversity. Expect a parade, food trucks, cute booths and plenty of live performances (this is Music City, after all). Now more than ever, Pride is calling the community into action and safeguarding the rights we all deserve and hold dear. 

LGBTQ+ artists performing at iconic venues: Plenty of superbly talented queer musicians are based in Nashville, from Ty Herndon to Katie Pruitt. They and other LGBTQ+ artists frequently play the city’s storied music venues, such as the historic Ryman Auditorium and the Grand Ole Opry. Keep an eye on the venue websites for upcoming tickets, and definitely catch a show if you can.

More information and resources for LGBTQ+ travelers

While Nashville is a Democratic-leaning city with an even more progressive mayor, don’t get so comfortable that you let your guard down in the wrong place. For Tennessee is still a state where the rights of LGBTQ+ people are constantly under attack, and there is always a chance of experiencing discrimination in as you go about your business. Still, you can rest assured that you’re unlikely to encounter problems in the Nashville areas where most LGBTQ+-geared spaces are concentrated (such as the District and East Nashville). Attitudes can vary in more conservative neighborhoods, so you may want to be more cautious about PDA in ritzy Belle Meade, or when dodging the bros and bachelorettes on Broadway.

Of course, if you’re out enjoying Nashville Pride downtown in June, you’re pretty much expected to bring the PDA! And several year-round resources exist to prioritize your safety and inclusion, so don’t hesitate to reach out with any concerns. It can usually be really helpful to connect with the local community online before visiting to get a sense of any current happenings or changes.

Tennessee Equality Project: The Tennessee Equality Project (TEP) is a statewide advocacy organization that’s all about securing legal protections and advancing policy reforms to help and support LGBTQ+ people – including visitors – throughout the state. Their portfolio of issues includes marriage equality, anti-discrimination laws and health-care access. Travelers in Nashville can connect with TEP to get involved in advocacy efforts or learn about local policies affecting LGBTQ+ rights and safety

Tennessee Pride Chamber Foundation: The TPCF was founded in 2015 and has been lifting up local LGBTQ+ businesses ever since. With group events including educational programming, mixers and even a roller derby, this is an active organization that brings queer travelers and allies alike to Nashville’s best businesses – helping you support queer and trans entrepreneurs, and have a super-fun time.

Trans Aid Nashville: This local mutual-aid collective is run by pioneering trans Nashvillians. It provides aid and community for all transgender, genderqueer and nonconforming folks in and around the city – and fights for intersectional justice, too.