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By Joey Albanese
1. The Allways Lounge and Theatre
by: Alexandra Reisner – Courtesy: Gogobot
The Allways Lounge and Theatre is a special spot. It’s located on St. Claude in the Marigny close to a bunch of other great bars. Not only is this just a good bar “all ways”, they also have consistent shows that never disappoint. They have weekly Drag Bingo, burlesque shows with the infamous Bella Blue, a wild country night and everything in between. The crowd is always a mix of genders, sexualities, ages and backgrounds, so if there’s one place in town where you won’t be labeled or put into a tiny little box, this is it.
2. Bourbon Pub & Parade
by: Kevin Farrell – Courtesy: Gogobot
The Pub is probably the most popular gay bar in New Orleans, so you can always bet that something is going on there. It’s open 24 hours, and I’d be surprised if it’s ever empty. Sundays may be the best night there, as they have Sing-along Sundays, which consists of non-stop music and comedy videos that will be sure to ignite your inner queen. Upstairs, they are most likely having some sort of drag show or burlesque event that is probably worth a visit. If not, have a drink on the balcony and watch the scene on Bourbon Street below. That or take your drink to go!
3. Bourbon Pride
by: Joey Albanese – Courtesy: Gogobot
Bourbon Pride is an LGBT store located on Bourbon Street in the heart of all the gay bars. The store’s collection can be a little flashy and cheesy at times, but it’s a fun store to check out. They’ve got anything from rainbow ties to flamboyant jewelry, LGBT flags, funny gifts, colorful beads and pride t-shirts designed in-house. My favorite is one with the slogan: “I’m perfect, you change.” You may not find anything to take home with you, but at least you’ll feel at home in this place.
4. Royal Street Courtyard
by: brittreints flickr – Courtesy: Gogobot
Looking for a place to stay with a gay-friendly atmosphere and some sort of New Orleans personality? The Royal Street Courtyard is a bed and breakfast located in the Marigny neighborhood owned by two of the most wonderful men you’ll meet. They are sure to make sure you have the most comfortable stay, and will definitely clue you in on all the best restaurants and bars to go to, what to order and how to get there. The B&B is located in an 1850s home with 14-foot ceilings and stunning architecture. They also have a great front porch to sit on and a hot tub in back to relax in. This is a guaranteed win.
5. Good Friends Bar
by: Kevin Farrell – Courtesy: Gogobot
Good Friends is like the Cheers of New Orleans gay bars – everybody really does know your name. Hopefully that’s all they know about you. It’s a homey bar with a laid back atmosphere where you can find a nice mix between locals and tourists. It’s the kind of place where you can easily make friends at the bar and meet some quality bartenders who can show you a good time. Happy hour is a deal you can’t really beat: $3 well drinks with a heavy pour. Sit on the balcony upstairs for some good views and people watching.
6. Phoenix Bar
by: sporkist flickr – Courtesy: Gogobot
If God were to create a playground for scruffy boys, it’d look like the Phoenix. It’s one of my favorite bars in town, mainly because there’s no pretension or sass that comes into this place. It’s just a bunch of guys who like guys being guys. That’s it. Downstairs is a chill bar where the bartenders are always super friendly and down to earth. Upstairs is a completely different scene, dark bar, naughty videos and literally playground equipment. There’s also a leather store in the back of the bar where you can buy toys, “equipment”, and hot menswear. Thumbs up to this place.
7. Faubourg Marigny Art and Books
by: JasonParis flickr – Courtesy: Gogobot
If you’re looking for a specific book, this may not be the right store to find it. But if you’re interested in finding an unexpected treasure, then this is the place. It’s an art and bookstore located right on Frenchmen Street, so it’s a great place to stop in between live music shows or if you’re wandering around the Marigny during the day. His collection is quite eclectic, and most of it carries a heavy tone of homoeroticism. From erotic books to postcards, nude artwork to random trinkets, his collection is at least worth a browse. It’s like a museum in that way. Be prepared to dig through it all so you don’t miss what’s underneath.
8. Fifi Mahony’s
by: gamene flickr – Courtesy: Gogobot
No trip to New Orleans is complete without a trip to the wig store. But Fifi Mahony’s is so much more than any old costume shop. They’re fully prepared to transform anyone into a queen. Not only are their wigs of the best quality, but the staff is too. They guide you through the process quite flawlessly, so that you can find the perfect mane for any occasion, and have a ball doing so. They’ll even give the wig a trim to make it just right. Need a haircut? They’re on it. Cosmetics? They’ve got ‘em. Local hand-made accessories? They’ve got that too. Before you go to any party, festival or parade, be sure to pay this place a visit first.
9. Clover Grill
by: Johnny Lippeatt – Courtesy: Gogobot
Any all-nighter spent running around the French Quarter should end at The Clover Grill. It’s a 24-hour diner right in the heart of the “Fruit Loop” – the cluster of gay bars so eloquently named. Warning: don’t expect any speedy service here. The staff probably just got in from a night out as well. But it’s fine; you can sit at the bar and watch them make your food. That or you’ll have enough entertainment from the eclectic crowd of folks who had too much to drink. The Chicken Fried Steak and Eggs is one of my favorites. Or a Chocolate Milkshake and a side of French Fries always hits the spot.
10. Country Club
by: James B – Courtesy: Gogobot
The Country Club may not be what it used to be, but it’s still a nice way to spend an afternoon. It’s a great spot in the Bywater neighborhood with a free attitude about it. It used to be a clothing optional pool, where people of all genders and sexualities mixed and mingled in a beautiful way. That has since ended, but the pool part is still there. And although the vibes seem to be changing in a not so great way, it’s a pool with a cocktail bar closeby. Their pool is heated, with a hot tub and sauna as well. There’s also an indoor restaurant and bar that is a great atmosphere to hang out in.
Source: gogobot.com