Gay Local Tips in Fort Lauderdale

Where the Boys Are

Ed and Robb are both university professors and Fabul'hosts in Fort Lauderdale. So they sure know a thing or two about the world and the gay paradise they live in. Follow their tips in this extensive city guide about where to eat out, where to go out, and where to dance your night away. Explore Fort Lauderdale and experience your pride.

How gay-friendly is your city? What’s gay life like there?

In 1963, Connie Francis made a movie about Spring Break in Fort Lauderdale. Her hit song, Where the Boys Are, has brought guys (mostly gay) from around to world to soak up some rays in this sunny Florida town. Since then, Fort Lauderdale has been a gay mecca in the south-eastern part of the United States.

What are the best gay events that take place in your city each year?

Fort Lauderdale has two gay prides every year: one on the beach in either February or March, and one on the main street of Wilton Manors at the end of June – usually on Father’s Day! There is also a Bears’ Weekend and a Winter Party. Thanks to the coastal location of Fort Lauderdale, it's also considered a great place to start or end a cruise.

We only have 48 hours in your city. What can’t we miss?

One thing not to miss is Sebastian Street Beach, on Fort Lauderdale Beach – you can’t miss it with all the rainbow flags flying. Then of course you should take a stroll up Wilton Drive and get a soft-serve ice-cream or a shake at Dairy Queen. After this, we suggest heading across the street for a visit to Richardson House, the oldest residence in Wilton Manors. Stroll through the gardens and on the boardwalk that winds its way through a mangrove jungle. Then head to the northern part of the city. Stop in Out of the Closet – the most fabulous thrift shop in the world. Check out the many cafés and bars on The Drive, and settle in for a drink at one or two. The Yellow Shopping Center is the bull’s eye of The Drive, but it still goes north, ending at Five Points.

Nightlife in Fort Liquordale (as we locals call it) goes from serious gay theater at The Island City Stage, to regular gay bars, strip clubs, and gays saunas. Stroll through Eucalyptus Gardens for some very unique food and drink options – you’ll think that you have traveled back in time to the hippie generation. Alternatively, explore the town's labyrinth of canals by water taxi – buy a whole-day ticket and get on and off along the way. If water travel is not your thing, you can rent a bike and cycle through a unique American gay community with Caribbean flair. The following evening, enjoy a drag show at Alibi, or even sign up for drag bingo at Monkey Business Bar or a drag dinner at Lips. If you prefer hairy men, hit Hunters, while those who like twinks will probably enjoy Johnson’s, LeBoy or Boardway a little more.

A gay place for brunch on weekends?

Eucalyptus Gardens is an area in town which has several gay-friendly places for brunch: Voo La Voo (French), The Alchemist, The Boardwalk, Ethos, and Mind-Your-Manors are just some of the many nice spots. But this is Fort Lauderdale, good luck finding a spot in town that’s not gay-friendly!

Best gay time and place for a cheap beer or happy hour?

For the cheapest and biggest drinks in town head to Monkey Business. Otherwise Alibi does an excellent happy hour - have two of their Long Island Ice Teas and you can forget the rest of the evening! For a Western-themed happy hour with dancing cowboys, head to Scandal’s Salon - the name should be a giveaway in itself.

We’re ready to party! What are the best gay clubs in Fort Lauderdale?

In the eye of the hurricane you'll find Hunter’s, which is a great place to start for drinks then dance. Across the street, Drynk or Chardee’s cater to a slightly older demographic and promise plenty of dancing.

Alibi Bar in Wilton Manors

What are the best alternative gay bars and clubs where you live?

Hehe – if you want to check out a lively spot with dancers in a cage you can't beat Ramrod. For a dose of cool try Mona’s or Fancy Pants, and if drag is your thing you can't pass dinner at Lips.

Are there any places related to LGBT history?

The Stonewall Museum & Archives has a storefront venue on The Drive with a revolving exposition. The main Stonewall Museum is on Sunrise Boulevard, and houses an extensive gay and lesbian library. They offer talks and free gay historic film showings. The Pride Center has been based in Wilton Manors for the last 28 years, and offers a wide range of daily activities – mostly free of charge. The World AIDS Museum is also a unique place to visit. If you go, ask for a guided tour which examines the history of HIV and AIDS. The staff are very knowledgeable, and have a wealth of information that will surprise you.

Gay Thrift Store in Wilton Manors

Any beaches, parks or other worthwhile places to chill-out?

Sebastian Street Beach, our gay beach, is cool. Parking can be hard on the weekends, but during the weekdays it is a little easier. Have lunch at The Deck which is scenically positioned on the beach. Downtown, along New River is a park with the oldest houses in Fort Lauderdale. Northwards up the beach is Lauderdale-by-the-Beach, where you can find a wild Caribbean restaurant, Aruba Café. If you love art, we'd also recommend paying a visit to Bonnet House.

Thinking of visiting Fort Lauderdale? Check out our Travel Guide and Local Tips for this great gay city!

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