Sydney is the largest and most cosmopolitan city in Australia – famed for its livability, culture, nature and cuisine. It's a great travel destination with so many options. Explore the famous harbor, see the opera house or even take a day trip from Sydney during your visit. Sydney is also an incredibly welcoming destination for LGBT+ visitors.

Gay bars in Sydney are centered around Oxford Street, situated in the City East district. King Street in Newtown has a more queer vibe and is also popular with the lesbian crowd. Here are a few of the best gay bars to check out when you visit Sydney.

The Imperial Hotel

This Sydney gay bar stalwart is affectionately known as Impy by the locals and is a significant icon of the gay community. It’s one of the few gay bars located outside the city centres and is famous for being a filming location for Priscilla Queen of the Desert. Its three bars, dance floors, magnetic crowd and historical sentiment make this venue a winner every time.

Sly Fox

Billed as Sydney’s premier Lesbian venue, clientele of both sexes flock here for the regular gigs, drag bingo and daily drinks deals. It also has a 6am license at the weekend – something of a rarity in Australia’s de facto, if unofficial, capital.

The Oxford Hotel

Arguably the most famous gay bar in Sydney, The Oxford Hotel is actually several venues in one. From the basement cabaret bar to the mid-level terrace and upstairs lounge, there’s a little something for everyone at the city’s most reasonably priced gay venue.

Tokyo Sing Song

Sydney’s edgiest gay venue is located away from Oxford Street in the queer district of Newtown. They host alternative drag shows that challenge the gender norms and are known for being the favourite of many internationally acclaimed queer DJs.

The Stonewall Hotel

The walls of this bar are aptly adorned with the slogan ‘The history is remembered, the future is here.’ The three bars in the heritage listed building plays host to karaoke, drag and male dancers. Wednesdays is the famous pick-up night when visitors wear a number whereby you can leave them a cheeky message. Also heavily involved in fundraising, The Stonewall Hotel is a must on a visit to Sydney.

Beresford Hotel

Especially popular among the local crowd – this place is a Sunday favourite when guys of all types pack out the beer garden while listening to the range of eclectic music.