Dance Your Way Through Pride
The best dance floors in New York to keep you grooving this Pride month and beyond.
While the NYC Pride March is set for June 30th at noon, you may be wondering how to spend the nights leading up to the big event. Well, if dancing is your thing, we know just the spots. And while this roundup of queer bars and hotspots is ideal for dancing your way through Pride, these spots are also some of the best outside of Pride week—so be sure to find your way back after the big celebration!
Not only is Cubbyhole one of Manhattan’s last remaining lesbian bars, it is also one of the oldest. First opened in 1987 under the name DT’s Fat Cat, Cubbyhole rebranded in 1994 and has remained a West Village fixture ever since. With a ceiling completely covered in an eclectic array of colorful decorations, what might feel like a dive instead inspires a certain celebratory mood perfect for Pride. And though small in size, the place can get packed!
281 W 12th St, New York; (212) 243-9041
Built inside a brewery, 3 Dollar Bill is the largest queer venue in the city. Known for its drag shows and DJ sets, the 10,000-square-foot Brooklyn space features a dance floor with two stages at either end and an outdoor patio perfect for cooling off between songs. And if dancing isn’t for you, you’ll also find a classic bar within the space to post up and enjoy the show. Be sure to check their website for the many events taking place for Pride month.
260 Meserole St, Brooklyn; (718) 366-3031
Recently reopened after an arson attack forced the venue to close a mere five months into its existence, Rash is a queer Bushwick hotspot known for its dark dance music and DJ program. Dimly lit by the glow of red light, the space is a perfect place to avoid the more traditional Pride bash in favor of escaping into the pulse of the beat.
941 Willoughby Ave, Brooklyn
A new queer bar in Greenpoint, ANIMAL stands out for its impressive mixology program and aesthetic setting. The space itself is elegant with an outdoor area heavily populated by greenery. But don’t be fooled yet: Animal isn’t just a specialty cocktail den. At night, a disco ball lights up a dance floor known for its DJ sets and fetish parties. The perfect destination if you’re craving a craft cocktail but still want to let loose for Pride.
307 Meeker Avenue, Brooklyn
Hosted by HK Hall in the heart of Hell’s Kitchen, the 12th annual Proud Divas pride show is not to be missed. A Vegas illusion-style production, Proud Divas features a cast of drag superstars including Aquaria, Chad Michaels, Derrick Barry, Jaida Essence Hall, Roxxxy Andrews and Shequida. Your favorite divas take the stage on Saturday, June 29th. Doors open at 7pm.
605 W 48th St, New York; (212) 957-1800
Daydream at PHD Rooftop at Dream Downtown
A great way to close out your Pride week, the 12th annual Daydream party is hosted by NYC nightlife legends Amanda Lepore, Aquaria and Kevin Aviance. Enjoy live entertainment alongside Dream Downtown’s iconic view of the Manhattan skyline. Bottle service starts at 2pm.
355 W 16th St, New York; (212) 229-2559
WORDS Hillary Sproul