There are many fabulous gay hotspots in Brisbane. It would be impossible to cover them all. Gay scene in Brisbane is very energetic and fluid and new hotspots and venues keep coming. This is our choice and suggestion for queer travelers. It is always open for more suggestions. Don’t be shy and feel free to let us know about your favorite gay hotspot in Brisbane.
Let’s start then sweeties:
Laruche – Gay Hotspot No. 1
An award-winning bar and club located in the heart of the Fortitude Valley widely renowned for its impeccable service, bespoke cocktails, and eclectic décor. Being first and foremost a cocktail bar, the bartenders love getting creative with the shaker behind the bar, but we also loved dancing the night away here to guests DJs amidst psychedelic design and quirky chandeliers. Can get a little crowded, but there is a big outdoor back area to retreat too, and on Sunday’s cheap drinks and a little more space to get your moves on! Definitely recommended fabulous gay hotspot
Dutch Courage Officers’ Mess – Gay Hotspot No. 2
A plantation-style cocktail bar, restaurant & function venue inspired by the invention of the gin & tonic in the late 19th century. Set over two stories, DC’s lower level is kitted out with vintage campaign furniture, hessian curtains, and authentic safari touches.
Here, the main bar offers an innovative cocktail menu and boasts an impressive 250+ strong spirit collection, including over 130 gins, craft beer on tap, wine & champagne. On busier nights, why not head upstairs to the quieter mezzanine level, complete with its own dedicated bar. A spot where formality during the day gave way to carefree partying and socializing at night.
Soleil Pool Bar @ Rydges South Bank Brisbane – Gay Hotspot No. 3
Wrapped around the podium level at the Rydges South Bank is this relaxed poolside bar, one of Brisbane’s premier destinations and one of the best places to visit to impress guests. Take a seat in the main bar area, find a cozy hideout or soak up the sun on the pool deck with delicious pub-grub food.
Remember: Calories don’t count on sunny days! Combining colorful features against a palette of gold and white, the venue offers a warm and inviting space to be with glass in hand, as DJs and acoustic music fill the air on the weekends. Very gay-popular, because of course, any spot is with an opportunity for speedo Insta-shots getting out of the pool…
Eleven Rooftop – Gay Hotspot No. 4
Perched eleven stories high above Brisbane’s nightlife hub on Ann Street, Eleven Rooftop Bar boasts impressive 270-degree views of Fortitude Valley, the CBD, and surrounding suburbs. Inspired by the rooftop bars of Istanbul, the relaxed, luxe party vibe of Indonesia / Bali’s famous Potato Head and Ku De Ta, and Blue Marlin Bar in Ibiza this lavish space is the best spot to relax and get away from the hustle and bustle of the everyday grind.
Offering a simple and comfortable approach to food and drinks, relaxed and laid back by day, Eleven Rooftop transitions then to a cultured dinner and party vibe by night, complete with the best view in Brisbane! Very gay-popular, and an absolute must visit if you prefer a taste of the finer things in life, and can swallow the price tag to match!
As I have said above, there are many more gay hotspots in Brisbane than these four. All these were opened at the time of writing this article (January, 2021). Australia and Queensland are among places that efficiently and successfully manage COVID-19 emergency.
Please do some research before traveling as there are many similar blogs covering queer travelers and their needs.
Note: Due to COVID-19 emergency, Australia is de facto closed for foreign visitors. This is expected to be the case till the end of this year. We appeal to Aussie queer travelers to support gay and lesbian businesses by using their services.