The University Club (ucnightclub.com) is perhaps the most well-known alternative lifestyle bar in the Gainesville community. Also a nightclub, the facility celebrated its 21st anniversary in 2011. The club is known for its sound system and dance floor, has an upstairs and downstairs bar and a tradition of happy hour specials. The bar is particularly crowded on Thursday nights and through the weekend, and attracts a fairly large college crowd.
Wild Angels-Spikes (no website; 4130 NW 6th St, Gainesville; 352-376-3772) is a gay bar in Gainesville, Florida, that is located relatively close -- about 3 miles -- from the University of Florida campus. A relaxed and affordable atmosphere, the drinking establishment is 18 years or older and hosts themed nights with female impersonators and other drag show events, as well as nightly drink specials. The bar caters more to men and less to the college crowd that predominates other bars in Gainesville.
The Backstage Lounge (no website; 1315 S Main St., Gainesville, FL; 352-378-9185), caters to a diverse clientele, offering a range of themed entertainment from adult entertainment to house music dance shows and billiards. The club has a reputation for attracting a clientele that ranges from gay and lesbian patrons to those with particular fetishes. Music lovers will also appreciate the range of music found within the facility, from alternative music to hip-hop. The nightclub and bar also hosts karaoke.
Located about an hour and a half south of Gainesville, in nearby Ocala, is the Copa Nightclub and Tropix Restaurant (no website; 2330 South Pine Avenue, Ocala; 352-351-5271), an alternative lifestyle establishment. Located on Ocala's South Pine Avenue, the bar and nightclub portion features DJs and dance parties. It is also known as Ocala's only alternative lifestyle establishment. The bar is within walking distance of several area restaurants, most notably Murphy's Oyster and Real Pit Bar-B-Que.
