Called the "Magic City" upon its founding as a railroad town in 1882, Billings is Montana's largest city and the region's cultural hub. The Yellowstone River and the Beartooth and Pryor mountain ranges provide the backdrop to this diverse city, which is home to history and art museums, symphony and opera houses and a handful of bars and pubs. Though not traditionally known as a hot spot for gay-friendly activities, the Billings area offers a single gay bar.
Situated in the northeastern portion of the city, the Loft Dance Club first opened in May of 1998. Its regional popularity prompted the need for a larger space, and in 2006 the club moved to its current location in downtown. As of 2010, it is the only openly gay club in Billings. Its services include a sports bar, patio and full-service casino. Guests of every sexual orientation are welcome at the club, which frequently hosts dance parties, local bands, comedians and theatrical productions.
The Loft provides a variety of nightly entertainment. Beer pong typically is available each night of the week. Specialized events are offered Wednesday through Saturday. Hump day specials include $2 domestic bottled beers from 7 p.m. to 10 p.m., karaoke and free entry to the on-site dance club, as of 2010. Thursday is open mic night. Patrons have an open stage from which to showcase their respective talents, and the dance club remains open until 2 a.m. Weekend activities include karaoke and dancing. Thursday through Saturday nights are considered "buddy" nights. For each drink purchased, a guest's friend receives one of equal or lesser value for free.
The club is within a stone's throw of other area bars, restaurants and attractions. Both the Wild West Saloon and Pug Mahon's Irish Pub are within a mile of the Loft, while Walkers American Grill & Tapas Bar and Juliano's Restaurant are under 2 miles away.
About a mile and a half west of the club is the Yellowstone Art Museum. This museum is home to at least three permanent collections, including the 1,925-piece Montana Collection, which features work by state artists from the 1940s to the present. Also nearby is the Western Heritage Center. It houses a collection of over 17,000 objects, among which include historic photographs, American Indian beadwork and artifacts, Western art, guns and period furnishings.
