Detroit's gay and lesbian community has a long history of being active and visible in local politics and social activities. Its history includes pioneers such as Ruth Ellis, a prominent black lesbian who lived to be over 100 years old as well as groundbreaking house DJs who gained worldwide prominence. Gay bars in Detroit cater to all sectors of the community and are supporters of social-service agencies.
Club Rainbow Room, a bar that opened its doors in 1996, is known for its drag shows featuring local and out-of-town entertainers. There are daily drink specials and special offers. Tuesday is free pool night. On Wednesday nights, the club hosts a talent show, and there is karaoke on Thursdays. Drag queens host the theme nights during the week and perform on Friday and Saturday nights. Club Rainbow Room was voted one of the top five clubs in Detroit in 2010 in a poll of residents sponsored by local NBC television station WDIV.
Club Rainbow Room
6640 E. Eight Mile Rd.
Detroit, MI 48234
313-891-1020
clubrainbowroom.com
Gigi's is a dance bar that is open seven nights a week with different activities each evening. On Tuesdays patrons can enjoy free pool and on Wednesdays participate in an open mic. Drag queens and go-go dancers perform during the week and on weekends in the club's cabaret room. On Sunday evenings the club hosts karaoke and during the summer organizes volleyball games in a nearby park.
Gigi's
16920 W. Warren Ave.
Detroit, MI
313-584-6525
gigisbar.com
The Hayloft Saloon is a long-running neighborhood bar. The club has a daily happy hour from 3 p.m. to 9 p.m. with nightly drink specials. Members of the military receive discounts on Friday nights. Every last Saturday of the month is leather night. The club also hosts special events such as costume contests and leather weekends.
Hayloft Saloon
8070 Greenfield Rd.
Detroit, MI 48228
313-581-8913
hayloftsaloon.com
The Woodward Cocktail Bar is a Detroit institution. It is the longest-running gay bar in Detroit. It opened in 1951 and is in the vicinity of Wayne State University. The small bar also serves food, has a pool table, a dartboard and a jukebox.
The Woodward Cocktail Bar
6426 Woodward Ave
Detroit, MI 48202
313-872-3216
