Salt Lake City's Best Gay Clubs: A Journey Through Time and Today
Long before the vibrant LGBTQ+ scene Salt Lake City boasts today, whispers of acceptance could be found in unexpected corners. I remember a tiny women's bar, tucked away under a viaduct where The Gateway now stands.
As young, nervous gays, my friend Bucket and I were terrified of our fake IDs being scrutinized at the door.
We often found solace at the old Sun Tavern, a haven for acceptance located where the Delta Center now resides. It was there we mustered the courage to visit "Perky's" one night, only to find a heartbreaking note announcing its closure and relocation to Idaho.
"Closed forever," it read, "moved to Idaho."
Having been out since the '70s, and as the first openly gay realtor in Salt Lake, I've seen the scene evolve firsthand. I even owned a gay bar for a while. It's a challenging yet incredibly rewarding industry.
A Look Back at Salt Lake's LGBTQ+ History
Back in the day, two mainstays dominated the scene: Radio City and the Sun Tavern.
The Sun Tavern was a legendary hub for out-of-towners and a stage for travelling performers. I remember one unforgettable night when Gloria Gaynor, the queen of survival anthems, energized the crowd from atop a bench, belting out "I Will Survive." Comedian Paul Lynde, a Hollywood Squares icon, even found himself in a bit of trouble after one particularly boozy night at the bar.
Drag queens graced the stages of both establishments regularly.
Today, Try-Angles and The Sun Trapp (formerly the Sun Tavern) stand as the remaining relics of that era. Sadly, Club Verse recently announced its permanent closure due to co-owner Riley Richter's health issues. Our thoughts and prayers are with Riley and Michael as they navigate this difficult time.
The Modern Salt Lake LGBTQ+ Scene
Salt Lake City now hosts one of the largest and most celebrated Pride parades and festivals in the country.
Pride Week transforms the downtown area into a dazzling display of rainbow colors, attracting tens of thousands of attendees.
Top LGBTQ+ Spots in Salt Lake City Today:
- Club Try-Angles: Known for its laid-back vibe, except during their infamous themed events like Underwear Night and Leather Night, where all-night parties are the norm.
Expect friendly bartenders and a welcoming atmosphere, perfect for newcomers and solo explorers. Don't miss their colorful cocktails like the "Va-jay" or "Purple Kool-Aid."
- The Sun Trapp: A long-standing favorite with a relaxed atmosphere.
- Metro Music Hall: Hosts frequent drag shows and gender-swap events, showcasing local and visiting talent.
- Twilite Lounge: A nostalgic trip back in time with a diverse and welcoming atmosphere.
- Bar X: Offers a sultry, speakeasy vibe with must-try cocktails and an intimate ambiance.
- Why Kiki: Another popular spot known for its lively atmosphere.
- The Tavernacle Social Club: A unique experience with a focus on dueling pianos and sing-alongs.
- MILK+: A smaller, more intimate club with a friendly atmosphere.
Other highlights include Try-Angles' Sunday Drag Brunch and weekly themed drag shows.
When the weather is nice, check out the outdoor patio or head downstairs for a silent disco. Salt Lake City's LGBTQ+ scene continues to thrive, offering a diverse range of experiences for everyone.