Are you a queer person in Ottawa looking for a safe space or a vibrant community to call home? Or perhaps you’re an ever-supportive ally just eager to join the vibrant LGBT scene?
No matter your preferences, Ottawa has an array of welcoming spaces in store for you. So, let’s sashay into the city’s dynamic queer nightlife, shall we?
1. T’s Pub
Website: https://sites.google.com/view/tspub/
Address: 323 Somerset St W, Ottawa, ON K2P 0J8, Canada
Contact details: +1 613-233-7375
Operating hours:
- Monday to Wednesday – 2 PM to 12 AM
- Thursday to Saturday – 2 PM to 2 AM
T’s Pub is a renowned queer hangout spot where you can either chill by the outdoor patio or indulge yourself in the vibrant indoor festivities. Located in Centretown, people love it for its accessibility and buzzing neighborhood ambiance.
One of the highlights of going to T’s Pub is their commitment to keeping things fresh by hosting a wide array of events including karaoke night, drag night, leather night, and such.
Moreover, they have a plethora of food and drinks to choose from, ensuring there’s something for everyone to enjoy.
2. Swizzles
Website: https://www.swizzles.ca
Address: 246 B Queen St, Ottawa, ON K1P 5E4, Canada
Contact details: +1 613-232-4200
Operating hours:
- Monday to Wednesday – 4 PM to 2 AM
- Thursday and Friday – 3 PM to 2 AM
- Saturday – 7 PM to 2 AM
- Sunday – 5 PM to 2 AM
Swizzles is an intimate queer hotspot in Ottawa. Despite being modestly sized, its welcoming vibe creates a safe space where the LGBT community can gather without fear of discrimination or judgment.
Since the seats are limited, we suggest getting there early especially if there are any special events for the night. Either way, you can always stand and enjoy the vibrant atmosphere and fabulous entertainment.
Some events to look forward to at Swizzles are the popular ones which are drag nights, comedy nights, and karaoke nights.
The best part about going to this gay club is you can go by yourself and make a new friend by the end of the night, thanks to its welcoming crowd.
3. The Lookout Bar
Website: https://thelookoutbar.com
Address: 41 York St 2nd floor, Ottawa, ON K1N 5S7, Canada
Contact details: +1 613-789-1624
Operating hours:
- Monday – closed
- Tuesday – 7 PM to 1 AM
- Wednesday – 7 PM to 2 AM
- Thursday – 8 PM to 12:30 AM
- Friday and Saturday – 4 PM to 2 AM
- Sunday – 3 PM to 12 AM
The Lookout Bar is another upbeat queer hangout spot where a lot of local LGBT individuals gather, especially those seeking to socialize and unwind in an inclusive environment.
It’s also a well-known bar among queer women who are looking for a potential partner.
The drag shows every Friday and Saturday are popular, so we suggest going that day to experience The Lookout Bar’s electrifying energy.
If that’s not your thing, you can go on other nights to enjoy cocktails, meet new people, and participate in karaoke nights.