Hunters
When planning a night out in Palm Springs, one place you won’t want to pass up is Hunters. During the last 13 years, Hunters has gained the reputation as being one of the city’s premier nightspots. This video bar, nightclub and hot dance destination keeps patrons entertained by providing attractive and friendly staff, some of the areas most-popular DJs and different themed events throughout the year. Recently voted “Best in the Valley” for being the best dance bar that’s both gay and straight by Palm Springs magazine, this venue also features the deserts longest running happy hour (10 a.m.-7 p.m., Mon-Sun).
Hunters
302 East Arenas Rd.
Palm Springs
760-323-0700
Toucan’s Tiki Lounge
Another venue that draws in crowds is Toucan’s Tiki Lounge. In operation for ten years this bar/club has gained a reputation for its weekly events that help to keep patrons entertained. Start your week off right with featured bartender Jesus serving up the desert’s best cocktails while enjoying entertainer Rudy DeLaMor singing show tunes and original songs on the piano. The festivities continue throughout the week with nightly drink and happy hour specials, 2-4-1 Tuesdays, flashback to the ’80s Wednesday and some of the desert’s best dance music by DJ Galaxy on Friday and Saturday. Finish off the week on Sunday with The Playgirls Drag Revue.
Toucan’s Tiki Lounge
2100 North Palm Canyon Dr.
Palm Springs
760-416-7584
The Barracks
When thinking outside the box for places to go in Palm Springs, be sure to check out The Barracks. According to their Web site, this is your leather, boot, uniform, bear, fetish and cruise destination. Some of the themed events, which are thrown nightly at The Barracks include, bare/bear chest night, underwear night and gear night. This club also plays host to its yearly Mr. Barracks Leather Contest and DJ Steve helps to keep the “mood” on the weekend playing a variety of “cruise music” for guests enjoyment. The Barracks is also home to the largest patio bar in the desert. No matter what you’re looking for you’re sure to find it here.
The Barracks
67-625 East Palm Canyon Dr.
Cathedral City
760-321-9688
Street Bar
Billed as “the friendliest gay bar in Palm Springs,” Street Bar is an eclectic mix of Cheers-style regulars; plus the usual desert fare of $5 drink specials Monday-Friday until 8 p.m.; an innovative combination of art and entertainment events; and live entertainment. Street Bar lacks dancing, but does have a live DJ and a smoking patio. While the crowd leans toward the 40 and better crowd, anyone who likes music, drinking and fun will find themselves right at home.
Street Bar
224 East Arenas Rd.
Palm Springs
760-320-1266
Tool Shed
It’s the “proud home bar of the Palm Springs Leather Order of the Desert.” It’s conveniently located in what is perhaps the most “active” gayborhood in the desert – Warm Sands. It’s also an 18-year-old institution. It’s the Tool Shed, and it has some of the best-branded events. There’s Rehab, which kicks off Saturday and Sunday mornings with Dr. Jon and his famous elixirs; Cruising Night (some Saturday nights); Bare Chest Nights (also some Saturday nights); and 0-69 Bingo – just to name a few. Tool Shed even hosts pool tournaments. Leave your dance shoes at home, Cinderella; Tool Shed’s not about cuttin’ a rug.
Tool Shed
600 East Sunny Dunes St.
Palm Springs
760-320-3299
Wang’s in the Desert
This oasis in the desert has become one of Palm Springs most popular eateries. Their nightly happy hour which features $2 cocktails/wine, $3 domestic beers, $4 large well martinis and a dim sum menu draws in large crowds. Patrons can also enjoy some of the finest pan asian cuisine in Wangs’ main dining room which is set around an indoor coy pond. A spacious bar area, outdoor patio and private dining room provide the perfect setting to mingle with friends as you enjoy all that Wang’s has to offer. Be on the lookout for Wang’s in San Diego as they are planning to open their second location in North Park soon.
Wang’s in the Desert
424 South Indian Canyon Drive
Palm Springs
760-325-9264
Blame It On Midnight
Recently remodeled in a more contemporary style, Blame It On Midnight offers a variety of options for your entertainment and dining needs. Known for their friendly service and reasonably priced menu items, this restaurant features a variety of fresh meat and seafood, organic veggies and small plate selections that are sure to meet your needs. Enjoy a cocktail during happy hour which is from 5-7 p.m. Wednesday-Sunday and be sure to check out some of the weekly live entertainment. This venue plays host to open mic night, cabaret in the lounge and Michael Holmes’ ever popular “The Judy Show.” Keep in mind this place is only open Wednesday-Sunday so plan accordingly.
Blame It On Midnight
777 East Tahquitz Canyon Way
Palm Springs
760-323-1200
