Learn the history of LGBTQ bars, lounges, and social spaces in Greenwich Village while visiting the sites of existing and past landmarks.

About this event

Join Out Professionals Members and friends to explore LGBTQ history as played out in sometimes notorious speakeasies, bars, and clubs.

West Village Pub Tour Traces Roots of LGBTQ Culture image
For decades bar culture has loomed large in the LGBTQ community. During this three-hour stroll, learn why bars have played such an outsized role in gay life. Join us as we tip back our glasses at four special gay/lesbian bars, on an entertaining tour of Manhattan’s most storied neighborhood.

What can veterans of Ty’s, Stonewall, and Julius’ tell us about gay bar culture’s place in history?
Who was the woman who opened the first lesbian nightclub? How has she been immortalized?
Why did Village waterfront bars welcome the rougher side of gay life?
Which bar was the site of a major gay protest resulting in a famous court case years prior to Stonewall?
What are the biggest threats to today’s gay bar culture?
Today’s tour originated in conjunction with the Greenwich Village Society for Historic Preservation.

About Our Guide:

Phil Desiere (shown above), founder of Walk About New York, is licensed by the city as a Tourist Guide. In addition to tours of such quintessential spots as Central Park, Phil has developed and leads the Gay Graves Tour at Brooklyn’s Green-Wood Cemetery, a National Historic Landmark.

West Village Pub Tour Traces Roots of LGBTQ Culture image
What’s Up?
Our tour begins at 2:00 PM sharp, rain or shine, in the lobby of the LGBT Community Center, 208 West 13th Street, between 7th and 8th Avenues. Subway: 1/2/3, A/C/E or F/M to 14th Street; L to 6th or 8th Avenue. After viewing the Center’s famous Keith Haring bathroom (now a meeting room), we explore the rich history of West Village watering holes. Refreshments on your own. Tour ends at approximately 5:00 PM back at the LGBTQ Center.

West Village Pub Tour Traces Roots of LGBTQ Culture image
Want to save on admission and attend many events free? Join or renew a Supporting Membership in Out Professionals. Starting at just $65/year, membership gives you complimentary access to every monthly networking event and Out Pro webinars for a full year, savings on excursions, as well as other benefits. Join Out Professionals now.