Whether you’re a cruising enthusiast or just looking for a place to meet gay men, there are plenty of options in New York City.
There are also a number of social groups that cater to gay men, such as sports leagues and book clubs. These groups often host events that are open to the public and can be a great way to meet new people.
1. Sports Leagues
Whether you want to stay active or just make new friends, sports leagues are an excellent way to connect with your gay community. Many cities offer LGBTQ-focused adult sports leagues, including bowling, soccer, tennis, cheerleading and rugby.
The United States Gay Sports Network (USGSN) is a great resource to connect people to local LGBTQ+ sports leagues across the country. Their goal is to promote and feature as many LGBTQ+ sports leagues as possible.
For example, there are several rugby clubs in the Philadelphia area that are open to anyone who wants to play. The Gotham Knights Rugby Football Club is a great place to sign up for a social or competitive game.
Stonewall Sports Indianapolis offers three different sports leagues – softball, volleyball and kickball – where participants can meet new people and build friendships outside of work. The organization also donates money to a philanthropic charity each season.
2. Book Clubs
Book clubs are a popular way for people to meet others and discuss books. They’re usually organized around an agreed-upon reading list, and meetings take place on a regular basis.
If you’re planning a book club, it’s important to find a venue that’s comfortable for all members. For example, you may not want to meet at a bar or restaurant that’s too loud for someone who is deaf, and you might need to plan snacks to accommodate vegan or vegetarian members.
Another consideration is the type of book you’ll be reading. Some book clubs pick the book based on a leader’s recommendation, while others allow everyone to vote on their top selection.
3. Faith-Based Groups
Faith-based groups are a great way to meet gay men with compatible beliefs and perspectives. These organizations are often involved in social justice issues.
For example, a local LGBTQ community center or the chapter of GLAAD are places where you can find people who are committed to promoting LGBT rights. These groups also offer volunteer opportunities for people who want to get more involved in the community and help make it a better place.
These groups serve many of the nation’s poor and marginalized populations. They provide health services, emergency shelter, housing and job training. They have a strong ties to Latino, Black, Native American and Asian communities that are underserved by the mainstream nonprofit sector.
4. Art Shows
A gay art show is a collection of works by gay, lesbian or bisexual artists that’s displayed in a public venue. Usually, it’s organized by a museum or other major arts institution.
The most notable gay art shows in New York include Hide / Seek, an exhibit of gay-inflected works at the Whitney; a collection of photographs by Harvey Milk at the Leslie-Lohman Museum of Art; and an AIDS-era exhibition curated by a group called Art + Queerness.
These shows feature the work of important gay artists who haven’t gotten their due. They include self-taught photographer Amos Badertscher, who photographed young sex workers in Baltimore; and Richard Hofmann, a neo-expressionist painter who died of AIDS at age 39.
5. Gay Bars
Gay bars are a great place to meet gay men, especially on weekends. They offer a fun atmosphere, a stacked schedule of events and DJs, and a friendly crowd.
There are plenty of options when it comes to New York City’s best gay bars, from neighborhood sports dives to a bi-level dance club. Most are cash-only, so bring some cash with you.
While these places may seem intimidating at first, they can also be a good way to make friends and explore the city in a safe environment. They also serve as a great place to get out and experience the city without compromising your sexual orientation or gender identity.
