Syracuse - Guide for Gays, Lesbians and Queers

The queer scene in Syracuse is small and spread across the city. There is no single neighborhood where bars and shops cluster. If you are only staying for a weekend, a handful of addresses will do, but it helps to know that several former meeting places have since closed.

The most important address is Trexx at 323 North Clinton Street in the Historic District. The club has a large dance floor, stages for drag shows and live music, two bars, pool tables and a smoking area. Entry is 18 and over, and it is open mainly on weekends until late at night. Rain Lounge on North Geddes Street has closed permanently.

For men, there is a sauna at Red Gym Men's Club, 448 East Brighton Avenue, on the south side of the city. The club is run by gay men and is open to men only. Besides the sauna and steam room, it has a gym with changing rooms and showers, and massages can be booked on request. Opening hours and prices are listed on the club's website.

During the day, queer-run shops and culture are worth a look. Rosebud's Floral & Gift Shoppe at 200 Burnet Avenue is a gay-owned florist and gift shop. Theater a la Carte at 751 North Salina Street puts on improv comedy and plays for a mixed and very open audience.

At Syracuse University, the LGBTQ Resource Center offers counseling, groups and events aimed mainly at students. In June, CNY Pride holds its parade and festival at the Inner Harbor, and the whole city is busier than usual. Smaller meetups and parties are usually announced at short notice on social media.