Historic San Francisco gay bar and legendary dive featuring the city’s longest-running drag shows and a welcoming, old-school queer vibe.
About
Step into Aunt Charlie's Lounge, the crown jewel of San Francisco’s Tenderloin and an essential stop on any authentic queer gay map. As the last remaining gay bar in a neighborhood steeped in LGBTQ+ history, this iconic dive offers a time-capsule experience you won’t find anywhere else. Since opening its doors in 1987, it has served as a sanctuary for gay men, trans pioneers, and travelers seeking the true, gritty soul of the city. Inside, you are greeted by a legendary neon glow, mirrored walls, and some of the strongest pours in town. Aunt Charlie's is most famous for being the home of the Hot Boxxx Girls, the longest-running drag show in San Francisco. Every Friday and Saturday night, local legends take to the tiny stage, delivering high-energy performances that prove glamour doesn't need a high-budget theater. Whether you are joining the younger crowd for 'Aunt Charlie’s Angels' on Tuesdays or sipping a budget-friendly cocktail with the regulars during the day, the atmosphere is always inclusive and non-pretentious. Please note this is a cash-only establishment (ATM inside). For those looking for real community connection and a piece of living history in San Francisco, Aunt Charlie’s Lounge is a must-visit destination.