Nu Towne Saloon

Name: Nu Towne Saloon
Address: Nu Towne Saloon, East Van Buren Street, Phoenix, AZ, USA, Phoenix
Telephone: +1 602-267-9959
Rating: 4.4

Arizona first and longest established LGBTQ+ gathering place

Average Reviews

About

Nu Towne Saloon has been a staple in Phoenix's LGBTQ+ scene since 1971, making it the oldest gay bar still in operation in the area. Nestled on East Van Buren Street, it sits right across from the historic Tovrea Castle. This long-standing venue has a laid-back, dive-bar vibe, complete with a quirky decor that includes a seven-foot plaster rooster and a replica of the Eiffel Tower on its roof. Despite a devastating fire in 2010, Nu Towne Saloon has remained resilient, keeping much of its retro charm intact through a rebuild.

Visitors appreciate the welcoming atmosphere, thanks in part to friendly staff and a mix of regular patrons who make everyone feel right at home. The back patio is a popular spot, especially after recent upgrades, featuring a canvas roof that makes it ideal for outdoor gatherings. Sundays are particularly lively with the beer bust special, offering 16-ounce cups of Budweiser or Bud Lite for just $2, drawing a consistent crowd.

Inside, patrons can enjoy a game of pool or check their fortunes with the vintage Merlin fortune-telling machine. With its mix of nostalgic charm and a strong community feel, Nu Towne Saloon continues to be a beloved spot for locals and visitors alike.

Photos

Reviews

4.4

Based on 230 reviews

Patch Corr

04:55 28 Mar 25

Great bar, a couple of the bartenders are a little rough around the edges but the rest are super welcoming.

Brandon Potts

16:09 04 Mar 25

NuTowne Saloon is a true gem in Phoenix! As one of the city's longest-standing LGBTQ+ bars, it has a rich history and an incredibly welcoming atmosphere. The vibe is relaxed and unpretentious, making it the perfect place to grab an affordable drink and enjoy a fun night out. Whether it’s karaoke, drag shows, or one of their themed nights, there’s always something entertaining happening. The crowd is diverse and friendly, and the staff makes everyone feel right at home. If you’re looking for a laid-back spot with great energy and a sense of community, NuTowne Saloon is definitely worth a visit!

Josh S.

22:03 04 Jan 25

Second best gay bar in phoenix. Really great decor and cozy feeling with a great patio.

kim jordan

16:07 13 Nov 24

The only alternative bar in Phoenix that has a black owner. The atmosphere is so friendly cozy and fun. They have so many themed nights I will be back

Bob T.

10:55 15 Sep 24

09.16.24: I just heard through the grapevine that there is a class action suit against Nu Towne saloon, and I really hope that it goes through because...

J. B. (#SuperFastRacing)

01:24 08 Sep 24

Awesome place to watch an Ohio State game! The Mac and Cheese Michael makes is great!#GoBucks 🅾️

Art Dogg

22:58 30 Aug 24

This place is awesome! Eclectic decor and very friendly staff and owners... makes you wanna come back. This is the oldest gay bar in AZ but it's really an everyone bar, so welcoming! No food but great drinks and snacks if you wish. There's different activities going on every night. Check them out on Facebook or Instagram

Kassy C.

20:36 30 Aug 24

My fiance and I are from Florida and we travel all over the US for work. We have been to many gay bars and this has been the most accepting of our kind...

Derrick D.

14:53 30 Aug 24

The staff and owners are amazing. Great place to chill with friends. Cheap drinks and always a good time.

Curtis S.

20:17 28 Aug 24

Great vibe, fun and accepting atmosphere, and have some of the best bartenders in town. Joey, Mitch and Jason are the best! Come see Joey for Wolly Wednesdays!

Charles Trubl

06:22 18 Aug 24

Fun place! Great music.... usually. Haven't tried the food yet, but I'm not a bar food person. Great drinks and features

C L

07:46 13 Dec 23

This used to be the local hang out. I’ve moved away and don’t frequent this place like I used to. …..now I visit when in town on business.Kudos to the new owner for updating a few things but to be honest I really miss the old vibe and the old bartenders.Every holiday there were decorations galore… does this no longer happen?I will return in the future but really did prefer the eclectic dive bar atmosphere it once had.

Kevin Markman

16:18 05 Apr 23

52 year old saloon been around as long as l have. Friendly staff and helpful. Comedy night was great. The place looks deceptively small and goes back and back like a row house. Good fun. Very welcoming.

Nu Towne Saloon Phoenix reviews from WhereIs.Gay, Google and Yelp