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The Backlot
BarsPermanently closed

The Backlot(permanently closed)

A closed chapter of Calgary queer nightlife

Calgary, Canada
3.5
82 reviews

Neighbourhood

Calgary

Category

Bars

Vibe

Cocktails, Historic venue

Status

Permanently closed

Official website

About The Backlot

The Backlot was one of Calgary’s longest-running LGBTQ bars, known for its compact two-storey space, welcoming regulars, affordable drinks and a small rear patio. The venue closed in 2023 after a history stretching back nearly five decades. This page remains online as a historical record and to prevent visitors from travelling to a venue that is no longer operating.

What to expect

This is a historical listing for a venue or event that is no longer operating.

Vibes

Good to know

Practical tips before you visit

Do not travel to the former address expecting this venue to be open.
Use the nearby-venues section for current alternatives.

Gallery

Location

The Backlot

209 10 Ave SW, Calgary, AB T2R 0A4, Canada

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WhereIs.Gay rating

4.4

82 reviews

Overall rating across WhereIs.Gay and Google Maps.

Rating by source

  • WhereIs.Gay
    3.5
  • Google Maps
    4.4

Featured Google Maps reviews

Selected by Google Maps. Read more reviews on Google Maps.

Bryan Birn
Bryan Birn

4 years ago

Always the best staff. It's a dive-y type bar that is super social, and has lots of theme nights (like karaoke). It's great to have a solo drink at, or bring a whole group to. Super enjoyable laid back place, with lots of politically incorrect and questionable media on the TVs.

Review from Google Maps

Rayne
Rayne

2 years ago

I went to the Backlot Pub this weekend after not visiting for several years. I used to go a couple of times a week about four years ago. I had a fantastic time and experienced excellent service. A woman named Andrea and Dion, whom I recognized, were both smiling and engaging with all the customers despite how busy it was. I was so impressed and had such a great time that I’ll definitely be back this weekend. I’m looking forward to seeing both of them again. Thanks, Backlot—I missed this place more than I realized.

Review from Google Maps

Isabella Goosen
Isabella Goosen

2 years ago

Loved it!!! We got kicked out cuz we brought and drink out for a smoke but didn't know we weren't allowed to bring it back it, but we talked to the Bouncer after and it was all good!! Wish we were allowed back it tho !! 😭 missed the drag show. Over all great experience just Inexperienced of going to Bars and such

Review from Google Maps

Logan Stothers
Logan Stothers

7 years ago

LOVE this bar! If you want a fun place to drink and have a good time, this is the place. Cute little patio and has both an upper and lower level inside with Karaoke some nights. Jordan, the good looking bartender, is a hell of a good time. You seriously can't help but have a good time when he is working. Great place to go as a pre-drink, an after party, or stay all night :) highly recommend

Review from Google Maps

This is an unpretentious, chill, comfortable queer bar. It's a place where anyone on the rainbow spectrum can feel safe and welcome. The bartender is friendly and attentive, but this is also somewhere you can sit and drink a beer in peace when that's what you want to do.

Review from Google Maps

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Listing details

Last updated
15 September 2026
Listed in
Calgary › Canada
Data from
WhereIs.Gay community, the venue and Google

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