by Lynette Alice

Created on: December 15, 2008   Last Updated: April 18, 2011

The gay nightlife scene in Providence, Rhode Island is one of the best around with a large variety of clubs catering to to the many different factions of the LGBT community in whole or part. "How good can it be?" you may find yourself asking since Providence is not what most people consider a major city. It's good enough that Providence's gay clubs regularly draw visitors in from other cities like Boston to the North and New Haven to the south. Providence's gay nightclubs are some of the best clubs in the city regardless of theme and what follows is a look at some of the best.

Club Gallery is one of Providence's oldest running gay clubs and it's best. Although for many years it was know for a sign that exclaimed "Be gay of be gone!" you will find a fair portion of straight patrons in the company of their gay and transgender friends here which trends toward college students and middle class professionals ranging to their mid 50's. Club Gallery is not a huge club but it has a big club feel with more free parking than any club you will find in a major city offers. Different nights have slightly different themes such as Thursday no cover and it's best known night, Saturday's Girlspot which caters to the lesbian community.

Gallery is an over 18 club that does have a full liquor license, and the cover charge is generally $7. Considering you don't have to pay for parking though this is like getting in free compared to other clubs. The obligatory pool table and jukebox are within, as well as an ATM in case you find yourself short on cash and don't have a credit card. There are four bars, one in the main room, one in the "dance" room, one in the music room, and when seasonally possible, one outside. A grill is run during favorable weather conditions providing fresh cooked treats, a limited bar style menu including pizza is available as well. The bathrooms are immaculate, even in the nights late hours, and the staff is phenomenal. Young and old alike make this their preferred retreat for good DJ music, live bands, and a fantastic friendly atmosphere.

Mirabar caters more to the younger gay male clientele than anything else. Mirabar is an over 18 club with full bars, large and loud, where hip-hop is the music of choice. Mirabar tends to get crowded in a hurry but generally maintains pretty good order. The cover charges vary depending on both age and night, but a general rule of thumb is over 21 is $5, under 21 is $10. You're not going to see anything new, and for the

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