A Montrose Pub Crawl

One of the best things about the Montrose bar scene is how concentrated and diverse the area is. Going out with a circuit boy? Covered. A country kid? Covered. You and your buddies can bop from bar to bar within a couple block radius and find a place for everyone. The other good thing, and this cannot be stressed enough, is that these bars are all within walking distance so you can chug those cocktails and not worry about being on the roads or wasting your money on Ubers. 

We came up with a route the will not only hit all the spots in Montrose but will not make you trek a lot of blocks during the summer heat. There really is no perfect route, so think of it as a “gay bar choose your own adventure.” 

We start off the night and George’s County Sport Bar, easily one of the most relaxing and inviting spots in the Montrose area. The bar is all Texan and you will find the friendly vibe surrounding you as groups gather to watch whatever sports game is playing on the television. Not into watching sports? Then strike up a game of pool, darts or just chill on the patio. From there, head down the street to The Eagle Houston and continue the fun out on the decks or head inside to check out their leather shop on the first floor. Be sure to check out the mural upstairs paying homage to Houston’s LGBT history. 

Next, you’ll want to head up to Pacific St. to reach JR’s. This gay party spot is a staple in Houston nightlife and has been serving the LGBT community for decades. Inside, you will find something for everyone with drink specials, pool tables and an extended outdoor section that cannot be beat on those Houston nights. JR’s also has weekly drag shows and karaoke nights for those looking for a little entertainment. Then head next door to South Beach, one of the best Houston dance clubs. The 10,000-square-foot spot has everything for those looking to dance the night away: a spacious dance floor, go-go dancers, and a liquid nitrogen cooling system so you don’t get too steamy. 

After South Beach, there are three options for you to end your Montrose bar crawl. For those wanting to:

Take a rest, go to Crocker Bar. Take a breather at this quaint bar/patio spot. It may look like a house from the outside, but inside the music is pumping and the drinks are flowing. This bar is no-frills and all fun with cheap drinks and friendly bartenders. The green neon lights spinning around the dance floor only add to fun, making you feel like you are in the JLo “Waiting for Tonight” music video. There is even a photo booth to document the fun night you and your friends had.

Dance, sashay over to Mary’s Alibi. Connected to Houston’s iconic Hamburger Mary’s this venue keeps the music loud and the crowd sexy. With upbeat dancing and lively bartenders, this dance club burst onto the Houston scene in 2018 and quickly made a name for itself. And she doesn’t seem to be going anywhere anytime soon.    

Pick up something (leather that is!), go to Ripcord. This bar is for anyone looking for something more risqué. It is the oldest leather bar in the state and is a popular place for the Bear, Cub, Daddy and Leather communities. The laid-back bar and patio has been serving strong drinks at great prices for more than three decades. It is just the place to go if you are looking for something, or someone, a little bit dangerous to end your night out. Ripcord even has an entrance to Black Hawk Leather Shop for your leather needs. 

There you go! Your guide to a fun night in Montrose that hits all the spots and will save you a little shoe leather. 

By Ryan Bellinghausen

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