Drag has become a global phenomenon, and the ATL is responsible for some fierce queens who are taking the world by storm. RuPaul once lived in Atlanta, and winners of RuPaul’s Drag Race include Atlanta hometown heroes Violet Chachki, Bob The Drag Queen, and Kylie Sonique Love! But drag isn’t just a TV show, it’s a revolution. And there are so many local queens and kings who are eager to put on a show for you, in some stellar ATL venues and LGBTQIA+ safe spaces.
Back in the day, the Armory and Backstreet were the main hubs for drag with special shows by the legendary Armorettes. Now, more queer bars have opened, keeping drag culture and the Atlantan drag tradition alive. With iconic queens from Brigitte Bidet (featured image) to Lena Lust, get our there and support our local ATL queens!
1. Future Atlanta
Future was one of the first businesses to open at Underground Atlanta amid its spectacular transformation. An awesome way to kick things off, Future Atlanta is a show-bar with drag excellence hitting the stage every week. Including (but not limited to) iconic RuPaul’s Drag Race dolls and the legendary Shawnna Brooks.
Fantasy Girls Cabaret is the club’s weekend extravaganza every Saturday. Future Atlanta is also home to Disco Dollz, hosted by Atlanta’s own Brigitte Bidet! Great drinks and bar bites, great nightclub, great drag, makes a great night out in Atlanta.
💄 50 Lower Alabama St. SW Suite 180
2. Lips
You’re spoilt for choice when it comes to drag shows at Lips. Head there on a Sunday for their Dragilicious Brunch! With outrageous fun to be had every Sunday afternoon, join the Ladies of Lips Atlanta for the Ultimate Drag Brunch, as they pull out all the stops with show-stopper, after show-stopper! Enjoy delicious brunch entrées and fabulous over-the-top performances full of sing-along hits!
Or perhaps if you’re a little dark-sided, head to their late Saturday night show ‘Taboo’, hosted by the bar’s Mistress of Seduction Taejah Thomas. Although be warned, it’s equally as scandalous as it is glamourous.
💄 3011 Buford Hwy NE
3. Mary’s
The self-proclaimed “queerest bar in town”, hosts an array of weekly and monthly events, regular drag shows and Maryoke, guaranteeing an unforgettable night out in the ATL. More known for some of the craziest parties on the scene including Queer Bait, but don’t be surprised if you spot a queen or three. Follow them on Instagram and Facebook to stay up to date with the happenings at Mary’s, because Mary, you don’t want to miss out on their super fun drag shows.
💄 1287 Glenwood Av SE, Suite B
See more: 10 Awesome Queer-Owned Businesses Recommended By Atlantans, For Atlantans
4. My Sisters Room
This beloved lesbian bar is renowned for its burlesque shows, drag shows and so much more! From Femme Fridays to RnB Thursdays, there’s something fun and interesting happening every night. My Sister’s Room has been Atlanta’s number-one lesbian bar for more than 25 years, after opening its doors in 1996. It’s a safe space for all, and celebrates all things queer.
As well as drag and burlesques shows, you can channel your inner king or queen at karaoke, or even enjoy a night of comedy. If you’re feeling hungry after giving it your all on the dance floor and watching your favorite kings and queens, there are also dine-in options to help soak up the alcohol, including tacos, hot dogs and chicken tenders.
💄 1104 Crescent Ave NE
5. Blake’s On The Park
Everyone’s welcome at this super-friendly gay bar and neighborhood hangout with karaoke, live DJs and drag shows, every week since 1988! Not only are there stunning drag shows, but the incredible selection of music is always top-notch at Blake’s On The Park.
Don’t miss the Atlanta’s Angels, a fantastic drag show that takes place every Thursday at 11pm, with special performances by Atlanta legend Lena Lust, Cici Nicole, Phoenix and other guests, hosted by Brigitte Bidet. There’s also a half time prize packed dance competition, so be ready to boogie and show your dance skills!
💄 227 10th St NE
6. Finca To Filter
This is not exactly your typical queer bar. Finca to Filter is a queer, women led business, originating from the Southwest neighborhoods right here in the ATL! Located inside Wild Heaven Beer, this coffeehouse is a stand-out addition to the incredible coffee shops in the city. Not only is there delicious coffee, but they host several beloved events at their gigantic space. They’re prone to host a drag event or two, including their not-to-be-missed drag bingo. It’s fun for all ages aaand you get to win fun prizes!
💄 1010 White St SW
7. City Winery
Located in Ponce City Market, it’s always an awesome time at City Winery, known for hosting the best of the best in comedy, music, and now drag! You can go a bit early and try their Pairing is Sharing dining experience, where you get to savor new small plates curated to complement their award-winning wines. Yum!
Their reoccurring drag brunch features some of the best queens from RuPaul’s Drag Race, along with Atlantan royalty. Follow them on Instagram to keep up to date with their drag events.
💄 659 North Avenue NE
Featured Image: Blake’s On The Park