I've been to Las Vegas once before with colleges buddies (who, but for me, were all straight men and women) when we celebrated our 40th birthdays 2 years ago. My best friend is celebrating his 50th in October and I'm going to celebrate with a group of gay men and two lesbians. This will be the first time going where I'll be free to pursue gay activities, clubs, etc.

We are staying at The Venetian and the birthday boy has treated all of us to free orchestra tickets to see Bette Midler on Saturday night - bonus! We're also doing a tour of the Liberace Museum for a bit of daytime camp. I'd also like to do a spa day at the Venetian/Palazzo's Canyon Ranch/Aquavana spa. (Anyone ever been?)

Aside from those, where along the Strip do the gay men hang out? I don't expect a gay bar on the Strip (though we will hit Krave, I'm sure), but I'd like to find a chill bar or lounge where the gays congregate (at The Paris, maybe?). Sadly, I got the sense on my last trip that Vegas entertains every vice except homosexuality.

Just ask a cab driver to take you to the "fruit loop",thats where all the gay clubs are.

Hey, I'm spending my 50th in the Center ORCH Section Row 11 for Bette in November, so I look forward to seeing responses to your thread. We're still up in the air about where to stay.

They're not on the Strip, though.

I've gone to Vegas the last couple of years for Smokeout (gay cigarmen event) and you are right Joe, there is no gay club/bar on the strip, except for Krave. Near the strip, about 2 blocks from the Hard Rock hotel and restaurant (assuming they have not yet opened their new strip location) is the Buffalo. It is a fun gay bar and is close enough to walk in about 20 minutes from the strip (if you like walking), or you can hop the free shuttle to the Hard Rock and walk from there.