LGBT Resource Center
USC Student Affairs

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Dance Clubs and Bars

  • Rage (18+/21+): One of the few clubs in West Hollywood for the 18+ crowd on Friday and Saturday nights. At night this place is one the quintessential spots for loud music and hot dancing. Cover is usually around $10.   
  • Abbey (21+): The Abbey is one of LA’s most popular bars. Conveniently located just off the West Hollywood strip, The Abbey is a great place to dine during the day and enjoy drinks at night. Definitely a spot not to be missed for the 21+ crowd. No cover. 
  • Tigerheat (18+): Probably the most popular 18+ gay club, Tigerheat is a weekly event hosted by the Avalon in Hollywood. Closer to USC than West Hollywood and attracting a trendy crowd, we think you’ll enjoy this venue. Cover is about $10.   
  • Here Lounge (21+): Although open daily, Here is best known for its Friday night lesbian night. Enjoy ladies!
  • Akbar (21+): Silverlake’s best known bar, attracting a hipster-dominated crowd. No cover for the bar; however the dance area does have a cover except Fridays and Saturdays.

Support Groups

  • LA Gay and Lesbian Center: The LA Gay and Lesbian Center offers an array of counseling services for the LGBT community. Examples of support programs include those tailored to Transgender individuals, STD Treatment, and substance abuse issues.

Shopping and Dining

  • Beverly Center: Great indoor mall with three stories of LA trendiest shopping.
  • The Grove: Open air space with good dining options, charming décor and a selection of shopping venues, such as Nordstrom’s, Apple Store, Abercrombie, and Barney’s.
  • Santa Monica Promenade: The Third Street Promenade is a one stop for all your clothing needs. Mostly outdoors, with a newly renovated indoor mall space. Shops include, but by no means limited to, United Colors and Beneton, French Connection, Lush, and so on. 
  • Westside Pavillion: Classic mall with general selection of stores and brands such as Express, Hollister, etc. 
  • Bacaro: Excellent wine and tapas bar within walking distance from campus. Food and wine selection is unmatched in the USC area. Very crowded weekend nights. Try to get there earlier for seating. 

Gay Areas of Los Angeles

  • West Hollywood (WeHo): L.A.’s best known gay area with a full strip of gay nightclubs, some dining options, shopping, etc. Mostly a trendy, mainstream crowd.
  • Silverlake: One of L.A.’s more alternative neighborhoods, definitely the main hipster hang-out of the LA area. Bars and crowd border on bohemian, and fun alternative to the WeHo scene.