Cruising Spots, Sauna Gay and Sex Parties in New York City
Disclaimer: Gays in Town is reader-supported. This post may contain affiliate links that at no additional cost to you, we may earn a small commission.
The cruising scene and the gays saunas in New York City are not the same as it used to be back in the 70s and early 80s. However, you can still find different spots around Manhattan where men of all ages will meet up for a more spicy interaction. There are also a couple of bathhouses currently serving the gay audience.
+ Leather Harness, Jockstraps, and Fetish Wear for Gay Men
What is the meaning of cruising in gay culture?
Cruising is an expression that refers to the act of visiting specific spots in search of a sexual partner or sexual interactions. These encounters can happen in bars or saunas. It usually involves a non-verbal communication or subtle gestures between individuals who are interested in sexual interaction.
Cruising has been an important aspect of gay culture for many years, providing a means for individuals to explore their sexuality and fulfill their desires outside of traditional dating or hookup apps.
In New York City, you could be charged with public lewdness if you intentionally expose your private parts in a public place such as a city street or on a public bus, or you do some sort of lewd act such as masturbation.
Gay Saunas and Bathhouses in NYC
The history of gay saunas and bathhouses in New York City dates back several decades. These establishments have played a significant role in the LGBTQ+ community, providing spaces for socializing, relaxation, and sexual encounters.
During the mid-20th century, gay saunas and bathhouses began to emerge as safe havens for gay men, who faced discrimination and persecution in mainstream society. These spaces allowed individuals to freely express their sexuality and connect with like-minded individuals in an era when homosexuality was highly stigmatized.
In the 1970s and 1980s, bathhouses in New York City faced a challenging time with the onset of the AIDS epidemic. Most of the city’s gay bathhouses were closed in 1986 as an anti-AIDS measure promoted by the City of New York.
Currently, there is only one option: the East Side.
East Side Bathhouse
East Side has private cabins and a steam bath, and incredibly bad reviews. This is a place where you go if you’re really into overpaying for bad service. The bathhouse is located at 227 E 56th St, in Manhattan.
Gay Massages and Spas in NYC
Gay massages refer to massage services specifically tailored for individuals within the LGBTQ+ community. These massages are designed to cater to the unique needs and preferences of gay men. They provide a safe and inclusive space where individuals can receive therapeutic touch, relaxation and sensual experiences.
Gay massages often incorporate techniques that focus on releasing tension, promoting physical and emotional well-being, and enhancing sensual pleasure. These services are provided by trained professionals who are knowledgeable about the male body and understand the specific desires and comfort levels of their gay clientele.
You can have a few options for sensual massages and spas in New York City.
27Men Spa
Location: 105 W 27th St, New York,
New Hero Men Spa
Location: 300 W 56th St. Fl 2 New York,
Energy Men Spa
Location: 265 W 23rd St, New York
Escape Men’s Spa
Location: 459 W 18th St, New York
MMX Nyc
Private Service
Cruising Bars in New York City
Gay cruising bars typically have a layout that encourages mingling and physical contact, with dark corners, private rooms, or designated areas where patrons can engage in intimate encounters. They offer a discreet and non-judgmental environment for individuals to meet and connect with like-minded individuals for casual sexual encounters or simply to socialize.
New York City has two popular bars that celebrate fetish and kink culture, with spaces for cruising - The Eagle and The Cock.
The Eagle NYC
Location: 554 W 28th St, New York
Website | Instagram
The Eagle is the most famous cruising and fetish bar of the city. Leather, kink, daddies and bears get all together, exploring the best the night can offer. Things can get really wild after midnight. The bar staff, however, is not necessarily friendly to newcomers or curious patrons.
The Cock
Location: 93 2nd Ave, New York
Website
Opened in 1998, The Cock has established its brand as one of the most popular cruising bars in the city. The building has two levels, with the basement serving as a dark room. If you need to know anything else about this bar is that it was once described as "the last filthy gay bar in New York". A place where you can unleash your fantasies in the dark.
Gay Sex Parties in New York City
If you are looking for a party with sexual activities between men included, the New York Jock Party it is the most famous in the city. More recently, The Q bar started promoting its own cruising nights which are becoming very popular.
Other options are Dads And Lads, Frisky Saturday, Sunday Beer Blast, Members Only Club, Scum, Prime Party and Pighaus. You can request invitation links through their websites or Instagram pages.
QUEER GUIDE + TRAVEL TIPS + GAY BARS + QUEER HISTORY + DRAG QUEENS + INSTAGRAM + FACEBOOK
In 2022, the NYC Dyke March’s theme is D4T: Dykes for Trans Liberation, focusing on T4T (trans for trans) relationships and love in a year when the trans community is being heavily targeted by right-wing groups and members of congress all over the United States.