The Stonewall Inn

The basics

The Stonewall Inn may be a world-renowned historic site, but it’s still a working bar. After reading the plaque outside, step inside for a drink—depending on who’s tending the bar, you just might get a firsthand account of the uprising.

A great way to learn about the uprising and the rise of the LGBTQ+ rights movement in NYC is by taking an LGBTQ history-focused walking tour. These tours cover NYC’s LGBTQ+ history, from before the uprising to today, by visiting such notable sights as the city’s oldest gay bar and the site of the first Pride march.

Things to know before you go

• As a working bar, visitors must be 21+ to enter the Stonewall Inn. ID is required.
• Stonewall National Monument is a new park with no visitor center, but one will open in 2024.
• The Stonewall Inn does not accept reservations.

How to get there

The Stonewall Inn is located on Christopher Street in the heart of New York City's historic Greenwich Village. You can get there by taking the 1 line of the subway to Christopher Street-Sheridan Square Station, a 1-minute walk from the bar. By bus, take the 7th Avenue bus line on the M8 or M20 and get off at 7th Avenue/Barrow Street, a 3-minute walk away.

When to get there

The bar is open seven days a week from early afternoon into the wee hours of the following morning. Having a relatively quiet drink during the day is possible, but evenings draw a loud party crowd. Check the Stonewall Inn’s website for the latest information on events: from bingo and drag to karaoke, something is happening every night.

Julius’ Bar

If you fancy checking out some more NYC watering holes that are part of LGBTQ+ history, walk two minutes from the Stonewall Inn to Julius’. Open since 1840, Julius’ is believed to be the city’s oldest gay bar and was the site of the 1966 “Sip In,” an ultimately successful demonstration against New York State liquor regulations that prohibited bars from serving drinks to known or suspected gay men or lesbians.

Ways to explore

The Stonewall Inn may be a historic site, but it’s also still a working bar. After reading the plaque outside or stopping by the visitor center next door, step inside for a drink—depending on who’s tending the bar, you just might get a firsthand account of the uprising.

You can learn about the Stonewall Rebellion and the rise of the LGBTQ+ rights movement by taking an LGBTQ+ history-focused walking tour. These tours cover the city’s LGBTQ+ history, from before the uprising to today, by visiting sights like the city’s oldest gay bar and the location of the first Pride march.

Accessibility

The Stonewall Inn is accessible to wheelchair users.

Age limits

Only visitors aged 21 and over with valid ID can enter the Stonewall Inn.

What to pack

Driver’s license or passport, camera, weather-appropriate layers (if using outdoor seating)

What to wear

Whatever you feel comfortable in—Pride rainbows warmly encouraged

Not allowed

Acting disrespectfully, outside food and drinks, visiting without valid ID

Amenities

Restrooms, outdoor seating, pool table

Address

The Stonewall Inn is located in the West Village neighborhood of downtown Manhattan. The area is well-served by public transportation, taxis, and rideshare services. Taking a tour with included transportation is also a great way to get there.

Driving

Owing to congestion, traffic restrictions, and limited parking, driving in downtown Manhattan is not recommended. Instead, make use of widely available taxi and rideshare services.

Public transportation

Take the 1 train to Christopher St-Stonewall, or the A, C, E, B, D, F, or M trains to W 4 St-Washington Sq. PATH trains also stop nearby at the Christopher Street station.

Best times to visit

If you’re on a budget, visit during happy hour in the afternoon or early evening. Alternatively, come later in the day for a livelier nightlife experience.

Best days to visit

The Stonewall Inn is open daily. Check the website for festive offerings, such as weekend drag shows and themed parties.

Best months to visit

You can visit the Stonewall Inn year-round. The bar hosts events throughout the year.

Special events

Don’t miss the chance to visit the Stonewall Inn during Pride, which is hosted every June in New York City.