Nightlife

After Dark

The Back Door

About The Back Door

The Back Door is one of Bloomington’s most vibrant nightlife destinations, bringing together a festive, quirky atmosphere with the welcoming spirit of a truly gay-friendly nightclub.

Located at 207 S College Ave in Bloomington, IN, this lively venue is known for creating unforgettable nights filled with drag and burlesque shows, DJ dance parties, live music, and energetic live performances.

Whether you are stopping in for a fun evening with friends or looking for a place where self-expression and celebration are always encouraged, The Back Door offers an experience that feels bold, inclusive, and full of personality.

Guests come to The Back Door for far more than just a night out—they come for the full experience. With great cocktails, fast service, karaoke, dancing, and a wide selection of beer, wine, spirits, and cocktails, it delivers everything needed for a memorable evening.

Outdoor seating adds another inviting option for guests who want to relax and enjoy the atmosphere, while table service and comfortable seating help make every visit feel easy and enjoyable.

The venue also offers delivery, takeaway, and accepts reservations, giving customers added convenience whether they are planning ahead or enjoying a spontaneous night on the town. Payments are simple and flexible too, with credit cards, debit cards, and NFC mobile payments accepted.

Known for being lively and trendy, The Back Door combines entertainment, accessibility, and hospitality in a way that keeps guests coming back. Wheelchair-accessible entrance and toilet facilities help ensure the space is open and welcoming to more people, while the consistently positive reputation is reflected in its 4.20-star rating from 145 reviews.

For anyone seeking a high-energy nightlife spot with personality, strong service, and a community-minded atmosphere, The Back Door stands out as a destination where good times, great drinks, and memorable performances come together naturally. Call +1 812-333-3123 to learn more or plan your next visit.

★★★★☆ 4.20 rating (145 reviews)
The Back Door
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Real Reviews

Live Music

Top DJs and live acts

Craft Cocktails

Premium drink menu

VIP Service

Exclusive experiences

Events

Themed nights weekly

Your Night Awaits

Premium Bar

Craft cocktails, top-shelf spirits, and an extensive wine list crafted by expert mixologists.

Dance Floor

State-of-the-art sound system and lighting that transforms every night into magic.

VIP Lounge

Exclusive bottle service and private areas for those seeking a more intimate experience.

The Back Door

Where Nights Come Alive

Whether it's a night out with friends, a celebration, or simply letting loose, we're here to make it unforgettable.

World-Class DJs
Premium Sound
Signature Cocktails
VIP Experience

What People Say

Reviews from our guests

Megan Saylor

Megan Saylor

8 years ago

My favorite bar in town! I love the atmosphere, everyone is always super welcoming. Great shows are hosted here on the regular and drinks vary in price from reasonable $2 PBR upwards of $8 fancy cocktails. It's the only bar in town where I feel totally comfortable letting lose and dancing the night away.

Morgan Whitacre

Morgan Whitacre

4 years ago

Wow, what classy, kind people. My husband, two of our friends, and I (we are all from Indianapolis) took a trip this weekend to Spencer Pride and decided to see a drag show here. We didn’t purchase tickets in advance and they were sold out. However, the front desk show is compassion and generosity and made room for us while offering us discounted tickets. We felt valued, and I appreciated the kindest they showed us. What an overall really amazing experience! We will certainly come back from Indy to visit!

CC

CC

7 months ago

super fun bar, absolutely love it and the vibes are always immaculate

Cody Weikel

Cody Weikel

8 years ago

Interesting bar with a light and friendly atmosphere. Features a creative hand stamp and lighted singing contest involving large strong women with big hair and fun sing-a-long style lip syncing. Bar tenders are friendly and fast. Bathrooms are co-ed but creatively decorated with local graffiti. Would go back.

Jimothy Leary

Jimothy Leary

2 years ago

I made an unplanned visit to Bloomington, and decided to check out karaoke at The Back Door. The environment was very welcoming, and the place was full of energy and love. Highly recommended, and my only complaint is that I don't have more time here to check out their other amazing events.

Matt Tomrell

Matt Tomrell

11 months ago

Started going to The Back Door in February for line dancing on Tuesdays, and I love this place. Tuesdays are my favorite with line dancing that’s energetic, welcoming, and just plain fun. It’s a great way to meet people, get some exercise, and enjoy yourself in an inclusive environment. The Back Door also offers more: trivia nights, karaoke, and drag shows. They also have a great mocktail menu which is perfect for anyone who doesn’t drink but still wants to have a great time alongside friends who do. They also have a spacious outdoor area that’s ideal for large groups or just relaxing between dances.

Happy Mr Farmer

Happy Mr Farmer

3 years ago

Friendly environment! You will have maximum crowd participation, if you play the right Song. Definitely keep your bartender as they are great, even though I don’t drink.

Shayla Tate

Shayla Tate

3 years ago

A great atmosphere all round. Staff are great, drinks are great, food is great, and they have some kind of event almost every night of the week. If you’re in Bloomington this is a great place to go. I’ve never had a bad night at the Back Door and everyone is always so welcoming and friendly. Support your local gay bar.

Colin McGee

Colin McGee

4 months ago

I love this place! So well decorated, so many fun events. Cocktails are delicious and the bartenders are very kind. Always fun to meet new friends here. Highly recommend!

Logan Hart

Logan Hart

3 months ago

a bloomington community STAPLE!!! the back door has spoiled me for all other gay clubs, because none will ever compare. they host trivia on monday nights for free, and it’s always a great time. in the summer when the munchbox is open, i love to grab a bite. highly recommend making it to one of their lesbian tea dances as well. just a pillar of the community.

Frequently Asked Questions

Common questions about The Back Door

Business Features

Highlights & Amenities

Accessibility

  • Wheelchair-accessible entrance
  • Wheelchair-accessible toilet

Service options

  • Outdoor seating
  • Delivery
  • Takeaway

Highlights

  • Fast service
  • Great cocktails
  • Karaoke
  • Live music
  • Live performances

Offerings

  • Alcohol
  • Beer
  • Cocktails
  • Dancing
  • Spirits
  • Wine

Dining options

  • Seating
  • Table service

Amenities

  • Restroom

Atmosphere

  • Lively
  • Trendy

Crowd

  • Groups
  • LGBTQ+ friendly
  • Transgender safe space

Planning

  • Accepts reservations

Payments

  • Credit cards
  • Debit cards
  • NFC mobile payments

Parking

  • Free street parking

Find Us

Ready to experience the best night out? We're waiting for you.

Location

207 S College Ave, Bloomington, IN 47404, United States

Hours

Closed · Thursday 7 PM-12 AM
Wednesday 7 PM-12 AM
Thursday 7 PM-12 AM
Friday 7 PM-3 AM
Saturday 7 PM-3 AM
Sunday Closed
Monday 7 PM-12 AM
Tuesday 7 PM-12 AM
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