To get a thorough, up-to-date take on what's happening in gay and lesbian nightlife, pick up copies of HX (www.hx.com), New York Blade (www.nyblade.com), or Next (www.nextnyc.com). They're available for free in bars and clubs all around town or at the Lesbian and Gay Community Center, at 208 W. 13th St., between Seventh and Eighth avenues (tel. 212/620-7310; www.gaycenter.org). The interdisciplinary weekly Time Out New York boasts a terrific gay and lesbian section that some consider to be the city's best source; another great source is the legendary free weekly Village Voice. Always remember that asking people in one bar can lead you to discover another that fits your tastes.

These days, many bars, clubs, cabarets, and cocktail lounges are neither gay nor straight but a bit of both, either catering to a mixed crowd or to varying orientations on different nights of the week. Be sure to see what's happening at such clubs as Exit and Vinyl, which regularly cater to gay and/or gay/straight mixed crowds.