Vibe Nightclub, in the Church Street District

Part of the bustling Church Street strip of Nashville gay bars and businesses, Vibe Nightclub (1713 Church St., 615-329-3838), which was known as Blu until 2008, is one of the city's top dance venues, known for its loud sound system, exceedingly friendly staff, and diverse crowd. It's one of the more popular gay African-American hangouts in town, and it draws an all-ages, low-attitude crowd. Next door are Blue Gene's restaurant and bar and Outloud Cafe and Bookstore. Down the street are Play and Tribe gay bars, and the gay-friendly Hotel Indigo is two blocks north.