Flicks: Hillcrest's Enduring Gay Bar

3.7 (296)

A Hillcrest staple since 1983, Flicks is a friendly gay bar with strong drinks, karaoke, and a welcoming vibe for everyone.

Flicks, a long-standing gay bar in San Diego's Hillcrest neighborhood, has been a community staple since 1983. Known for its welcoming atmosphere, strong drinks, and lively entertainment, Flicks offers a mix of nostalgia, karaoke, and music videos, making it a popular spot for both locals and tourists.

A brief summary to Flicks

1017 University Ave, San Diego, Hillcrest, California, 92103, US
Click to display
Click to display

Monday 4 pm-2 am
Tuesday 4 pm-2 am
Wednesday 4 pm-2 am
Thursday 4 pm-2 am
Friday 2 pm-2 am
Saturday 12 pm-2 am
Sunday 9:30 am-2 am

From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Flicks.

Visit during happy hour for great drink specials.
Check the bar's schedule for themed nights and special events like drag shows and karaoke.
Arrive early on weekends to secure a good spot, as it can get crowded.
Engage with the friendly staff for drink recommendations.

Do you manage this location?

Take control to get all the benefits, like improved information, better appearance, and stronger visibility across AI-powered discovery. Learn more

Activate your presence

Getting There

Walking

If you're already in Hillcrest, simply walk to University Avenue. Flicks is located at 1017 University Ave, between 10th and Normal Streets. Look for the outdoor patio, a popular spot for people-watching.
Public Transport

From downtown San Diego, take the number 7 bus towards 'University Town Center' from any bus stop on 5th Avenue. Get off at the 'University Ave & 10th Ave' stop. Walk east on University Ave for about 4 minutes to reach Flicks. A one-way fare is $2.50.
Rideshare

Use a rideshare service like Uber or Lyft and enter 'Flicks, 1017 University Ave, San Diego, CA 92103' as your destination. The cost from downtown San Diego typically ranges from $12-$20, depending on traffic and demand.

Discover more about Flicks

Flicks has been a cornerstone of San Diego's LGBTQ+ community for over 40 years. This popular gay bar in the heart of Hillcrest is known for its unpretentious and welcoming atmosphere. Flicks provides a space where people of all ages and backgrounds can feel comfortable, meet new friends, and enjoy a night out.The bar features a diverse selection of drinks, including budget-friendly options and stiff pours. Entertainment is a key part of the Flicks experience, with regular events such as karaoke, drag shows, themed parties, and video nights. The energetic atmosphere and friendly staff contribute to its reputation as one of the best gay bars in San Diego.Flicks also offers a patio for people-watching and socializing. The bar's central location in Hillcrest makes it easily accessible and a popular destination before or after dinner. Flicks celebrated its 40th anniversary in September 2023, marking its long-standing contribution to San Diego's LGBTQ+ scene.