Pride Holdings Group Venues Earn Top National Recognition in Tripadvisor's 2025 Gay Club Rankings

Pride Holdings Group announced that two of its flagship venues have earned top national recognition in Tripadvisor's 2025 rankings of the Best Gay Clubs & Bars in the United States. Aqua Nightclub has been named the number one Gay Club & Bar in the United States, while Club One Savannah secured the tenth spot, placing both venues among the most celebrated LGBTQ+ nightlife destinations in the country. Tripadvisor's annual rankings are based on the volume, quality, and consistency of traveler reviews and ratings from guests across the globe, recognizing venues that deliver exceptional experiences, atmosphere, and service.

This recognition matters because it validates the economic and cultural importance of dedicated LGBTQ+ spaces at a time when many such venues face challenges. The rankings serve as a barometer for the health and vibrancy of LGBTQ+ nightlife, indicating which establishments successfully create welcoming environments that attract both local communities and travelers. For Pride Holdings Group, this achievement reinforces their business model of acquiring and investing in culturally significant LGBTQ+ venues while maintaining their unique identities and community impact.

The implications of this announcement extend beyond corporate recognition to broader cultural significance. Michael Barrett, CEO of Pride Holdings Group, stated that this honor represents a powerful validation of the company's mission. The recognition speaks directly to the dedication of their teams, the loyalty of their guests, and the importance of preserving iconic LGBTQ+ spaces. These venues serve as more than just entertainment destinations; they function as community hubs, cultural landmarks, and safe spaces that contribute to the social fabric of LGBTQ+ life in America.

Aqua Nightclub has become a nationally recognized destination for its high-energy entertainment, world-class drag performances, and inclusive atmosphere that attracts visitors from across the United States and beyond. Club One Savannah, a historic and beloved LGBTQ+ venue, continues to be a cultural cornerstone in the Southeast, known for its legendary shows, community engagement, and long-standing legacy. The success of these venues demonstrates that LGBTQ+ spaces can achieve both cultural relevance and commercial success when properly supported and managed.

This recognition comes from Tripadvisor, a platform whose rankings carry significant weight in the hospitality and tourism industries. The methodology based on traveler reviews provides authentic, crowd-sourced validation of these venues' quality and appeal. For travelers seeking LGBTQ+ friendly destinations, these rankings offer valuable guidance, potentially driving increased tourism to these establishments and their surrounding communities.

The broader implication is that such recognition helps preserve LGBTQ+ cultural spaces by demonstrating their viability and importance. In an era where many historic LGBTQ+ venues have closed due to economic pressures, gentrification, or changing social dynamics, this type of national recognition helps validate the continued need for dedicated spaces that celebrate and support LGBTQ+ communities. It also highlights how corporate investment in these spaces, when done with respect for their cultural significance, can contribute to their preservation and enhancement.