The Brave Bull

If you're looking for a place with a rich history and a unique character in California, this spot will definitely catch your eye. Modesto is proud to be home to The Brave Bull — the oldest operating gay bar in Stanislaus County. Opened in 1973 as a modern disco, it soon became an important cultural hub for the community throughout the USA.

The venue became famous for its cutting-edge sound system, which was considered the gold standard in the 70s and even drew visitors from Europe. Back then, guests hunted for the club's signature t-shirts, which became a kind of seal of quality for lovers of high-quality sound and free expression.

The significance of this place is underscored by the names of its famous guests. Over the years, legendary drag performer Divine and renowned human rights activist Harvey Milk have visited here. Today, the club remains a vibrant spot on the city's nightlife map, blending historical heritage with modern energy.

To contact the venue's administration or check details for upcoming themed parties, use the contact information provided below. The venue is conveniently located in the southern part of the city and is easily recognizable.

Stepping inside, you find yourself at the heart of a vibrant nightlife where every evening is packed with events. The main attractions here are the drag shows, famous for their artistry and professional performers. For those who like to showcase their own talents, karaoke nights led by DJ Evaluation are held regularly.

Dance lovers will appreciate the expanded disco floor, where energetic go-go dancers turn up the heat. Since 2019, the club has also hosted weekly open mics where you can catch performances by local artists across various genres.

A particularly festive atmosphere reigns on Thursdays, Fridays, and weekends when the program is most packed. It's a great place to enjoy drinks at the bar, socialize with open-minded people, and feel the spirit of freedom that has been cultivated here for decades.

Finding the venue is quite simple: it is located at 701 S 9th St, in the southern part of the downtown area. If you're traveling by car, the most convenient way is to take 9th Street; in the evenings, you can usually find a free parking spot near the club.

For those who prefer public transportation, the city's StanRIDE bus routes are available. You can also always use taxi services or popular ride-sharing apps like Uber and Lyft, especially if you are coming from Modesto City-County Airport (MOD) or the Amtrak station.

If your journey begins in San Francisco or other nearby major cities, follow the CA-99 highway — the drive will take about 1.5–2 hours. The club is within walking distance of some other popular South Modesto spots, allowing you to create an interesting evening itinerary.

The history of this place began in 1973 when Casey Lubbers decided to create a space for his friends who needed a safe place to socialize. Just a year later, the venue officially became a gay bar under the management of Casey and Val Lubbers. A key figure in the club's development was Marlena (Gary McLain), who started here as a bartender and later became a co-owner and the famous Empress of the Imperial Court of Modesto.

In its early years, The Brave Bull was famous for its incredible super-disco sound system, which, according to a 1977 advertisement, was one of the best in the region. This attracted not only locals but also international visitors eager to dive into California's cutting-edge music scene.

Interestingly, the venue has also left its mark on modern culture: it is mentioned in the second season of the HBO series 'Looking'. For more than 50 years, the club has remained a family-owned business, upholding traditions of hospitality and community spirit in the Central Valley.

When planning a visit to this club, you should aim for a full evening out. To fully enjoy the show program, chat with the regulars, and find time for dancing, it's best to set aside 3 to 5 hours.

Guests usually arrive by the start of the main performances or themed programs to grab comfortable seats. Time flies by here thanks to the dynamic rotation of DJs, karaoke sessions, and a friendly atmosphere that invites long-lasting relaxation in good company.

The venue focuses exclusively on evening and night leisure, so the club's doors open in the second half of the week. Main operating hours: Thursday, Friday, Saturday, and Sunday from 8:00 PM to 2:00 AM.

The club is closed on Monday, Tuesday, and Wednesday. Since the schedule of themed parties or special performances may change, visitors are recommended to check the latest information on the venue's official social media page before visiting.

Exploring the surroundings of South Modesto can significantly enrich your trip. The area offers an interesting mix of historical sites, cultural centers, and modern dining locations, all easily accessible after visiting the club.

Below are some of the most interesting nearby places to include in your itinerary: