Half Lounge Burlington vt

Nestled on the lively Church Street in Burlington, Vermont, Half Lounge was a cherished gem for locals and visitors craving an intimate and inclusive nightlife experience. This snug venue captivated guests with its cozy grotto-style basement, making it a favored spot for those looking to enjoy regional beers, signature cocktails, and vibrant live music and DJ sets. Known for its LGBTQ and Queer-friendly vibe, Half Lounge fostered a welcoming atmosphere where diversity and good times flourished.

a memorable night out for all senses

Guests often raved about the attentive bartenders, like Ross, who delighted crowds with carefully crafted cocktails and upbeat playlists featuring artists like Rihanna and Beyonce. The signature "Velvet" cocktail — a delightful blend of blueberry vodka, peach schnapps, lime juice, apple cider, and champagne — was a standout favorite, adding a sweet, fruity sparkle to the night. The lively yet intimate setting was perfect for both relaxing conversations and dancing, with house music creating a fun but balanced ambiance.

unique features that set half lounge apart

Intimate capacity of roughly 30 guests allowing a close-knit and personal atmosphere.
LGBTQ/Queer-friendly environment that welcomed a diverse and youngish crowd without the college bar vibe.
Grotto-style basement that created a unique, cozy backdrop for live music and DJ nights.
Affordable and quality drinks featuring regional beers, wine, and expertly mixed cocktails without hefty cover charges.

community sentiment and legacy

Half Lounge held a special place in Burlington's nightlife heart, cherished for its vibrant, inclusive atmosphere and sense of community. Patrons often spoke warmly about the welcoming staff and the friendly crowd, which included a significant representation from the LGBTQ/Queer community alongside open-minded allies. The venue fostered genuine connections, turning casual nights into memorable experiences. Though it permanently closed in March 2020, its legacy lives on in the memories of those who danced, laughed, and celebrated diverse nightlife under its cozy roof.

frequently asked questions

Is Half Lounge still open? No, Half Lounge permanently closed in March 2020.
What was the atmosphere like at Half Lounge? Half Lounge was known for its cozy, LGBTQ/Queer-friendly vibe, live music, DJs, and intimate grotto-style basement.
What were some popular drinks at Half Lounge? Signature cocktails like the "Velvet" made with blueberry vodka, peach schnapps, lime juice, apple cider, and Champagne were favorites.

History of Half Lounge in Burlington, Vermont

Nestled on the vibrant Church Street in Burlington, Vermont, Half Lounge was a beloved, cozy bar that earned a special place in the hearts of locals and visitors alike. Known for its intimate capacity of about 30 people, it created a warm, inviting atmosphere that attracted a diverse and friendly crowd, especially within the LGBTQ and queer communities. The lounge offered a unique grotto-style basement setting, perfect for enjoying live music and socializing in a snug environment. Signature cocktails like the famed Velvet delighted patrons with its sweet, fruity champagne blend, perfectly matching the lounge's lively yet cozy vibe. The music scene at Half Lounge was equally celebrated, featuring everything from house beats to soulful live performances, ensuring a fun but comfortable setting for conversation and dancing.

Key moments in Half Lounge's timeline

2017: Half Lounge reopened in October after a brief closure, bringing back its distinctive charm to Burlington's nightlife scene.
2020: The venue permanently closed in March, marking the end of an era for this intimate and beloved bar.
2023: Former owners announced plans to reopen a new venue called 'The Other Half' in Burlington, promising to revive the spirit and community essence that Half Lounge embodied.

What made Half Lounge special

Half Lounge stood out not just as a bar, but as a community hub that welcomed people of all backgrounds, especially celebrating queer culture with an inclusive, safe space. Visitors often praised the friendly bartenders and the thoughtful music selection that balanced lively beats with the ability to hold meaningful conversations. The grotto-style basement added a unique architectural charm that made every visit feel like a special occasion. Additionally, the bar served a curated selection of regional beers, quality spirits, and handcrafted cocktails, contributing to its reputation as a go-to spot for locals and tourists craving an authentic Burlington nightlife experience.