Explore This Gay-Owned Adults-Only Boutique Hotel in Downtown Las Vegas — Here’s What Your Stay Will Be Like

A few months post-launch, the Bent Inn, the sole gay-owned LGBTQ+ boutique hotel in Las Vegas, is thriving just as pool season peaks. Its owners faced a long journey — four years, to be precise — to bring this vision to life.

Upon my arrival, a vibrant crowd gathered around the circular bar, which doubles as the reception area at this cozy 33-room hotel. When my partner and I checked in, we were each greeted with a welcome cocktail to enjoy at our leisure. Why not start right away? We settled at the bar, ordered tequila sodas, and engaged with the owner and bartender to learn more about the property and their favorite downtown spots. (We already had our favorites in mind.)

Our evening plans included a short stroll to witness the fire-breathing mantis at Downtown Container Park, followed by a visit to Atomic Liquors, the first free-standing bar in Las Vegas, where we could enjoy some people-watching, a local brew, and their amazing pan pizza.

When we returned to the Bent bar later that Saturday night, it was buzzing with activity. The lights were dimmed and the energy was electric. Instead of sports, the screens showcased music videos featuring Britney Spears, Lady Gaga, Madonna, and Troye Sivan, creating a lively club atmosphere that encouraged dancing, mingling, and perhaps a little flirting among guests—both locals and visitors seeking a friendly, accepting spot to unwind. With a 24-hour operation, it has become a favored hangout for the LGBTQ+ community.

Bent Inn was conceived by Palm Springs hoteliers Greg Kafka and Mark Hunter. Having owned two hotels in Palm Springs, they decided to bring their vision to Las Vegas. Unfortunately, their timing was less than ideal. They purchased the property, previously an apartment complex, in January 2020, only for Covid to strike six weeks later, putting all plans on hold. “Everything came to a screeching halt,” Hunter shared with Dinogo.

It took 18 months before they could even begin to work on the property, let alone start the extensive renovations, and nearly four years before the Bent Inn officially opened its doors. “It was definitely a challenge to get it wrapped up and done,” Hunter mentioned.

The couple sold their two Palm Springs hotels, Escape Resort and Desert Paradise, to embark on their vision of creating a cultural and social hub for the gay community in downtown Las Vegas. During my visit, it was exactly that—guests and staff were warm and welcoming, fostering an atmosphere that encouraged regulars to return frequently.

The postage stamp-sized property isn't designed as a luxury resort. Instead, it serves as a welcoming refuge—an inclusive, “straight-friendly” getaway where locals and visitors bond over strong margaritas while floating on inflatable pool toys. Ultimately, the Bent Inn prioritizes its community and ambiance. That’s what makes this hotel unique. It's a place to forge friendships and venture out to discover downtown Las Vegas and the Arts District.

The Rooms

With only 33 rooms, the property isn’t expansive, and the rooms embody this compact charm. I found our room, complete with a Juliet balcony overlooking the pool, to be snug and inviting, offering just the right amount of space to unwind before heading to the bar or lounging by the pool. After all, the Bent Inn thrives on its vibrant social scene rather than solitary retreat.

The hotel offers four types of rooms. The premium option is the poolside patio rooms, featuring sliding glass doors that open to a cozy, private patio and seating area by the pool. Other options include balcony rooms, an atrium king (which lacks a view), and the bunkhouse—hostel-style accommodations with twin beds and shared facilities for solo travelers.

Amenities are straightforward. My room didn't have a refrigerator, but it was equipped with a 65-inch television, a Bluetooth-enabled radio, charger, and speaker. Adding a touch of kitsch, custom pulp fiction-style artwork adorned the walls, showcasing imaginative book covers featuring playful and risqué themes, including titles like “Locker-Room Lovers,” “Gay Safari,” and “Moonlight Motel.”

Hunter described the artwork as a playful distraction and a great conversation starter. “We found humor in vintage 1950s pulp fiction covers, so we paid tribute to them, recreating them in a similar style but with a twist to suit our environment,” he explained to T+L.

The Location

The Bent Inn occupies a small patch of land bordered by vacant lots. It may not be the most glamorous neighborhood, but many visitors consider it a go-to spot, taking advantage of the free parking. Plus, it’s just a short stroll to Container Park, placing you amidst a vibrant bar scene in East Fremont.

I truly enjoy downtown Las Vegas. In recent years, a unique culture and atmosphere have flourished. Walkable areas like the Arts District, located about a mile and a half from the hotel, feature an array of boutiques, galleries, restaurants, bars, and brewpubs. Guests can easily grab a quick Uber to explore all that’s on offer.

Food and Drink

The bar buzzes with energy, often offering two-for-one well drinks or specials on select draft beers. Regular prices only apply during peak hours from 7 PM to 2 AM. On Sunday mornings, you can enjoy bottomless mimosas or Bloody Marys for just $20.

On the menu, you'll find classic pub fare. Indulge in hearty burgers, buffalo grilled chicken sandwiches, tacos, and flatbreads, including a Texas BBQ-style naan topped with grilled chicken, bacon, and red peppers.

I found brunch to be a delightful experience, with dishes that were both fun and creative. Standouts include a ham and cheese quiche croissant and carne asada toast, as well as three crispy chicken and waffle sliders served with a homemade bitter blackberry bourbon jam.

Activities and Experiences

The heated pool, spacious hot tub, and bar are the heart of the Bent, drawing in the community. This spot has become a vibrant hub for the local gay scene, with weekly events that keep everyone engaged. From pool parties and beer busts to karaoke, comedy, and trivia nights, there’s always something happening.