“At the time The Hippo opened, gay people had to go to a gay club to meet gay people. Online dating and apps like Grindr have provided competition, as well. As gay culture has garnered more mainstream acceptance, the need for gay bars and clubs has diminished. “It’s been the home for every man, woman, white, African-American, whatever, to come here, feel safe, feel wanted, have a great time, and come back another day,” says Bowers, 70, who says the club’s last day will likely be in the fall.Īlthough Bowers is closing the club primarily for personal reasons-he’d like more time to travel and volunteer-he acknowledges trends in gay nightlife have had an effect, too. “Chuck” Bowers, took ownership in 1978 with the goal to make it a place where “everyone is welcome”-a philosophy that became the club’s motto. Located at the corner of North Charles and Eager streets, the Art Deco edifice has operated as a gay nightclub since July 7, 1972.Ĭharles L. When Baltimore’s LGBTQ community hosts its annual Pride festival this month, it will be with an extra sense of occasion as this year marks the city’s 40th annual celebration.īut a slight pall may hang over the proceedings since it was announced in early May that stalwart gay club The Hippo will soon close and become a CVS pharmacy.