The Bottom Line has been the hottest gay-friendly nightclub in the Fort Myers area for nearly 30 years. Known simply as "TBL" by locals, this club is not exclusive to the gay crowd, however. People of all genders, races and sexual preferences are not only welcomed, but they also seem to enjoy sharing the space and entertainment here.
With seven bars under one roof, TBL is known for hosting some of the hottest DJs in the region, as well as offering some of the best drink deals. Open seven days a week, TBL only charges a cover on Friday and Saturday nights, when five dollars grants party-goers access to every bar in the 15,000-square-foot venue.
Party people pack the seven bars of The Bottom Line seven nights a week — Photo courtesy of Gina Birch
The two-story disco is the centerpiece of the club, complete with a wall of mirrors for dancing queens and kings to perfect their moves or watch someone else. To spice things up a bit, there are monthly theme parties along with the occasional foam party.
Next to the dance floor is the Cement bar, a minimalist, standing-room-only space, good for getting a quick refresher. For those who want to watch the sometimes outrageous action on the floor without being so close to it, the upstairs Deck not only overlooks the main floor, but has a small dance floor of its own along with another full service bar.
The Legends bar is more private, an easier place to have a conversation. It's decorated with photos of old actors, and you’ll also get to watch the music videos of some of your favorite artists. For great entertainment on Sundays, check out the Drag Queen Bingo; it’s not your grandma’s bingo. You can watch for free, but it costs five dollars to play six rounds, snacks included.
Art Rooney spins the hottest dance tunes in the elevated DJ booth at TBL — Photo courtesy of Gina Birch
If you’re hoping to see a drag show at TBL, you wont be disappointed. Find them on Fridays in the main room and Saturday in the Cruise Bar. This party room is also a little more laid back, with a pub-style bar and high-top bistro tables, a perfect space for live entertainment
But it’s not just about dancing and drag queens at TBL: the Tos bar opens at 2 p.m. with pool tables and karaoke. And when you want some fresh air and a great view of the Southwest Florida sky, the Patio is a perfect venue, playing a variety of music.
TBL is off of the beaten path, in an industrial area of the city that has seen some major road construction during 2014. Because the party people have had to make a little more effort to get around the detours, the bar has generously extended its happy hour drink prices from 2 p.m. to midnight Sunday through Thursday and 2 p.m. to 11 p.m. Friday and Saturday. You will be hard pressed to find $2 domestic beers during weekend party hours anywhere else in town.
Regardless of the night, the promotion or the bar, you're sure to meet fun people and leave with some great stories to tell about your time at The Bottom Line.
