Waterworks Pub

I ABSOLUTELY LOVE WATER WORKS.2 floors , 2 bars, 2 DJs & a patio upstairs so you dont even have to leave for a smoke. The food is ALWAYS good. The wings are my favorite. Musics on point, great crowd, energetic atmosphere. This is my GO TO spot whether its a weekday or a weekend.

I was in the bathroom with my friend and 2 others. No one was in the stalls. A security guard walked in, drink in hand, smirk on face and said “hey ladies what’s the hold up? If you’re gonna make love do it on the dance floor😏😏.” I immediately walk out with my friend and shoot him a dirty look. That’s all. He walks to me, FURIOUS at the look I shot him and tells me if I have a problem to leave. I tell the lady who charges the fee at the desk, she was defensive at first but heard me out. Idk if anything has been done. I just want to make the public aware there are real creeps working there. Do not use the bathroom alone. Do not trust security.

Brandon is one of the best bartenders out there. He made us feel so included and played the music we liked. Love him and the vibe

I am very upset and disappointed to hear an establishment had put hands on my 5 foot female friend and throw her out for something she did not do. To accuse someone of doing something with no evidence is wrong. Maybe the one that threw up on the dance floor was the one that told security. But it definitely was not the one that got thrown out and banned for no reason what so ever. Very unprofessional. Very rude. Do not support this establishment as we are in the works to get some justice in this situation. It is not right at all to ever put hands on someone who is not violent or a threat. Your establishment is in the wrong for your actions and we will gain justice back.

Horribly rude staff.. worst place I’ve ever been for drinks. My gf was in tears just from the person serving food because she felt comfortable giving her an attitude because she asked when her food would be ready. Every time we’ve been there men have been super creepy and no one has stopped it. Needs new management or it truly fails the LGBTQIA population of Albany

Genuinely badI’ve given this place at least 5 tries before writing this. It’s not worth your money the dj they have is terrible. The only way you can really dance to any of the terrible remixes are if your sloshed which everyone is so there’s drinks splashed on you every two seconds. It’s full of creepy old men, every time I’ve gone there has been pervy old guys trying stuff but they don’t get kicked out🙄. The only redeeming parts about this place is the smoking area and the bar tenders they’re super friendly and very fast at making drinks and getting to you even when it’s packed

I dont even want to give this place 1 star. Someone around me threw up all over the floor, I was accused of throwing up and doing it although they smelt NOTHING on my breath. I was completely dragged out aggressively by my arms for absolutely no reason. I had one drink and did NOTHING wrong, this was so upsetting and disrespectful to me I will NEVERRRR go back, completely unfair and I will tell everyone about this terrible experience I had. I never go out too, this one my one night I decided to go out with my bestfriend celebrate my birthday that just passed. I was sober and this was not right

The bouncers defend homophobic people who openly make fun of others. Like most “gay” clubs, it doesn’t care who you are as long as you pay. They’ll kick out actual queer people for standing up for themselves before they ever speak against homophobia. This place is just like every other queer space that started to care more about profits than people.

This is not! A gay bar. They should no longer be classified as a gay bar. The bouncers are straight dudes. Who manhandle their guests. They rob people of their money. And getting in is like going through a strip search in prison. Do not go here. They are not gay friendly any longer.

Great vibes as usual, Dj Rvmba was on the scene so there was no contest for music from the albany bars, they are amazing and should be brought back consistently!

I love dancing here when the second floor is open. They serve typical bar food which come out good.

I had a blast dancing with friends upstairs. Its my second time there and tried the karaoke. The karaoke host was very rude to say the least. It wasnt much of karaoke he kept over playing music instead of having everyone sing. When I asked if he had a songbook as some KJs still do....he announced rudely no we do not have a book. There was a qr code for music which was cool but he didnt need to be so condescending about it. I recommend dancing there upstairs not karaoke.

My name is Alex and I drive down from Rutland Vermont quite often to get together with my friend and always go to Waterworks Pub in Albany It’s always so much fun!!!… This past weekend, February 11, I drove down for the Super Bowl and was very disappointed because they were having a drag show at the exact same time as the Super Bowl and we could not even hear the game going on so before we even hit half time in the event on TV, we left !! There’s a time and place for a sports event and then there’s a time and place for a drag show… I like them both but not at the same time… That was not even logical! Too bad :((

Don’t go here on a Sunday unless you want to be served by the rudest bartender you’ve ever had. After kicking us out because she wouldn’t accept my sisters temporary ID (she just turned 21 recently and is waiting on her official one in the mail) she told me I couldn’t have water when I asked for it. I was extremely confused because I’ve never been denied water from anywhere. I asked her why I couldn’t have water and she insisted that she couldn’t give me any. I even offered to drink it in front of her at the bar and she then said i couldn’t have any because people loiter in the parking lot. I don’t know what those people have to do with me or why she thinks I would loiter with a cup of ice water outside a bar with 6 people inside of it on a random Sunday, but I found it super unprofessional and rude. I understood her not accepting the temporary ID and if she has to do her job, but overall she was really condescending and mean. I come to waterworks often and as someone who is part of the community it’s important for me to have safe spaces around me but she seems as though she made it her mission for us to feel unwelcome. Waterworks is my sisters favorite bar to go to in Albany when she visits me and I’m super disappointed that on this night they gave her such a hard time when she was trying to celebrate her 21st birthday. It was a last minute idea to do something together that turned into her talking to us like we were dumb. She likely has a sad life and being condescending makes her feel better about it. Sucks for her.

Defınıtely stupıd place ın thıs area . They have securıty FOR NOTHING . And they say theır polıcy , we have to gıve jackets ınsıde even securıty checked them all . I DO NOT HAVE TO GIVE MY JACKET AND ID TO ANYONE , who are these people ?! Noone even say something, everyone acceptıng BECAUSE ITS A RULE AS THEY SAY . NOWHERE IN NEW YORK HAVE SOMETHING LIKE THAT . THIS PLACE TOTALLY STUPID . Dont make them earn money , they are somethıng because you are enterıng there . THEY HAVE TO TREAT BETTER PEOPLE , I AM NOT YOUR DOG !

я согласен с тем что при входе должны проверять личность и удостоверение..но если вы такие продвинутые и идете со временем в ногу, то вы должны знать что существует ID удостоверение цифрового формата..я прилетел из Украины и прошел многие таможни и охраны с помощью цифрового ID паспорта и ни где не было проблем..но что бы в клубе ночном проходя тебя охранник спрашивает об удостоверении личности и ты ему предъявляешь его в цифровом формате ( технологии уже давно впереди вас) ребята…если вы проверяете людей при входе в ваше заведение так пусть ваш руководитель приобретает наконец-то сканер для проверки документов у посетителей …а лично хозяину заведения хочу пожелать обновиться и приобретать посетителей а не терять их…я переехал в США и только начинаю свою жизнь в этой новой для меня стране и хотел бы оставаться с хорошим впечатлением от заведения которое хотел бы посетить и не краснеть от того что когда охранник спрашивает документ,ему не чем его проверить.. стыдно должно быть вам …у меня лишь плохое вместе от вашего заведения…(Translated by Google)I agree that identity and ID must be checked upon entry..but if you are so advanced and keep up with the times, then you should know that there is an ID certificate in digital format..I flew from Ukraine and went through many customs and security checks using a digital ID passport and there were no problems anywhere..but what if a security guard passes you in a night club and asks for your ID and you present it to him in digital format (technology is long ahead of you) guys...if you check people at the entrance to your establishment, then let your manager finally purchase a scanner to check visitors’ documents...and personally, I would like to wish the owner of the establishment to renew himself and gain visitors and not lose them...I moved to the USA and am just starting my life in this new country for me and I would like to remain with a good impression of the institution that I would like to visit and not blush at the fact that when the security guard asks for a document, he has nothing to check it with.. you should be ashamed ...I have only bad things to say about your establishment...

Went here twice and it’s a great place to dance and eat if you’re under 21, just very iffy. I went with two girls my first time when I was 19 for a friends birthday, and they painted my arms with glow in the dark paint and wrote x’s on my hands-understandable since i was underage. I just look hilarious with glowing arms on the dance floor. No cover fee, my friends all got drinks and there was an outdoor smoking area if you needed to or just needed to sit and get some fresh air.My second time was a little disappointing. We were meant to meet with my other female friends who didn’t pay anything to get in, and when I arrived alone with a male friend they charged me $20 and breathalyzed me. I had drinks about two hours earlier so I didn’t think it would matter but it was fine we just left, what ticked me off was the security inside. The woman and man outside were kind, we’re talking about the white stubble bearded man inside standing by the counter like he has an ego problem. He asked for the coat check people to triple check my male friend’s ID, who is turning 26 soon so I guess it’s a compliment if security is suspicious. We just left, no big deal, the girls we were meant to meet up with left as well since we couldn’t get in.Not sure if bouncers or security in Albany is normally this rude but I’m sure they deal with a lot of college students on the weekends. I’m from NYC so I understand the hostility but not sure if this is a race issue since my male friend and I were Asian and the girls we were meant to meet up with were white. Anyways there are plenty of other places to dance and/or drink around the area especially around Lark! Much better environment and smells a lot better as well, party safe!

Went here for karaoke and paid a $10 cover, bartender and security was great but the DJ was extremely rude to me and my friend and would refuse to play people’s songs and instead play their own which usually consisted of musical theater songs, a weird thing to play at a bar on a Friday night… they would also move the order of peoples songs just to sing their own. I do not see myself coming back anytime soon.

I thought this was a gay place, but it seems Albany doesnt really have str8 clubs, so this place is a mix of ppl, which is ok, but to gettho and the smell of weed is to much. Plus, really karaoke????I can tell you they water down their high-end drinks or what they think are high-end. I ordered a drink that was on the shelf, which had maybe a little left in it, and the bartender had to use the cheap vodka to fill up the rest of my cup. I was annoyed. Like, dude, Im not drunk like you. I see what you are doing. I go to sit down and try to enjoy the bad tasting drink. And see the bottle again with almost the same amount as before. There is no way you went through a whole new bottle of my choice in 5 mins.If you like hangovers from liqour you dont know whats in it, weed, and karaoke, this place is for you.

Crowd is primarily straight college kids. Straight woman and their boyfriends. No longer majority LGBT.. most of staff members have terrible attitudes. You can tell they dont wanna be there. The drinks are NOT consistent. U can order the same drink 4 time. Each time it will be completely different. Andddd now theres a door fee. That used to be for under 21 only. Miss me with all that.

Visiting...this place was full of 19-20 year old straight college kids. I went thinking it was a gay bar, still had fun. Theres a drag queen with karaoke which is pretty gay and there ended up being a few gays when I looked closer, and had a decent time --but it could have easily been a disappointment since it was a very hetero dominated vibe upstairs.

If you miss New York, youll appreciate this on Saturday night. Theres dancing and its LGBTQIA+ friendly, if you need that. Have not eaten here. They have standard drinks, per 10 dollars.

2 stars because its clean and environment is chill. But music isnt diverse and the drinks are very weak. Bartender will literally put a shot of alcohol in a glass of juice right in your face. Then charge 10$

I love coming here! Drinks are good, music is loud, dance floor is always full of fun people.It does have its fair share of weirdo straight guys, but what bar doesnt?

I visited Waterworks the night of Friday, January 27th, 2023. My friend mistakenly handed her light jacket to the middle-aged staff member at the coat check, but quickly realized that she could be chilly in the bar. Before the man hung up the coat, she politely asked for the jacket back. He said “it’s too late.” He would not elaborate any further as to why he would not return her personal property. If you like courtesy and having control over your personal property, don’t visit this bar!

Terrible experience! I came with all of my friends on my 21st with 3 forms of identification and bartender would not accept. Totally ruined my birthday because I didn’t have my new license which NY state will not give me until after.

Went to the pride 2022 after party. It was bumping. Love the atmosphere, bartenders and peeps🌈💋.

As much as my friends and I have loved going here, tonight was our last night. The environment inside is great but those at the door give the rest of the place a 1 star. The bouncers at the front took my friends real ID and ripped the plastic film off of the front. We had to beg to get it back for her since she needs to fly home in a week. Her ID is now all messed up. We were really looking forward to a fun night but now, they will no longer receive business from us.

Ive always felt safe here. The one time there was a creepy man, I told the bouncer and he was removed. Downstairs is a local pub vibe and upstairs is a club vibe. Would especially recommend going on the first Saturday of the month for the drag show.

WATERWORKS IS DANGEROUS!!!!Waterworks use to be a fun place to go, but lately it’s gone downhill. Last weekend, two of my friends were attacked in the bar by another visitor. Both my friends were left with visible bruising, and did absolutely nothing to provoke an attack. And did the bouncers help? No. It seemed like the bouncers knew the attacker, since instead of kicking out the attacker, my friends were asked to leave. How could you ask victims to leave after they had been physically assaulted? The attacker was able to escape with no issue thanks to Waterworks security. And when asked to be shown the video camera footage, Waterworks refused to help. Thanks to Waterworks, one friend has a concussion, the other has a busted lip, and both have visible bruising.So I guess visit Waterworks if you want to get attacked!

Get Ready to Spend 300$ dollars and get kicked out of waterworks by a jerk security guard that pushes you and your girlfriend to the floor and kicks you out after paying a 10$ cover fee and spending 150$+ on drinks :)))(((((((

I really enjoy this place. Have only been there post pandemic because Im new to the area, and I am impressed how this place can keep everyone having a good time while following all the guidelines. Everyone here is very nice and welcoming. Im an older bi guy, but this place is for anyone who is open minded and wants to enjoy themselves. Straight, gay, bi, trans..... Whoever you are, you will have a chill mellow experience. Love karaoke on Friday nights and the drag show after midnight. I try to get here once a week I highly recommend it.

Accepting, understanding and compassionate. When a questioning person comes from CNY and is feeling awkward, this is the place to go. Warm, welcoming and supportive. I recommend no where else to go if you’re looking for a GREAT TIME and comfortability. Hands down 5 star through and through

If I could give no stars at all I would. My daughter went to this establishment on February 18, 2023 she wore her Mackage coat retails at $1100 was told her coat would have to go in coat check which she did without issue and was given a ticket for the space her coat was hung. At the end of the night my daughter went to get her coat and it was gone. She was informed that night that they would look into the incident and they have her a number to someone named Josh. Josh responded one day that he had ran the cameras back and indeed saw a regular leave the club with my daughter coat. Since that day numerous calls, Facebook messages (instructed to use), text messages, voice mails and messages at club have been left with no response. Last night when calling after 10 as instructed I was told that Josh could not take a call cause he was bartending. This is not my daughter fault!! They have a policy in place for coat check so ultimately they are responsible for any mishaps. We want the $1100 coat replaced as this was a Christmas present that I worked hard for to be able to gift my daughter with. This is not ok

Good vibe and we like the set up. The pool table wasnt working and they had no darts for the dart board. The bartender liked to chat more than making the drinks. Honestly sad because Waterworks was one of the reasons we came to Albany.

They need a bouncer at the door. I went over labor day weekend and some kid, and I mean visibly a minor, was allowed into the bar late a night. He proceeded to walk around with his hand in his hoodie pocket, purposefully pointing it around like he had a gun.He then went into the bathroom and came back out with a black bandana on covering his face. We left, he followed a bunch of people outside and pulled something out of his pocket and pointed it at them, it wasn’t a gun, but he thought it was funny to make them think so.For a first time visit to a gay bar, allowing a minor to come in and terrorize the patrons like they’re going to commit a hate crime is pretty bad.Nice bartender and atmosphere otherwise, but yikes.Definitely do not feel safe there.

Went for my birthday to the Wacky Wednesday drag show! The check-in process is a bit longer than most places, but I appreciate how thorough it is and how nice they are about it. The bartender was amazing, accommodating, and fun to interact with! Plus the drinks were mixed so well. The space was wonderful, everyone was really nice, and I felt really comfortable. Not to mention the drag show was to die for!!! Wonderful place to end up on a Wednesday night - would do it again any day!

This bar doesn’t look like it’s been updated since 1985. The staff is rude. The bathroom is dirty. The drinks suck. Don’t waste your money.

If I could give it negative stars I would. My best friend went there last night and it was disgusting. So many gross men here, predators if you will. Don’t go here, don’t have your friends go here and DEFINITELY don’t allow your kids here. You’d think it’d be a cool accepting place but it’s the complete opposite.

So usually I like this place. I’m not sure who the old middle age white man with white hair and the receding hairline is who is at the counter when you walk in to pay thirteen dollars to get in (used to be 10???).,, but he needs to GO. Extremely rude. He yelled at me. For literally no reason, other than his sh^tty character. Really disgusting attitude. Made me want to request the money I paid to get in there and walk right back out; that’s how off putting his attitude was . I wonder if he’s that disrespectful to men as well or if he just hates women but wow. Idk if I’ll be back.

$14 cover charge and there wasn’t a dj or a special event going on. Why?

Last night I will go there. 2 different people touched me inappropriately and a couple approached me about going home with them. Then when I was waiting for my ride a group of people from the club threatened me and I feel like I was going to get jumped. I’m happy to stay home and stay safe.

The place is poppin! I had a wonderful time with my friends last night and people that I didnt even know. The entire club sang karaoke like we were friggin Beyonce! It was a breath of fresh air. Also I lost my keys and then found them in my friends car. Talk about having a mini-stroke after a wonderful night lol. I highly recommend this place if you want to blow off steam and forget about this depressing world. HAVE FUN ❤️

The older person who is in the coat check need to be more friendly while he is working. He literally grab my hoodie and refuse to give me a ticket, while the other person was telling him that I was trying to pay. Maybe he was playing but it wasn’t fun, Is not even two months since The bouncer assaulted and I still struggle from the event.

Saw Ada Vox here for Albany Black & Latino Pride. It was crowded, but it was nice to come out to celebrate the strength of this community

I went to @waterworkspub last night to celebrate my birthday. It was a lot of fun and I got to dance to #dubstep, which is one my favorite types of music genres. They stamped us at the door after we paid our cover and I never read what the stamp said until I woke this morning. Too funny 🤣🤣 it says douche bag #douchebag. Lmao. I got #powned by a #nightclub. I will definitely go back. Great music to dance to and funny sense of humor! The drinks were more expensive that I realized they would be. I am talking about I bought 6 vodka tonics for me and my spouse and dropped 65 bucks. Ouch. Definitely will pre game better next time 😆 overall, I recommend and it was a hella good time.

Last weekend my friends were visiting from out of town, and we were all super excited to go have a fun night out at Waterworks. However, we did no such thing. As we were getting our IDs checked, the bouncer, who told us his name was Emanuel, told my friend her REAL ID was fake, put it in his pocket, and told us to call the police if we wanted it back. We proceeded to call the police and waited an hour and a half in the cold outside for them to show up. The police went inside and checked all the IDs they had taken that night and came back out empty handed, saying they couldn’t find my friend’s ID. Even though we saw the bouncer take it and put it in his pocket. Then, my friend and I went back up to the bouncer and asked him to kindly empty his pockets because we knew he had the ID. He said he doesn’t normally do that, but then pulled it out of his left pocket, and we got it back. But that means he stole my friend’s property and lied to the police. Not to mention, the drinks there are weak and expensive. We will not be returning.

I was attending a professional conference that occurred over Albany gay pride; this club was 1.5 miles from our conference at the Hilton. Three of us came here to dance and we were not disappointed; two of us are gay, 1 male, 1 female, one straight female. I was thrilled that the club had a fantastically diverse crowd in terms of race, age, sexual orientation, etc. Two dance floors; upstairs was more crowded and wilder, but I moved downstairs later when the upper dance floor got so packed I could barely move. It was super sexy though. We danced for HOURS! One of my friends got lucky, hooked up and split. The drinks were generous and my other pal, a lightweight drinker, got too drunk so I sent her back to hotel in a cab (confirmed arrived safely!). Hot, sweaty dancing with fun, friendly, HOT people! It was Gay Pride so no idea if its usually like this. It was a typical bar scene: single people looking for a date, a few drunk people dropped drinks on the dance floor, so we just kicked the glass out of the way. It was awesome and wild and just what I was looking for: a memorable evening! I wear earplugs; the music was deafening and I was so glad I had them or it would have been uncomfortably loud after several hours.

Here currently, completely dead. when i came in the bouncer/coat check employee was extremely rude. he made us remove half our outfit. when we asked why he treated to throw us out. he proceeded to curse us out. he was absolutely rude for no reason. please do not go to this bar. extremely gross and dirty.

Went out on a Saturday the day before Halloween security made us wait in line for an hour then proceeded to tell me I couldnt get in with my passport they are racist and the owner Robert is a racist pig! Spent thousands of dollars there over the years dont spend youre money here if you are POC!

I truly want to support an LGBT establishment as LGBT individual myself but I am forced to give a poor review because after a mandatory coat check my friend was not given a ticket and was refused his very specific jacket upon trying to retrieve it. After expressing I was never given a ticket and offering to show pictures of my acquaintance wearing the jacket in question I was told I could keep arguing or be thrown out from the bar I said okay then throw me out and I was physically forced from the bar without them so much as taking a cursory glance at the jackets and finding the specifically mentioned garment.

Drew is excellent to his customers. He does it all. We appreciate the way he takes care of young and older. Talented young man.Josh has taken over now that Drew has taken off for greener pastures. Josh is awesomeSo glad he is here.

2 str8!!! The bar may be gay, the bartenders may be gay, the disc jockey may be a flaming queen and they may parade the queens on the regular. But..... being gay at this place is like being a freak show attraction. The bars patrons are mostly str8, and predominantly female. They ask weird questions and its just embarrassing to be there. You cant even hit on anyone, the few men that come in the door are str8 and might as well be a chihuahua in a purse. They just wander around after whatever str8 woman brought them and carry their drinks. The place is a joke as far as the gay scene is concerned. If youre a gay man, head across the street to Rocks, where it may be a bit more leather but at least its mostly men and mostly gay. You may get a few men that want to tie you up, but at least you wont be in the spotlight at the circus like you will be at Waterworks. Two very enthusiatic and rather disappointed thumbs down.

Great place to dance and conversions with friends. All types of people go here. Friday night theres a dance upstairs and Saturday night theres also dancing upstairs at 11 p.m. karaoke takes place on Thursday and Friday nights from 9 p.m. to 11 p.m. They do serve popcorn there and drinks but there is not much food served there. The help is very friendly and social with their customers. There is no dress code there you go as you please but not too showy of course

This one white bouncer was extremely rude and put his hands on my girlfriend to push us out. There was no need to get aggressive if we needed to go. Absolutely disgusting.

Great place for karaoke, dancing, socializing, and having libations. Dress code is casual, although I dress to impress. Visible and impressive security staff. Club entrance and dance floor, are not accessible if you have difficulty walking. Both require you to climb stairs. Weekly drag shows and dance contests. Fun place, friendly staff.

Pretty shocked, only a handful of people in the bar. Ordered a single tall vodka and soda. The bartender clearly did not care about my business. Charged me $8.50. no problem. I handed my credit card, the price was all of a sudden over $10. I dont know what scam or bs this establishment is running but Ill never go back

Always a great time here!!! Bartender went out of his way to ensure our party was made to feel special since it was a bachelor/bachelorette party and it was very much appreciated!!! Drinks were on point and delicious!! Everyone had a blast!! Thank you, Waterworks!!!

Friendly atmosphere everyones pleasant no attitudes no negativity. Groups come here singles couples its a nice place on Friday and Saturday night I know they have other days to go but I usually go on Friday they have an upstairs dancehall. They have all kinds of events in there throughout the year. Karaoke on Friday and I do believe Thursdays too. You must be 21 to enter with ID

I went in there last weekend, bought drinks for $19 including a tip, and was dismayed to see a 119 dollar charge on my card the next day. On contacting the pub, the manager Josh, reached out asap, and reversed the entire charge. So while I was initially not happy at all, the customer service made up for it a little.

There is a very rude guy name Dan the guy who stamp you at entrances. Mean that was my birthday yesterday and I invited 20 co workers to go and he didnt let my friend in and we were asking him why he just keep saying my friend is banned and it was my friend first time in gay bar how the hell he got banned? He didnt explained anything he yelled at me Infront of my friends I feel like I being humiliated with this guy. I would never ever recommend this place Im giving this place a business but for no reasons he flipped out on me. Yelling telling me that bring my friends to rocks not here in waterworks. So sad so I told to my 20 friends that lets just go to another bar i never feel humiliated with other people. I hope that the owner of this bar will read this. i work in the same business industry food and bar beverage but I never seen a person a white trashed like this. If his having a bad night dont turn it out to us. Very uneducated people. I will never ever recommend this bar anymore.

Now I, I, had, the time of my life...and I owe it All to youuuu! What a fun bar. This was my first time attending, and I have to say I cant believe Ive been missing out all these years! I had the most fun. When we walked in, karaoke was wrapping up on the main level. Upstairs, a drag show was happening. What fun. After the amazing drag preformances, we danced the night way and had an absolute blast. My only complaint would be I could only get domestic beer at the upstairs bar. Otherwise, this is one of the funnest bars in the Albany area, hands down.

I always feel very welcome here! Ive been going for quite a while, and I feel like Ive become part of the Waterworks family. The bartenders and other regulars are always happy to see me!The seasonal menu is very creative and inviting. The staff are always coming up with new, delicious drinks so even if you dont go out often, youre sure to find something to peak your interest!Theres always something to do here, from competing in singing competitions or casually singing your favorite songs at karaoke night to attending the weekly drag shows. There is never a dull moment!I am so happy to have found this wonderful place to escape the daily humdrum!

The pub asked for 5$ cover in an evening that didnt have people inside it at all. Also the man at the entrance requested me to leave the coat I had for 3$ fee. When I said im fine with having the coat on me inside, he said that coats arent allowed inside. I think it would be fair to let people decide how to get inside a pub and not deciding them for them just for making some money on their back.

Bouncer took my friends ID claiming it was fake when it wasn’t. We tried to talk to him and asked if he even scanned it but, he said no, he just knows it’s fake. He yelled at us and said call the police if we wanted it back. Had to actually call the police to get it back. The front door team really needs training, so rude and completely ruined the night.

Love this place. Im sober and the bartenders were quick to know and assist me in making my water with lime at the top and cherry on bottom to help me distinguish my drink. Now if I walk up and ask for a water they do this every time. Love the staff here

Its the only gay bar left from when I was a student at RPI! On my return visit to campus, I had to stop by. It was a Therapy Thursday and the place was full of life after 1a. They rearranged things and updated, but true to form the music was still dated. Friendly bartenders were serving potent, inexpensive drinks. Im glad Waterworks has survived and adapted. Ill have to check out the upper floor on my next visit on a Friday or Saturday night.

Always a delight, coming to Waterworks was a big part odd coming home for me. I instantly felt welcome and warm upon entering. I never had to repeat my order; each drink was made without question. The feel in the air each time ive gone bad been comfortable and familiar. Come to waterworks, have a good time.

Waterworks is a cool community bar with a lot of variance in their nightly events. The drink prices are quite high for the area, and they have a cover charge for nearly every weekend event (including Thursdays if you are under 21). Most the bartenders are amazingly kind, but you will frequently hear complaints about the attitude of the door guy and the staff, some of those are moderately well-founded.Its shifted slightly from being just a gay club, to being a place that gets overrun by a straight dancey crowd, due to the lack of dancing options in the Albany area. If you are looking for a GAY bar, try Oh Bar or Rocks, Rocks is across the street and also has a dance club.

My friend was very obviously over served and I very nicely asked the bartenders to cut him off and I was told to care for yourself, you can go home if you dont wanna be hereDangerous and rude, disgusting behavior.

Love the atmosphere for gay and straight alike. Very friendly staff, good pricing. You must check your coat for a small fee so dress appropriately.

Nothing wrong with the place I just become personal enemies with that stairs in this building 0-1 stairs

10 dollar cover for a totally outdated building inside and out. Staff have a nasty attitude as if you owe them something. Drinks tasted watered down as though I was drinking a cup of ice. Would not suggest this place at all

A decent place. Seems to be the only night club in Albany. The dance floor is small, but wasnt crowded when I visited. The downstairs bar is really chill and attracts a good (gay) crowd.

I miss waterworks! It was the only club i went to when I lived in Albany. It is such a fun environment, great drinks, great staff, and so much fun! There are events on a weekly basis, and it is the Ultimate place to be on Halloween. If you want a place to go where not only the staff is friendly, but so are the guests, this is the number one place!

So my God. This place is such an amazing place. Now Ill be honest with Google and I have been banned from the place going on two years but however. Still all an all I love this place. When i win a large amount of money Ill invest into the place. Such a delightful place.

Great DJ, ample dance floor, friendly service and other patrons.

I went there with a group of about 25 people for my friends 30th birthday. I called the pub around 8:30 to make sure that I wouldn’t have trouble getting in, as I lost my license the night before. I spoke with Steven, and he told me that if I have a New York State issued photo ID (my NYS real estate license) and my birth certificate proving that I am in fact 23 that I would be able to get in with no problem.I get to the door around 11:30 PM, and told the gentlemen at the door that I spoke with Steven earlier, and let me know that I was able to get in with these two items. This man basically laughed in my face and told me “Steven has no authority.” Explained my frustration and asked if he could go get Steven so we could sort this miscommunication out as I wanted to have a good time that night, again told me that he makes the rules - and I was not getting in.This was obviously quite frustrating, not only because there were miscommunications with the employees, but the gentleman at the door was extremely rude to me. My goal was to avoid any hassle at the door- hence calling beforehand to MAKE SURE that I can get in. This is an 18+ club, and I had two legal documents clearly proving I was 23 years of age. This man was just trying to give a hard time, and I don’t appreciate that. Please make sure all of your employees are aware of the rules and regulations to avoid any further bad experiences.

Hallison is an amazing bartender always makes amazing drinks. Very helpful and extremely kind!

If your into older caucasian men. Or if you like to to listen to music without words this is the place for you. I think they have one day out of the week where youll get some R&B or maybe a little rap. But it fits the demographic its reaching for.

The guy in charge of the coats it’s so disrespectful and rude. He was yelling in our faces because my friend asked if he could take his coat inside with him, he also tried to take my friend’s car keys away from them

One of the only LGBTQ gathering places in Albany. Its like cheers, love the staff the Dj and performers. Andrew Barone was the first person I met there and he has always welcomed me, Ricky wheeler love him. I could literally go on and on, check it out its a must!!

Its amazing, and so lively, not really diverse, but still so fun. The music is divided between two, so you can get your choice of a song as it was made, or upstairs when theyre remixed with a beat

After the black and Latino fest yesterday we when to waterworks and the OLD DUDES THAT CAME IN AFTER 8:30 T STamP PEOPLE HANDS !!! He was VERY RUDE, NASTY AND IGNORANT TO US.. AND ACTUALLY TOLD US THAT THIS WAS PART of the black and Latino festival.. He was very RUDE..! ALL THE MESS WE HAVE TO GO THROUGH BECAUSE OF OUR SEXUAL PREFERENCE.. TO BE TREATED LIKE THAT IS JUST WRONG..And im sure it was about the color of our skin..He need to be fired!!!

Friendliest bartenders and staff ever! Ive been here on a few occasions and never had a bad experience with staff or patrons. Everyone is so loving and gay! Badabababa..Im loving it..lol

The lady that takes food order sucks ! Bad actitude! Can’t work with public she needs to be a veterinarian or walk dogs ! Sucksssss

Not really my crowd, but the energy was turned all the way up and there were enough straight/bi women present to present decent options.

Bartenders always fun, friendly, gentlemen, make me feel welcome and valued. Fun people. All kinds of styles. Enjoyed myself as usual

My friend and I went to check this place out and dance. It was great. Everyone was nice and no-one was afraid to just be themselves.

I love this place. I always feel welcome and dance me butt off to their dope music. Everyone is friendly and I always make new friends.

Wish we could have been able to stay longer but we had to go place is super cool clean and tons of happy people! We will be back when we can lots of 💘

I have visit here multiple times a year, alway friendly and attentive service, the bartenders are awesome 🙌🏾🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟

Good place to visit, tho the coat checking guy was the most not welcoming person. But the good music makes you forget about him.

Last time I was there is was like a drug store at a bar. No commitment to monitor over drinking (a situation at most bars, if you serve alcohol be responsible to the other patrons and public in your community) MY OPINION

It’s almost a women’s pub. Every weekend it’s about 15 women for 1 gay guy which means full of girls, a couple of gays and few straight men.

They have a pool table, clean bathrooms, two floors both with a bar and dance floor, staff are very friendly and I find the different events here are always fun and inclusive!

Only a real DJ on the second floor where electronic music is only played. First floor needs an actual DJ!! Place is fine other than that

A really friendly and awesome place, the decore is very relaxing in the downstairs bar but up stairs is where the club is and thats Thursday to Saturday night and that is pretty awesome

Being from NH where gay bars/clubs dont really exist anymore, it was awesome to find such a fun place to hang out after Pride!

Dont listen to the out of towner. This is a great place with staff that know what theyre doing along with excellent music. Not to mention the historical value of this place...

My favorite place to go. Been going for years everyone is like family! Great atmosphere where you can just be yourself!

Great place with fun events where everyone is welcome. Ive never had a bad time here.

Love this place! Been stopping in for over 20 years when Im in the neighborhood!! Especially love Sunday afternoons with Rosie!! Hes the best!

We got kicked out because we asked why we had to leave our coat in the front door. The staff is very disrespectful

I usually go with myBest friend and her friends and i usually love it there and have a great time but then i started getting racist vibes.

I love waterworks! The music is great the people are amazing and its not usually too overcrowded. Highly recommend going!

Such a fun place to go. Dancing is available upstairs. Downstairs they have drag shows once a week.

My experience is well its an entertaining club and a wonderful atmosphere

I had an amazing time when I went here and thier happy hour has great deals and good drinks loved it great music and people

I absolutely love Waterworks they make you feel like your one big family very comfortable .I plan on making it my go to for Friday nights

I used to go here years ago, and it was always jumping, now its just chill. The bathrooms werent too tidy, and the DJ kept repeating songs...

This place is alright. Feel like it needs a refresh. But worth a visit to experience LGBT 🏳️‍🌈 nightlife in Albany.

I love waterworks its differnt from any bar/club in the 518. I recommend going to see what its all about. Amazing people and the atmosphere is ammazing there.

Great neighborhood bar. Hot bartenders to. Everybody real friendly. Had a good strong rum and coke

Great loving crowd. Old, young, lgbtq and straight. All are welcome. I love this place ❤️

Fun place, stays open until 4am most nights. And is very open to the LGBTQ crowd. 18+

Its a place to let loose and be your self no judgement great drink great people great experience everytime

Love dancing here! Always a good time!

I go on Thursdays for the club night. There is usually a theme. Strong drinks and delicious mozzarella sticks

How tf you want me to give you $20 to steal my coat- it’s January n I’m cold 😭

I had so much fun there! If you wanna try you must be open minded person

This is a great place to gather with friends. Those surrounding is comfortable the people are friendly and the music is always jamming.

Tommy proofed and i had no idea and i couldnt get in. It was late no phone no ride and Tommy made sure igot cab home he is awesome

Bartenders can be sexist, I ordered 2 drinks and was charged $20, send a guy to get the second round and he was charged $13 dollars for the same drinks.

Didnt like it, it might be cuz Im from the city, but I expected it to be more lit than what it was, drinks are somehow expensive for Albany. Gotta pay cover too.

Overall decent bar and club, though due to its location straddling downtown and the more run down Arbor Hill neighborhood, it tends to get kinda ghetto sometimes

They take your personal property and refuse to give it back, thought this was America ??

The most fun of the two gay clubs in the capital region... The drag shows were lit

Great atmosphere and the bartenders are always so happy and give great service. I love going to Waterworks!

Its hit or miss and the music is often nothing but pop remixes. But it can still be a fun night out and hey, its Albany.

Its kind of wack that you have to tip the DJ of karaoke just to sing. Not cool.

What I can Say? They are really Exellent peaple. Everytime I go there, Allways I have Fun. Come Check It Out. my Second Home On Weekens.

Hot spot for all genders , great atmosphere and fantastic vibes and music and karaoke

They play the best music downstairs, upstairs Is nothing but techno 😑

It was enjoyable to go to a bar that was clean and where everyone can be themselves.

Great time with a group of friends. Helpful staff and a friendly unpretentious atmosphere.

Security officers that work there are wrongfully put in they hands on customers Justice def need to be served

Asked for a water at last call bc I was drunk said “no!”

I for sure havent been here for years but id come here in a heart beat. People here know how to party and no drama what so ever.

Such a fun non judgemental club and bar!! Great music!!

I love this place lookin to have a drink wit out the drama an your allsexually friendly check it out

The music is literally the worst out of any bad/club I have ever been to in my life

Went for my first visit to attend a drag show. Wow what a fun venue .

I love this place...if u ever go on a Thursday go upstairs N ask Drew for a Reese😍😍😍😍😍

Its a great place to party very very nice friendly

During afternoons it is a quiet place to hang with friends and great drinks are made

Bathrooms are nasty, its male dominated, nice dance floor, all year round smoking deck.

Amazing staff..food and drinks. Great music and atmosphere.

Absolutely love this place just a good old time with great people

Is a fun bar beer is always ice cold and relaxing

Great dancing, good drinks, fun people for gay or straight!

Was nice until there was a shooting out in front of the bar

Had a blast! Friendly staff and positive environment!

Always a good vibe. Good drinks and fun space.

Great drinks. Cool people. Attentive security!

20$ entry for those 18-20 but well worth it

Great bar and love the nightclub part upstairs

Bouncer was RUDE and clearly NOT a professional!!

Fun but small and kind of dirty feeling. Fun though

Very fun on thurs and Saturday .. otherwise hit or miss... btw its moatlygay/lesbian

Best place to go with friends, lively and always a good time.

It a fun place to drink and have fun and dance

Always a good time. Yes, its a gay bar

Great place, attentive staff and cold beer!!

Just an easy going place and the music is good

Fantastic staff, amazing drag shows!

Great place for night life very friendly and very diverse,

If you been here then you know why I love this place

The sweetest bartended (Josh?), great and fun place ;)

Everytime I go back east I have to stop by and grab a drink and say hello to my dear friends

Fun place to go. Karaoke was a blast.

A fun gay bar. Try the karaoke or the dance floor

A great place to start a dance party! 😍

Amazing best time dont park on Lexington though

Lmfaooo so everyone hates your bouncer?

Charging patrons for tap water at a dance club is pathetic.

Love how they try to mix the music up.

Its one of the best gay bars in Albany

Latin night was alright. More advertisement could be done on events.

Just never there when im there not part of the loop or scene !

No I like the place I miss Albany neighboring Rocks and Washington Park the dog park

Its okay. Gets a bit crowded. Not enough seats :(

Gay friendly bar and great people

Its a really good club to go to

Its a great place to let loose and unwind at.

First Time There An I Loved It.. #ThirstyThursday

Great place to dance and sing keroke

I Love This Place!!!! I never felt so at home!

Great local style type bar.

Albany Oldest Gay Bar and Dance Club

Crazy

Entertainment was great, but the drinks were awful!!!

Expensive drinks load music and good times

The lights were a bit much for my condition

Always a good time and great staff

Pricey and loud, but a good place for the community.

A great place to come OUT to!

I dont go there. Unwelcoming environment.

Nice dance floor. Feels a little like a diner though.