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Respect the Leather

What We Do When No One Is Watching

<h2>No Attitude. No Algorithms. Just Pride.</h2><h3>"Some nights feel louder than others. Pride in Wilton Manors is one of them."</h3>By 8 p.m. on Saturday, June 20, Wilton Drive is humming. Street festival in full swing, floats lined up for the Glow Night Parade, Deep Eddy banners catching the last light as DJs test their sound systems. Tens of thousands of people flood the asphalt—locals, tourists, drag queens, allies, couples in matching tanks, boys who flew in this morning just to say they were here.You’re somewhere in the middle of it. &nbsp; Happy. Grateful. A little overstimulated.Phones up. Flags up. Drinks up. &nbsp; Your feet are sticky from spilled vodka sodas. The guy in front of you keeps trying to go live; the guy behind you is shouting the lyrics to a song that meant something once and now just feels like another Pride playlist track.You smile. You cheer. You clap when the floats roll by at 8 p.m. sharp, all neon and glitter and “LOVE IS LOVE” banners glowing against the South Florida night.And still—if you’re honest— &nbsp; there’s a quiet voice in the back of your mind that asks:Is this it?Not in an ungrateful way. Just in a human way. The part of you that loves the parade but also remembers when Pride wasn’t a sponsor deck and a hashtag. The part that’s less interested in being seen by everyone and more interested in being seen by someone who actually looks you in the eye and doesn’t immediately ask for your handle.There’s Pride with a capital P—floats, sponsors, a mile-long street festival from 3 to 11 p.m. And then there’s the smaller thing that happens after the noise dies down. <h3>When the Street Starts to Empty</h3><figure id="figure-yowyuy7ys9mq9d3xkn" class=""><img id="yowyuy7ys9mq9d3xkn" src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/351mHvTFDosOyfQCFuu68k2Jb9MZc0R3KdBFqtKpdOm2IxcOhYFdlDF446l3FxqB.jpg" alt="Professional barber performing precise beard design and lineup on male client in classic barber chair with overhead lighting" title="Professional barber performing precise beard design and lineup on male client in classic barber chair with overhead lighting" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 rounded-sm md:rounded-md lg:rounded-lg" style="aspect-ratio: 3/2; object-position: undefined% 0%;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="3:2" data-caption="" data-positionx="undefined%" data-positiony="0%" data-fullwidth="false" data-mce-src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/351mHvTFDosOyfQCFuu68k2Jb9MZc0R3KdBFqtKpdOm2IxcOhYFdlDF446l3FxqB.jpg" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 3/2; object-position: undefined% 0%;"></figure>The crowd starts to thin around 10. &nbsp; Wilton Drive shifts gears. The families drift home. The friends-of-friends peel off for nightcaps. The music gets louder in a different way—less about the march, more about last call.You could chase that, if you want. &nbsp; Another bar. Another line. Another round of shouting over the speakers.Or:You could get in your car, let the bass fade in the rearview, and drive a few minutes east—off the rainbow-lit strip and onto a regular Fort Lauderdale street where nobody is lining up for selfies.No attitude. No algorithms. Just men, steam, and possibility.Clubhouse II has been heating things up since 1976—a 24/7 all-male membership club where comfort, community, and a little mischief come together in the form of steam, sauna, hot water, and human company. Long before “Pride content” was a thing, it was just a door you could walk through when you needed somewhere to land.Back then, spaces like this weren’t Instagrammable. They were necessary.A quiet strip on Oakland Park Boulevard. &nbsp; A front desk guy who looks up when you walk in, not down at a screen. <ul><li style="">Government-issued ID, 18+ only—same as it’s been for decades.</li><li style="">Cash at the door, ATM in the lobby for the guys who forgot, the way they always do.</li></ul><h3>Inside the Quiet After the Parade</h3><figure id="figure-pqpodgoarcmq9e97ud"><img id="pqpodgoarcmq9e97ud" src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/1c5TgU4GuWule0WAWOHtYHD9LtGjFYJ5gpZ1geNf8GORWCGxf5O9XlzN1j0ghA1J.png" alt="" title="" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 rounded-sm md:rounded-md lg:rounded-lg" style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="16:9" data-caption="" data-positionx="undefined" data-positiony="undefined" data-fullwidth="false" data-mce-src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/1c5TgU4GuWule0WAWOHtYHD9LtGjFYJ5gpZ1geNf8GORWCGxf5O9XlzN1j0ghA1J.png" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;"></figure>Inside, the air changes. &nbsp; The hum isn’t from a sound truck—it’s from conversation, from AC, from that low, familiar buzz of a place where people know why they’re here and don’t feel the need to explain it.You trade your street clothes for a towel and a key. A locker or a room—eight hours to stretch out, rinse off, take your time. No wristband, no drink minimum, no step-and-repeat.The steam room is softly lit, swirling mist wrapping around you in a humid, sensuous embrace. The dry sauna breathes that wood-scented heat that makes your shoulders drop two inches the second you sit down. The hot tub gurgles; somewhere down the hall, a TV murmurs; someone laughs at a joke you can’t quite hear.No one asks what you do for a living. &nbsp; No one asks who you voted for. &nbsp; No one asks for your follower count.They ask how your night was. &nbsp; They ask how long you’re in town. &nbsp; They ask if you’re doing Pride again next year.This is the part of Pride nobody can sponsor: &nbsp; the moment the parade ends and the real connection begins.It’s in the quiet nod to the guy you keep seeing in the steam. &nbsp; In the easy small talk at the complimentary bar every Tuesday, Thurs, Friday, and Saturday night. In the shared understanding that half the point of being here is not having to perform for anyone.<h3>Pride on the Street, Pride in the Steam</h3>Greater Fort Lauderdale loves to call itself Florida’s LGBT+ capital—highest concentration of same-sex couple households in the country, hundreds of gay-owned businesses, Wilton Manors as the crown jewel of queer life. That’s all real. That’s worth celebrating. It’s also not the whole story.The other part of the story lives in places like this. &nbsp; Spaces that have quietly held the line through fifty Junes of everything—joy, grief, fear, liberation, indifference, protest, and glitter that never quite comes out of the carpet.Places where Pride isn’t an event on the calendar. &nbsp; It’s Tuesday at 3 a.m.So by all means: March. Dance. Paint yourself in every color you’ve got. &nbsp; Join the Stonewall Pride Parade and Street Festival from 3 to 11 p.m. on June 20, let the Glow Night Parade at 8 p.m. light you up from the inside out.And when the streetlights flicker back to normal and the crowds drain off Wilton Drive, remember you have options.<ul><li style="">You can go home and scroll through everyone else’s Pride posts. &nbsp;</li><li style="">Or you can swing by the one place that’s been doing this since long before the internet had opinions about it.</li></ul>No attitude. No algorithms. Just men, steam, and possibility.We’re here all night. &nbsp; We’ve been here all along.Remember to be kind to one another.— Lance ❤️ <figure id="figure-532z161j8nmq9eamr4"><img id="532z161j8nmq9eamr4" src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/34K0maPKsSiKu2aRHS8KFOFnvhnKq2MtdigjPsz2pO7U2sxCT06OhY9pLLL0fC4c.png" alt="" title="" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 rounded-sm md:rounded-md lg:rounded-lg" style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: 50% 0%;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="16:9" data-caption="" data-positionx="50%" data-positiony="0%" data-fullwidth="false" data-mce-src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/34K0maPKsSiKu2aRHS8KFOFnvhnKq2MtdigjPsz2pO7U2sxCT06OhY9pLLL0fC4c.png" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: 50% 0%;"></figure>

No Attitude. No Algorithms. Just Pride.

As this year comes to a close, I’ve been sitting with a complicated but necessary truth:- Not every act of kindness is received with the care or respect it deserves.This year, I learned — sometimes the hard way — that generosity without boundaries can quietly turn into permission. Permission for people to take, deflect accountability, rewrite reality, or mistake grace for weakness.That realization has been disappointing, yes — but also clarifying.And clarity, I’ve learned, is a gift.<h2>When Kindness Becomes a Teacher</h2>I’ve always believed in meeting people with understanding first. In giving second chances. In extending patience when someone is having a rough chapter.Most of the time, that belief has built real connection, community, and trust.But there were moments this year when kindness came back to bite me — when goodwill was met not with appreciation, but entitlement.<h3>What I now understand is this:</h3><ul><li>Kindness is not the absence of standards.</li><li><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: calc(18px * var(--body-fontSize, 1)); font-style: var(--body-fontStyle, normal); -webkit-text-size-adjust: 100%;" data-mce-style="font-family: inherit; font-size: calc(18px * var(--body-fontSize, 1)); font-style: var(--body-fontStyle, normal); -webkit-text-size-adjust: 100%;">Compassion does not cancel accountability.</li><li><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: calc(18px * var(--body-fontSize, 1)); font-style: var(--body-fontStyle, normal); -webkit-text-size-adjust: 100%;" data-mce-style="font-family: inherit; font-size: calc(18px * var(--body-fontSize, 1)); font-style: var(--body-fontStyle, normal); -webkit-text-size-adjust: 100%;">And leadership does not mean sacrificing yourself to preserve someone else’s comfort.</li></ul> <span style="font-family: var(--head-fontFamily); font-size: calc(48px * var(--head-fontSize, 1)); font-style: var(--head-fontStyle, normal); -webkit-text-size-adjust: 100%;" data-mce-style="font-family: var(--head-fontFamily); font-size: calc(48px * var(--head-fontSize, 1)); font-style: var(--head-fontStyle, normal); -webkit-text-size-adjust: 100%;">Choosing Gratitude Without Losing DiscernmentSo rather than ending the year bitter, I’m choosing to end it grateful — and discerning.I’m grateful for the true friends who showed up consistently, quietly, and honestly. The ones who don’t require chaos to feel seen. The ones who respect boundaries without resenting them.You know who you are — and I’m deeply thankful for you.I’m grateful for the guests at Clubhouse II who understand that shared spaces thrive on mutual respect. Those who treat the club, the staff, and one another with courtesy and care.You are the reason this place continues to feel like more than just a venue — it feels like community.I’m also grateful for the staff members who consistently show up with integrity and care, who handle more than most people will ever see— who understand that professionalism isn’t a mood...and kindness is a choice. Your work matters, and it helps reinforce the standard this space deserves.<h2>Carrying This Forward</h2>This year taught me that being generous doesn’t mean being endlessly available.That protecting the integrity of a space — or yourself — isn’t cruelty.It’s stewardship.<h3>As we step into the new year, my intention is simple:</h3>To keep my heart open.My standards clear.And my energy invested where it’s respected. To those who walk with integrity, kindness, and accountability — thank you.To those who struggled with that this year — I wish you growth, clarity, and peace. Blessings in the New Year.May it bring stronger boundaries, deeper gratitude, and relationships rooted in mutual respect.— Lance<figure id="figure-f1o0hicq2tmjuyn8hm"data-full-width><img id="f1o0hicq2tmjuyn8hm" src="https://cdn.durable.co/covers/9vO4lW3puHgKmA6y3D7SNpu9YKVNquJ8Bpw5Ppvz44vch4gpJBjC79qBTiRCdvRE.jpg" alt="" title="" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 rounded-sm md:rounded-md lg:rounded-lg" style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="16:9" data-caption="" data-positionX="undefined" data-positionY="undefined" data-fullWidth="true"/></figure>

Kindness, Boundaries, and Gratitude at Year’s End

<figure id="figure-mki4hyivxmjcgcbxh" data-full-width=""><img id="mki4hyivxmjcgcbxh" src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/1993XjvDEPPlNmtxTgnWxodGgdvr2pocg2SKAaXiUMUzAVO2cvnZTE3iV7NQ92aj.jpg" alt="" title="" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 rounded-sm md:rounded-md lg:rounded-lg" style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="16:9" data-caption="" data-positionx="undefined" data-positiony="undefined" data-fullwidth="true" data-mce-src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/1993XjvDEPPlNmtxTgnWxodGgdvr2pocg2SKAaXiUMUzAVO2cvnZTE3iV7NQ92aj.jpg" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;"></figure> The phrase “holiday spirit” gets thrown around a lot, and it means different things to different people. For some, it conjures warm memories of family gatherings, comfort food, generosity, and gratitude. Others may hear it and feel a pang—because holidays can amplify loneliness, remind us of lost loved ones, or highlight the gap between what we’re “supposed” to feel and our actual experience. Then there are those who find themselves somewhere in between, juggling a mix of joy, nostalgia, and the stress of living in a fast‑paced world that sometimes treats December like a race.<figure id="figure-gsaq7a7ymlmjcgejq5"><img id="gsaq7a7ymlmjcgejq5" src="https://cdn.durable.co/getty/17xo7iPIIgfLV6nVenIFx191h1cfsuQl5Th38udMHXb1sYNOK13yQJ7Y4CqkXn9D.jpeg" alt="Attractive red-haired bearded young man is sitting by the window by the Christmas tree.New Year and Christmas concept" title="Attractive red-haired bearded young man is sitting by the window by the Christmas tree.New Year and Christmas concept" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 rounded-sm md:rounded-md lg:rounded-lg" style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: undefined undefined;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="16:9" data-caption="" data-positionx="undefined" data-positiony="undefined" data-fullwidth="false" data-mce-src="https://cdn.durable.co/getty/17xo7iPIIgfLV6nVenIFx191h1cfsuQl5Th38udMHXb1sYNOK13yQJ7Y4CqkXn9D.jpeg" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: undefined undefined;"></figure>In recent years, I’ve noticed that the way people talk about “holiday spirit” has shifted. You’ll still hear the classic sentiments—peace, love, giving—but there’s also a growing honesty about how complicated this season can be. Not everyone feels swept up in cheer just because December rolls around. Shopping lists and social obligations can drown out the quieter, more introspective parts of the season. And yet, underneath all the noise, most of us are still craving the same thing: a sense of connection, a place where we belong, and a reminder that we’re seen and valued just as we are.That’s where a place like Clubhouse II fits in. We’re not a mall Santa setup or a Norman Rockwell painting, but we do create a space where comfort, community, and genuine connection can flourish. When you walk through our doors—especially on a holiday—you’re greeted by real people who remember your name, who make sure there’s a clean towel and a warm sauna waiting for you, and who understand that family isn’t only defined by blood. Our holiday events are cheeky and fun, yes, but at their core they’re about bringing men together in a space that feels safe, relaxed, and free of judgment. In a city where so many people are far from their families or navigating chosen families...that matters.<figure id="figure-dntk15ftgkmjcgh7fx" class=""><img id="dntk15ftgkmjcgh7fx" src="https://cdn.durable.co/getty/11aNFmPhk8kytlIvw7CaTPYu9dQ5VxyYKhLSlvltkWZdvBMfX4JjgYWjiVsRLE91.jpeg" alt="Fashion Man in luxury modern interior" title="Fashion Man in luxury modern interior" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 rounded-sm md:rounded-md lg:rounded-lg" style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="16:9" data-caption="" data-positionx="undefined" data-positiony="undefined" data-fullwidth="false" data-mce-src="https://cdn.durable.co/getty/11aNFmPhk8kytlIvw7CaTPYu9dQ5VxyYKhLSlvltkWZdvBMfX4JjgYWjiVsRLE91.jpeg" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;"></figure>So if the traditional image of holiday spirit feels out of reach, know that there are other ways to tap into that feeling. Sharing a laugh in the lounge, seeing a familiar face in the steam, helping a newcomer find their locker, or simply being present for someone who doesn’t have anywhere else to go—those moments are as “holiday” as any tree or candle. Clubhouse II contributes to holiday cheer by making room for all of it: the joy and the mess, the light and the shadow, the long nights and mid-day steams. It’s about creating a place where people can show up as themselves, feel held by a community, and maybe—just maybe—rediscover a version of holiday spirit that’s real for them.From our family to yours,&nbsp;Happy Holidiays from the staff at Clubhouse II!<figure id="figure-mjqweuba5wmjcgolfy" data-full-width="" class=""><img id="mjqweuba5wmjcgolfy" src="https://cdn.durable.co/getty/2ffCPXIS8WsG0TwpeE68SMmYhOrdqlkumUjtEckjpGu4qpl8SMeoExogmUVnV7qO.jpeg" alt="Surprise in red box" title="Surprise in red box" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 rounded-sm md:rounded-md lg:rounded-lg" style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="16:9" data-caption="" data-positionx="undefined" data-positiony="undefined" data-fullwidth="true" data-mce-src="https://cdn.durable.co/getty/2ffCPXIS8WsG0TwpeE68SMmYhOrdqlkumUjtEckjpGu4qpl8SMeoExogmUVnV7qO.jpeg" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;"></figure>

Holiday Spirit at Clubhouse II: Finding Warmth and Connection in Fort Lauderdale’s Gay Bathhouse

<h2>Understanding the Environment</h2>Visiting a gay bathhouse for the first time can be an exciting and intriguing experience. These establishments offer a unique space for socializing and relaxation. It's important to understand the environment and what you can expect. Most bathhouses include amenities like saunas, steam rooms, private rooms, and sometimes a pool or gym.Each bathhouse has its own vibe, so it's essential to research and choose one that aligns with your comfort level and preferences. Look for reviews and feedback to get a sense of the atmosphere and facilities available.<figure id="figure-4lrtysm1zqmiql56lp"><img id="4lrtysm1zqmiql56lp" src="https://cdn.durable.co/getty/12g4Kp0pYpEMVi2hLRxl2IVObtDBDBnIrYEO3aDPdRulcBXxGwEPncvGEWc54GAu.jpeg" alt="gay bathhouse interior" class="object-cover bg-gray-100" style="aspect-ratio: 16/9;" data-mce-src="https://cdn.durable.co/getty/12g4Kp0pYpEMVi2hLRxl2IVObtDBDBnIrYEO3aDPdRulcBXxGwEPncvGEWc54GAu.jpeg" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9;"></figure><h3>Respect the Rules</h3>Every bathhouse has rules to ensure a safe and respectful environment for all patrons. Be sure to familiarize yourself with these guidelines upon arrival. Common rules include respecting personal space and privacy, no photography, and adhering to the dress code, which often includes wearing a towel or robe.It's also crucial to be aware of any health and safety protocols, especially in the context of ongoing public health concerns. Follow any instructions provided by the staff to ensure a pleasant experience for everyone.<h2>What to Bring</h2>When preparing for your visit, consider bringing the essentials. Most bathhouses provide towels and lockers, but you might want to bring your own toiletries, such as soap, shampoo, and deodorant. A pair of flip-flops is recommended for hygiene purposes.<figure id="figure-gy4cvthnammiql56lp"><img id="gy4cvthnammiql56lp" src="https://cdn.durable.co/getty/dAzgWDDuSKuFo6fptH48BKwipv5KIw9XAgD60HChIQyxdwGpYahXuleqhpHlOSM9.jpeg" alt="toiletries kit" class="object-cover bg-gray-100" style="aspect-ratio: 16/9;" data-mce-src="https://cdn.durable.co/getty/dAzgWDDuSKuFo6fptH48BKwipv5KIw9XAgD60HChIQyxdwGpYahXuleqhpHlOSM9.jpeg" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9;"></figure>Additionally, consider carrying some cash for entrance fees and any extras you might want to purchase, like snacks or drinks. Many bathhouses have small cafes or vending machines available.<h3>Social Interaction</h3>One of the main attractions of a bathhouse is the opportunity for social interaction. Whether you're there to meet new people or enjoy a quiet time alone, it's important to be respectful and considerate. If you're interested in engaging with others, a friendly smile and polite introduction go a long way.Remember that not everyone is there for the same reason, so be mindful of personal boundaries. Consent and mutual respect are key to any interaction.<h2>Enjoying the Facilities</h2>Take advantage of the various facilities available to enhance your experience. Saunas and steam rooms are great for relaxation and detoxification, while pools provide a refreshing break. If the bathhouse has a gym, you might even fit in a quick workout.<figure id="figure-9bg3k7a3rhmiql56lp"><img id="9bg3k7a3rhmiql56lp" src="https://cdn.durable.co/getty/1d3qzklKOazV1BksXY54q7b9ypFR9zfEQxtayqqQLyt68LHDkWxV9jt63TcXai18.jpeg" alt="An attractive adult gay couple washes in the shower together. Love and relationship between two men." title="An attractive adult gay couple washes in the shower together. Love and relationship between two men." class="object-cover bg-gray-100 rounded-sm md:rounded-md lg:rounded-lg" style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="16:9" data-caption="" data-positionX="null" data-positionY="null" data-fullWidth="false"/></figure>Many bathhouses also offer additional services like massages or spa treatments. If you're interested, inquire about the options and make a reservation if necessary.<h3>After Your Visit</h3>Once your visit is over, take some time to reflect on your experience. Consider what you enjoyed and if there's anything you might do differently next time. Whether it's trying a new facility or visiting during a different time of day, every visit can offer something new.Don't forget to leave feedback or a review if you had a positive experience. Sharing your thoughts can help others who are considering their first visit.

Blog

Respect the Leather

What We Do When No One Is Watching

No Attitude. No Algorithms. Just Pride.

Kindness, Boundaries, and Gratitude at Year’s End

Holiday Spirit at Clubhouse II: Finding Warmth and Connec...

Top Tips for First-Time Visitors to a Gay Bathhouse

Blog

Respect the Leather

What We Do When No One Is Watching

No Attitude. No Algorithms. Just Pride.

Kindness, Boundaries, and Gratitude at Year’s End

Holiday Spirit at Clubhouse II: Finding Warmth and Connec...

Top Tips for First-Time Visitors to a Gay Bathhouse

Holiday Spirit at Clubhouse II: Finding Warmth and Connec...