A Straightforward Strip Club Experience for a Straight Man

Walking into Show Palace in Long Island City, you immediately get that classic New York strip club vibe. The place is easy to find near the Queensboro Bridge with a simple exterior that doesn't try too hard. Inside, it's exactly what you'd expect a main area with two poles on a decent sized stage, some smaller platforms, and a mix of seating options from tables to booths. The lighting keeps things dark enough to set the mood but bright enough that you can still see what's going on around you. Cleanliness is about average for this type of place not dirty enough to be gross but you'll want to keep your hands to yourself. The music pumps at a good volume, mostly hip hop and pop remixes, with a DJ who keeps things moving without being annoying. The overall atmosphere is relaxed, making it a comfortable spot to hang out without feeling like you're in some high pressure nightclub.

The dancers here make or break the experience. On a Thursday evening, there were about a dozen girls working, with a good mix of Black, Latina and white dancers. The crowd was light enough that you didn't have to fight for attention, which was nice. Some of the dancers really brought their A game putting on actual performances with real energy and engagement. Others seemed like they were just going through the motions, barely smiling as they moved around the pole. One standout was a curvy Latina who actually danced to the music rather than just doing the standard slow grind. The staff kept things running smoothly, with bartenders who were quick with drinks but not particularly friendly. No one was rude, but you definitely get the sense everyone is just there to do their job and move on.

When it comes to pricing, Show Palace is fairly straightforward. The cover charge runs $25 at the door, though you can get in free if you remember to print the pass from their website something that seems to surprise the staff every time. Once inside, drinks will set you back $8-10 for beers and $12-15 for mixed drinks. Private dances start at $40 per song near the stage, while the VIP rooms go for $200-300 depending on time and your negotiation skills. Some guys claim to have gotten great experiences in the back rooms, but your mileage will definitely vary based on which dancer you're with and how much you're willing to spend. Stage dances typically get $5-20 tips depending on how much you enjoy the show. They do have ATMs but the fees are ridiculous, so come prepared with cash.