Question 1

What is The Academy?

Accepted Answer

The Academy is a LGBTQ+ social club open to all, focused on promoting genuine social interactions while offering engaging programming in collaboration with nonprofit organizations, local businesses, and leading community members. The Club is located in San Francisco's Castro District and was founded in 2017.
 
Club membership is open to anyone who wishes to apply – all are welcome – and aspires to be diverse in age, race, gender, and social standing, with all Members sharing a common interest in engaging in the community and valuing in-person interactions.
 
Learn more on our About page.

Question 2

Why does The Academy have memberships?

Accepted Answer

At The Academy, we believe that the experience is what is valuable.
 
A membership / subscription model like ours allows us to be more creative in offering events that may or may not involve consuming food or beverages, as opposed to a traditional bar or nightclub format where patrons are encouraged to consume as many drinks as possible to pay for the entertainment or experience provided. 
 
Additionally, our format makes us more inviting to those who may choose not to drink at all.

Question 3

What are the benefits of membership?

Accepted Answer

Membership at The Academy has many benefits and perks. To view the currently-available membership types and what each one offers, click here. If you have additional questions about membership, feel free to submit an inquiry and we can set up a time to give you a tour, chat over the phone, or even tour the Club virtually.

Question 4

What are the different membership options?

Accepted Answer

We have several Social Club membership options, called "Premier," "Metropolitan," "City," and "Traveler" plus special rates for prospective members under 27 years old, and sliding scale options for those in need of financial assistance. There is no hierarchy to the membership types, just differences in what is included. To learn more, fill out an inquiry and we will get in touch with you.

Question 5

What is Academy Daylight?

Accepted Answer

Academy Daylight offers a daytime, casual co-working lounge Monday through Friday.
 
Daylight Subscriptions are available to all – you do not have to be a Social Club Member to join – and single-day passes are also available.

All Social Club members enjoy complimentary access to Academy Daylight.

Question 6

What is the difference between Membership & Subscription?

Accepted Answer

Academy Membership refers to our evening social club, and all prospective members must submit an application for approval before becoming an official Academy Member.
 
The term subscription or subscriber refers to Academy Daylight access. Anyone can become a Daylight Subscriber.

Question 7

Are there discounts for those who can not afford the membership cost?

Accepted Answer

Absolutely; part of the mission of The Academy is a cross section of people who make San Francisco the amazing place that it is. To make sure we are able to maintain that, we offer "scholarships" to prospective members in need of financial assistance, with particular emphasis on individuals involved in outstanding work in the LGBTQ+ community, the arts, public service, education, charitable causes, and other vital but financially undervalued occupations.
 
Please indicate your interest in a scholarshop when you inquire or apply for membership.

Question 8

I heard The Academy is a men’s club. Is that true?

Accepted Answer

Not at all—all are welcome at The Academy. In fact, women are our fastest-growing group of new members. We strive for a strong gender diversity in our membership, and we are actively seeking more women, transgender, and non-binary individuals to make our member community more vibrant and representative of the entire rainbow! Please do not hesitate to reach out if you have questions about membership.

Question 9

What is the average age of membership?

Accepted Answer

Our Members range in age from early 20s to early 80s, with every age group in between widely represented and an approximate average of 40 years old.

Question 10

Is there a dress code?

Accepted Answer

There is no formal dress code at The Academy. We do not have such formalities or antiquated rules of etiquette, however our basic rule is to always present one's self in a way that is reflective of individual style while being respectful of others and maintaining an atmosphere of inclusivity.

Question 11

Does The Academy have a bar or restaurant?

Accepted Answer

We do offer bar service for our members and their guests, with rotating food options available. There is no full-service restaurant at The Academy, however, we do work with outstanding caterers for larger events.

Question 12

Do I have to identify as LGBTQ+ in order to join?

Accepted Answer

No. The Academy is a welcoming space for all orientations, and is proud to include many allies of the LGBTQ+ community among its members, guests, and community partners.

Question 13

Can I bring guests?

Accepted Answer

Yes, in fact, we have a very flexible guest policy. For Social Club Members, a maximum of (5) guests are allowed for any given visit without any additional cost.
 
Groups larger than 6 require an advance reservation and may incur additional staffing and/or facility fees. Ask a representative of Club Management if you have questions about larger groups.
 
Academy Daylight subscribers are allowed a +1 with each visit.

Question 14

Can I still visit The Academy if I am not a member?

Accepted Answer

Yes. While we feel the best way to experience The Academy is by becoming a Member or Academy Daylight subscriber, there are many other opportunities to engage with us, including: Academy Homeroom classes, the Barber Salon, attending a fundraiser or special event with one of our non-profit partners, or as an invited guest of a Member or Academy Daylight subscriber. We also offer a calendar of events open to all, however without the same free or discounted rates as our members, and without full club access.

Question 15

Can I rent The Academy for a private event?

Accepted Answer

Yes. We would love to discuss details and options with you. Please visit our private events page, and you may submit an inquiry to our private events manager.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)