Continental Baths Beach Towel

The Continental Baths, situated in the basement of the Ansonia Hotel on the Upper West Side of New York City, was more than just a bathhouse. It was a sanctuary and a vibrant social hub for gay men in the 1960s and 1970s. Opened in 1968 by Steve Ostrow, it provided a luxurious space for socializing, relaxation, and intimate encounters, complete with a sauna, a swimming pool, and a cabaret. In an era of social and legal discrimination, the Continental Baths was a safe haven, fostering a sense of community and camaraderie.

One of the most notable aspects of the Continental Baths was its entertainment. Legendary performers such as Bette Midler, who earned the nickname "Bathhouse Betty," and Barry Manilow performed there regularly, contributing to the venue's iconic status in gay and mainstream culture alike.

By the mid-1970s, the changing social landscape and the emergence of new gay spaces led to the decline of bathhouses like the Continental, which shuttered its doors in 1976. However, its legacy lives on as a symbol of the sexual revolution and LGBTQ+ liberation in the annals of New York City's history.