BEST GAY BAR

Club Station House 306 E. Washington St., 525-0438 Closed last year for a few months while new management took the reins, the bar at 306 E. Washington is back and better than ever. Formerly called Station House, the new Club Station House now has a bigger dance floor, an upgraded bar and a display window looking out onto the street. The owner, Ryan Bandy, put about $40,000 worth of work into the place before reopening last fall, says bar manager Paul Williamson, who’s been working there for 15 years. Besides the atmosphere and friendly bartenders, Club Station House boasts drag shows directed by local legend Jericha Knight and great live music, including Carla Sloan on the first Friday of the month. While the establishment is a favorite for gay patrons, Club Station House is also a hit with straight singles in the mood to dance after 1 a.m. Why? It’s simple, says Williamson: “We’re fabulous, we’re clean and our bar staff is very friendly.” Runner-Up: Scandals

BEST BEER GARDEN • BEST LIVE MUSIC VENUE

Curve Inn 3219 S. Sixth St., 529-5806 Built in 1932 and run by the same owners since 2002, the Curve Inn is a Springfield tradition, even though it is actually in Southern View. And if you like beer tents at the fair, you’ll love the Curve Inn beer garden. With a deck, dance floor and room for hundreds, the Curve is a great place to enjoy live rock and roll, or perhaps the blues. Music starts at 6 p.m. and goes until 10 p.m. on Fridays and Saturdays during the outdoor music season, with closing time at 3 a.m. Party on. Beer garden runner-up: Alamo • Live music runner-up: Marly’s