The Max image

The Max

Bar Gay bar

Drag shows, theme nights & more at this gay nightclub with a large dance floor & outdoor deck. People often mention people, club, night, security, music, time, staff, told, rude, bartender,


Address

1417 Jackson St, Omaha, NE 68102, United States

Website

www.themaxomaha.com

Contact

+1 402-346-4110

Price rating

$ $$$

Rating on Google Maps

3.60 (272 reviews)

Open on Google Maps

Working Hours

  • Saturday: 5 pm to 1:30 am
  • Sunday: 4 pm to 12 am
  • Monday: (Washington's Birthday), 5 pm to 12 am, Hours might differ
  • Tuesday: 5 pm to 12 am
  • Wednesday: 5 pm to 12 am
  • Thursday: 5 pm to 12 am
  • Friday: 5 pm to 1:30 am

Featured Reviews


Frequently mentioned in reviews: people (22) club (18) night (17) security (17) music (15) time (15) staff (15) told (14) rude (12) bartender (11)
Reviews are sorted by relevance, prioritizing the most helpful and insightful feedback at the top for easier reference.
  • 4/5 Wai C. 5 years ago on Google • 1023 reviews
    The music is fun but one room was a lot quieter than the other and it didn't fill it. The bartender we had wasn't the friendliest. The lights were amazing though and the one room that had music at the appropriate level was absolutely fantastic. I've been told this is the number one club in Omaha. It was certainly packed by the time we left. It filled up by 11pm the Saturday night we came to visit. Pro tip: they only accept cash. There is an ATM inside that you can pull cash out of.
    6 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 1/5 Savana N. 1 year ago on Google
    Oh goodness, where do I start? So it was my friend's birthday and we get in fine, but then my 24 year old friend gets his ID scanned by their "ID scanner" (which is probably some Chinese scam from Amazon) and they say it is fake. This is simply just not true, it is a real ID. When asked to run it again, they say they ran it twice and their system didn't pass it. Then the bouncers get all mocho big tuff guy attitudes and send THREE guys to kick him out, which we follow in suit. When asked what about his ID is fake, they only responded with "our system failed the ID." Like okay, so you, with your eyeballs and brain can't look at it and pass it? We even asked the cops standing outside to take a look at it because my friend was concerned there was something wrong with it. Both cops said it was real. Overall, I think our experience just reflects EXTREMELY POORLY on the Max. It is hard to believe that his real ID was the reason we weren't let in, in all honesty it was probably something to do with our group. To put the cherry on top, a group of girls who were celebrating their friend's 21st birthday were not let in because of her paper ID which has been stated by the state government and DMV to be legal mind you, just ridiculous. Thanks for ruining peoples nights.
    9 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 1/5 Kevin M. 1 year ago on Google
    This is the first negative review I've ever left any establishment. We had a group of 10 wait in the 45 min Saturday night line no problem. Midway through the line a female member of our group had to use the restroom so her and her husband left the line to seek a restroom for her to use. They rejoined the group five minutes from the door and upon trying to enter were informed that they were not allowed to enter since they had "cut the line." We informed the door man that they had been in the line from the beginning and simply left for her to use the restroom and came immediately back, not to mention the eight other members of the group staying in line. The bouncers would not even listen and simply refused them entry. Needless to say our group of ten did not enter and went on with our night. Again, this is the first negative review I have ever left. The arrogance and refusal to listen from the bouncers regarding our female friends need to use the restroom in the 45 min line was absolutely ridiculous and points to further issues mentioned in other reviews regarding the staff. Not planning on going back but if we do we'll just piss on the wall.
    9 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 1/5 Trisha S. 5 months ago on Google • 3 reviews
    Overpriced, discriminative, not handicapped accessible, unfriendly, unprofessional, CASH ONLY. Overall very disappointing and distasteful. If you would love to have an awful night then The Max is the club for you. I’ve been to this bar a few times despite them having a bad reputation because I had never had a bad experience myself. Until last night. My bestfriend is in town from Oregon and was expecting to have a fun night. We were with a group of 9 other women and one disabled gay man. While we were walking up the the door (12:55 am) their seemingly emasculated security told us they close the doors at 1:00 am and then continued to count down from 20 seconds. After rushing our disabled friend to the doors they then told us that they turn their lights on in 20 minutes and it would be $10/person. While we were between the two sets of door they also took the queue line markers inside (bc they close the doors at 1 right). Our group discussed we didn’t think it would be worth our time or money for 20 minutes and their staff rudely said “where else are you going to go?” and “Throwback’s cover is $20 tonight”. So we decided we would rather go there. Upon us leaving we stopped a few people we knew and told them about the situation to which an actual police officer walked over to us and told us we had to leave. We were literally walking away and they continued to follow us. They also told the 3 men we stopped that they would let them in. The time then was 1:04. Why are you letting people in 4 minutes after you have “closed” your doors? Very weird. Being the smart and sexy people that we are we continued on to Throwback where we were met by a very nice bouncer who kindly told us they not only had no cover but that they’ve never had a $20 cover. Very unprofessional of your staff to not only be rude to a queer disabled person but to also lie and scam your customers. “LGBTQ friendly” but certainly not. Not women friendly. Not queer friendly. Not trans friendly. Really such a shame. Also what’s up with the bald 60+ year old men in underwear two sizes too small for them? Is that a hiring requirement? Must be bald, wear too small underwear and qualify for social security. No wonder drinks take so long to make when the staff can’t move too fast for fear of throwing a hip out. Bouncers included. Bouncer requirements: no one over height of 5’5”, bald, 55+ and must have a piece of food in teeth at all times for dominance.
    8 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 1/5 Alexander C. 1 year ago on Google
    By far the worst service we have ever received at any bar or restaurant. The bartender working the main center bar (older lady, short gray hair, glasses) was so rude. I ordered two drinks and she screamed at me to go get cash at the ATM and said that I was "wasting her time." I told her there is no need to yell or argue with customers. I went to the ATM right by the center bar and came back and she ignored me and then told me to go to a different bartender. I have never been treated this way at any business. I would not recommend this place. They do not care about their customers.
    8 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 2/5 Kenya F. 10 months ago on Google
    This is probably the best nightclub in Omaha, but the service has gotten increasingly worse. Most of the front desk staff are rude, unwelcoming, and condescending. Security continuously empties the entire place a half hour before closing, and last week they made everyone stand outside in a downpour while waiting for ubers. I can brush that off, but my final straw was the bartender in the back. I witnessed him straight-up ignore three people of color who were standing at his bar patiently for at least fifteen minutes while continuing to serve the masses of white/ lighter-skinned people next to them. Then he denied it and got extremely defensive when someone called him out (multiple people noticed). Just be mindful of which bartender you give your tips to if you come here. Personally, I don’t support racists. Get rid of the bartender in the back and rotate out the front door staff and this place can be redeemed.
    7 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Ramin H. 6 months ago on Google • 286 reviews
    The Max in Omaha, Nebraska is a well-known LGBTQ+ nightclub and entertainment venue. A Vibrant Nightlife Hub in Omaha👩🏼‍🎤 Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ The Max in Omaha, Nebraska is undeniably a gem in the city's nightlife scene. I've had the pleasure of experiencing the vibrant and inclusive atmosphere here, and it's consistently a fantastic spot to let loose and enjoy a night out. Pros: 1. Inclusivity: The Max is a place where everyone is welcome, regardless of their sexual orientation or gender identity. This commitment to inclusivity creates an incredibly warm and friendly environment. 2. Diverse Entertainment: From exciting drag shows to energetic dance floors, The Max offers a wide range of entertainment options. The performances are top-notch, and you're guaranteed a memorable night. 3. Friendly Staff: The staff is not only professional but also incredibly friendly and accommodating. They go the extra mile to ensure everyone has a great time. 4. Themed Events: The Max frequently hosts themed events and parties, adding variety and excitement to your nights out. It's always worth checking their calendar for upcoming events. Cons: 1. Crowded at Peak Times: Given its popularity, The Max can get quite crowded during peak times. This is a testament to its popularity but can be a bit overwhelming if you prefer a more relaxed atmosphere. 2. Limited Parking: Finding parking in the area can be a challenge, so it's advisable to plan accordingly, especially on busier nights. In summary, The Max is a must-visit for anyone looking for a lively and inclusive nightlife experience in Omaha. With great entertainment, a welcoming atmosphere, and a commitment to diversity, it's a fantastic place to enjoy a night out with friends or to make new ones.
    4 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 1/5 Mary B. 7 months ago on Google • 13 reviews
    Came here for my birthday and said they had a dance floor when we got there they took our money and didn’t tell us there was a show until after the fact we paid and didn’t know how long it would’ve been so we left without our money to the place across the street called throwback arcade which was way better than here. The staff were rude and the drag queens were a bit rude as well.
    6 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 1/5 Samantha K. 2 years ago on Google
    Had a lot of fun. Although when I came back after leaving for only 10 mins, because I had lost my ID between the front door & back bar, they would not let me in or let me do a quick check of the floor for my ID. Make sure you bring cash, as they do not accept cards, and we had to pay a cover charge as well (we didn't expect it to be cash only). Bouncers were very rude, but inside staff were nice. Not getting back ID subsequently ended our girls night, as I could no longer get in anywhere. Disappointing. Overall I'd say it's fun to experience once, but definitely not twice.
    6 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 1/5 Lynn 11 months ago on Google
    Worst place ever. Ya its pretty. But they still play music from 2008. And the staff is rude. The owner is really nice. He needs to hire all new bar staff and new DJs. The old ones are tired and burnt out. Which is causing the club to be drab and tired. It needs freshed up and I'd say fire everyone and hire all new and younger staff with fresh new vibes.
    6 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 2/5 Abby C. 4 months ago on Google • 9 reviews
    They do last call at 1:30am and let everyone order a drink only to aggressively kick you out at 1:35. They were shouting and herding us like cattle to the front door, not a great end to an otherwise fun night. Also they should have gender neutral bathrooms at a gay club, PERIOD.
    4 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Shivani S. 1 year ago on Google
    Awesome club in Omaha. Though it's a gay club, everyone will find a place to have fun. Keep in mind that there's entry of $5/10 depending on crowd and time and they only take cash. The place is huge, has multiple dance floors. Parking can be an issue over here once it gets crowded. But don't worry if you see long queue, it moves faster. Your id proof is needed to enter this bar probably for age limit. Music is good in all dance floors and drinks too. For someone looking for partying all night ( till 2am) with friends, lovers or solo, this place can be the spot.
    4 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 2/5 Bernard B. 1 year ago on Google
    I unfortunately was kicked out of this bar for choking on a drink. I apologized to the bartender by the name Zach several times. And he refused to accept my apology instead he had security escort me out. I told them that my phone was dead and I was not from omaha but they refused to help me. I walked 4 miles home in 25 degree weather. I didn't have adequate clothes on to make the walk either. Fortunately I made it home at 130 and I filed a police report against the officers they had at the door. But they kicked me out at 1045. This place is disgusting and I will be having them pull the camera footage as proof that all I did was choke on a drink. Being one of the only black males in attendance at the bar I feel like I was harrased and the officers also harrased me by pretending to chase me. I think that is wrong and I will make sure I do everything in my power to bring justice against this corrupt bar! I will also be filing a report to the bbb so they can be investigated because they refuse to give the full name of their employer Bryan and because I don't believe their business is being ran legally. There is a reason they are cash only
    4 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 2/5 TNAT S. 1 year ago on Google
    The only thing keeping the experience from being unforgettably terrible was the crowd and their insisitance on having fun in spite of the bad music and unnecessarily rude/slow bartenders. I almost walked out when they played "Sweet Caroline" on the arena floor. Are you kidding me? Almost walked out again when the music looped. Get these wedding DJs out of here or sell the club to someone who actually cares.
    4 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 1/5 Kennedy W. 9 months ago on Google
    In my experience, the current Miss Max– alongside the others judging (minus one) their karaoke competition– acted like middle school bullies. As the youngest contestant by nearly a decade, they couldn't be bothered to look at me once from the moment it was my turn. Instead they obnoxiously joked and talked amongst each other then called the bartender over for more drinks. When I confronted them on this (which was quite difficult as a petite 22-YO woman who had just suffered a panic attack in the bathroom due to two severe anxiety disorders), they guffawed as I walked away. These men were nearly twice my age but acted like half of it. That doesn't even touch on my experiences with the security over my several visits. I once had a security guard demand to see that I was in fact peeing because I had two friends in the stall, so they had to open the stall to show the entirety of the bathroom my vagina. Generally, security has been rude and unwelcoming to me as a femme lesbian compared to men and more masc presenting customers. If you're a femme sapphic, I'd recommend going back to straight bars and enduring the sexual harassment because being told I can be fd straight and not being able to interact with the community on a regular occurrence is still better than the way The Max makes you feel.
    3 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Royal B. 8 months ago on Google • 149 reviews
    For over 38 years The Max has provided the Midwest a safe space for everyone. It’s one of the cleanest establishments you’ll ever set foot in. The ownership and the managers have instilled a culture that ensures a good time for all.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 1/5 Kayla M. 7 months ago on Google
    They wouldn't accept my liscence because it was SLIGHTLY bent and couldn't tell it's real. Went to like 3 other bars just fine because they have common sense. They also kicked my sober friend out last time because she tripped from her shoes and they called her drunk. I've been blackout here without a security guard looking my way. I know you want safety but this is straight up dumb
    2 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 1/5 J B. 1 year ago on Google
    Heard it was nice, but if you’re from out of town, with a VALID/LEGAL ID, they will turn you away at the door. 3 different people decided a valid drivers license, from out of state, wasn’t good enough to get in the door. Very disappointing. Also- while I appreciate the security, 6+ security people/officers at the door does not lend itself to a feeling of safety. More anxiety inducing than anything else. Rethink where you spend more money and go to a place that knows how to welcome ALL people. Not just natives to Nebraska.
    2 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 1/5 Ryan T. 1 year ago on Google
    Horrible sound. Unfriendly and ineffective security. Lacking soul. Trying to be a Vegas style club. Cash only in 2022!?! For as much money that has been spent on the facility and lighting, their sound totally sucks!! I mean it’s loud and the music is good, but their sound systems and speaker placement is more on par with an elevated dive bar. I just don’t understand a place that would dump so much money on way too many light fixtures and go so cheap on the sound. The impact of the sound system on your experience could be so much better if the sound matched the facility. It seemed they were more concerned with hiding the speakers than how the rooms actually sound. You’re a night club that focuses on music and dancing… you would think the sound would be a priority. Really hoping they invest more on the sound system. Take credit cards for gosh sake. It’s 2022. This is absurd to be cash only. The security was lacking effectiveness! I could not believe in this world of active shooters that they would do ZERO SEARCHING or weapons check. It has me feeling not safe because anyone could have brought anything inside. SEARCH FOR WEAPONS!!
    2 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 1/5 WAI HON L. 2 years ago on Google
    This establishment is an embarrassment to night life and entertainment. We showed up at 11:15pm for our close friends birthday and they said they are at full capacity and not letting anyone in even when a lot of people were coming out. This establishment doesn’t even accept credit cards as well, this place needs new management and some common sense on how to run a business. I don’t know why I can’t give this place 0 stars. My friends who were in the club already said that the establishment wasn’t even filled. I felt bad for people whose friends came early and were inside and all of their friends who came 3 hours before closing were told they can’t get in.
    2 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Daveah G. 1 year ago on Google
    I am here from Florida visiting family and came to watch Giselle Jacobs perform. This place is huge. Beautiful establishment, wonderful people and the service was friendly and fast. The performers were incredible! Cash only so hit their convenient ATM if you forget beforehand.
    2 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 1/5 PATRICK M. 1 year ago on Google
    Very long LINE at Midnight. The police on duty told me it would take 40 minutes to get into the club. I did not wait in line. Crowd looked very young and mostly straight looking girls.
    2 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 1/5 Kenzie M. 3 months ago on Google • 14 reviews New
    I felt super uncomfortable and unsafe here. I've tried this place 3 different times and it's all the same outcome. Staff is incredibly rude and uncaring, the place is so packed you can hardly breathe, and the people surrounding my husband and I were ill-mannered. I was even groped at one point. Maybe it has some good nights but overall I personally would not suggest going here, for safety purposes.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 2/5 John L. 1 year ago on Google
    Burned drinks, same music everytime you go in-- LMFAO, then Gaga, then Britney, then Bruno Mars, repeat. I'm pretty sure they just play a party compilation disc over and over. Spent way too much money on lighting effects and ZERO on music. There are drunken fights from time to time. I've watched a number of people puke, even once saw a guy puke and fall in it with a drag queen's costume accessory. Lol, the Max is a hit mess in a train wreck in a dumpster fire.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Daydreanne L. 2 years ago on Google
    Amazing club- three dance floors with different tunes in each so you can find your taste in dance music. Really good drinks at the bar too. And a huge outside area to catch your breath and cool off in between dance sessions.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Dustin S. 2 years ago on Google
    Love this place. Went with my gay brother and some friends. Lots of beautiful people here. Big club with lots of different areas. The drinks were reasonable. The staff have a dry sense of humor which not all people might appreciate. A huge tv screen with half naked men was very distracting. Lol. I’m a female and it was kind of awkward but I couldn’t stop looking at it. Would definitely come back to this place though. Reminded me of my younger years in Hollywood.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 1/5 Jeff P. 7 months ago on Google
    They say it's not up to the bartender anymore if you are banned that a LIE from the Anthony the manager told me that im because it was a message between me and Adam a bartender by Facebook messenger over 1 year yes 1 year before that I loved it there but all they want was my money!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 2/5 Palomarne 1 year ago on Google
    The changes are killing the place. No pool, no mega touch, no darts, music is to loud to enjoy. To much strobe and lighting is horrible. If you want to close the place you’re doing a great job. You are running off the regulars for a strange crowd. Last call at 1:20 too. It’s sad to see a good thing die.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 2/5 Paul S. 1 year ago on Google
    For how large the club is, the bathrooms seem to be shrunken to 60% scale so that it's impossible to not brush past other patrons. I honestly think it was designed this way to create a sleazy cruising type atmosphere as that's exactly what it was like. Lots of sleazy guys with hungry eyes hoping to look at someones genitals with or without their consent. The vibe just wasn't very cool or current. Not carefully curated. I agree with another reviewer it, it really disrupts the experience when the bright daylight lights come on on the dancefloor. I mean I've never seen that before--it's really a very odd lighting choice for a nightclub? Eviscerates the fantasy in a moment.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 2/5 Litzy S. 1 year ago on Google
    Only accepts cash, over expensive, and repetitive music. It’s beautiful sure and it can be fun with the right people but paying to get in for something that’s always the same… not worth it.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 1/5 Courtney P. 1 year ago on Google
    We have problems every time we come here. They often kick us out for being too drunk when we had cut ourselves off hours before, the reasoning being "she stumbled". Staff at the front is incredibly rude every single time. Came for Saint patricks day and was turned away because my licence expired 9 days earlier on my birthday. Honestly this used to be our favorite spot but the staff has ruined it
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 3/5 caleeyah c. 1 year ago on Google
    Can y’all please get a DJ that’s good and let’s the songs play! Right when a good song comes on it’s cut to play something you can’t even dance to. Also please turn on the AC it’s waaayyyy to hit in there I love this bar but typically pass on it because I last 5 min I there before my makeup is sweating off my face and my hair is all messed up.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 TJ P. 9 months ago on Google • 50 reviews
    Visiting from Dallas for the Men's College World Series. Stopped in on a slow Tuesday night. Jimmy the bartender was very welcoming, gave me a tour of the place. Would have loved coming here on a Saturday. What a gem in Omaha! Rivals S4 (Village Station) in Dallas.

  • 4/5 Cassandra S. 6 months ago on Google • 26 reviews
    I felt like I was in this fantasy world it was amazing! Con is BRING CASH! It is a cash only place. They do have a ATM but didn't take our card so couldn't get drinks. But the energy was great!

  • 1/5 M Y. 10 months ago on Google
    Me and my 25 person party bus. Had an issue with the security guard feelings, and wouldn't allow half of us in. 1 of our members got in, had one a drink and left after 5 mins. They were feeling nauseous and started puking immediately after. First drink of the night and they couldn't remember anything. We think they were drugged. Be careful of these type of clubs.

  • 2/5 MB 11 months ago on Google
    I really like the max but this one incident made me question their security and hospitality. A bar tender yelled and threatened to kick me out for pushing away an unclaimed plastic bag at the bar. It is a security threat to have unclaimed bags sitting around a crowded club because you never know what could be inside it- drugs, guns, bombs, etc. I suggest the Max have ongoing security training for all their employees because it’s everyone’s responsibility to look out for security threats and report/eliminate them. No one ever thinks they’ll be victim until it’s too late.

  • 1/5 Antonio C. 1 year ago on Google
    They declined my ID for no reason and made me feel embarressed and be littled for my accent because they didn't understand my date of birth when i tried to tell them. They only let asked me once and they didn't understand me. This is the first time this has happened to me in this place...I am so dissapointed.

  • 5/5 October B. 10 months ago on Google
    Absolutely fantastic atmosphere and friendly staff! Super fun experience even if just for a few minutes! Amazing drinks and just all around a great time, I’m definitely taking ALL my friends here and coming here on all my days off!!

  • 5/5 Angela P. 2 years ago on Google
    Wow! We had so much fun dancing here. 💃🏼Also, I lost my wallet and they were SOOO kind! They held it overnight and I picked it up the next day. The nicest people ever. 10 stars if I could.

  • 1/5 Roma L. 1 year ago on Google
    Can we change the playlist? Why is it the same music every weekend? It use to be good before now it's just super boring to go and hear the same music. I'm pretty sure out of the million songs out there, it can change.

  • 1/5 Andrew G. 1 year ago on Google
    Horrible service, decided to close the club early for no reason, misgendered one of my friends after almost forcing security on us for waiting for an uber. I have seen somebody get drugged more often than not. If you want a drink, better off going to the gas station and having fun at home

  • 1/5 Michael T. 5 months ago on Google
    For a gay club, no, for any club in general, the music is horrible. If you want to listen to party rock anthem 20+ times in one night, you’ll have a fun time.

  • 1/5 Mandy M. 1 year ago on Google
    We’ve been waiting since 9:00 to get in and it’s 11:30 and this is bullsh!t!!! The bouncers are liars because they said we would get let in after a large group of people left because they unsafely let too many people in… bull.

  • 4/5 Keaton K. 1 year ago on Google
    It's the only club of it's type in Omaha from my experience, so you're stuck with it. The line looks long but it moves pretty quickly. Would have been 5 stars but it's cash only for everything, which is incredibly inconvenient in my opinion.

  • 1/5 Amber K N. 8 months ago on Google • 1 review
    Staff is very targeting towards poc, trans people, and women. And ownership does nothing about it. In fact, they block and mock those that call them out. Not to mention it is hardly a gay bar anymore, absolutely crawling with rude straight people who are more protected than queer patrons. You will not feel welcome or even safe here, save your money and peace. At least until they make public acknowledgements and changes.
    19 people found this review helpful 👍


Call +1 402-346-4110 Open on Google Maps

Amenities


  • Offerings
    • ✓️ Beer
    • ✓️ Wine
    • ✓️ Alcohol
    • ✓️ Dancing
    • ✓️ Spirits
    • ✓️ Cocktails
    • ✓️ Happy-hour drinks
  • Accessibility
    • ✓️ Wheelchair-accessible toilet
    • ✓️ Wheelchair-accessible car park
    • ✓️ Wheelchair-accessible entrance
  • Dining options
    • ✓️ Seating
  • Service options
    • ✗ Delivery
    • ✗ Takeaway
    • ✓️ Outdoor seating

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