Skip to content
TheGaygency

Glossary

Cruising

Cruising is the practice of looking for casual, often anonymous sexual partners in public or semi-public spaces, a long-standing part of gay and bisexual male culture.

Cruising is the practice of seeking casual sexual partners, often anonymous, by walking or driving through certain areas known as cruising grounds. These have historically included parks, restrooms, beaches, bathhouses, and bars. Cruising became a central part of gay and bisexual male culture during eras when same-sex activity was criminalized and open community gathering was risky, giving men a way to find one another discreetly. Today apps such as Grindr, Scruff, and Sniffies have moved much of the practice online, but in-person cruising continues in many cities and remains a recognized thread in queer history and culture.

Need help applying this?