If these vibrant walls of Palace could whisper, they’d share tales of a journey from a daring dream to becoming the beacon of Miami’s LGBTQ+ scene. It’s been a road marked by glittering nights and milestones, shaping South Beach into a ‘90s haven of gay culture, with Palace at its heart. Indeed, “Every Queen needs a Palace,” and since 1988, we’ve rolled out the royal carpet for the fiercest drag talents across South Florida.

Back in February 1988, Steve Palsar unveiled Palace at 1200 Ocean Drive, against a backdrop of a raw, unpolished Miami. Amid the gritty charm of a city, as gritty as a scene from Miami Vice, Palsar found his “slice of heaven.” Palace broke ground on Ocean Drive, becoming a pioneer that welcomed waves of cafes in its wake, transforming the street into a vibrant artery of the city.

As the ‘90s dawned, Palace embraced the city’s burgeoning gay community. With the 12th Street Beach turning into an LGBTQ+ hotspot, Palace’s legendary T-dances spilled from our doors, creating a space where freedom and joy reigned supreme. The era saw icons like Gianni Versace bringing glamour to our doorstep, alongside stars who mingled with the crowds, adding sparkle to our story.

Enter Thomas Donall in 2007, who, faced with a Palace that had seen better days, envisioned a renaissance. With a knack for transformation, Donall rejuvenated Palace, introducing drag spectacles that danced through the streets and a drag brunch that became the talk of the town. His vision extended beyond the stage, hosting grand block parties and championing causes with over $2 million donated to enrich our community.