While Pure (formerly the 2-4 Club) has a rep as one of the best gay and late-night clubs in the city it also has the history to back itself up. During Prohibition, Pure was a speakeasy, which explains the secret passages and tucked-away labs for bootlegging. More recently, it was the notorious nerve center of the Philadelphia gay scene in the days of disco. Recently reinvented and reopened with a makeover to die for, the 1,000-capacity venue finally feels like a real destination again, with a dazzling light and sound system and an elaborate array of velvet couches, chandeliers, animal prints, giant fish tanks and swank new bars. Two sizable dance floors provide a choice of nightly soundtracks, and the third-floor catwalk lounge allows for some rest and people-watching from above. Pure Pink consistently draws the best house and techno DJs from around the country. The regular clientele is friendly, open-minded, free spirited and predominantly gay. Bathrooms are unisex and the dress code is minimal, so expect close, sweaty quarters. -- Nathaniel Friedman