This blog post was updated on September 7, 2022.
We’re living in very progressive and exciting times. Since same-sex marriage became legal in the United States in 2015, along with several other countries around the world, acceptance of the LGBTQ+ community is at its highest ever. Trans folk can be seen gracing the cover of magazines and working in the White House. Unfortunately, not everywhere in the world is equally accepting, so world travel for members of the community can be a daunting endeavor. To make things easier, we’ve compiled a list of some of the top LGBTQ-friendly destinations.
Whether it’s domestic or international, travel for members of the LGBTQ+ community can be a rich and rewarding experience.
Copenhagen
Copenhagen has no shortage of inspiring history. If the birthplace of beloved author Hans Christian Anderson doesn’t inspire you, how about visiting the first country to legally recognize same-sex partners? Or drop in on one of the oldest gay bars in Europe – Centralhjørnet? Of course, there’s also the waterfront, the vibrant arts scene, Strøget (Europe’s longest pedestrian street and the city’s largest shopping area), and beautiful Tivoli Gardens!
Boulder, Colorado
Looking for outdoor, family-friendly fun in a progressive U.S. city? Boulder is a great college town with ample shopping, restaurants with lots of great vegetarian options, and tons of sports activities. Where else can you go kayaking, snowshoeing, fishing, watch a show at the Colorado Shakespeare Festival, and drink a pint at local craft breweries? Plus, Colorado has a trans-inclusive nondiscrimination law that’s sure to make everyone feel welcome.
Sitges, Spain
You may have already heard lately that Sitges is one of the best LGBTQ-friendly destinations. For one thing, the raucous Carnaval usually takes place around Mardi Gras, while the beach parties on its gorgeous shores start promptly in spring — both great events for LGBTQ folks. Sitges is also home to Spain’s first gay disco. If you’re the less-party-more-arty type, head to Sitges in October for the International Film Festival.
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San Diego
Have a beer at one of the first gay breweries, Hillcrest Brewing, before exploring the rest of San Diego’s LGBTQ-friendly neighborhood. This little slice of heaven is packed with bars and pubs, so head out for a crawl and enjoy this vibrant gay community in San Diego. While you’re visiting, be sure to check out the San Diego Zoo, Balboa Park, Sunset Cliffs, and the city’s other famous attractions. California is well-known for being a progressive, open-minded state, so you’ll have no trouble meeting like-minded folks and enjoying San Diego’s shopping, dining, and entertainment options to the fullest.
London
London is well known as the home of the royal family, but it’s also home to a thriving LGBTQ+ scene. The city’s SoHo district has become the center point of London’s gay community, and there’s plenty of things to see and do. Food, nightlife, and live entertainment are abundant in SoHo, and there’s no shortage of LGBTQ+ bars where you can imbibe. Elsewhere in the city, some of the best art galleries and museums are waiting for you to explore. Sightseeing along the South Bank will allow you to get a good look at Big Ben, as well as access to the London Eye, the Tate Modern, and more.
Toronto
Canada is one of the most LGBTQ-friendly countries in the world, and you’ll find two LGBTQ neighborhoods in Toronto. The Gay Village in Toronto lies right in the heart of downtown near Church and Wellesley Streets. This are features gay-friendly shopping, bustling restaurants and cafes, and exciting nightlife. If you want to dive into the culture and experience the arts while you’re in Toronto, the Queer West community offers galleries galore. The citizens of Toronto are fun, cultured, and open-minded, so you can easily enjoy the best of what the city has to offer.
New Zealand
New Zealand is not just accepting of queer travelers, the country is actually reaching out! New Zealand was one of the first countries to adopt the term “Gay/Lesbian Friendly” in reference to its tourism and businesses and has been actively encouraging LGBTQ visitors since legalizing same-sex marriage in 2013. Take a hike around and discover Middle Earth: The Lord of the Rings trilogy was famously filmed on the breathtaking New Zealand countryside. Enjoy water activities like boat cruises, diving, and surfing. Learn about the fascinating culture of the Māori–the indigenous people of New Zealand.
New York City
The Big Apple is one of the world’s most progressive cities, and it also boasts one of the largest LGBTQ+ populations. LGBTQ+ culture thrives in New York City. In fact, it practically began here. In 1969, the city saw the Stonewall Riots, one of the seminal events in the gay rights movements. New York City also hosts the annual Pride March down Fifth Avenue, one of the largest LGBTQ+ celebrations in the world. No matter where you go in New York, you’ll find open-minded people, gay-friendly dining and shopping, and countless tourist attractions. New York City even has LGBTQ-friendly houses of worship if you wish to attend religious services while visiting.
It’s not too late! Garb some last-minute tickets to one of these welcoming cities and enjoy the rich possibilities of LGBTQ+ travel.
Know of any other LGBTQ-friendly travel destinations that we didn’t mention? Tell us about them in the comments below!
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