Best LGBTQ+ Travel Destinations | EDGE United States

Best LGBTQ+ Travel Destinations

READING TIME: 7 MIN.

Traveling offers the opportunity to relax, immerse yourself in new cultures and create memories. For LGBTQ+ travelers, travel is not just about discovering new landscapes. It's about finding welcoming spaces and vibrant communities where individuality is celebrated and safety is paramount. No one wants to be involved in antigay protests or be treated coldly by locals.

Fortunately, the world is becoming more inclusive and the days of limited options are over. Today, an incredible range of destinations cater specifically to LGBTQ+ travelers, offering experiences beyond the typical vacation. This guide will unveil some of these paradises, ensuring your adventure is filled with connections, amusingself-discovery and the limitless spirit of the LGBTQ+ community.

new York

The 1969 Stonewall Uprising in New York City was a significant event for the LGBTQIA+ community, signifying a shift toward acceptance and paving the way for the inaugural Pride Parade. Today you have the opportunity to tour the Stonewall Inn and honor those who have demonstrated in the past for the rights of the LGBTQ community.

You have the opportunity to explore the best museum exhibits, go shopping and experience top-notch shows. With its large queer community, vibrant gay nightlife, and progressive residents, New York City welcomes you with open arms, ready to offer you an unforgettable experience.

San Francisco

San Francisco is often called the “gay mecca” of the world due to its reputation as one of the most famous and gay-friendly cities. Anyone who identifies as queer should make it a point to visit the city at least once. The large gay clubs and colorful crosswalks of Castro Street are always busy with drag queens and partygoers, and the city hosts some of the largest Pride and Leather events in the world. Additionally, the city has many gay bars and organizations, as well as a large and politically engaged queer community.

If clubbing isn't your thing, there are plenty of sightseeing opportunities, as well as plenty of great restaurants and museums to explore. Attractions include the sprawling Golden Gate Park, the bustling Ferry Building, and the coastal shops of Pier 39 or Fisherman's Wharf. You can also discover unique and quirky accommodation, shopping and dining choices to suit every budget.

Although there are many queer artists and activists in the city, there is a growing community in surrounding areas, including across the bay in Oakland. In addition to other points of interest, you'll also discover the famous White Horse Inn, one of the oldest gay bars in America.

Zipolite

Situated along the rugged coast of Oaxaca, Mexico, Zipolite is surrounded by impressive sea stacks and rocky cliffs, part of a series of simple beach towns without high-rise buildings or branded resorts.

Bohemians, surfers, yoga enthusiasts and free spirits have long enjoyed their vacations in this region and nearby Mazunte. Although less crowded and less expensive than Puerto Vallarta or Tulum, this former fishing village is now home to various trendy boutique hotels like El Alquimista and Hotel Noga.
Many LGBTQ+ tourists visit Amor Beach beach to enjoy its welcoming atmosphere, its breathtaking landscapes, its cliffs and its large rocks. Throughout the day, especially at sunset, this small beach to the east of town offers a pleasant combination of friendliness and privacy, as a casual beach bar serves micheladas and walnuts. fresh coconuts.

Tel Aviv

With its endless beaches and over nine miles of azure sea, sun and horizon, Tel Aviv is the ideal beach resort. Many of the city's beaches are gay-friendly, including Hilton Beach and Ga'ash Nude Beach. Apart from walks on the beach, Tel Aviv is a gay destination.
Shpagat is one of the most popular gay nightclubs. The city also flourishes with trendy and stylish neighborhoods rich in culture, such as artistic Florentin, elegant Neve Tzedek, historic Kerem HaTeimanim, charming Jaffa and up-and-coming Shapira.

Montevideo

Uruguay made history as the first Latin American country to legalize civil unions for same-sex couples in 2008, and then legalized same-sex marriage in 2013. The city is recognized for its cultural diversity and equality, offering a range of events, groups, and venues focused on the LGBTQ+ community, as well as queer-owned businesses.

September is recognized as Diversity Month and ends with a diversity march. Additionally, Montevideo offers convenient access to some of the most pristine and picturesque beaches in the world, such as Playa Pocitos, Playa Malvin, Ramirez Beach, Playa del Buceo, and Playa La Mulata.

Plan your trip

Whichever destination you choose, the following key considerations will ensure a safe and enjoyable LGBTQ+ vacation.