New York City is one of the most iconic cities for a reason. Advocate named Tampa the 19th gayest city in the US in 2017, Business Insider ranked it the 3rd gayest city for queer singles, and Tampas cost of living is 3% below the national average, and Tampas purchasing power is 22.7% higher than in NYC, making it an affordable and fun city. This is the closest waterfront neighborhood to downtown. ***Disclaimer: There is a good chance that this post contains affiliate or sponsor links. Miamis oldest neighborhood, Coconut Grove, is also its greenest, still full of the lush hammocks that cover the Groves sleepy streets. Although there isnt a specific street or community that is home to a plethora of LGBTQ residents, if youre looking for a laid back, mature community, and living in an LGBTQ hot spot isnt a top priority, were confident youll feel at home in Naples/Marco Island. Speaking of the theme parks, what started as a small group of gays and lesbians dressing in red and spending the day at Walt Disney World in 1991 has grown into one of the largest gay pride events in the world, attracting over 150,000 gay and lesbian travelers to Orlando on the first Saturday of every June. The city has a strong LGBTQ+ community well represented in politics and an incredible pride festival in June which was recently ranked among the top ten pride festivals in the country by USA Today, attracting more than 350,000 people annually. For younger LGBTs, QORDS, a queer summer camp for youth, welcomes people from around the nation to gather. Just outside of Downtown, and north of Colonial Drive, the gays were some of the first to move to the once-rundown area to spruce it up. This quaint town in Lake County is a rainbow diamond in the rough. Senior Advice, a website that focuses on senior living, recently ranked Fort Lauderdale the #7 best city for LGBT people to retire in 2019. Relax in the onsite pool, jacuzzi, and saunas, then check out the gay-ownedLost River Trading Post, which has an eclectic collection of antiques, clothing, and locally-made goods, followed by cocktails and dinner at the LGBTQ-friendlyLost River Grill. and a fantastic art scene. Median gross rent: $1,227. Wilton is home to a large number of gay-owned and gay-friendly businesses and even has a gay strip mall:Shoppes of Wilton Manors. A turnkey Colonial built in 1930 and located right near Salem State University runs about $480,000. WebBest LGBTQ+-friendly small towns in the USA Photograph: Shutterstock 1. She has a master's degree in data journalism from Columbia University's Graduate School of Journalism. WebWilton Manors: South Floridas Most Famous Gayborhood Where to Go in LGBTQ-Friendly Dunedin Gulfport, Fla. - Quirky, Quaint and Welcoming to All Tampa's Gay Bars & Clubs: Introducing the GaYbor District Grand Central District & Grand Central Ave. in St. Petersburg, Fla. Out and About in St. Petersburg and Clearwater LGBTQ Travel in Key The best LGBTQ-friendly small-towns in the USA offer the freedom to explore small-town America while feeling comfortable traveling as you are. Famously considered the gay capital of Florida, Fort Lauderdale has one of the highest concentrations of same-sex couples in the country, along with its lower-profile neighbor Wilton Manors, our No. In fact, about half of Leon Countys residents possess at least a college degree, and has the most highly educated population in all of Florida. With over 6% of its population being LGBT, Tampa has a perfect score on HRCs Municipal Equality. For a magical experience, visit during December for. It has no shortage of historic sites, three military bases, and tons of restaurants and bars. There is no shortage of events for members of the queer community to attend. A ruby slipper in a red state, Eureka Springs inclusive spirit, and dozens of LGBTQ-owned businesses make it the gay capital of the Ozarks. Samplefamous mineral waters, swoon at gorgeous Victorian buildings, and get lost in charmingly crooked streets. Prepare accordingly by bringing an umbrella or two. This charming and fun-filled city is ideal for those looking for a hometown where they can really beoutwhen they are out and about. Not only is this city incredibly progressive and welcoming to the LBGTQ+ community, but its also home to some of the most incredible food (seriously, the BBQ restaurants here are to die for!) One might not instantly think of Floridas Panhandle as gay-friendly or welcoming due to its ultra-conservative nature. Things in this historic town have become considerably more tolerant since the days of the Salem witch trials. And while youre at it, maybe you can even find a new place to live. 3. Because of its proximity to the ocean, real estate here can get a bit pricey. , where seemingly everyone in town gathers for its iconic tea dance. LGBTQ+ events occur regularly in the city, the most notable being the Orlando Come Out With Pride festival in October, attracting more than 185,000 people annually. Here youll find countless incredible items from LGBTQ+ histories, such as an original printing of Dr Aldred Kinseys research and donations from prominent LGBTQ+ celebrities. Within the Greater Fort Lauderdale area, there more than 100 gay-owned businesses, including bars and clubs, cafes and coffeehouses, award-winning hotels and guest houses, and there are many up and coming LGBT-friendly neighborhoods, including: Hallandale Beach, Pompano Beach, Sea Ranch Lakes and Lauderdale Lakes. The ViMi District, more officially known as Virginia-Mills, is one of the citys most vibrant gay neighborhoods. Several LGBTQ+ friendly bars, cafes, restaurants, hotels, and events can also be found in Washington DC, making it easy to meet other LGBTQ+ people and support local LGBTQ+ businesses during your trip. When it comes to gay-friendly places for the senior set, a new national ranking shows what most South Floridians may already know. Aside from mosquitoes and those pesky hurricanes, who wouldnt want to be surrounded by water and sun the majority of the year. WebColombia was delighted to be awarded two top prizes at the prestigious World Travel Awards. Quaint and charming, cultured and European, St. Augustines history is quite alluring to LGBT travelers. If you make a purchase through them, we may receive a small commission at no extra cost to you (for which we are extremely grateful).Also, while we do our best to highlight LGBTQ-friendly destinations and businesses, info provided is based solely on personal experience and recommendations by community partners. It was named the continent leader for LGBT friendly travel and the romantic city of Cartagena de Indias, on the Caribbean coast, also won South Americas best honeymoon destination. If Pensacola has a gayborhood its East Hill. WebThe 10 Most LGBTQ-Friendly Towns and Cities in the U.S. In 1988 the city elected Broward Countys Sample delicious vino and support equal treatment for all at. While most of the Florida Panhandle is pretty conservative, Tallahassee is solid blue. So, whether youre looking for a same-sex getaway or a solo vacation in the United States, these are our top picks when it comes to LGBTQ+ friendly cities. While it's true that the South has discrimination, some cities, towns, and counties are progressing. Mount Dora is artsy, beautiful and surprisingly super gay! This tiny city has a vibrant LGBT community space called Compass, which aims to educate the public on LGBT issues.. Tropical Shores is a hidden gem of a neighborhood just off Old Southeast and is truly a treasure. Situated in the desert outside of Los Angeles, this city is perfect for LGBTQ+ travellers with more than 30 gay bars and an extensive range of gay-friendly or gay-owned accommodation options. Atlanta, Georgia Aside from New Orleans, Atlanta is an LGBT hot spot; people travel from all over the South to Hood, and close to many orchards and U-pick farm stands, the intimate and beautifully appointed Old Parkdale Inn is a lovely, gay-friendly B&B thats ideal if youd prefer a quieter, more countrified setting. Pride festivities arent the only gay-friendly events throughout the year either. In 2012, the Broward County school district became the first in the nation to recognize LGBT History Month. South Beach has been gay enough for long enough for its gayness to seep into every aspect of the entire neighborhood. 42. San Francisco is one of the most quintessential gay cities in the United States, packed full of great things to see and do. Historic Old Northeast was the first developed in St. Petersburg. Located in Minneapolis Cedar-Riverside neighbourhood (known locally as The West Bank), this nonprofit resource offers a wealth of knowledge for travellers curious about LGBTQ+ culture and history. Wilton Manors, FL. Senior Advice ranked West Palm Beach the #2 best city for LGBT people to retire in 2019. Its proximity to national forests, rivers and lakes makes this small, inclusive town the perfect place for individuals looking for easy access to ample outdoor recreation opportunities such as hiking, biking, horseback riding and more. The fun-loving southernmost city is selected repeatedly as Best Gay Resort Town by readers of Out Traveler magazine. Its filled with hip shops and on-trend restaurants. Jacksonvilles first and oldest subdivision, Springfield, has been revitalized in recent years thanks to some handy, gay and gay-friendly investors who have purchased a number of the areas massive Victorian homes and restored them to their former glory. Web On the count of three, about 50 gay couples kissed their partners in the public square of a small town in the Ozark Mountains. The gay-owned Paradiso Restorante, an Italian favorite, is another LGBTQ crowd pleaser and has been around for over 20 years! The main street is the Drive (aka Wilton Drive), where shops and restaurants alike proudly display their rainbow flags. Relax in the onsite pool, jacuzzi, and saunas, then check out the gay-owned, , which has an eclectic collection of antiques, clothing, and locally-made goods, followed by cocktails and dinner at the LGBTQ-friendly, With eye-popping dunes, stunning beaches, 19th-century homes, and art galleries galore, the Art Coast of Lake Michigan doesnt disappoint. Its also one of the few dog-friendly condos in the area. If youre looking to escape the big city, these awesome (and unexpected) places are ready to welcome you. Soft sand, gentle waves, and warm smiles greet you in this delightful seaside town. While the city of Rochester is LGBTQ+ friendly, we recommend staying in the Park Avenue region of downtown during your trip. Big cities have long been the go-to places to live for members of the LGBTQ community looking for an enjoyable and inclusive place to call home. These Are the Most Googled Questions and Answers About Asheville, NC Each October more than 10,000 people attend one of the most colorful Pride celebrations in the country, the Blue Ridge Pride Festival. Well, everything. What we found were mostly smaller cities with thriving lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, and queer cultures, and college towns that have strong anti-discriminatory laws. This area is connected to the business district via Market street, and once youre there, youll never be more than a few steps away from your next cocktail, a slice of pizza or cute outfit. WebThe Heights ( Seminole Heights, Riverside Heights and Tampa Heights) are all gay-friendly hipster hoods in Tampa with historic bungalows, both large and small. The camp counselors teach song-writing, how to play and how to form a band. We wouldnt be surprised. Atlanta offers welcoming spots for LGBTQ+ folks across the city. With eye-popping dunes, stunning beaches, 19th-century homes, and art galleries galore, the Art Coast of Lake Michigan doesnt disappoint. Do a quick search online for "gay-friendly travel," and you'll find the usual suspects New York City, The city's laws offer some anti-discrimination protections based on sexual orientation, gender identity and gender expression. The historic neighborhoods of Riverside and Avondale are filled with gorgeous tree-lined streets, adorable Craftsman-style bungalows, riverfront mansions and numerous distinctive shopping districts. The city has a booming queer and trans population and is home to the southern Comfort Conference. San Diego is a great place to be gay. The largest city in New Mexico, Albuquerque, has become increasingly popular with LGBTQ+ tourists over the past couple of years. However, youre also perfectly positioned to be within walking distance to the citys major sights and attractions, including museums, galleries and theatres.