Gay road trip
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LGBTQ Travel
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United States
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For the queer traveler, despite the appeal of the open road, traversing the United States eventually means that they’ll be stuck in some states that are less than accepting of their lifestyles. Contrary to popular belief, however, there are safe havens for queer travelers that exist all over the country, including in places that you wouldn’t ordinarily think of — like Arkansas and Kansas. So, to ensure that the open road remains just as friendly to the LGBTQ traveler , we’ve discovered the best places to go on your queer-friendly US road trip.
Although New Mexico’s larger cities, like Albuquerque and Santa Fe, are welcoming destinations for the LGBTQ traveler, it’s Taos , with its decades-old art community, that proves to be the most compelling stop on your queer-friendly US road trip. At its core, Taos is a historic arts colony propelled by the progressive-thinking bohemians who have dwelled within its city limits for years. Whether you’re snapping pictures of the centuries-old Taos Pueblo or venturing through the historic architecture and shops downtown, a detour to Taos is a great addition to a New Mexico driving itinerary.
Compared to other states, Arkansas is not one that has a history of LGBTQ equality. Despite this inequality present at the state level, Eureka Springs, a getaway in the heart of the Ozarks, is a beautiful and queer-friendly destination. If what you’re seeking is an idyllic and quiet stop on your trip, then Eureka Springs has this in spades, with dozens of shops, restaurants, and establishments that also double as queer-friendly establishments, like the 1905 Basin Park Hotel and Ermilio’s . While you’re there, be sure to dig into some barbecue and revel in the small-town charm.
Where to stay: Lesbian-owned Pond Mountain Lodge & Resort
Photo: Kenneth Sponsler /Shutterstock
If you’re traveling across the Midwest, be sure to make a pitstop in the queer-friendly twin cities of Saugatuck and Douglas. Just two hours away from Chicago, these neighboring towns are laid-back resort destinations that offer a plethora of lakeside restaurants and funky boutiques. If you want to unwind after a long day spent in the car, head to the gay-owned Dunes Resort , which has an on-site restaurant and gay nightclub.
Where to stay: Gay-owned Pines Motor Lodge or Dunes Resort
Unlike the typical vacation experience expected to be had in California, the one in Guerneville is far from pretentious. Located just 70 miles from San Francisco, this small town surrounded by idyllic hiking and camping locales is home to several gay bars, stylish shops, restaurants, and queer-owned hotels and resorts. While you’re there, be sure to head to Johnson’s Beach for a swim among the redwoods. After you’re done swimming and lounging in the sun, head on a wine-tasting tour to end the night on the right note.
Photo: Firefly_NewEngland /Shutterstock
If you’re seeking a more budget-friendly alternative to Cape Cod and Provincetown, queer travelers should head to the equally scenic Ogunquit, Maine. Less than 30 minutes away from queer-friendly Portland, Ogunquit is also friendly to the LGBTQ traveler, known to many as the “New England gay resort town.” Aside from being incredibly gay-friendly, the town of Ogunquit offers many queer-owned nightclubs and bars , as well as a number of seaside restaurants and shops that can make any weary traveler feel right at home — in a tranquil and idyllic paradise. Pro tip: Be sure to check out the festive lobster shacks in town that can provide you with a unique taste of the local culture.
Though the southern portion of the US is not exactly known for being queer-friendly, Asheville , North Carolina, has established itself as one of the best and brightest LGBTQ-friendly destinations in America. Aside from its stunning natural beauty and artistic community, Asheville is also known for its extensive array of independent shops, quirky queer bars, and inexpensive entertainment. During your stay in Asheville, be sure to go dancing at Scandals , the most popular gay bar in Asheville, and then, the next morning, head to the Biltmore Estate for a great Instagrammable experience.
Instead of heading to the popular queer haven of Portland, drive instead to Astoria, Oregon, a city located on Oregon’s northern coast. Aside from its beautiful coastal scenery, the town of Astoria has a lively LGBTQ community and a generally welcoming and friendly atmosphere. While you’re passing through Astoria, make sure to pay a visit to one of its many local breweries and coffee shops, including gay-owned Astoria Coffee House & Bistro . Then, after a heavy dose of caffeine, you’ll be ready to hit the road again or just take in the stunning views of the rugged coastline.
While in the middle of the South, find some safety and relaxation within the arms of the welcoming and queer-friendly town of Blue Ridge, Georgia. Located in the Appalachian foothills, this mountain town is nearly chock full of quaint charm. Whether you’re hiking the nearby Appalachian Trail, dining at one of the many upscale and inventive restaurants in the downtown area, or you’re hitching a ride on the Blue Ridge Scenic Railway , the charm of Blue Ridge is sure to captivate well beyond the time you leave its city limits.
Any road trip out West would be incomplete without a stop in Sedona, Arizona — a destination replete with natural beauty. Not only that, but many are quick to point out how welcoming Sedona is to all visitors. To see this natural beauty for yourself, schedule a guided tour of the red rocks either on foot or on a bicycle. Then, after your adventures outside among the rocks, pay a visit to the town’s main drag, where a number of art galleries, boutiques, and restaurants paint a unique picture of this Arizona town.
To get to the places on your road trip bucket list, it’s likely that you’ll at least have to trek through a portion of the conservative Midwest. Thankfully, there is a queer haven that exists in the most conservative portion of the region — Wichita, Kansas. And, aside from simply being a safe space to rest after a long day spent in the car, Wichita has a number of queer-owned bars and nightclubs. However, if you’re not looking to dance the night away, indulge in one of the many unique restaurants, boutiques, or art galleries to be found in the historic Delano District .
Photo: ScottymanPhoto /Shutterstock
Despite the fact that liberal Louisville has long established itself as one of the prime queer-friendly destinations in the US, the town of Morehead, Kentucky, has recently become a vacation favorite of the LGBTQ community. If you make it the city early enough in the day, you can go tubing on Cave Run Lake or hike through the area-famous Daniel Boone National Forest . Then, settle in for the night with a walk through the downtown area, complete with unique shops and restaurants.
For those on the more artistic side, a visit to Short Mountain Sanctuary in Woodbury, Tennessee is a must on your queer road trip. This queer sanctuary and accommodation is a 200-acre faerie sanctuary and safe queer space just 50 miles away from Nashville. If you have more time to dedicate to this destination, you’ll have plenty of time to participate in group activities and events that are meant to strengthen your ties to the LGBTQ community, like craft-making and faerie celebrations. On-site camping is available.
Along with finding a new appreciation for the Appalachian Mountains, visitors to Huntington, West Virginia, will also find a welcoming and queer-friendly environment with which to relax in during a long road trip. During your stay, get a true taste of Huntington’s hospitality by taking a walk around the Heritage Station , a covered train depot that has a plethora of local boutiques, bakeries, and artisan shops. From there, you can spend more time walking around the city’s award-winning rose garden, the Ritter Park Rose Garden . Then, after you traverse the dramatic scenery of the land, head to one of the many gay bars and nightclubs.
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Me (Rachel Covello) walking the rainbow crosswalks throughout Gainesville.
Pride Community Center of North Central Florida, Photo by Rachel Covello
Photo provided by Sweetwater Branch Inn
Meat & Cheese Plate at Downtown Wine and Cheese, Photo by Rachel Covello
4th Ave Food Park. Photo by Rachel Covello
Scallop Taco from Sublime Tacos. Photo by Rachel Covello
Interior photo of the Cade Museum for Creativity and Innovation
OutCoast.com LGBTQ Florida Travel is a digital magazine and travel blog that promotes gay-friendly destinations in Florida. We are the one-stop resource for LGBTQ people traveling to or living in the sunshine state.
Explore LGBTQ Florida | Gay Florida Travel
Gainesville is the largest city in North Central Florida and part of Alachua County, Florida . Incorporated in 1869, the city of Gainesville was a key Florida Railroad connector pre-Civil War and prospered as an important cotton shipping facility post-Civil War. And following the Great Depression, Gainesville became the center of tung oil production in the United States. By the 1930’s, the University of Florida was opened, as was the city’s first airport.
I spent only one evening in Gainesville, Florida, although I wish I had spent more. I loved the city! From world-class performing arts events to more than 100 miles of trails, Gainesville is a city where “Nature & Culture Meet”.
Most people visiting Florida dream of beaches or Mickey Mouse. But I personally dream of food, culture, and nature. If you desire the same on a road trip, then you’re in luck, because Gainesville has it all – and then some!
While so much has been affected by COVID, there are still plenty of things to do while in town. So here you go – your “socially distant” Gay Gainesville Road Trip Guide!
Gainesville should be renamed “GAYnesville”, but alas – the Gainesville name remains. Although the city isn’t nearly as gay as Fort Lauderdale or St Pete, it’s still a VERY liberal and gay-friendly town! Gainesville is also one of the few Florida towns with multiple rainbow crosswalks. A Gainesville road trip is a must-add to any gay Florida travel planning.
Pedestrians in Gainesville can proudly explore the town’s three rainbow crosswalks. Since October 2019, these vibrantly painted crosswalks celebrating National Coming Out Day have been a part of the downtown landscape. Organized by The Pride Community Center of North Central Florida these colorful designs are part of Gainesville’s Art in the Crosswalks program. Head over to First Street by City Hall, Bo Diddley Plaza, or by the Hippodrome Theatre to take your stroll over the rainbow.
3131 NE 13th Street, Suite 62, Gainesville, FL
Pride reaches far and wide in North Central Florida thanks to the PCCNCF. The organization serves as the hub for the LGBTQ communities of 13 surrounding counties. The center is home to daily programming and resources for community members. Community members can enjoy social and entertainment options, fitness, and wellness sessions, or explore the over 2,000 books in Audre Lorde Library.The nonprofit organization provides a range of services including food distribution, direct assistance, and support group meetings.
The Pride Community Center is also host to Gainesville Pride. At this point, the Gainesville Pride and Festival is still scheduled for October 4, 2020.
To plan your visit to PCCNCF or to learn more click here .
312 Peabody Hall, University of Florida
Gainesville is well-known as a college town with the University of Florida (UF) at the heart of it. The UF Pride Student Union (PSU) is a social, educational, and support organization that cross-over from campus life into the larger community. Through public programming, advocacy, a speaker’s bureau, social activities, and meetings PSU provides support and education to LGVTQQIAAP UF students and members of the community. The Pride Student Union is also home to the Rainbow Room Resource Lounge for LGBTQ students.
Learn more about the services about PSU here :
Since COVID-19 has closed most of the bars in Florida, I was not able to enjoy a nightlife experience while visiting the region. But there are still plenty of things to do in Gainesville at night. For an overview on Central Florida’s LGBTQ nightlife throughout the year, click here.
From the elegant bed and breakfast to the modern hotel, Gainesville offers a variety of accommodations for every traveler.
While I had a few options when deciding where to stay, I selected the Sweetwater Branch Inn. And I’m delighted that I did. The staff, property and amenities were perfect for my needs. The property also goes out of their way to welcome LGBTQ guests to their property.
I’ve provided an overview on the Sweetwater Branch Inn along with a few other options for your Gainesville road trip.
Unwind from the bustle of your busy road trip at the relaxing Sweetwater Branch Inn. Whether you’re traveling solo or with a group this beautiful historic inn offers charm and delightful amenities. This unique 13-acre property is in the heart of Gainesville’s historic district.
The uniquely decorated rooms offer something for every visitor. The two main Victorian houses have 12 rooms and suites. Each features a private bath and queen or king bed. For more privacy select a unique detached cozy cottage. Each offers a full kitchen, living room, and separate bedroom. Some cottages are even pet-friendly so the whole family can enjoy this lovely road trip sanctuary.
Guests enjoy complimentary breakfasts and wine and cheese in the evenings. Relax with a stroll around the beautiful grounds or take a dip in the pool. Rent a bike and explore historic downtown.
The charming Sweetwater property makes for beautiful and memorable weddings. Couples can choose from a variety of ceremony settings and reception areas. The venue is also ideal for special events like anniversaries, or family reunions.
Start planning your road trip retreat at the Sweetwater Inn here .
I hope you like to eat, because the food is never-ending in Gainesville. Most restaurants are open right now, although adjustments have been made to menus and venue layouts to accommodate social distancing. In the list below, I’ve focused on LGBTQ-welcoming spaces, many with outside dining options, that have delicious food!
Step into this quaint French cafe and enjoy the best of European fare, paired with fresh local baked goods and produce. The menu changes to reflect the best local and seasonal ingredients. Everything at this charming bistro is made fresh. Acccording to the proprieters everything is also made with love. Whether you’re vegan, vegetarian, or a meat lover you’ll find something delicious here .
Sip and sample wines of the world at this delightful wine bar. Enjoy small bites, charcuterie boards, and cheese plates at the bar or out on the charming patio. Weekly specials, including themed “weekly wine journeys”, are popular with locals and visitors alike. Stock up on your favorite selections and gift items at their retail shop. This venue is also a popular spot to reserve for special occasions.
My Tip: Visit on “Wine Down Wednesdays” for 25% off bottles and specials on cheese and meat plates.
Start planning your wine journey here .
Find something to satisfy all your cravings at this eclectic outdoor food court. Imagine a permanently installed local food truck rally with all your favorites! Curate your own unique meal with selections of pizza, tacos, burgers, coffees, and teas. Choose your favorites and then enjoy your eats and people watching in the open-air dining space.
My Tip : Order the scallop tacos from Sublime tacos. Then head to the Opus Airstream coffee shop for an iced coffee or tea.
Indulge in super-fresh ingredients at this downtown gem. Dragonfly flies in fresh fish from Japan exclusively for their expert sushi chefs! Their creative dishes also feature farm-fresh local produce. Solo travelers will enjoy the option of dining at the sushi bar or in the lounge area. Explore the freshness here.
There’s something for everyone at The Top! This local staple has been feeding vegans, vegetarians, and omnivores for over 20 years. Stick around after dinner to sample some of their 33 rotating draft beers, or a craft cocktail night cap. The bar area offers a full dining menu, great for a casual bite, or making new friends. Learn more about what makes The Top tops .
The short answer – EVERYTHING! Enjoy world-class performing arts, museums, festivals and live music on dozens of stages. Explore 8 state parks with more than 100 miles of trails for biking, birding and hiking or cool off in crystal-blue freshwater springs. When you’re done with your day, kick back at a craft brewery and savor innovative cuisine and specialty cocktails at inspired local restaurants.
This venue connects musical artists with their audiences in a unique way. While performers record their music, the audience can be a part of the experience through the Heartwood listening room or via live stream. Visitors to the soundstage can listen quietly to live performances in the dedicated Listening Room. If conversation is more your vibe head out to one of the indoor or outdoor video lounge areas. These spaces feature wine and beer service and big screen TVs to experience the show while still socializing. Learn more about the Heartwood experience here .
Gainesville is home to the University of Florida where academics and sports go hand-in-hand. In 1965 UF Professor Dr. James Cade and a team of researchers invented the sports drink Gatorade to help the UF Gators football team combat dehydration during games. In 2018 The Cade Museum was established to serve the community with the goal of inspiring new ideas and ways of thinking.
A visit to the Cade is like entering a portal of creativi
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