Are you and your group of queer friends seeking a vacation with arts and culture, live music and lots on LGBTQ? Look no further! Here are some of the cities that you should consider visiting for a fantastic, exciting holiday that can meet all of your cultural needs. Pack your bags and get your favorite travel buddies ready for an adventure in one of these destinations.
San Francisco: The Ultimate Queer Culture Capital
San Francisco must also be mentioned amongst other cities which are inclusive to the LGBTQ community. This beautiful and open-minded city has always been an epicenter of queerness. The Castro district is one of the oldest neighborhoods in SF and is worth a visit for the plethora of gay bars, restaurants, and stores. Visit the Castro Theater and watch some independent movies or learn about the LGBTQ history at the GLBT Historical Society Museum.
Still there are so many places of interest outside the Castro? Pop into the Mission for vibrant street art, awesome murals, and the best burritos you’ve ever had. The park features beautiful gardens that can be explored before visiting the California Academy of Science or the War Memorial Opera House to learn about science and opera. Evening: theater day: visit the Theater District, where the redone Curran and Geary theaters are real standouts.
And do not forget to visit the Oasis club’s late night drag shows – they are simply outrageous! As the birthplace of the modern LGBTQI+ movement and a culturally rich city, San Francisco is the ideal destination for your next trip with your queer friends.
Where to Stay:
- The Marker San Francisco, a chic boutique hotel in the Theater District
- Parker Guest House, a charming gay-owned B&B in the Castro
- Hotel Zetta, a hip SoMa hotel with a playful, artsy vibe
New York City: A Queer Culture Smorgasbord
LGBTQ travelers will have a blast in New York City. Art buffs will be delirious with pleasure while touring the Met, MoMA and the Whitney museums. Broadway shows or any theaters at the Theater District. To get something new and unusual, go to Sleep No More in the heart of New York – here is the unique off-Broadway theater.
Greenwich Village with its long history of the LGBTQ community and overexcited gay bars is always a great destination. LGBT Community Center is a great place to learn about LGBT history and New York’s contribution to the freedom movement; while paying homage to Stonewall National Monument is a must for all history lovers. If you want to breathe clean air? Show me to the park on the High Line which is a line of art and sky view.
Into live music? That’s New York City for you: the choices are numerous! If you are lucky to visit the city of New York you may have a chance to visit the jazz club Blue Note or Bowery Ballroom to enjoy the famous bands. For an epic queer rave experience check out House of Yes in Brooklyn – their drag performances and special events are not of this world.
Where to Stay:
- The Standard, High Line in the trendy Meatpacking District
- Arlo SoHo, a modern micro-hotel with great city views
- The Marlton Hotel, a chic boutique spot in the heart of Greenwich Village
Berlin: Avant-Garde Art & Legendary Nightlife
Berlin is quite possibly the most open, creative, and accepting of a gay population than any other city in the world. A good place to begin your engagement with Berlin’s various cultures is the Museum Island, which hosts five exceptional museums showcasing pieces from ancient Egypt to 19th-century European Painting. For an alternative art and culture experience, Hamburger Bahnhof offers a good look at the newest additions to the city’s art scene.
Alternative culture is king in Berlin, and Kreuzberg might be the most clear example of this. Explore the offbeat streets of the neighborhood and find unique art galleries, unusual stores, and some of the most economical restaurants in the city. Be sure to visit the East Side Gallery, quite a long section of the Berlin Wall painted by artists from all over the world.
Berlin is also famous for its wild, no-holds-barred nightlife and inclusive queer club scene. Get your dance on at SchwuZ, one of the city’s oldest and most beloved gay clubs, or head to Berghain for a marathon electronic music session (if you can get past the notoriously tough door policy). From lowkey bars to all-night raves, queer revelers of every stripe will find their groove in Berlin.
Where to Stay:
- Michelberger Hotel, a trendy, music-themed boutique in Friedrichshain
- Axel Hotel Berlin, a sleek adults-only hotel catering to gay travelers
- The Yard Hotel, a tranquil, eco-friendly oasis in Kreuzberg
Manchester: Charming Canals and a Vibrant Gay Village
Searching for a culture trip across the Atlantic that won’t blow the budget wide open? Consider Manchester! This has an interesting history as an industrial hub that has become a cultural capital with a growing gay scene. Canal Street is the gay hub of the city and the Gay Village is the place to be for partying, dining and socializing. The best drag show happens at Cruz 101 – Check it Out!
Manchester is estimated to be one of the best destinations for cultural activities. Those who appreciate art will be happy to see over 60 works of Pre-Raphaelite collection at Manchester Art Gallery. The Science and Industry Museum provides an insight into an important period in the history of the city and the role it played in the Industrial Revolution. Craving some fresh air? Manchester is a place with beautiful canals and a walk or a boat tour along them can be a great idea.
Palace Theatre or The Hope Mill Theatre is the place to be for catching a show. The city’s vibrant music culture is also worth exploring – experience the emerging talent at Night & Day Cafe or catch a big concert at Albert Hall, a converted chapel. And don’t forget to add a visit to the bright and creative Northern Quarter, full of independent stores and cafes with artisan coffee.
Where to Stay:
- Velvet Hotel, a sumptuous boutique hotel right on Canal Street
- Whitworth Locke, a hip aparthotel in a grand Victorian building
- Hotel Gotham, an opulent art deco gem in the city center
Conclusion
Whether you decide to visit one of these places or all of them, you and your queer culture-hungry group are in for a wonderful time! Both cities also have their own cultures and practices related to the arts, history, nightlife and LGBT community life. Why are you still here? Get ready to visit your next gay vacation destination.
Do you have a favorite cultural experience or venue that is queer-friendly that we did not mention? Please post your travel tips for the LGBTQ community to come and explore. Do not forget to read other articles of this category for more useful ideas for your vacation: the best gay beaches and places to visit for gay and queer travels. Happy travels!
