We’ll take it as a sign of serendipity that the long-awaited return of travel has coincided with the Pride Month, gifting us more reasons to rejoice getting back “out” into the world. For LGBTQ+ travelers, planning a trip comes with some extra considerations, ultimately to ensure that chosen destinations and hotels are inclusive and accepting of all gender identities and queer expressions. Here are four culture-packed LGBTQ+ friendly destinations—two in the U.S. and two in Mexico—that cherish their own vibrant queer communities while welcoming visitors to travel as they are.
Ogunquit, ME:
Meaning “a beautiful place by the sea,” Ogunquit is a charming beach hamlet on the southern tip of Maine that has majority LGBTQ+ owned businesses, from art galleries to piano bars and even a multi-level nightclub.
For the ultimate Pride getaway, post up 30 minutes north at the Kennebunk Port Inn to catch weekend live entertainment from Alan Cumming’s summertime residency Club Cumming on the Coast.
Palm Springs, CA:
With over half of its residents identifying as part of the LGBTQ+ community, Palm Springs was America’s first city to vote for an all-LGBTQ+ local government. This queer oasis is a prime desert getaway for culture-seekers, boasting unique modernist architecture, art museums, and weekend crafts fairs.
Check in at the 11-key Dive Palm Springs, which was designed by Cali-based Vanessa Schreiber with elegant nods to retro French Riviera glamor.
Zipolite, MX:
Nestled on the coast of the mountainous Oaxacan state, Zipolite has been an LGBTQ+ hideaway for decades, most famous for having Mexico’s only official nude beach, and pride flags can be spotted throughout this bohemian retreat since many of its bars, restaurants, and hotels being gay-owned and LGBTQ+ friendly.
Stay: Reserve one of Hotel Noga’s modern treehouses, which feature two-person silk hammocks and outdoor terraces in the palm canopies.
Mexico City, MX:
Back in 2009, Mexico’s capital city became the first region to legalize same-sex marriage, and remains an open-minded metropolis with a spirited LGBTQ+ community. The Zona Rosa neighborhood is the hub of Mexico City’s LGBTQ+ culture and nightlife, along with artsy havens Condesa and Roma.
Stay: Book a room at Círculo Mexicano, which is modeled after a traditional courtyard-centric Mexican abode with a rooftop pool and private patios.
