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Less FOMO, more Homo*
*generally just more LBGTQ+
GayMapper helps you navigate your worldwide LGBTQ+ travels, with gay guides for popular LGBTQ+ destinations and Gay Friendly hotel deals. Book your next LGBTQ+ trip today.
Our favourite LGBTQ+ destinations
Check out the GayMapper gay guides for the most popular LGBTQ+ holiday destinations worldwide
The gay life in Cologne is centred around two main areas of the city, Rudolfplatz and Heumarkt (or the Old Town.) Heumarkt has had gay venues for many years, and as such attracts a somewhat older crowd than in the area around Rudolfplatz. There are many gay bars and clubs to choose from, depending on your mood or tribe. If you're new to town or just visiting, a bar crawl across an evening or two is definitely a good way to start. Check out our listings below of all gay venues in Cologne, Germany and choose where you'll start!
Gay nightlife in Gran Canaria is centred around the Yumbo Centre in Playa del Ingles. A family shopping centre by day that become a gay mecca at night, with dozens of gay bars, dance clubs and cruising clubs to choose from. You can also find a number of drag and cabaret bars, which are a great way to start the evening, as is typical in Spain, bars tend to get busier later on in the evening, with clubs not opening until the early hours. There are other gay venues around town, with some in the Cita Centre, and others down on the beach.
There are three exclusively gay bars in Auckland but all the other places in the city are gay-friendly. There's no separation of communities here. You'll find crowds of gay tourists and locals anywhere you go, with the most popular nightlife spot being K Road. As you explore the city, you'll also find more upscale areas such as Viaduct and Britomart. Across Auckland you can expect loud music, camp drag and comedy, and strong drinks. Enjoy cocktails in modern bars or chat with locals in trendy hipster hangouts and brunch spots. There's something to enjoy no matter what you're into.
Some of the best parties in the city take place on the iconic Miami Beach, where a huge local LGBTQ+ community welcomes queer visitors, and you can party with crowds of barely dressed people. That being said, if traditional pubs and clubs are more your thing, there are plenty of places in the city to hang out and relax. Centred in South Beach, you'll find everything from pool parties and classy cocktails to underground drag shows and a historic club scene.
Canal Street is arguably one of the most famous LGBTQ nightlife destinations in the UK. The Gay village located here is best known for its host of bars and clubs that cater for every taste and orientation, while also paying respect to the history of LGBTQ spaces in the area. dozens of gay bars and clubs offer entertainment and themed nights throughout the week, making Canal Street THE hub for gay nightlife in Manchester. It's a must-see destination for any gay tourist who is looking for a good time.
The famous Stonewall Inn stills stands proudly in Greenwich Village, reminding visitors of the political history that allows so many more modern gay bars and clubs to flourish across the city. There are countless places for the queer community today to find their crowd and feel safe doing so, from the bustling drag scene of East Village to the quirky and alternative parties of Bushwick, from nightclub to karaoke bar to dive, every destination is different. You're welcome to explore the wide range of places on offer, and you're sure to find your perfect night.
Provincetown may be small but it's bursting with pubs, clubs, and all sorts of great places to spend a night. The huge local LGBTQ+ community keeps the nightlife scene lively, but when tourists come to town it gains a new kind of energy. If you're looking for somewhere to let go and dance like no-one's watching, there are several clubs where the focus is all on the dance floor. There are also areas with a more upmarket feel, where you can find quieter spaces for cocktails and sunny afternoon teas.
You’ll find most of Seattle’s gay nightlife in the Capitol Hill neighbourhood, where most of the community gather. Head out and explore the neighbourhood’s variety of bars, clubs, and pubs where friendly locals get together and where new faces are welcomed. Most places are open until 2am so you can lose yourself in the atmosphere and dance the night away in some of the best gay clubs in the area. Each club has a different vibe, from strict 21+ spaces to classic pubs that draw mixed crowds, but everything is central, so you don’t have to choose just one!
Most of the LGBTQ+ meeting places in the city, particularly nightlife destinations, can be found in the fabulous Hillcrest neighbourhood. There’s always a party happening here and crowds of friendly and equally fabulous people to spend your night with. That being said, other neighbourhoods across the city such as North Park and University Heights, are emerging onto the gay scene and becoming destinations in their own right. Here you can find even more queer-friendly places to drink or dance the night away. You’re bound to find a place to suit your taste or even discover something new on your travels.
There are plenty of places for a drink here in Vancouver at any time of the day, particularly in the queer areas. The main gay scene on Davie Street may be small but its packed full of energy and has a thriving nightlife. There’s always a party and a dance floor waiting for you every night of the week. If late nights aren’t so much your thing, then day drinking and people watching are also popular pastimes here, so you’ll find a number of bars and pubs with their patios open for a social drink during the day.
San Francisco’s gay nightlife scene has come a long way from the first dark and secretive club that opened in 1908. This was the start of a boom in queer culture, which is now centred on the Castro neighbourhood and its varied venues. You can find dozens of nightlife spots packed together in Castro, newer clubs and festivals in SoMa, a huge leather scene, and an iconic drag club owned by the best-known queen in the city. For a loud and camp night out or a more relaxed hangout, you can find your place in San Francisco.
Oak Lawn is the best place in Dallas to hang out with a mixed crowd of LGBTQ+ people. There are plenty of nightlife options in this gaybourhood, including the largest lesbian bar in the country right next door to a host of other bars and clubs that all have different atmospheres and themes. Everything you need for the perfect night out is located in this queer hub, but if you want to venture out and explore the rest of the city, you'll find queer friendly venues there as well.
Munich’s gay nightlife is centered in the lively Glockenbachviertel district, a welcoming and inclusive area known for its diverse range of bars, lounges, and clubs. The atmosphere ranges from relaxed and cozy to energetic and stylish, with venues often hosting themed nights, drag shows, and DJ sets. Dancing is a major part of the scene, with late-night spots offering everything from pop to techno until the early hours. During the warmer months, outdoor terraces and spontaneous street gatherings add a vibrant, social energy to the nightlife. Everything is within easy walking distance, making it ideal for bar-hopping and exploring. Whether you're looking for a quiet drink, a lively crowd, or a place to dance the night away, Munich offers a safe, friendly, and engaging nightlife experience for LGBTQ+ locals and visitors alike. The city’s open-minded spirit shines through in its dynamic and inclusive queer scene.
As a top spring break destination and super lively city, there's always a party going on in Fort Lauderdale. Bars and clubs throughout the city welcome the large local queer crowd, but if you're looking for spaces dedicated to loud and proud nights out, then head to Wilton Manors. This iconic neighbourhood is central to the Fort Lauderdale gay scene, offering a range of venues to cater to all tastes. Whether you're looking for a night on the leather and fetish scene, a stylish cocktail, or a more classic bar, you'll find the place for you.
Plaça Indústria in the heart of Sitges is the place to be if you’re looking to experience the true gay energy of Sitges. All the gay bars and clubs in town line this square and neighbouring streets so you can hop from place to place for the variety of entertainment on offer. Enjoy a meal, sit back with your drinks and people-watch, or sample popular cruise clubs, dance clubs, and drag shows. The bars and restaurants all have seating on terraces and pedestrian streets, letting the party spill outside and filling the square with energy each night.
While you'll struggle to find a Lisbon bar that doesn't welcome LGBTQ+ travellers, most of the dedicated gay bars can be found in the neighbouring areas of Principe Real and Bairro Alto. The street at the heart of it is Bairro Alto where you'll find crowds of gays hanging out and drinking in the street late at night, since bars and clubs here are busiest around midnight and the early hours. These atmospheric streets come to life after dark, letting you party till morning and explore a diverse range of venues from traditional pubs to decidedly more modern cruise clubs.
The gay bars in Palm Springs are cool, modern, and open, reflecting the culture of the city as a whole. While most tourists here are focused on the sun and daytime fun, there's a thriving nightlife scene to enjoy as well if that's more your thing. In true Palm Springs spirit, there's a place for everyone, whether you're looking for a quick drink, a lively dance floor, a camp and sassy drag show, or even a holiday hook up. Gay venues can be found anywhere in the city, but most are concentrated in the unofficial LGBTQ+ area of Arenas Road.
Head to Oxford Street and Darlinghurst and you’ll find most of Sydney’s gay and gay-friendly nightlife. The gay scene in Sydney truly has something for everyone. There are popular lesbian hangouts, mixed hipster bars, dark cruise clubs, and everything in between. Many of the community’s favourite bars are based in hotels, including Oxford and Columbian which are long-standing institutions. Find your crowd and take full advantage of what this diverse city has to offer. Bars and clubs here are busy all year round, but annual Mardi Gras celebrations take the nightlife and parties to another level.
Portland has a multitude of gay venues for you to explore, all offering something a little bit different. The city has a prominent feminist and lesbian scene, which is focussed on the Hawthorne District with its trendy bars and coffee shops. Meanwhile the Burnside Triangle has always been a hangout spot for local queer people of all identities and is the home of LGBTQ+ nightlife that caters to everyone. As you explore the city you can catch a drag show, grab a craft cocktail, or simply dance the night away in one of the many clubs.
Featured gay friendly hotels worldwide
GayMapper brings you a curated selection of accommodation gay destinations around the world, which are in preferred locations and are welcoming to LGBTQ+ travellers. Grab a great deal on your hotel stay when you book via GayMapper!
3* The Queen Mary, Long Beach
Los Angeles
Board the Queen Mary Hotel for an experience unlike any other. Once a world-class ocean liner, the Queen Mary, now permanently stationed in Long Beach, offers a real glimpse into what transatlantic travel was like during the 30s, 40s and 50s.
With its impressive history and tradition of excellence, the ship is more than just a place to rest one's head. It's also a place where you can take historic tours, see paranormal attractions, browse shops, enjoy a massage at the full-service spa, relax on the spacious sun deck or enjoy fresh seafood at Chelsea Chowder House & Bar.
Even in the rooms you'll find an impressive history, rich tradition and old world elegance. The ship's 346 original first-class staterooms and nine suites, adorned with rich wood paneling from all over the world, Art Deco built-ins and original artwork found on the ship during her heyday, all pay homage to a bygone era. Enjoy one of the last luxury ocean liners of its kind.
4* Wyndham Orlando I-Drive
Orlando
Located on International Drive, the Wyndham Orlando International Drive features 2 heated outdoor pools, 3 on site restaurants, and a tropical garden. The Orange County Convention Center is a 10 minutes' drive away.
Rooms come complete with a flat-screen TV. Coffee-making facilities and a safety deposit box are provided as well. Family Bunk Rooms with a bunk bed are available as well.
Guests can relax in the hot tub or sauna at this property. A fitness centre and steam room are also available.
Gatorville Poolside Bar & Grill is an outdoor pool-side restaurant with large televisions and casual American fare.
Walt Disney World is 14 km away, while ICON Park is 600 m from the property. Pointe Orlando is 1.9 km away from the Wyndham Orlando International Drive. The property is located from 4.1 km Universal Studios Resort and 7.3 km from SeaWorld.
5* St. Regis San Francisco
San Francisco
Featuring a full service spa, an indoor infinity pool and an on-site restaurant, this luxury hotel is located in the SOMA District of San Francisco. A flat-screen TV is included in each guest room. Union Square is 8 minutes' walk away.
A luxurious bathroom with a soaking tub and a TV is featured in all guest rooms at St. Regis San Francisco. Each elegantly decorated room boasts a minibar and a DVD player.
Guests of St. Regis San Francisco can enjoy breakfast, lunch and dinner at the Grill restaurant. The restaurant features grilled meats, fish, burgers and an oyster bar in an intimate setting. Signature cocktails and a bar menu are offered at St. Regis Lobby Lounge.
Located on-site, Remede Spa provides separate whirlpools, steam rooms and saunas for men and women. Guests can enjoy chilled champagne and handmade truffles before seeing a spa therapist.
Information regarding area events and activities can be requested at the concierge desk.
The St. Regis San Francisco is across the street from Yerba Buena Gardens. AT&T Park is 1.6 km away.
Cheshire Motor Inn
Atlanta
Cheshire Motor Inn provides accommodation with free WiFi and free private parking. Not the place for a long holiday, many people use this motel for just a few hours at a time...The property is around 4.2 km from High Museum of Art, 4.4 km from Piedmont Park and 5 km from FOX Theatre. The property is 7 km from Martin Luther King Jr. National Historic Site and 8 km from NEW World of Coca-Cola.
The reception at the motel can provide tips on the area.
Atlantic Station is 6 km from Cheshire Motor Inn, while Atlanta History Center is 6 km away. The nearest airport is Hartsfield-Jackson Airport, 25 km from the accommodation.
4* Birdcage Resort
Gran Canaria
Aimed at gay men, the 4-star Birdcage Gay Resort Lifestyle Hotel is 5 minutes' walk from the Yumbo Centre in Playa del Ingles. Set in tropical gardens, it features a nudist-friendly outdoor pool, hot tub, hammock and spa area.
You choose between deluxe rooms and suites, some with a private garden and sun loungers. All have a fan, flat-screen satellite TV and DVD player, as well as a fridge and minibar. Bathrooms come with bathrobes, slippers and free toiletries. Suites have a separate bedroom and living room with a sofa. Rooms are studio style and feature air conditioning.
A varied breakfast can be enjoyed daily on the terrace. There is a stylish lounge with a fireplace, where you can relax with a book from the library or a cocktail, tea or coffee.
The spa offers massages, manicures, pedicures, hair styling and more in the garden massage temples or in your room.
Free Wi-Fi and free parking are provided and an airport shuttle service is available for an extra charge. Playa del Ingles Beach is a 10-minute walk away and the famous Maspalomas Dunes is 2 km from the complex.
4* Hotel Klaus K Helsinki
Helsinki
Situated 100 m from the Esplanadi shopping district, this design hotel features free gym access. The stylish rooms include free WiFi, LCD TVs and luxury beds.
Hotel Klaus K's soundproofed rooms have decor inspired by the Finnish epic poem, Kalevala. Some rooms include a bathtub and views of Helsinki's bustling city centre.
Italian cuisine and Tuscan wines are offered in Restaurant Toscanini. Breakfast includes organic options and is served in the Klaus K Dine lounge, where guests can also grab a cappuccino, cocktail or snack.
4* Argonaut Hotel
San Francisco
The Argonaut is a 4-star boutique hotel in Fisherman's Wharf, San Francisco with incredible amenities and great location for an unforgettable experience.
Featuring in-room spa services and a traditional seafood restaurant, this luxury Fisherman's Wharf eco-friendly hotel offers beautiful views across the San Francisco Bay. Valet parking is available.
The nautically-themed rooms of the Argonaut are decorated with rich blue and white furniture. A flat-screen cable TV, minibar and coffee maker with coffee from San Francisco's Vasquez Coffee Company are included.
The Blue Mermaid at the Argonaut serves homemade chowder and fresh seafood in a casual historic setting. The full bar offers California wines and ocean-themed cocktails.
A free newspaper is offered to guests each weekday. A fitness center, in-room yoga channel and free yoga accessories are also available. A 24-hour business centre is also included.
The Argonaut is 8 minutes' walk from the USS Pampanito Submarine and less than 4 km from the Exploratorium.
5* The Liberty
Boston
The Liberty, a Luxury Collection Hotel overlooks the Charles River in Boston's Back Bay area, near the gay nightlife. This historic landmark hotel, once a Victorian jailhouse, now offers luxurious guestrooms featuring flat-screen TVs, award-winning dining and lounge options and easy access to top attractions.
Originally built in 1851, the Liberty Hotel elegantly combines historic style and architecture with today's modern conveniences, including wireless internet access and state-of-the-art fitness facilities. The hotel also offers free seasonal bicycle rentals along with free seasonal yoga classes.
The Liberty features a variety of gourmet on-site dining options, including modern American cuisine at Clink. Guests can also enjoy unique cocktails at Alibi, contemporary Italian dishes at Scampo and an extensive wine list at The Liberty Bar.
Located at the foot of Beacon Hill, the Liberty is set in the heart of the city, only steps from the Museum of Science and Kendall Square. The shops at Faneuil Hall along with the historic harbour area are also only moments away.
Featured gay bars and clubs worldwide
GayMapper had details of hundreds of gay bars, gay clubs and gay cruising bars in the most popular gay destinations around the world. Here is just a small selection of favourite gay venues. Do you have a favourite? Let us know and we can feature it!
Ginger's Bar
New York City
Casual lesbian bar with a homely and intimate feel thanks to pool table, happy hours, and an outdoor patio. Ginger's is the lone lesbian bar left in Park Slope, and although crowds here often include straights and men, the focus remains on the ladies, who return for the dance parties on Fridays, Bingo on Sundays, karaoke on alternating Thursdays and one of the best happy hours in town.
The Village Inn
Birmingham
The Village Inn is one of the most well-established and popular bars in Birmingham's Gay Quarter. It offers entertainment every night of the week, in the form of appearances from some of the best drag and cabaret acts in the area. Queens host weekly bingo and karaoke, and the biggest names appear on a Saturday nights when the bar is open well into Sunday morning. Regulars always have their favourite night of the week to visit The Village Inn!
Dallas Woody's
Dallas
Everyone is always welcome at Dallas Woody's, the friendliest sports bar in Dallas. You can stop by seven days a week to catch the game on one of the many TVs or check out the extensive line up of live entertainment. There's karaoke, show tunes sing alongs, and comedy, and a great group of regulars and staff to enjoy your time with in a place where everyone knows your name.
Mälarpaviljongen
Stockholm
Mälarpaviljongen is a waterfront open-air cafe and beer garden on Kungsholmen with a lovely relaxed vibe. Both gay-friendly and popular with families. On a sunny day, this is a stunning location to chill out and watch the world go by.
Equator Bar
Birmingham
Equator Bar welcomes everyone in for coffee, cake, and gin at a low price that doesn't compromise on service. Staff are always friendly, and the stylish decor lends itself perfectly to a chill coffee shop that transitions to a lively bar at night. The music is good, and venue is perfect for anything from parties and big groups to some alone time with a pint at the end of the day.
Bacon Bear Bar
Barcelona
As the name suggests, Bacon Bear Bar attracts bears and their admires from all over the world. The bar is always packed with a truly mixed age crowd, and they're all keen to welcome visitors in. The variation of guys here makes this a favourite hangout spot for Barcelona's bear community, a lively place to go any night of the week.
The Zone Bar
Brighton
This lively and totally attitude free bar offers entertainment every night of the week. The Zone is known for its regular and varied cabaret shows, live music, games, and karaoke. Its clean and contemporary feel is complete with signature cocktails and a VIP area available for private parties. This a bar where groups can hang out and make the night their own.
Toad Hall
San Francisco
The Castro's Toad Hall is open seven days a week for live DJ's and dancing. The bar is full of cocktails and beers at great prices, and you can hang out with your drinks in the booths or just enjoy the dance floor. There's a second bar on the outdoor patio if that's where you prefer to relax, and regular drag events, karaoke, and dance competitions mean there's always something going on if you want to join in.
La Lulu
Madrid
La Lulu is a camp cocktail and disco bar in Chueca, serving delicious drinks and an eye-full of attractive shirtless staff. There's offers on drinks every day, making this a favourite meeting place for gay guys of all ages. The bar gets really busy at weekends so you're sure to find you crowd and get an unforgettable taste of Madrid's nightlife
TheCoven Bar
Berlin
Stylish gay freindly bar with a casual yet sophisticated atmosphere, located near Alexanderplatz. The Coven offers a selection of premium alcohol drinks and cocktails, great music and a friendly service in a cosy, modern environment.
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