There’s something pleasingly old-school about Washington Plaza Hotel, from its curving mid-century building on Thomas Circle to cocktails beside the lobby fireplace. The real treat in warmer weather, though, is the large landscaped outdoor pool and terrace, complete with poolside food and drinks. That Thomas Circle address has become increasingly useful for LGBTQ+ visitors. Logan Circle is just northwest of the hotel, with the main gay nightlife around 14th Street and P Street an easy walk away. At the same time, the Convention Center, Downtown and White House remain conveniently close. Rooms are spacious and contemporary, and there’s a recently updated fitness centre. 10 Thomas Restaurant serves American dishes throughout the day, while International Lounge works nicely for an evening drink. GayMapper tip: Don't underestimate the pool here — after a full day walking around Washington's monuments, having somewhere to cool off can feel like a genuine luxury.

Casa Hermès puts you right in Wilton Manors but takes a very different approach from the larger clothing-optional resorts. It’s an intimate, design-conscious gay guesthouse with just a few rooms and particularly hands-on hosts. Wilton Drive and its bars, restaurants and cafés are just steps away, so evenings couldn’t be easier. Back at the house there’s a clothing-optional saltwater pool, hot tub and peaceful garden, while the homemade Mediterranean-style breakfast gets plenty of attention from returning guests. The small scale makes it feel more like being welcomed into a very stylish private home than checking into a hotel. GayMapper tip: a great splurge for couples who want Wilton Drive on the doorstep but prefer personal service and a calmer atmosphere at home.

There's some genuine Montreal history behind the polished interiors at Hotel Birks Montreal. The hotel occupies the landmark Birks jewellery building on Phillips Square, giving you a central downtown base close to shopping, museums and the Quartier des Spectacles, with the Gay Village easily reached by Metro. The restored building combines grand architectural details with contemporary rooms and suites, some of which have private terraces overlooking the city. Henri Brasserie Française brings a little Parisian flavour downstairs, while in-room spa treatments are available when sightseeing and late nights finally catch up with you. Despite the ornate surroundings, the hotel feels intimate rather than like a huge convention property, which makes it particularly appealing for couples and special-occasion stays. GayMapper tip: A lovely choice if you want traditional five-star elegance and an independent feel, while keeping Montreal's gay nightlife only a short Metro ride away.

Right beside Jackson Square, Place d’Armes Hotel gives you one of those classic New Orleans locations where much of the French Quarter is practically outside the front door. The main gay nightlife around Bourbon and St. Ann streets is only a short walk away, while Café du Monde, Royal Street and the river are even closer. The hotel occupies a collection of restored 18th- and 19th-century buildings wrapped around lush courtyards and a swimming pool. Rooms range from simpler interior options to atmospheric balcony rooms, with exposed brick and traditional architectural details appearing throughout the property. It’s a particularly easy base if you want to spend most of your trip wandering the Quarter rather than thinking about transport, and the courtyard gives you somewhere peaceful to retreat when you’ve had enough of Bourbon Street. GayMapper tip: A great combination of historic atmosphere, central location and sensible pricing – especially good for a first visit to New Orleans.