The 10 best LGBTQ+ travel destinations, according to GayCities readers
We asked, you answered!
Mark
From buzzing metropolises to scenic beach getaways and cities with rich queer histories, here at GayCities we know just how many places there are to see. And while we haven’t been everywhere, it’s on our list.
But between the travel ads, influencer recommendations, and Instagay photo dumps, it can be hard to decipher which friendly spots are worth the travel.
So, we asked, and you answered.
In a survey, we turned to tried-and-true GayCities readers to learn more about what’s driving queer travel, the places you hope to see, and the ones you can’t wait to return to.
After all, nobody knows better than the gays.
Pack your bags, we’re going on an adventure
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Below, check out the 10 best LGBTQ+ travel destinations, according to GayCities readers.
10. Tokyo, Japan
For those looking for adventure, Tokyo is a can’t-miss rec from our readers, who praised the city for providing “many resources for LGBTQ+ individuals” and being a “relatively safe location for visitors.”
There’s real deal ramen, stunning art, towering malls, and, of course, a buzzing bathhouse culture.
Still, we’re partial to Tokyo’s gayborhood, Shinjuku Ni-Chome, the dazzling epicenter of the city’s queer scene, packed with more than 300 bars and nightclubs.
9. Fort Lauderdale, Florida
Despite its state’s repressive political reputation, Fort Lauderdale, Florida — and especially its gayborhood, Wilton Manors — remains a dependable go-to for LGBTQ+ travelers looking to relax, unwind, and cruise… not necessarily in that order.
Our readers are partial to the gay-friendly beaches, historic stops like the World AIDS Museum and Educational Center, and its countless bars and clubs, which specialize in stiff drinks and very sociable locals.
What can we say? We all wish we were living in The Birdcage.
8. Seattle, Washington
If there’s one place where the gays won’t let anyone rain on their parade, it’s Seattle, Washington. GayCities readers recalled how “friendly and welcoming everyone was” in this rainy city, where gays tend to congregate in the quiet Capitol Hill neighborhood, and you might catch a glimpse of locals like soccer legend Megan Rapinoe.
Otherwise, the city offers plenty of nightlife options, hiking excursions, and some of the best coffee stateside. This is the birthplace of Starbucks, after all.
7. Amsterdam, Netherlands
As the host of this year’s WorldPride, Amsterdam is getting lots of love from the gays, but the dreamy city of canals, bicycles, and “coffee shops” has always been especially accepting of the LGBTQ+ community. From historic museums and street-side cuisine, to its naughty nightclubs and the Red Light District, it’s really a choose-your-own-adventure destination.
As for the people, our readers unanimously agree they’re amongst the friendliest. “I met a guy whom I’m staying friends with,” one recalled. “I’m looking forward to seeing him when I get back.” We need all the deets!
6. Toronto, Canada
From Carly Rae Jepsen to Queer as Folk, the gays have always had a soft spot for Canada, so it’s not surprising Toronto made the cut amongst our GayCities travelers.
Of course, the Church Wellesley Village and its club scene, including spots like Woody’s and the cruise-friendly Black Eagle, are favorites for those hoping to live out their own Heated Rivalry fantasies.
But you might be shocked to learn the food is just as good. “There is an enormous choice of restaurants featuring almost every cuisine,” one of our readers noted.
5. Provincetown, Massachusetts
Just the tip! Don’t worry, one weekend in Provincetown, Massachusetts — located on the very end of Cape Cod — and you’ll understand exactly what we’re talking about. What started as an artists’ community in the 1960s has turned into a must-see LGBTQ+ travel destination, where you’ll find a Pride flag in nearly every store window and “good people” around every corner.
During the summer months, expect nonstop drag shows, a bustling nightlife scene, and perhaps a quick, clothes-free trip down to Herring Cove Beach. That said, there’s still plenty to see during the off months, like Spooky Bear and P-Town’s annual New Year’s Eve celebration.
Regardless, readers say you’re sure to find plenty of “safe and fun spaces to relax and have fun with others.”
4. Portland, Oregon
One recurring favorite amongst GayCities readers was the wonderfully weird Portland. This laidback city is known for its colorful and artsy bar scene, far-out shopping, and “great beaches” like Rooster Rock State Park.
Most importantly, we heard from travelers that it’s “LGBTQ+-friendly everywhere you go.”
And we’ve got the stats to back it up: In 2025, the Human Rights Campaign Foundation ranked the city as one of the safest places for LGBTQ+ people.
3. Berlin, Germany
Berlin is one of the most unapologetically queer place in the world, so it’s only fitting we find it ranked so high amongst our readers’ favorites.
From its unbeatable club scene — including dirty and dark staples like Berghain and Prinzknecht — to its monuments to LGBTQ+ culture, like the Schwules Museum and an adventurous bathhouse community, it’s no wonder everyone leaves talking about the city and its “incredible people.”
2. New York City
When we asked GayCities readers what they liked about New York City, they said, “history and hot men,” and we’d have to agree!. The Big Apple is home to one of the most vibrant and expansive LGBTQ+ scenes in the world, with a slew of bars to visit in neighborhoods like Hell’s Kitchen, Chelsea, and the West Village, a.k.a. home of the legendary Stonewall Inn.
Of course, no one does Pride Month like NYC, but our trusted travelers say it’s a great spot year-round. “[Fall in New York City] is so special,” one reader wrote. “It’s still warm enough to enjoy outdoor dining, but not cold and freezing like some other times of the year. You can enjoy all the fun of Broadway shows, to the fun clubs, bars and restaurants.”
1. Puerto Vallarta, México
By and large, the biggest favorite amongst GayCities readers was Puerto Vallarta, and it’s easy to understand why. Between its gayborhoods (like Zona Romantica, which one respondent described as “so magical and accepting”), the “friendly and welcoming people,” the clothing-optional stays, and the consistently perfect sunny weather, Puerto Vallarta has something for every gay traveler.
But more than that, it has the type of LGBTQ+ community you want to experience. “I just love the feeling of freedom of being in a place with a majority of LGBTQ+ people and businesses,” one user wrote. “It just feels liberating.”
So, when are you booking your next trip?
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