The scene really heats up when the weather cools down in late autumn and winter-some estimates put the local LGBTQ population at over 30 per cent during this time. Whether you’re a couple (with or without kids) or looking for a singles scene, Palm Springs and its neighbouring cities offer memorable experiences, from tranquil retreats to clothing optional resorts. There’s no question that the Palm Springs region ranks as one of the world’s top destinations for LGBTQ travellers. Stylish bars and impeccably designed hotels.
Insider tip: when planning a visit to San Francisco during Gay Pride Month, be sure to book well in advance, as accommodation fills up quickly.įabulous pool parties. You can also check the events calendar at and the Pride with Our Families page at.
Directly opposite the Asian Art Museum right around the corner from the Civic Center, the annual Family Garden event offers the perfect venue for kids to celebrate diversity with arts, crafts, face-painting and more children are also encouraged to participate for free in the San Francisco Frontrunners Pride Run. If you are new to the city’s gay scene, Badlands, Lookout and Twin Peaks Tavern are legendary haunts, and The Parker Guest House, the Hotel Whitcomb, Joie de Vivre Hotels and the W are just a few of the city’s gay-friendly hotels.Ī note to parents: there are plenty of pride events that are family and child friendly going on in San Francisco during Pride Month.
If you’re in town during Pride Month, also check out a screening or one of the many events hosted by the Frameline LGBT film festival.Īttending the world’s largest LGBTQ gathering can present a few challenges check out some tips on how to get the most of it. The main event is Sunday’s parade, which begins at the intersection of Market and Beale Streets and ends near the Civic Center. Keep your eyes open for celebrities-the celebration has become a real see-and-be-seen opportunity.
Taking place in front of City Hall at Civic Center Plaza-a location steeped in LGBTQ history– the festivities include live music and comedy on the main stage, plus cabaret, a Country-Western Dance Corral, a Leather Alley carnival and, pretty much everywhere you look, elaborately costumed performers. Find out more about the remarkable role the city played and is playing in the gay movement at the GLBT History Museum, or on a guided 'Cruisin’ the Castro' historical walking tour.Įvery June is Pride Month, which culminates on the last weekend when up to a million visitors flock to the city for the annual (and outrageous) San Francisco Pride celebration. There are more than 60 gay bars and clubs, and although the Castro serves as the epicentre of LGBTQ culture and nightlife, gay-friendly businesses are sprinkled throughout the city-frankly, it’s the norm here. In the Castro, a rainbow flag flaps in the wind above colourfully painted pedestrian crossings, making one big statement: San Francisco welcomes the LGBTQ community with open arms. The City by the Bay, known for its liberal, alternative lifestyles, is one of the best-known areas in the world for LGBTQ.