One of the silver linings of the pandemic is that inclusive U.S. destinations that may not have had our attention before...have it now! We've uncovered many "off-the-beaten-path" places that are not only inclusive and welcoming but also quickly becoming the darlings of savvy LGBTQ+ travelers like you!
Here are 10 diverse and inclusive destinations to discover. Some may already be familiar to you, while others may open your eyes in ways you didn't expect!
1. Black Hills, South Dakota
Spring, Summer, and Fall adventures await in the Black Hills area of South Dakota.
My X.O. Adventures will show you the parts of the United States in a whole new light!
When travelers think of South Dakota, typically, the first thing that comes to mind is Mount Rushmore. But LGBTQ+ travelers will soon see the hidden gem called the Black Hills area of South Dakota. It's a remarkable place where towering spires lit up in sunlight are the backdrop to where the mighty American Bison roams (Frank Lloyd Wright described these structures as "nature's architect," and you'll soon see why!). You'll find it to be safe, beautiful, and accessible. You'll also find ample adventure and culture in this "undiscovered" part of the country.
The founder of X.O. Adventures has something special for you when he says, "I'm here; I'm queer and ready to take you on an adventure you'll never forget. As a welcome, use the code LGBTSD for 10% off any tours I have to offer. See you soon! X.O.!"
2. Chestnut Hill, Tennessee
Experience Nashville Like a Local
Couched between the distillery-and-brewery haven known as Wedgewood-Houston and the upscale shopping of The Gulch, you'll find the historic Chestnut Hill neighborhood that BentoLiving calls home. Each of the hotel's 89 rooms comes equipped with all the creature comforts — a full-sized kitchen, a stylishly furnished living room, a washer/dryer — and your actual creatures, as Bento is pet friendly! The five-bed suite is perfect for larger groups, but if you're traveling solo, the studio is the way to go.
A "hotel you want to live in," Bento offers additional amenities like a 24/7 Bodega and concierge services, valet parking, and a rooftop bar with unobstructed views of the Music City skyline. Downstairs at The Hart, Chef Michael Gibson brings the Pacific Rim to the American South, featuring the freshest local ingredients and international takes on traditional dishes.
3. Cody, Wyoming
Close to Yellowstone National Park and named after William F. Cody, a.k.a. Buffalo Bill!
When you want to experience authentic Western hospitality, then the place to hang your hat is at the welcoming and GayTravel Approved® Chamberlin Inn. Located within walking distance to historic downtown Cody, this historic boutique inn built in 1901 is ideal for discerning LGBTQ+ travelers.
Cody is a part of the country you'll be glad you invested time getting to know. While there, you'll also be in proximity to Yellowstone National Park and "The Grand Canyon of Wyoming," where wild horses run free! Yippee-kay-yay!
4. Georgetown, Washington D.C.
Georgetown, located in the Northwest area of Washington D.C. and along the Potomac River, is another historic area LGBTQ+ travelers will appreciate getting to know better.
Georgetown is the oldest neighborhood in Washington, D.C., and it's got something for everyone! LGBTQ+ travelers will appreciate the charm and appeal of the architecture and scenery, the activities around the Potomac, the Michelin-rated restaurants, interesting shops, and the fantastic music scene, including the Blues Alley Jazz Club that seen the likes of greats like Dizzy Gillespie, Tony Bennett, Ella Fitzgerald, and other legends.
Where's the best place to make your home base? The Westin Georgetown, Washington D.C. is GayTravel Approved®, offers a seasonal outdoor pool, the WestinWORKOUT® Fitness Studio, and Peloton bikes! Experience world-class hospitality and service with everything you need at your fingertips at this exceptional hotel that's in a prime location with premier dining, shopping, cultural spots, and the lively nightlife of Georgetown and DuPont Circle. You can't go wrong with this timeless classic with modern touches.
5. Iowa City, Iowa
Ahead of the curve for the LGBTQ+ Community
When we think about the most popular and inclusive U.S. cities, LGBTQ+ travelers should Think Iowa City! This destination is a two-time Gay Travel AwardsSM Nominee and rivals the biggest gay-friendly cities like New York and San Francisco.
Where to stay in Iowa City? There are two GayTravel Approved® hotels we recommend. In the heart of Iowa City, The Highlander Hotel is a fantastic choice where "five star meets a rock star." The Highlander is a trippy, urban retreat that will knock you off your feet!
60 miles away in the college town of Grinnell, we recommend The Hotel Grinnell which is an old school built in 1921 that now serves as an upscale but laidback, modern, eco-friendly, gay-friendly hotel. The phrase "back to school" will take on new meaning once you experience it!
6. Manchester, Vermont
Let's head to the Green Mountains of southern Vermont, shall we?
Manchester, Vermont, is gorgeous year-round, and gay travelers will enjoy the scenery no matter the season. Fall is famous for its colorful and vibrant foliage. Winter is bounding with fun, including great skiing, sleigh riding, and snowshoeing. Spring brings forth baby animals and various flora and fauna coming onto the scene. Summer is for sitting around the campfire and when the rivers run. Where to stay? The Palmer House Resort, an Ascend Collection is GayTravel Approved® and a hidden gem. You'll be right in the heart of the Green Mountain National Forest and close to high-end restaurants, shopping, and every outdoor activity you can think of, from golf to tennis to canoeing.
7. Palm Springs, California
Out in the middle of the Sonoran Desert of Southern California, this oasis is considered a "gay mecca." It has everything that stylish LGBTQ+ travelers would appreciate, from fun shops, fine restaurants, world-class golf and spas, tennis, midcentury-modern architecture, and significant events like Coachella and the annual White Party Palm Springs.
Ace is the place to stay - as in the Ace Hotel and Swim Club! Gay Travelers are especially fond of this inclusive and GayTravel Approved® spot where you can feel free to be yourself. You'll be close enough to downtown to walk everywhere and near major landmarks like Joshua Tree National Park, the Salton Sea, and Indian Canyons. While you're there, you need to avail yourself of the spa as well, and don't forget to wish upon a star on the stargazing deck at night!
8. Pasadena, California
Another Southern California off-the-beaten-path spot that lies northeast of downtown Los Angeles is the city of Pasadena. Old Pasadena is where you'll find the Victorian and art deco buildings associated with the town in stark contrast to the modern Norton Simon Museum houses.
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Once you arrive in Pasadena, you'll understand precisely why it's Hollywood's favorite hideaway. If you want the whole experience, then there's only one place to stay, and that is The Langham Huntington. This iconic landmark hotel is a GayTravel AwardSM Winner in the luxury category and the idyllic getaway. You can stroll the gorgeous grounds or lose yourself in the spa.
9. Round Top, TX
Where "country chic" meets arts and culture!
Experience unique lodging in recycled shipping containers at FlopHouze Hotel! The uniquely designed interiors are covered with sustainably harvested wood from the owner's farm in upstate New York and reclaimed lumber from a distillery in Kentucky. Six Flophouzes are now available. Each HOUZE is provisioned with Experience unique lodging in recycled shipping containers at FlopHouze Hotel! The uniquely designed interiors are covered with sustainably harvested wood from the owner's farm in upstate New York and reclaimed lumber from a distillery in Kentucky. Six Flophouzes are now available. Each HOUZE is even provisioned with Topochico sparkling water, coffee, tea, and Mexican Cokes with their compliments.
10. Yosemite, California
Tenaya Lodge at Yosemite - Experience "Winter Inside-Out"
Cover Photo Credit: Tenaya Lodge at Yosemite
If you love snow or have always wanted to experience it, you must visit Yosemite in winter. Located two miles from Yosemite National Park, Tenaya Lodge, this year's GayTravel AwardSM Winner in the "Lodge" category offers the perfect setting for your adventure. Visiting Tenaya Lodge in winter gives you the best of both worlds. There are so many activities to enjoy in the snow-covered Sierra region. And after, you have a cozy scene waiting at Tenaya Lodge's full-service resort or private Explorer Cabins. Outdoor recreation abounds. You can:
- Explore countless hiking trails while snowshoeing or cross-country skiing
- Enjoy downhill skiing and snowboarding
- Ice skate on Tenaya Lodge's on-property ice rink
- Go sledding with the kids (no shortage of hills here)
Learn more about winter fun in Yosemite at TenayaLodge.com
BONUS: "Anywhere the Wind Blows!"
Ready to roll along in an R.V. and go anywhere your heart desires?
RVshare will help you get to wherever you want to go by setting you up in a fully-equipped R.V. They'll do all the work for you and make the process simple, so all you have to do is have fun and enjoy! They'll help you decide what kind of trip suits you best - whether it's to see the National Parks, Camp Grounds or just a plain old-fashioned road trip! RVshare will have you covered and on your way.
Please take pictures of your "off-the-beaten-path" destinations and tag @gaytravel to share your discoveries with others, or let us know what you think in the "Join the Conversation" section below.
