Apr 10, 2019

As spring flowers bloom and hats and gloves get stowed in storage, gay travel fans are surely itching for quick Easter getaways to cast off the winter doldrums. Got the time off but not sure where you’ll head off to yet? Let us suggest a few quick gay-friendly breaks in ever-popular destinations around the country, so you can warm up, chill out, and start your spring on the right foot.

Orlando

Between family-friendly daytime activities and gay-friendly nightlife, Orlando is a sure bet for LGBT travel enthusiasts looking to maximize every second of their whirlwind retreats. Jet off to this central Florida spot before the intense summer temperatures kick in and you just might find yourself sipping cocktails alfresco-style at one of the bars scattered near Central Boulevard downtown. Milder temperatures also make Orlando more pleasant for travelers who want to hit Disney World before the summer crowds descend on the ever-popular theme park. And as a bonus, old-school-style Cocoa Beach is only about an hour’s drive away.

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Gay-Friendly Hotels We Recommend in Orlando

For an upscale getaway during the Easter holiday, Hyatt Regency Grand Cypress makes the perfect indulgent base. Located on the shores of a private lake in Lake Buena Vista, this GayTravel Approved®, 4-star hotel impresses with a whopping 1500 acres of gated grounds for revitalizing gay vacations. Guestrooms entice with chaise lounges and Wi-Fi. Enjoy the exquisite scenery from your private, step-out balcony—some even boast views of Lake Buena Vista’s nightly fireworks display! Try some island-inspired cuisine at on-site Hemingway’s, or hit the water for some kayaking or swimming.

Located near downtown Orlando’s hive of activity, the newly renovated and GayTravel Award Winning DoubleTree by Hilton Orlando Downtown offers refined, budget-friendly digs for LGBT vacations. Boasting a cheerful, easygoing ambiance, this hotel charms visitors with a palm-tree-lined heated swimming pool, sleek furnishings, and multiple on-site dining options and cafes (including a Starbucks!). And the most popular attractions and sightseeing spots are just a short drive away.

Read our full gay travel guide to Orlando.

Palm Springs

Head to Palm Springs for a last-minute Easter trip and you’ll get to sample this stunning desert retreat’s distinctive flavor before the intense summer heat takes hold. Long a favorite destination for whirlwind getaways, Palm Springs inspires you to live your best life lounging by the pool or canoodling with your partner. No reason to hold back — this is one of the most gay-friendly destinations in the country.

Spend a few sunny days admiring mid-century modern architecture or window-shopping at boutiques lining the recently revitalized downtown area. And now, with the culinary scene bursting back into the spotlight, you’re guaranteed a few meals that will stick with you for a while. Got kids in tow? Head to the annual Easter Eggstravaganza hosted by The Living Desert Zoo and Gardens on Saturday, April 20.

At the GayTravel Approved®, 4-star The Westin Mission Hills Golf Resort & Spa, the quintessential Palm Springs vacation awaits. Swimming pools are a must on any desert getaway, and the Westin has that covered with three sparkling options for guests to enjoy. After a few hours on one of two championship golf courses, you can relieve your body’s tension at the Spa at Mission Hills. Get a taste of California cuisine at the on-site restaurant Pinzimini, or make the short drive into town to sample fare from one of Palm Springs’ buzzy new culinary outfits.

Read our full gay travel guide to Palm Springs.

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