Featured Gay Friendly Hotel in Washington DC

Gay Travel Washington D.C.

Washington, D.C. is not only the nation's capital but also its cultural capital. It's known for top-notch museums and attractions, neighborhoods packed with culture and fine dining, and nightlife that won't quit. Government makes up the meat of the population in this fine city, and with each passing election, the vibe shifts as people transition. While one might think this would lead to a lack of cultural stability, it adds a fresh fervor to the local vibe. With so many people from different walks of life passing through, new ideas constantly flow in and alter the landscape. This flow, coupled with the nature of politics, leads to a ever-evolving vibrant social scene.

The Capitol is a treasured landmark in gay-friendly Washington D.C.

Washington D.C. Gay Scene

Washington D.C. is the political nerve center of the United States, and many local LGBT residents fight to secure civil rights for gays and lesbians in the rest of the country.  Make no mistake — the community is bipartisan when it comes to balancing work and fun! Don’t hesitate to explore Washington D.C.‘s thriving gay scene. With streets lined with gay-owned and gay-friendly businesses, any gay traveler will feel right at home.

For many years, Dupont Circle was the predominant “gayborhood” in Washington D.C.— you'll still find a mix of great LGBT bars, restaurants, and other businesses on 17th Street. Dupont Circle is also the meeting point each June for Capital Pride, an annual GLBT pride festival that bills itself as the nation’s fourth-largest event of its kind. In October, be sure to check out the Dupont Circle High Heel Race, a two-block trek that draws out a bevy of the best drag queens competing in their most fashionable kicks!

Nowadays, the premier gay neighborhood is Logan Circle, home to some of the city's best gay bars and nightlife spots. 

When to Visit

The Washington Monument cuts an impressive figure

If you like to experience four distinct seasons, Washington, D.C. is your city. The spring and fall months tend to be warm. During the winter, temperatures dip into the 30s. Nor’easters bringing heavy wind, rain, and occasional snow are not uncommon in the winter. Many tourists plan their trips for Spring to coincide with the blooming of the cherry blossoms, which drape the city in a lovely pink color. 

Activities and Attractions

Gay Washington D.C. encompasses a number of interesting neighborhoods brimming with pretty rowhouses.

The Smithsonian dominates the National Mall, home to enough cultural food to feed a week of visits. The Washington Monument is free to go up with a ticket and offers the best sunset views in all of DC. Lincoln and Jefferson stoically await your visit, and there are dozens of monuments and other points of national interest to explore nearby, including the National Museum of African American History and Culture, the National Museum of the American Indian, and the National Gallery of Art. Tourists invariably flock to the Smithsonian National Zoological Park, a free zoo home to thousands of animals, including pandas. 

The nation's capital is filled with interesting neighborhoods ripe for exploring, including Dupont Circle, Logan Circle, Georgetown, and Capitol Hill. Here's you'll find corner bistros, hip coffee shops, and swanky cocktail bars packed with some of the nation's smartest and savviest people. 

Gay-Friendly Dining

Bistro L'Hermitage

Long-time DC restaurateur Youssef Eagle Essakl has transformed a building and the surrounding property in historic downtown Occiquan into his vision of a French country bistro. L’Hermitage, a great escape from the hectic DC restaurant scene, promises ‘relaxed good taste’ with the polish and sophistication of fine dining.

Ristorante Bonaroti

A well-kept secret nestled in the heart of Vienna offering elegant dining within a warm and intimate setting. Our classic Italian cuisine has been ranked among the best in the Washington, D.C., area.

Cafe Renaissance

For lovers of food, wine, and romance, Cafe Renaissance is your first choice in intimate dining. Located in the heart of downtown Vienna, Va., Cafe Renaissance offers a quiet and charming ambiance that will complement any lunch or dinner.

Gay-Friendly Nightlife

The Green Lantern

This hidden gem is one of the most beloved LGBT bars in the city. Happy hour starts at 4 p.m., but watch out — the pours are generous! Head up to the second-floor club when you're in the mood to dance. 

Nellie's Sports Bar

Mingle with fellow gay partyers at this two-story staple, complete with a large roof deck. The Sunday drag brunch is epic, as are Sunday Fundays, where you can beat the Sunday night blues with a dance party. 

JR's Bar  

Open for more than 25 years; this bar features show tunes singalongs, drag performances, and a very popular happy hour.  

Doyle

Doyle is one of the city's best happy hour spots. The floor-to-ceiling windows make this one of the best people-watching spots in the city. Don't miss the chance to taste an insanely good Cosmopolitan!

Transportation

Commuters complain that the metropolitan Washington, D.C. area has some of the worst traffic and congestion in the United States. Many other transportation options are available, including a subway system and bus services.

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