Gay Resorts near New York: Exploring 23 Fun and Inclusive Getaways

Gay resorts near New York allow guests to unwind and have fun. These locations provide a safe environment for parties, sunbathing, sports, and exciting activities. The modern LGBTQ rights movement began in New York. Of course, the region with New York City at its center is a safe haven for the LGBTQ community. You have a wide range of cultural and historical experiences to choose from. Nature, beaches, great food, and culture can all be found in the Northeast. Transportation, lodging options, and local cuisine can all influence vacation plans. Some destinations cater to LGBTQ travelers by providing welcoming, inclusive, and enjoyable experiences. These locations welcome LGBTQ+ visitors and provide a variety of activities.

New York’s Top LGBTQ-Friendly Resorts

New York is home to some amazing LGBTQ-friendly resorts, each offering a unique and welcoming atmosphere along with inclusive amenities.

So pack your bags and get ready to embark on an unforgettable adventure!

Fire Island

This is a popular LGBTQ destination off of Long Island known for its diverse community and welcoming atmosphere. It is a 32-mile summer resort island just outside of New York City. Fire Island is a famous place to relax, swim, and attend dance parties. It has 32 miles of beautiful beaches and a lively nightlife. Cherry Grove and Pines are two LGBT communities on the island. They have places like Sip N’ Twirl and Pavilion that offer different experiences. Take the LIRR to Sayville and then a shuttle bus to the car-free island. The Pines and Cherry Grove neighborhoods have been friendly and welcoming to LGBTQ vacationers for many years. These American towns offer a peaceful and relaxing haven.

To find out more about Sayville, visit Loughlin Vineyard on the John E. Roosevelt Meadowcroft Estate. You can also explore the downtown areas of the island hamlets. The Carrington House and the Cherry Grove Community House and Theater are both on the National Register of Historic Places. They are important to LGBTQ people.

In the summer, the island is full of Pride. There are pool parties hosted by charities and non-profits. The Invasion of the Pines is a drag queen parade on July 4th since 1976. Live music can be found at Cherry Grove’s Pines Bistro and Martini Bar, Top of the Bay, Island Breeze, and the beachside Sand Castle. Two well-known dance clubs are Sip-n-Twirl and Pavilion.

Consider staying at the Madison Fire Island Pines, a chic boutique hotel on the island with a pool, hot tubs, and rooftop deck. The Fire Island website is a great place to look at all of the island’s different accommodations. At Fire Island National Seashore, you can explore The Sunken Forest, climb the historic Fire Island Lighthouse, and relax in the sun and surf.

Hudson Valley

Storm King is a beautiful Hudson Valley gallery and “outdoor museum” where rolling landscapes meet wide open skies. You can see many beautiful sculptures by famous artists like:

• Richard Serra
• And Alexander Calder

At this expensive outdoor collection. Dia Beacon is a museum on the Hudson River. It used to be a cereal box factory. The museum holds the Dia Art Foundation’s contemporary art collection. Spend some time exploring the quaint town of Beacon, which is full of fantastic restaurants, while you’re there.

Easton Mountain

Easton Mountain in Upstate New York hosts programs that promote:

• Connection
• Personal growth
• Fun
• And community

Easton Mountain is a community, retreat center, and sanctuary founded as a gift to the world. They offer workshops, programs, and events that help people celebrate, heal, and grow in body, mind, and spirit. They provide a beautiful space for a community that extends beyond the land. They are a global community of people who have benefited from their relationship withEaston Mountain. The goal of this fellowship is to be a positive force in the world.

Gay resorts in the Catskills of New York

For over 25 years, the Catskills region has been a haven for artists, hippies, and minority communities. The LGBTQIA+ community has expanded, providing a safe haven for gay men and women of all ages and races. In the area, people enjoy mountain biking, horseback riding, fly-fishing, and zip-lining. Hunter Mountain has the longest and highest year-round zip-line in North America. Once you’re done with outdoor activities, visit the Kaatskill Mountain Club for antiques and crafts. You can also go to the Bethel Woods Center for the Arts and Museum of the Sixties. They’re celebrating their 50th anniversary with exhibits, concerts, and events.

And be sure to explore your accommodations options for a nice getaway, many of which are LGBTQ owned businesses.

Emerson Resort & Spa | Mount Tremper

This gay resort caters to LGBTQ guests with Woodnotes Grille, Catskill Creative Cooking, and 26 spacious rooms. The Emerson Spa pampers and rejuvenates guests. And The Shops at Emerson sells handcrafted gifts, fashions, and toys from local artisans. The World’s Largest Kaleidoscope is also on display at The Emerson Resort & Spa.

Shandaken Inn

The LGBTQ-friendly inn is located on over 12 acres of country grounds. The Shandaken Inn has a state-of-the-art fitness center and offers a variety of activities.

Urban Cowboy Lodge

Big Indian’s Urban Cowboy Lodge is a gay-friendly inn with five separate buildings and expansive open-air spaces. Many suites have clawfoot tubs for two and pot belly stoves, as well as fast WiFi and adaptable workspaces.

Villa Sposa | Roxbury

An opulent European-style villa with LGBTQ-friendly details and unparalleled comforts. The original prayer house, built in Bavarian style, is now a meditation room. Monks, priests, shamans, and rabbis have blessed it. The Villa Sposa has been updated with fine details and exotic aesthetics to provide a unique Catskills hideaway.

Lake Placid and the Adirondacks

Having numerous highly-rated activities all year round in one location is truly exceptional. In the summer, you can canoe and kayak. In the winter, you can dog sled and skate on a frozen lake. Let alone one so close to the country’s most populous city. That is what distinguishes Lake Placid in upstate New York.

Discover the charming shops in downtown Lake Placid, along with the Olympic Center and Museum. Zipline through the Olympic Jumping Complex or skate on the site of the thrilling “Miracle on Ice” game. You can eat at waterfront restaurants with views of Mirror Lake. Some options include:

• Smoke Signals, which serves Southern-style barbecue
• Ere’s Pizza, which serves Italian cuisine
• And Top of the Park, which serves small plates paired with craft cocktails.

Tupper Lake’s 115-acre Wild Center offers a rare view of the Adirondack forest if you’re looking for a more adventurous experience. Lake Placid activities include hiking, fishing, leaf peeping, ice skating, and skiing.

You’ll be able to enjoy unforgettable outdoor adventures in resorts and lodges in Lake Placid, New York. Mirror Lake Inn Resort & Spa has received four diamonds and has been named a finalist for the 2020 Gay Travel Awards. The Adirondak Loj is a rustic retreat with its own beach and a soothing salt room for deep breathing and relaxation. The living room at Adirondak Loj has a stone fireplace, which is ideal for gathering and recounting hikes. Whiteface Lodge is a luxurious hotel that has a cozy, wooden style and offers stunning views of the Adirondack Park.

Finger Lakes

The Finger Lakes, one of the country’s top wine regions, can be visited by oenophiles; the region is filled with small historic towns and villages, with nearly 100 wineries in between. The Finger Lakes region is known for producing some of the best Rieslings outside of Germany, and ice wines from the region are becoming increasingly popular.

Corning

Corning, a small city that supports LGBTQ rights, holds an annual Pride Month festival. It has earned recognition as one of the best small LGBTQ-friendly cities in the country. The Gaffer District has tree-lined streets and family-owned shops like:

• galleries
• antique shops
• clothing boutiques
• and gift shops

You’ll find many unique places to shop there. The Cellar, a vegan and vegetarian restaurant, sources its ingredients seasonally and locally. Donna’s Restaurant, Aniello’s Pizzeria, and the Chocolate Trail are among the 45 restaurants in the Gaffer District.

Experience a unique outdoor adventure while in Elmira, near Corning, with a flight at the Harris Hill Soaring Center and a visit to the National Soaring Museum. Literary fans should pay a visit to Mark Twain’s Octagonal Study and Woodlawn Cemetery, where he wrote some of his most famous works. You can enjoy family-friendly activities like riding an 1890s carousel at Eldridge Park. Additionally, you can go go-karting and play mini golf at Harris Hill Amusement Park. Another option is visiting the 19-acre Elmira Drive-In.

If you decide to go, you can stay at the Blackberry Inn Bed and Breakfast. It’s a charming farmhouse from the 1830s. The owners, Brian and David, are super friendly and great cooks.

Letchworth State Park

With its title as the “Grand Canyon of the East,” this breathtaking park spans 14,350 acres. In addition to being America’s top state park, it boasts 66 miles of hiking trails. These trails wind through 600-foot gorges carved by the Genesee River. Whether you enjoy whitewater rafting or hot air ballooning, there is plenty of adventure to be had. If you are staying for a long time to see more Finger Lakes waterfalls, try camping at a site with electricity, showers, and restrooms.

Western New York State

LGBT Buffalo, nicknamed “The Queen City,” has a laid-back vibe and has had a thriving gay community since the early 1980s. It is New York’s second-largest city and is located on the shores of Lake Erie near the Niagara River. Buffalo is famous for being welcoming, having a diverse LGBTQIA+ community, and a vibrant arts scene.

Jamestown

The history and art of comedy are celebrated in Jamestown. At the Lucille Ball Desi Arnaz Museum, you can find costumes, props, and recreations of iconic “I Love Lucy” sets. This includes the Ricardos’ New York City apartment. The National Comedy Center has 50 interactive exhibits. Lucille Ball Memorial Park has a lighthouse, boat launch, playground, and pavilion. The Chautauqua Harbor Hotel has 135 deluxe rooms and suites, a full-service restaurant, and a casual bar with lake views. The Empty Pint taproom serves the best ales and ciders from Southern Tier Brewing Company.

The Audubon Community Nature Center offers a peaceful hike through fields, woods, and wetlands. Panama Rocks Scenic Park offers a historical tour on the Chautauqua Belle steamboat. During the summer, the Chautauqua Institution has many shows, talks, and fun things to do. The Amish Trail has 100 farm stands and shops from Randolph to Gowanda. They sell handcrafted home goods and homegrown fruits and vegetables. Following a pandemic hiatus, Jamestown now has its own Pride month, which began in 2021.

City of Buffalo

Visit the oddball northern New York city that gave birth to the first Buffalo wings. You can even dine at the original Anchor Bar. There are many things to see and do in Buffalo. You can visit Babeville, which is a creative arts space in a church. You can also explore neighborhoods like Elmwood Village and Allentown. You can also tour Frank Lloyd Wright’s architecture, like the Darwin-Martin House and Graycliff Estate by Lake Erie.

Niagara Falls

Niagara Falls is America’s oldest state park because majestic waterfalls are truly timeless. The 400-acre lush landscape park is open 24 hours a day, 365 days a year. You can see the falls in different ways. Take the Maid of the Mist boat or hike to the Cave of the Winds. History buffs can learn more about the falls’ history and the many efforts to preserve it at:

• Niagara Gorge Discovery Center
• And Niagara Adventure Theater

In early July, the Buffalo Philharmonic Orchestra performs a free concert with fireworks, and the Falls are lit up in rainbow colors.  The drive from New York City to Niagara Falls takes six to seven hours, but there are cheap direct flights available.

More Nearby LGBTQ+ Destinations

Aside from the fantastic gay resorts in New York, there are a number of other gay-friendly destinations in the area that are worth visiting. LGBTQ travelers can enjoy unique experiences in these charming towns and vibrant cities. They offer welcoming environments and friendly people.

Let’s look at some of the nearby LGBTQ+ destinations you should think about for your next gaycation.

Connecticut

Connecticut, an LGBT-friendly state where same-sex marriage was legalized in 2008, has a long history of supporting its LGBT community. As a result, it’s a relatively safe destination for LGBTQ+ visitors. The state has a lot of bed and breakfasts that are friendly to gay people. Many even hosted some of the first gay weddings after it became legal, or are gay-owned themselves. These establishments provide great amenities and features such as:

• wood-burning fireplaces
• antique furniture
• and seasonal outdoor pools

Connecticut has several LGBTQ+-friendly towns. Some places to visit include: Greenwich, West Hartford, New Haven, South Norwalk, and Westport.

Connecticut has a number of LGBTQ+-friendly bed and breakfast options, including romantic getaways. In Connecticut, solo travelers can visit public art museums, Mystic, Kent Falls, and cultural attractions. Connecticut also has historic attractions honoring LGBTQ+ contributions, like:

• The Philip Johnson Glass House
• And the Palmer-Warner House

New Jersey

Contrary to popular belief in New York, New Jersey is a tourist destination as well as one of the best places to live in the country. If you want to be in a state with a diverse cultural and ethnic population, which creates a foodie paradise, New Jersey is a great place to go.

Atlantic City, New Jersey

Looking for Vegas escapism without the plane ticket? Drive three hours south to Atlantic City, the home of resorts, casinos, and seaside fun. Though gaming culture is declining, getaway experiences are increasing. The city has top DJs at nightclubs, high-end spas for wellness travelers, and expansive beaches for water enthusiasts.

Plan to see a show after strolling the boardwalk and beach, swimming, and sipping cocktails. Borgata hosts concerts by well-known gay entertainers such as Lady Gaga, Boy George, Cyndi Lauper, and Countess Luann de Lesseps.

Borgata Hotel Casino & Spa

At Borgata Hotel Casino & Spa, guests can enjoy on-site concerts, a relaxing spa, cocktails, and a vibrant nightlife. The resort has special packages called Out at Borgata for LGBTQ vacationers.

Asbury Park

This popular Jersey Shore getaway draws city dwellers and young families to its idyllic Atlantic setting. The music scene in this place is famous. It brought us Bruce Springsteen and the Paradise Nightclub. The nightclub is in a gay-friendly resort. It’s a summer destination full of ice cream shops and boardwalk fare. Today, the seaside town has a lively history and a vibrant resort culture. Newcomers like Asbury Lanes and MOGO Korean Fusion Tacos attract a new generation of beachgoers.

Aside from enjoying the beach and live music, you can support LGBTQ services and programs. Attend the Garden State Equality Ball at Asbury Lanes. This is a weekend getaway you can feel good about.

The Asbury

The Asbury is now a popular place for LGBTQ weekend visitors. It has a rooftop lounge, an outdoor movie theater, and colorful, unique decorations. The hotel hosts tea parties, dance happy hours, drag brunches, and other dance parties featuring entertainers such as DJ Lina.

Pennsylvania

Pennsylvania has a diverse attitude toward the LGBTQIA+ community. Progressive cultures and active LGBTQ+ communities define its cities like Philadelphia and Pittsburgh. In contrast, rural areas may have less accepting attitudes and fewer resources. There are prominent LGBTQ+ leaders in the state, as well as schools that welcome LGBTQ+ students. That said, holding a gay partner’s hand may still be considered strange in conservative areas.

The Poconos

The Poconos Mountains cover northeastern Pennsylvania. There are many old towns, over 150 lakes, and lots of places for skiing, hiking, or enjoying the view. There are a few resorts in the area that cater to LGBT travelers. The resorts have different atmospheres, from charming to stylish. They also feature different resort amenities like lively nightlife and outdoor sports.

Rainbow Mountain Resort

Is there anything more appealing than this cute resort name? It’s a charming gay-owned and operated mountainside resort that welcomes LGBT men and women. The quirky rooms and cute clapboard houses that make up the complex are adorable, set around a pond. Rainbow Mountain Resort also has some beautiful walking trails.

You can choose from many activities, like tennis, shuffleboard, and rowing. Or you can relax by the pool or in the outdoor tub. Guests are generally very friendly, so you’ll have no trouble finding fun people to talk to. The food at the bistro is much higher quality than you’d expect, and as you might expect, we enjoy the drinks as well! They proudly wave their rainbow flag, and you can, too!

New Hope, PA

New Hope, PA is a charming town on the west bank of the Delaware River known for its LGBTQ-friendly atmosphere, art galleries, and historic sites. As a welcoming destination for LGBTQ visitors, New Hope has a wide range of attractions and experiences to offer, including:

• Shopping opportunities that are one-of-a-kind
• quaint coffee shops
• Galleries of art
• Historic locations

Whether you’re strolling through the picturesque streets or exploring the local art scene, New Hope is a must-see. So why not include this charming town on your list of LGBTQ-friendly vacation spots?

The Woods Camping Resort

You must be a member to stay at this sprawling camping resort, but it’s well worth it if you visit the area frequently. The 161-acre property is immaculately kept and includes campsites, trailer parks, a lake, nature trails, and a lively pool area. The surrounding Pocono Mountains are a beautiful part of the country, and this LGBT clothing optional resort is a great place to stay.

If tent camping isn’t your thing, The Woods Camping Resort has cabins and luxury trailers. The camp store has everything you need. The Clubhouse has patio parties and bonfires at night.

Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania

The Iron City has clearly relaxed —it now has a thriving nightlife, chic restaurants, and a vibrant cocktail scene. Andy Warhol’s hometown is just a 90-minute flight away from NYC. The city is closely linked to the arts, including music, theater, and dance. The city’s love for jazz, literature, and Wiz Khalifa began with donations from 19th-century industrialists. In fact, Wiz Khalifa famously wrote the song “Black and Yellow” as a tribute to his hometown.

The Andy Warhol Museum pays homage to the creator of pop art. You can see his artwork and films, and the organization helps LGBTQ initiatives like a Youth Prom and queer performances. A good place to go after drag bingo.

The Ace Hotel

The Ace Hotel brings its innovative spirit to the East Liberty neighborhood, where it has opened a location in a former YMCA building. The hotel’s events are now held in the original gym, which now hosts stand-up comedy shows, a speaker series, and monthly dodgeball games.

Roseland Resort

This gay resort and campground is for people over 21. It’s on a mountain in West Virginia and has beautiful views. In fact, because it’s on a slope, the permanent buildings are built on stilts, and the drive up there isn’t the best. But once you’re there, it’s well worth it. The surroundings are beautiful, with breathtaking views and every amenity you could want. The friendly staff makes you feel right at home.

Spend your time here in the buff ( clothing optional) and relax by the pool, on the sun deck, or in the hot tub. Roseland Resort‘s 222 acres of land provide ample hiking and mountain biking trails for the more active among us. It’s a slice of paradise and a completely unique vacation option.

Nemacolin

Looking for a scenic getaway in Pennsylvania’s Laurel Highlands? The opulent Nemacolin has you covered. This sprawling estate of over 2,000 acres offers a taste of storied English elegance on American soil. The dazzling Tudor Revival-style Chateau is at the center of amenities such as:

• Jeep off-roading
• Golfing
• And even visits with the property’s resident African lions

The resort feels historic, but the atmosphere is not old-fashioned. In 2022, they had an exciting event called Dive & Drag to support the Persad Center.

Massachusetts

Massachusetts was the first state in America to legalize same-sex marriage. It has a long history of protecting marginalized communities. And the LGBTQIA+ community is no exception. Even small towns have a vibrant gay community.

The Berkshires

The Berkshires is a hilly, rural region in western Massachusetts. It is famous for its lively summer arts programs, like Tanglewood Music Center and Williamstown Theatre Festival. The area also has museums, such as MassMoCa and the Norman Rockwell Museum, that are open all year. This is one of the best places in the Northeast to see the fall foliage. You can find charming old inns and restaurants in towns like:

• Lenox
• Great Barrington
• Stockbridge
• And Williamstown

Also, North Adams and Lee, once mill towns, have recently become more upscale. The Berkshires is a great place for friends from Boston and New York City to meet.

Northampton and the Pioneer Valley

Northampton is a vibrant city in central-western Massachusetts. This city on the Connecticut River Valley is famous for education, the arts, and progressive politics. The Pioneer Valley, a beautiful region, is anchored from Connecticut to the tri-border area with Vermont and New Hampshire. In the valley, there are lovely towns like Greenfield, Deerfield, and Amherst. There is also the city of Springfield, which has fun museums and a vibrant gay nightlife. Northampton has long been known as a popular place for lesbians to live and visit, but it’s also popular with gay men. Smith College is the cultural center of the small city. The downtown area is filled with quirky shops, bookstores, bars, and music clubs.

Provincetown, MA

Provincetown, a town in New England, is on Cape Cod’s tip. It’s a popular LGBTQ destination with nice beaches, lively nightlife, and a welcoming community. Located at the northern tip of Cape Cod, MA, Provincetown became America’s first artist colony in the 20th century. The town has become a favorite destination among lesbians and gays since the end of the 19th century. In the summer, different LGBT groups have their own special week to parade on Commercial Street. For example, there is Girl Splash for lesbians, Bear Week for husky gays, and Family Week for queer-parented families. The town’s cosmopolitan core includes some of the nation’s best beaches, with Herring Cove being the most popular.

Different groups may gather in their own areas, and yet everyone still enjoys P-town’s beautiful light together. In town, you can do many things. You can relax on the beach or explore downtown. Downtown has LGBTQ-friendly clubs, bars, and restaurants. Provincetown is a great place for LGBTQ travelers. It offers a unique and inclusive experience, and has a rich history of embracing individuality and expression.

From Boston, P-Town is relatively easy to reach, either by car year-round or by high-speed ferry from spring to fall. Cape Cod National Seashore has undeveloped beaches. Commercial Street has galleries, gay bars, restaurants, and guest houses. Even in the dead of winter, P-Town is charming.

Boatslip Resort

We adore the sunny rooms by the sea at this friendly resort. The highlight is the popular Tea Dance held by the pool every summer afternoon. As the sun sets over the horizon and everyone gathers on the deck, enjoy throbbing dance music and making new friends.

Although it’s famous for being a gay resort, Boatslip Resort is not only for gay people. Everyone is welcome to enjoy the property for themselves, even though there are more LGBT visitors. The pool deck is great for relaxing when people aren’t dancing on it, and the clean, comfortable rooms make ideal retreats. You can easily get there from Boston, Providence, and New York. It’s perfect for a weekend getaway or as part of a great gay trip to the East Coast.

The Brass Key Guesthouse

“Do you identify as gay, lesbian, straight, or something else?” We don’t mind as long as you don’t.” Those are the words of the hotel, and it doesn’t get any more accepting than that, does it? This “all are welcome” boutique hotel takes pride in its acceptance of diversity and open-mindedness.

The Brass Key Guesthouse is made up of nine meticulously restored historic buildings, each with its own terraced courtyard. On the grounds, there is also an infinity-edge pool and a large in-ground spa. Everything is enclosed for a secluded, quiet experience that blocks out the noise of the city, even though it is right outside your door. In fact, almost everything is within walking distance.

There is a rooftop deck with lounge chairs and a 15-person hot tub with views of the open sky. Every evening, there is a wine and cheese reception, which gives guests a great opportunity to meet one another. The Shipwreck Lounge, one of P Town’s most popular gay hangouts, is also on-site. It serves handcrafted cocktails as well as an excellent tapas menu. In the back, there is a bar in a courtyard with old-fashioned decorations. It has a fire pit, comfortable seating, and stylish lighting. The lighting creates a private outdoor bar atmosphere.

LGBTQ tourists in Provincetown won’t find a better place to stay that guarantees a good time.

Ocean Edge Resort

Ocean Edge Resort, located on Cape Cod’s idyllic north shore, is one of the best places in the Bay State for a relaxing getaway. In the summer, the property’s big beach is the perfect setting for sunbathing, bird-watching, and having cocktails at Beach Bar. Ocean Terrace is great for trying New England’s seafood. The property has recently started LGBTQ+ campaigns and events. One campaign is called Pride Trailblazers. It was a June installation that featured famous figures in the community. Plus, Provincetown is just a 40-minute drive away.

Rhode Island

Rhode Island was founded by Roger Williams, who wanted a colony for religious progressiveness and liberty. Since then, it has been a leader for other progressives in the region.

Newport

Prior to the American Revolution, the gilded seafaring city of Newport was one of the New World’s five largest metropolises. In the late 1800s, Newport grew little for 100 years. Then, it became a summer spot for wealthy industrialists like Vanderbilts and Astors. Newport, an elegant town on Aquidneck Island, remains a popular destination for the wealthy and famous. However, its abundance of excellent hotels and restaurants also attracts a wider range of visitors. And, despite its conservative appearance, it is very popular with GLBT travelers. In this posh sailing enclave, many of the city’s massive, venerable mansions are now open for guided tours.

Providence

Roger Williams established Providence, Rhode Island in 1636. The city has become a refuge for East Coast gays who want a friendlier and more charming place to live. Providence has become a popular destination for East Coast gays who want a relaxed atmosphere. They make up 4.4% of the city’s population. The city boasts seven universities, an eclectic arts scene, and one of the underrated culinary hubs in the country. Providence is a significant education hub with:

• Brown University
• Rhode Island School of Design
• And Johnson & Wales University

The city also has a small but edgy gay nightlife scene. The city hosts Rhode Island Pridefest in June and offers a laid-back Northeast lifestyle with some serious design eye candy. There are other things to see too, like the WaterFire art installation festival and an LGBTQ Film Festival. Additionally, Providence offers artisanal coffee shops, gay-friendly bathhouses, and an underground music scene.

Visit the city’s 18th- and 19th-century architecture and visit the RISD Museum, which houses over 100,000 art pieces.

The Dean

The Dean is a boutique hotel inspired by art, creators, and inventors, offering serious style and a focus on art history debates. The hotel offers fluffed white duvets, scotch, and karaoke, signature cocktails, and guests can enjoy a cup of Bolt Coffee in the morning.

Vermont

Vermont offers numerous charms, but the lower half of the state, including famous ski areas like Killington, Stratton, and Mt. Snow, is the best destination from Boston. Manchester and Woodstock are great bases for inns and romantic restaurants. Smaller villages like Arlington and Grafton offer scenic views. Vermont was the first state to pass laws for gay civil unions. If you’re GLBT, you’ll feel welcome in this area. Burlington, the state’s largest city, is just a couple of hours away.

Frog Meadow

Frog Meadow, New England’s Gay Resort, has a wood-fired tub, massages, and a 63-acre recreation trail network. Men’s gatherings, workshops, and retreats are also held at the resort to celebrate and heal the body, mind, spirit, and sexuality. Frog Meadow is located in a region that is known for being open, progressive, and welcoming. The area has great restaurants, microbreweries, a distillery, and a lively cultural community.

Abbott’s Glen Clothing Optional Inn And Nudist Resort

Vermont may not be the first place that comes to mind when you think of a gay nudist resort vacation. Nonetheless, this gay-friendly (but open to everyone) resort is open all year and is one of the most tranquil places you can imagine. From walks by the river to naked morning yoga to the famous Sugar Shack Club on-site, communing with nature is an exceptional experience.

There is a campground that is great in the summer at Abbott’s Glen. If you visit during the winter, you might prefer the bed and breakfast or a room at the Meadow House Inn. It is a romantic place to visit at any time of year because of the beauty of the changing seasons.

International & more gay friendly weekend getaways by plane

Sure, everyone knows about San Francisco and New York City. But there are so many places that roll out the welcome mat to the LGBT community. Some places with large gay communities that are within an easy flight from NYC include:

Montreal, QC

Montreal, the second-largest city in Canada, is famous for its lively LGBTQ community. LGBTQ visitors can expect a unique and memorable experience. Montreal has a European vibe but is still in North America. It has cobblestone streets, French-Canadian accents, and great food. The city’s Gay Village, the largest in North America, has a plethora of LGBTQ-friendly bars, restaurants, and nightclubs. The LGBTQ community is catered to in Montreal’s celebrations, such as the Fringe Festival and Piknic Électronik. The Fringe Festival’s Drag Race happens from the end of May to mid-June. Drag queens compete in obstacle courses, audience makeovers, and lip-sync battles.

The W Montreal

The glam W Montreal, centrally located between Old Town and downtown, provides a chic weekend vibe amidst the Old World feel of the city. The hotel has a cocktail bar and spa with Victoria Square views. They also host the “Queer Me Out” panel series, discussing LGBTQ topics in fashion, music, art, and politics.

Palm Springs, CA

Palm Springs is a desert oasis in Southern California’s Coachella Valley. It is known for LGBTQ-friendly resorts, golf courses, and outdoor activities. This popular tourist destination offers a wide range of activities, including:

• Exploring the breathtaking desert scenery
• Experiencing luxurious spa treatments
• Going to the local art museum
• Taking the Aerial Tramway
• Taking advantage of the vibrant nightlife and dining scene

Palm Springs is a popular destination for LGBTQ travelers. It is known for being inclusive and welcoming. So why not visit and enjoy the best of this desert paradise?

Mexico City, Mexico

In 2009, the capital city of Mexico surprised many by legalizing marriage equality. This decision inspired a greater acceptance of LGBTQ+ individuals across the country. And, unlike other expensive urban getaways, Mexico City does not come cheap—one dollar beers and meals for around $5 are common. That said, you should definitely splurge on Pujol, one of Mexico’s best restaurants with a six-course tasting menu.

In the Zona Rosa neighborhood, there are many bars, discos, and clubs that are queer-friendly. LGBTQ+ friendly lodging is also available in various places around town, like:

• Hotel Catedral
• Hotel Maria Christina
• And Wild Oscar, which has a sleek and modern design

Two must-see neighborhoods in the city are La Condesa and Coyoacán, which are great for exploring. La Condesa is bustling and serves as an ideal home base. Coyoacán is home to Frida Kahlo’s legendary Blue House. It’s become a hip ‘hood with a sizable gay population. Zona Rosa is the main area for LGBTQ+ life in the city. It got its name from the pink pavers. Some locals say it’s named after the gay bars on the streets.

Reykjavík, Iceland

In August, Reykjavik receives up to 22 hours of sunlight. And what are you going to do with all that light? You have a party. Reykjavik, the northernmost capital, started a one-day parade to celebrate Pride in 1999. Now Pride lasts 6-10 days and attracts 100,000 visitors. For comparison, Iceland’s population is 338,349. Their progressive politics are cheered around the globe. Jóhanna Sigurdardóttir, a lesbian, was their Prime Minister and the world’s first openly queer leader of a modern-day nation. Being out and proud is not a problem.

Since 2006, Iceland’s LGBTQ+ community can adopt and use IVF legally. Same-sex marriage became legal in 2010. In 2019, a bill allowed trans people to access medical care and change their name and gender on the National Registry without a medical diagnosis. If you want to take a picture, there are many rainbow crossings that show how diverse the country is.

Rainbow Reykjavik, another winter Pride festival held in March, includes a tour of the Northern Lights if the skies allow. The Reykjavik Bear extravaganza starts in September. People go on group trips to the Blue Lagoon and the amazing landscapes of the Golden Circle. The GayIceland Guide is a great resource to find out what’s happening in town. After that, go to Kiki Queer Bar and the surrounding gayborhood. You can’t miss the colorful outside. Also, consider booking a tour (or wedding) with Pink Iceland. Finally, relax at IDA Zimsen, a bookstore and coffee shop owned by lesbians. It’s right next to the Reykjavik Art Museum. Because whether you’re gay, straight, or somewhere in between, we all deserve some R&R.

Puerto Vallarta, México

Puerto Vallarta is the perfect place to go for gay weekend getaways in México if you want an authentic but also gay-friendly experience. Cancun is fine and will not disappoint, but Puerto Vallarta is the real deal. The scenery is breathtaking, and there is tequila, beaches, and authentic Mexican cuisine. Many gays picture PV when they think of Mexico. And there’s no shame in that!

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the biggest gay area in NYC?

Chelsea is the biggest gay area in NYC, boasting the highest number of same-sex couples and several gay-friendly businesses along Eighth Avenue with rainbow pride flags all year round.

These businesses range from bars and restaurants to clothing stores, unique shops and art galleries, making it a vibrant and welcoming place for the LGBTQ+ community.

Are the Catskills gay-friendly?

The Hudson Valley and Catskills are incredibly LGBTQ-friendly, providing a wide variety of gay travel destinations. Whether you’re looking for relaxation or adventure, the Catskills offer an enjoyable experience.

From the bustling city of New York to the quaint towns of the Catskills, there are plenty of activities to keep you entertained. From hiking and biking to kayaking and fishing, the Cats have everything.

Is New Paltz gay-friendly?

New Paltz is an LGBTQ+ friendly place with support services dedicated to providing broad support for the community, as well as upcoming events and an LGBTQ+ friendly place. Program and Diversity Manager.

The support services are designed to provide a safe and welcoming environment for the LGBTQ+ community. They offer easy access to a variety of resources, such as counseling, support groups, and educational programs. Additionally, they host events throughout the year to celebrate the diversity of the community.

What is the best gay town in upstate New York?

Woodstock in Ulster County, New York is an incredibly popular destination for gay travelers. Located in the Hudson Valley and Catskills region of New York, it has a long history as a bohemian retreat for artists and writers making it a great spot for queer visitors to explore and feel at home.

Therefore, Woodstock is the best gay town in upstate New York.

What are some popular gay resorts in New York?

Fire Island Oasis and Hudson Valley Hideaway are two of the most popular gay resorts in New York, providing the perfect destination for those seeking a relaxing getaway.