There’s a reason LGBTQ+ travelers tend to gravitate toward the same handful of destinations. These are places where they feel comfortable being themselves without fear of prejudice, abuse, or any other unpleasantness that could spoil a trip. Everyone travels to have a good time—whatever that looks like for each individual or group—and safety, security, and shared values form an important backdrop to that experience. Most people associate LGBTQ+ travel with destinations such as Mykonos, Sitges, Puerto Vallarta, Palm Springs, Fire Island, and many of the world’s major capitals. But beyond these party hubs, there are countless smaller communities across the U.S. where everyone—regardless of sexual orientation or gender identity—is welcomed with open arms and celebrated for who they are (or, at the very least, left to mind their own business). Better still, these places offer plenty for allies, families, and groups seeking culture, activities, and fun, along with some wonderfully charming inns and boutique hotels.
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I’ve spent the past two days in Saugatuck, Michigan, on a summer retreat with design company Soucie Horner, which owns and operates the utterly charming Wickwood Inn and Fairview guest house. Located on Lake Michigan’s Art Coast, the town is filled with independent galleries, antique stores, and waterfront bars, while the nearby dunes provide a postcard-perfect natural backdrop. For just $1, visitors can cross the Kalamazoo River aboard the country’s oldest chain ferry, or rent a boat and cruise the waterways leading to the great lake, perfect for spotting the eclectic homes that line its banks. Saugatuck flies its rainbow flags proudly and is a beloved destination for queer Midwesterners, but it remains an inclusive place that warmly welcomes everyone. Provincetown, Massachusetts, is another destination where locals and visitors from all walks of life come together to enjoy the salty Cape Cod air, lobster rolls, and maritime history. There’s a strong year-round LGBTQ+ presence, alongside plenty of families who visit to browse galleries and quirky shops, embark on whale-watching excursions, or cycle through the nearby dunes. Land’s End Inn, White Porch Inn, and The Brass Key are all excellent options for a long weekend on the cape. Other beach towns, including Rehoboth, Delaware (stay at the low-key Bellmoor Inn & Spa), and Asbury Park, New Jersey (stay at the stylish James Bradley just a couple of miles south), make ideal summer seaside escapes. Family-run boardwalk restaurants, seasonal attractions, and Atlantic Ocean swimming for the brave are all part of the appeal. Meanwhile, on the opposite coast, Guerneville, California, offers a more woodland-oriented retreat along the Russian River. The recently renovated Dawn Ranch pairs glamping accommodations with a charming new dining venue, while The Stavrand delivers a slightly more polished experience with all the comforts of home. Particularly during America’s 250th birthday celebrations next summer, I hope you’ll consider spending your time and money in parts of the country that celebrate *all* of its citizens and visitors. And wherever your travels take you, treat everyone with respect, courtesy, a smile, and a friendly conversation. That’s what Pride symbolizes. BY DAN HOWARTH |
