New York City

From the Stonewall Uprising to today’s ballroom houses and Trans Day of Visibility rallies in Union Square, NYC doesn’t just embrace LGBTQ+ culture, it helped shape it. This is a city where same-sex couples walk hand-in-hand without second thought, where drag brunch is practically a weekend sport, and where every letter in the acronym finds a place to belong.

That said, it’s huge: five boroughs, dozens of neighbourhoods, and a subway system that deserves its own personality test. In Manhattan, Brooklyn, and parts of Queens, you’ll feel totally at ease. But even here, some areas can feel more performative than personal, especially when the rainbow flags come down after Pride.

The essentials

Let’s talk legal. The USA is a patchwork when it comes to LGBTQ+ rights, but New York? It’s one of the best states to be in.

Same-sex relationships

Legal across USA since 2003

Marriage equality

Legal since 2011

Gender recognition

Self-identification allowed

Anti-discrimination laws

New York State Human Rights Law

New York neighbourhoods that welcome

West Village

Home to the Stonewall Inn, Christopher Park, and bars that have been safe havens for decades. Cute cafés by day, cocktails by night.

Hell’s Kitchen

Manhattan’s current gayborhood. Think rooftop bars, stylish clubs, and a whole lot of biceps. Ideal for Broadway fans and brunch lovers.

Williamsburg/Bushwick

Queer-run everything: cafés, art spaces, tattoo studios. More genderfluid and DIY than Manhattan, with a thriving trans and non-binary scene.

Jackson Heights

One of NYC’s most diverse areas, and home to a huge queer immigrant community. Less touristy, more lived-in, and proudly intersectional.

Getting From A to Gay (Or B, or Z...)

Subway - It runs 24/7 and serves as the city’s queer artery. Safe in most parts, but late-night riders should stay aware and keep headphones low. TransLink maps now include gender-neutral language and ADA accessibility updates.

Taxis & Rideshares - Yellow cabs are iconic, but Uber and Lyft dominate. Discretion is easy; you can also use apps like Her or Alto for community-conscious ride options.

Walking - Manhattan and parts of Brooklyn are totally walkable and PDA-friendly. Be alert in less-lit areas late at night, but on the whole, queer folk walk tall here.

Where the Queer crowd goes (And the cocktails flow)

Wild, sweaty, and always packed. Legendary nights, dancers, drag queens and unapologetic energy.

The Q (Midtown)

Bushwick’s warehouse rave scene lives here. Performance, fashion, art, and a bar that lets you breathe.

3 Dollar Bill (Brooklyn)

A piano bar, a cabaret den, a pre-theatre stop — this place wears many hats and all of them glitter.

Julius' (West Village)

Leather, dark rooms, and decades of heritage. Come as you are, or as someone else entirely.

The Eagle NYC (Chelsea)

Local LGBTQ Guides

Discover the best of each destination with our local LGBTQ guides who will show you the hidden gems, vibrant nightlife, and inclusive spaces that celebrate diversity. Let us help you make unforgettable memories.

Pride Events Calendar

Stay updated on upcoming pride events worldwide with our comprehensive calendar. Whether you're looking to join a parade, attend a festival, or support the community, we've got you covered with all the latest happenings.

Travel Tips & Resources

Plan your trip with confidence using our travel tips and resources tailored for LGBTQ travelers. From safety guidelines to packing essentials, we provide valuable insights to ensure a smooth and enjoyable journey.