Your guide to the best Orlando gay bars, LGBT venues and events
Florida, United States
Fifty-one weeks out of the year, Orlando is a nice LGBTQ+ travel destination—and for that fifty-second week, Orlando becomes truly magical.
Orlando is famously known as the theme park capital of the world, but there's more to this city than just thrilling rides and enchanting characters. Begin your journey at the heart of Orlando's magic – the world-renowned theme parks. Walt Disney World Resort isn't just a theme park; it's a kingdom where dreams come true, and where adventure shines brighter than Cinderella's castle. Not far behind, Universal Orlando Resort invites you to step into the stories of your favorite movies, offering exhilarating experiences and unforgettable memories. No matter who you are, an adult, big kid, or child, you can find something to connect with.
The first week of June marks Orlando Gay Days, which bring together a broad set of over 150,000 fabulous folks for fun and frolicking. Gay clubbing nights, wild pool parties, and fun theme park riding are all way better in each other’s fabulous company! Gay Days is an event in a million, and worth experiencing at least once.
Not to say that Orlando isn’t worth visiting during those other fifty-one weeks! Do keep in mind when planning your trip that Orlando is quite sprawling, with neighborhoods clustered around lakes, so a car rental will serve you well—just make sure to have a designated driver when you head out for the night!
The city’s downtown neighborhoods, especially Ivanhoe Village, offer community-friendly (and, no doubt, dance-friendly!) with some of the best gay bars in Orlando. The Orlando gay bars around Lake Eola just east of downtown is, in a word, upbeat! After taking in a spectacular burlesque show, you’ll be upbeat too. The Milk District, also on downtown’s eastern edge, is trendy but unpretentious. Its bars and clubs are great for hanging out, and its striptease venues are, similarly, great at letting it all hang out. SoDo and the downtown areas are also very LGBTQ+ friendly. The city also hosts an array of LGBTQ+ festivals and gay events throughout the year (mostly through Disney events), showcasing the talents, cultures, and contributions of the community.
For those seeking a breath of fresh air and natural beauty, Orlando offers stunning outdoor spaces that embrace LGBTQ+ interests. Whether it's a leisurely stroll through the serene Harry P. Leu Gardens, a 50-acre botanical oasis that offers a serene escape from the bustling city life, have a picnic in the beautiful Lake Eola Park, or embark on a kayak adventure through the serene waters of Wekiwa Springs State Park, where the crystal-clear springs and abundant wildlife offer a mesmerizing backdrop to your journey.
The show goes on in Orlando, and the Dr. Phillips Center for the Performing Arts downtown is a spectacular venue for Broadway productions. Take the time to visit the Pulse nightclub shooting memorial in SoDo (South of Downtown). Orlando Pride works hard to educate folks about ongoing LGBTQ+ issues, and, in October, its parade plays hard with street performances, music, and fireworks displays. And don't forget about the annual Come Out With Pride festival, also typically in October, which is a great event to let all your Pride come out!
Year-round, Orlando is a tourist hub for its attractions, its total party atmosphere, and its weather, which lends Florida the Sunshine State nickname. You might just be enchanted by what Orlando has to offer.
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