As a longtime queer journalist, my journey has taken me across the United States, venturing into vibrant LGBTQ+ communities, especially those nestled in conservative landscapes. Reports from all 50 states have shaped my understanding of LGBTQ+ resilience, particularly in the face of stringent restrictions impacting trans youth and their essential rights.
In an era where 19 U.S. states impose bathroom restrictions on trans individuals, predominantly targeting students, and 27 states limit essential gender-affirming care for minors, it’s heartening to witness LGBTQ+ communities thriving in these so-called red states.
In the past six months, I’ve traveled the country to promote my nonfiction book, American Teenager, which chronicles the intricate lives of trans youth across seven states, further deepening my appreciation for those who embody queerness in challenging climates.
As a tribute to the diverse and vibrant queer population braving turbulent political times, I’ve compiled a list of exceptional queer locales discovered during my travels in these conservative regions. These spaces, ranging from lively cafés and restaurants to indie bookstores and community centers, serve as vital hubs for LGBTQ+ individuals, offering safe havens and sources of joy.
Within this compilation are noteworthy locations designed specifically for queer youth, including summer camps and youth centers, where community and camaraderie thrive in spite of widespread discrimination.
While I couldn’t include every space that deserves recognition, the venues highlighted here embody the spirit of resilience, reminding us that LGBTQ+ life persists, evolves, and flourishes regardless of the odds.
Whether planning a weekend getaway or an expansive road trip, let these recommended queer destinations guide your next adventure.
**Best Rural Gay Enclave: Historic Downtown, Eureka Springs, Arkansas**
Eureka Springs, Arkansas, is embodying a unique spirit often reminiscent of Palm Springs, situated in the heart of the Ozarks. Originally envisioned as a resort haven in the 19th century, this charming town became a refuge for LGBTQ+ individuals and nonconformists seeking solace in the countryside during the 1970s.
Eureka Springs, home to approximately 2,100 residents, is now one of the most densely queer-populated places in the nation. Visitors are treated to a plethora of experiences, from haunting hotel tours to amateur drag contests and bustling Halloween zombie pub crawls.
The town’s enchanting limestone streets offer the perfect backdrop for leisurely afternoons spent people-watching and soaking in the vibrant atmosphere.
**We Also Love:** Johnson City, Tennessee; Missoula, Montana
**Best Bar to Escape the Freezing Cold: Mad Myrna’s, Anchorage, Alaska**
Wrapping up the list of must-visit queer spaces is Mad Myrna’s, the northernmost gay bar in the United States, located in Anchorage, Alaska. This establishment serves as a central hub for queer social life in a city of 280,000 residents, offering not only entertainment but a vital community resource.
Mad Myrna’s showcases an array of events, including drag shows and karaoke nights, while also fostering local activism. During the 2018 campaign to protect Anchorage’s inclusive nondiscrimination ordinance, it became a strategic meeting ground for LGBTQ+ organizers.
With its quirky slogan, “fabulous and a little mad,” Mad Myrna’s transcends the typical bar experience, morphing into a sanctuary for connection and community.
**We Also Love:** The Balcony Club, Boise, Idaho; Walker’s Pint, Milwaukee, Wisconsin
**Best Queer Café in the Deep South: Cups Espresso Café, Jackson, Mississippi**
Cups Espresso Café stands out as a beacon of hope and inclusivity in Jackson, Mississippi’s Fondren district. This queer-owned café is a gem of an establishment, offering a retro chic ambiance that attracts locals and visitors alike.
While Mississippi presents challenges for the LGBTQ+ community, Cups serves as a vibrant reminder of resilience and camaraderie. Its diverse menu features unique beverages, including popular flavored lattes, made for enjoyable conversations among friends.
The café’s atmosphere encourages lively discussions, which often touch on contemporary political topics, ensuring that patrons stay informed and engaged in activism.
**We Also Love:** Azalea Coffee Bar, Columbia, South Carolina; South Press Coffee, Knoxville, Tennessee
**Best Bakeries to Put Some Sugar in Your Tank: Pink Door Cookies, Nashville, Tennessee; Sweet Hazel and Co., Salt Lake City, Utah**
Traveling across the country allows for delectable discoveries, and Salt Lake City is no exception. Sweet Hazel and Co. offers a delightful range of vegan pastries and desserts that have become a culinary highlight in the city.
Among its standout items are vegan versions of classic treats, introducing locals to incredible flavors while supporting the vibrant queer scene. Meanwhile, Nashville’s Pink Door Cookies brings artistry and fun to the cookie game, with each creation boasting whimsical designs and flavors suited for a celebration.
The respective bakery scenes in both cities not only entice visitors with sweet offerings but also fuel camaraderie and creativity in the community.
**We Also Love:** Cake Thieves Bakery, San Antonio, Texas; Hip Hop Sweet Shop, Louisville, Kentucky
**Best Museum to Pay Tribute to Your Queer Ancestors: Stonewall National Museum and Archives, Fort Lauderdale, Florida**
The Stonewall National Museum and Archives is dedicated to preserving and showcasing LGBTQ+ history and culture. Situated in Fort Lauderdale, this essential museum stands as a testament to the resilience of our community, telling the stories of those who paved the way.
Exhibitions highlight various aspects of LGBTQ+ experiences, including significant figures and movements, and it provides a sanctuary for reflection and appreciation of history. As conversations surrounding queer visibility and representation gain momentum, museums like Stonewall play a vital role in educating the public and resisting erasure.
**We Also Love:** LGBTQ History Museum of Central Florida, Orlando, Florida; World AIDS Museum and Educational Center, Fort Lauderdale, Florida
**Best Home Away From Home for Queer Youth: Magic City Acceptance Center, Birmingham, Alabama**
The Magic City Acceptance Center (MCAC) stands as a pillar of support for LGBTQ+ youth in Birmingham, Alabama, continually expanding its reach and programming since its establishment in 2014. This youth drop-in center operates not just in a physical space but also fosters virtual connections through a dedicated Discord server.
By offering programs and resources designed to empower and uplift queer young people, MCAC plays a crucial role in building community. Additionally, its affiliated Magic City Acceptance Academy offers an explicitly LGBTQ+-affirming educational environment within the South, although it faces significant challenges amid ongoing political debates.
**We Also Love:** Borderland Rainbow Center, El Paso, Texas; Prism Community Center, Sioux Falls, South Dakota
**Best Summer Camp for Queer Kids: Appalachian Queer Youth Summit, West Virginia**
West Virginia plays host to the Appalachian Queer Youth Summit (AQYS), a summer camp designed for young LGBTQ+ individuals. This unique camping experience combines traditional outdoor activities with essential advocacy workshops aimed at developing the next generation of queer leaders.
Over week-long programs, participants bond through shared experiences while engaging in meaningful discussions about social justice and activism. Notable projects initiated by past campers have led to significant changes within local communities, demonstrating the impactful potential of youth leadership.
**We Also Love:** Camp Beacon, Kentucky; CampOUT, Florida
**Best Reminders That Lesbian Nightlife Is Still Alive: Frankie’s, Oklahoma City, Oklahoma; Yellow Brick Road Pub, Tulsa, Oklahoma**
The lesbian nightlife scene may face challenges in some areas, but in Oklahoma, it’s experiencing a resurgence. With the closure of Alibi’s in Oklahoma City, Frankie’s remains a cherished lesbian bar ensuring the community stays vibrant and active.
In nearby Tulsa, Yellow Brick Road Pub overcame significant setbacks and continues to thrive. These bars exemplify the strength and resilience of the community, proving that queer nightlife can flourish against all odds.
**We Also Love:** The Back Door, Bloomington, Indiana; Sue Ellen’s, Dallas, Texas
**Best Place to Eat Pizza and Chinese Food at the Same Time: JenChan’s, Atlanta, Georgia**
In Atlanta, JenChan’s is a culinary wonderland that brings together diverse flavors into one extraordinary dining experience. This innovative restaurant offers an array of food options, from gourmet pizzas combining various international cuisines to enticing Asian-inspired dishes.
Emphasizing a queer-friendly atmosphere, JenChan’s also offers a “Gay Card” that grants patrons access to exclusive specials and events, demonstrating the establishment’s commitment to community engagement.
For those looking for a unique and memorable dining experience, this establishment encapsulates the spirit of culinary creativity while championing queer culture.
**We Also Love:** Island Time and Se7en Bites, Orlando, Florida
**Best Bookstores to Get Your Virginia Woolf On: The Little Gay Shop, Austin, Texas, and Montana Book Company, Helena, Montana**
For literary lovers, The Little Gay Shop in Austin and Montana Book Company in Helena offer intimate settings filled with a rich selection of LGBTQ+ literature. The former focuses on community engagement through book clubs and events, attracting passionate readers eager to connect over shared interests.
Likewise, Montana Book Company emphasizes inclusivity by hosting various book clubs geared towards LGBTQ+ and ally audiences, proving that bookstores can be vital centers for activism and connection.
These literary havens showcase the power of stories, fostering dialogue and understanding within the community.
**We Also Love:** Common Ground Books, Tallahassee, Florida; Violet Valley Bookstore, Water Valley, Mississippi
**Best Place to Eat a Burger During Drag Bingo: Hamburger Mary’s, Toledo, Ohio**
Finally, Hamburger Mary’s stands out as an iconic national chain that celebrates drag culture alongside hearty meals. This family-friendly restaurant provides a welcoming space for all ages, offering an opportunity to gather over burgers and participate in drag-themed events, such as bingo nights.
Even as this establishment faces challenges due to the pandemic, it remains a beloved community fixture. The Toledo location’s eye-catching exterior and festive atmosphere continue to draw crowds eager to share in the vibrant queer experience.
**We Also Love:** Rosie’s Tavern, Wilton Manors, Florida
In conclusion, while challenges abound for the LGBTQ+ community across the nation, these selected locales remind us that resilience, creativity, and community continue to redefine queer culture in red states. These establishments not only foster social connections but also embody the spirit of resistance and pride during challenging times.
As we travel and explore, let these vibrant queer spaces inspire a new generation of advocates and allies, creating a future where everyone can express their true selves unapologetically.
image source from：https://www.them.us/story/queer-red-state-destinations-eureka-springs-arkansas-anchorage-alaska-bars-cafes-restaurants
