2025 is shaping up to be a tough year for the LGBTQ+ community. With Trump back in the White House, the political landscape feels heavy, especially for those of us fighting for acceptance and equality. His administration is already setting its sights on rolling back rights—targeting gender identity, healthcare for LGBTQ+ individuals, and anti-discrimination battles we thought were won long ago. But even in challenging times, these 10 LGBTQ+ travel ideas can offer moments of joy, solidarity, and escape.
Reality check? Escaping politics entirely isn’t really an option—unless, of course, you’ve got $320,000 handy to book yourself a cabin on the four-year “Skip Forward” cruise offered by Villa Vie Residences, avoiding U.S. soil until 2028 (yes, that’s a real thing). But for the rest of us who don’t have a quarter million dollars to spare, travel can still offer essential relief.
It’s not just a break—it’s survival. Travel allows us to find affirming spaces, recharge our spirits, and reconnect with what makes life vibrant. Whether you need adventure, relaxation, or solidarity, these 10 LGBTQ+ travel ideas are here for you in 2025.
Why Travel Is Essential in 2025
Need an escape? Same. But there’s more to it than booking a flight to drown your sorrows in the nearest Pride parade (though that’s valid). Travel is about re-centering, especially in politically troubling times. These 10 LGBTQ+ travel ideas will help you find affirming spaces and the escape you deserve. Studies confirm it over and over again—taking time away from daily stressors can boost your mental health. This is especially true for queer individuals who often face unique societal pressures.
And then there’s the community you can find. Visiting queer-friendly spaces reminds us that inclusion and joy still exist in this world. Whether it’s dancing in a packed club, exploring an LGBTQ+ historical site, or walking hand-in-hand with your partner somewhere safe, travel can be healing.
How We Picked These Destinations
Not all travel spots are created equal when safety is a top concern. Here’s what we looked for in compiling this list:
- LGBTQ+ Friendliness: Laws, policies, local attitudes—are we welcome and respected?
- Cultural Richness: Because lounging on a beautiful beach is great, but pairing it with local food, history, and nightlife makes it unforgettable.
- Accessibility: An amazing destination is no good if it costs three months’ rent to get there.
Now, let’s get to the fun stuff—where should you plan your escapes for 2025?
10 LGBTQ+ Travel Ideas for 2025
1. Learn how to start a revolution – Philadelphia, PA
Ever feel like rising up against an oppressive regime? Same. Philadelphia’s Museum of the American Revolution is an inspiring deep-dive into the founding of our rebellious roots. Steps from Independence Hall in Philly, it’s a reminder that change has always been possible—even against the odds.
2. Show your Pride to the world – Washington, DC
Standing up for who we are is pretty important these days. Join the global LGBTQ+ community at World Pride in Washington, DC, from May 31 to June 8, 2025. The nation’s capital will transform into a rainbow wonderland, bringing together a global community with inspiring voices, historic moments, and iconic landmarks—imagine rainbow flags waving in front of the Washington Monument.
3. Walk hand-in-hand with your boo down a lovely Main Street
At some point this year, you’ll need to simply stroll with a loved one. While you’re meandering down Commercial Street in Provincetown or Main Street in New Hope, Pennsylvania, stop into the LGBTQ+-owned shops to pick up a few souvenirs.
4. Lace up and hit the pavement – Los Angeles, CA
Pack your sneakers and join the LA Frontrunners, Los Angeles’s LGBTQ+ running and walking club. Not only does running help burn off that extra holiday weight, but it’s also a great way to leave behind the frustrations of Grindr drama and clear your head.
Speaking of running, check out &NDY, a gay-owned activewear brand, founded by Slamdrew6. Drew launched &NDY after coming out in college and realizing how unsupported he felt as a student-athlete. Now, the brand is all about reclaiming athletic spaces for our community, so everyone can feel confident and comfortable while working up a sweat. Bonus points for good vibes—&NDY gives back a portion of its proceeds to queer non-profits fighting for visibility and dignity across the U.S. Fitness goals AND supporting a cause? Yes, please!
5. Make the happiest place on earth even happier – Orlando, FL
If you’re tired of the daily coverage of Trump-isms, you may find the innocence of Disney a great escape from reality. Orlando’s iconic One Magical Weekend (May 29–June 2, 2025) and Gay Days (June 5–8, 2025) turns Walt Disney World into a sea of red shirts, LGBTQ+ pride, and love. Between pool parties and pageants, it’s a chance to reclaim joy in a state meant to make us feel otherwise.
6. Splurge on that new bathing suit
Use your PTO for a couple Fridays and Mondays this summer and head to some of the best gay beaches in the Northeast (read: gayest) for a dose of Vitamin D. Try Beach Bear Invasion, an annual LGBT weekend (August 15–18, 2025) in Asbury Park that proves what we all know about Jersey: This state goes big when it comes to parties (and hair, muscles, etc.). Or head to Rehoboth Beach, DE. This quaint, one-square-mile town packs it all in: beaches, boardwalk, tax-free shopping and a surprisingly active nightlife.
7. Stretch your fetish tolerance at the famed Folsom Street Fair – San Francisco, CA
If you’re very open to leather, Folsom Street Fair in San Francisco is for you. Think play stations, erotic artists, gear and toy vendors, live music, dance areas and skin aplenty. This is not the block party of your childhood.
8. See a flashy, feel-good show – Las Vegas, NV
The Main Stage has sashayed into Sin City—RuPaul’s Drag Race LIVE! is serving up comedy, drama, and fashion realness. If you’re still catching your breath from the latest season of RuPaul’s Drag Race, honey, it’s time to treat yourself. Why? Because you deserve to see your favorite queens werk it live on stage. Grab some friends, snatch those tickets, and get ready to bask in the charisma, uniqueness, nerve, and talent of the queens who’ve stolen your heart.
9. Take a gay tour – New Orleans, LA
Yes, it’s a thing, and they’re more prevalent than you may think. Discover unique experiences like the “Walking With The Gay Ghosts of New Orleans” tour in the vibrant city of New Orleans. This spirited stroll through the French Quarter mixes queer history with cheeky storytelling, complete with scandalous tales and maybe even a cocktail in hand.
10. Dress up to an obsessive and borderline-inappropriate level at Fantasy Fest – Key West, FL
The Conch Republic challenges even the most accomplished partiers all year long, and Fantasy Fest leading up to Halloween (October 17–26, 2025) amps up the craziness on the intensely fun island. Come prepared—that is, with costumes and without inhibitions. Rule of thumb: It’s a fantasy, so treat it that way.
Planning Ahead
Making those travel dreams a reality takes a little forethought. Here are three quick tips:
- Find Deals: Use tools like Going (formally Scott’s Cheap Flights) or Hopper to scope out deals ahead of time.
- Prioritize Safety: Stick to LGBTQ+ friendly destinations and research accommodations through platforms like MisterBNB.
- Don’t Skip Travel Insurance: Yes, it’s boring, but worth it—especially for international trips.
Travel as Resistance—and Joy
2025 won’t be easy, but it doesn’t have to drown us in despair. By claiming spaces where we’re celebrated, connecting with other LGBTQ+ travelers, and momentarily stepping away from the weight of it all, we remind ourselves of the joy we’re fighting for.
Freedom is something we find and create—not just something handed to us. With these 10 LGBTQ+ travel ideas, you’ll discover the joy and solidarity that make life worth celebrating, no matter the challenges ahead. Whether you’re lounging on a beach or joining a Pride parade halfway across the world, make 2025 a year of bold, unapologetic living. And hey, if you decide to book that four-year cruise, send us a postcard.