LGBT: Austin

Austin prides itself on being a gathering point for people who exist outside the norms of standard society, exemplified by their city slogan “Keep Austin Weird.” Luckily, gays are welcomed with open arms in this Texas city.

Unlike many cities, Austin’s culture of acceptance and embrace of diversity means it doesn’t have one particular “gay area.” You can find welcoming spots for gay men and women all over. The San Jose Hotel is a popular place to stay and relax by the pool for many LGBT visitors.
In the morning, you’ll want to swing by Jo’s Hot Coffee, a gay-owned coffee house with live music and some delicious treats on Second Street. Austin is known as the Live Music Capital of the World, so you’ll definitely want to partake in the nighttime festivities downtown that are centered around 6^th Street. The Jackapole is great choice for those of you who enjoy a good dive bar, while Oilcan Harry’s is one of the most popular gay joints located in the Warehouse District.

Each year, the city also throws a gay companion celebration for the annual South by Southwest Music Festival, called the GayBiGayGay. The event takes place in March and is filled with musical performances from gay headliners along with great food and even better beer.

For a city in the middle of one of America’s most conservative states, Austin is surprisingly welcoming toward gay tourists.