LGBT: San Diego

San Diego might not be the gay mecca San Francisco is known as, but it certainly hits the spot for many of the gay men and women living there. America’s Finest City is known for its beaches and laid-back, friendly attitude and has an entire area dedicated to gay businesses and events.

Hillcrest, a prominent gay-friendly area north of downtown, is home to numerous bars and dining establishments geared toward gay customers. Urban Mo’s is a popular spot, with delicious burgers and low-priced drinks that’ll help prep you for the crowds that fill up here each night. For the younger crowds, there’s Rich’s and Flicks just a few blocks over.

Each year, San Diego also plays host to the annual San Diego LGBT Pride festival in the summer. The festival attracts more than 100,000 visitors annually and puts on a parade, as well as a musical festival and popular block parties within Balboa Park.

One of the true treats of San Diego is the popular gay hangout known as Babycakes. The Hillcrest treasure doubles as both a bakery and a bar, which might seem like an odd combination, but these guys know how to make it work. The place fills up fast with revelers spilling out of the patio daily, and the delicious baked goods here are some of the best you’ll ever taste at ridiculously affordable prices.

Overall, San Diego is a safe and welcoming town for gay men and women with tons of things to see and do.