LGBTQ+ Orlando, Florida – The Ultimate Gay Travel Guide

Orlando is perhaps most famous for its theme parks; Walt Disney World and Universal Studios which in turn see it attract millions of visitors annually.

We’ve had the pleasure of visiting Orlando more than ten times over the past decade. It’s also where we got both engaged and married so it’s safe to say it’s a pretty special place for us personally.

Is Orlando LGBTQ+ Friendly?

The city of Orlando is one of the most gay-friendly cities in the United States with a range of bars, clubs and events catering to the community.

However, this city also attracts an incredible number of out-of-town visitors from cities, states and countries where the LGBTQ+ community may not be so well accepted.

Of course, it’s hard to discuss Orlando and the LGBTQ+ community without discussing the 49 people who were killed in an attack on the gay club Pulse.

While shootings in America are sadly increasingly common, shootings specifically targeting members of the LGBTQ+ community are incredibly rare.

Personally, we have been to Orlando more than ten times over the past decade as a same-sex couple (trips that included both our engagement and our wedding) and thankfully we have never experienced any prejudice towards us based on our sexuality.

Of course, that’s not to say that prejudice towards members of the LGBTQ+ community doesn’t take place in Orlando. Instead, it’s just to say that reports of them are thankfully uncommon.

Annual LGBTQ+ Events In Orlando

Orlando is one of the biggest and most popular entertainment cities in the United States, therefore it’s no surprise that the city hosts an extensive range of annual LGBTQ+ events for the community;

One Magical Weekend

You won’t miss this one if you’re a big music fan. Held within the world-famous Walt Disney World Resorts, this huge music festival has everything from international DJs and world-class superstars performing just for you. 

You’ll find different acts at different resorts, so check out the One Magical Weekend page to find where you need to be to see your favourites. 

GayDays

Get your dancing shoes on. GayDays offers a range of exciting events across Orlando, including pool parties, dance parties, shows and other exciting attractions. 

GayDays has something for everyone, and you’ll be sure to meet new people, find friends for life and have a great time. 

Come Out With Pride Festival

Join in on the fun and celebrate the LGBTQ+ community in downtown Orlando. 

Taking place every October, the Come Out With Pride Festival links in with National Coming Out Day and October’s National Gay and Lesbian History Month.

A huge big celebration takes place with so many activities, events, food, drinks and music available; you’ll simply not have enough time to see it all. 

Find out more about this colourful festival here. Add this one to your bucket list. 

There’s so much going on in Orlando. Here are a few extra events we think you might be interested in:

• Pride Fan Expo
• Red Shirt Pride Day
• Girls in Wonderland

LGBTQ+ Friendly Neighbourhoods In Orlando

As one of the most LGBTQ+ friendly cities in the USA, Orlando has many safe, secure and welcoming neighbourhoods for you to call home while enjoying your break. 

Whether you’re looking for a bustling part of town to explore or something more relaxing, Orlando has it all. 

Colonialtown & The Milk District

Although this one sounds a little unusual, it is one of Orlando’s friendliest and most welcoming neighbourhoods. 

This historic part of Orlando has a lot to offer, with historic houses, beautiful botanic gardens and a range of cafes, restaurants and bars to explore. 

This is a great place to escape the busy city centre and enjoy a bit more of a quiet side to your holiday. 

Winter Park

You’ll feel like you’ve walked straight into the set of a movie down in Winter Park. 

This is a trendy part of the city, with many places to view art and experience the new age of culture right on your doorstep. 

You’ll find a great range of funky cafes, restaurants and museums to visit, hang out with friends and learn more about the city of Orlando. 

Baldwin Park

If you like to get out and about, enjoy the weather and explore the area differently, then Baldwin Park might have your name written all over it. 

This quaint residential area gives you the chance to explore Orlando on foot and by bike. You can check out the fantastic range of restaurants, shops and bars along the way. 

Baldwin Park is diverse and welcoming, so you’ll fit in with no questions asked. 

LGBTQ+ Friendly Hotels In Orlando

There are more than 500 hotels to choose from in the city of Orlando, meaning there really is something for all tastes and budgets. Here are some of our LGBTQ+ favourites;

Grand Bohemian Hotel Orlando

With proximity to Walt Disney World and cafes, bars and restaurants right outside, you’ll want to check out the Grand Bohemian Hotel in Orlando. 

The 4 Star Rated Hotel has tons to offer guests, particularly if you’re an art fan, with nearly £7 million worth of art hanging on the hotel’s walls. It’s like being in an art gallery. 

Once you’ve checked out the art, you can head to the stunning restaurant and enjoy an unforgettable gourmet meal.

Book Grand Bohemian Hotel Orlando

Caribe Royale Orlando

If you want to explore the city centre of Orlando, visit the tourist destinations and experience Orlando’s gay nightlife, then the Caribe Royale Hotel should do the trick. 

You’ll be treated to superbly designed rooms with flat-screened TVs, a kitchen area and a patio to relax at night. And if you want to treat yourself, you can head to the outdoor pool and hot tub; it’s a no-brainer!

Book Caribe Royale Orlando

LGBTQ+ Nightlife in Orlando

You can’t go to Orlando and not experience the nightlife. 

Orlando’s open and positive culture around the LGBTQ+ community means there are tonnes of fantastic bars, restaurants and clubs that you can enjoy whilst staying in the city. 

Parliament House 

Parliament House is the most popular gay nightclub in Orlando.

Open 24 hours and boasting an extensive range of entertainment including award-winning drag shows and DJs a trip to Orlando isn’t complete without visiting this place.

Savoy Orlando

Featuring a stylish outdoor area with pool tables, dart boards and flat-screen TVs, the Savoy Orlando has a lot to offer gay clubbers. 

You can choose to visit either one of the two nightclubs on site, so take your pick from the Tattoo Lounge or the Savoy. Either way, you’re guaranteed to have a great night. 

Hank’s Bar

You’ll be welcomed with open arms into Hank’s Bar. It’s been around for over 30 years and is catered more for those looking for a traditional, relaxing evening out on the town. 

You’ll get to use the antique jukebox and sit and relax on the huge patio area behind the bar.

Its friendly atmosphere tailors itself for those looking to meet new people and have a great time in some good company.