This year has been a whirlwind, with many of the things we’re used to being cancelled, delayed, and still up in the air as we move nearer to a year since the pandemic began. One of the big yearly in-person events that many people in Los Angeles look forward to every June, PRIDE, never really happened this year. Thankfully, in honor of October’s LGBTQIA+ History Month, Orbitz — alongside leading LGBTQIA+ Influencers, including Lance Bass, Todrick Hall, and 5 others — are highlighting the best queer-friendly destinations and businesses in their hometowns via Orbitz’s new LGBTQIA Microsite. Unlocking hidden hometown gems, these creators take us on a journey from boutique hotels to LGBTQ+-friendly churches, and everywhere in between.
While we are still at home, navigating travel’s new normal, these local tours will inspire new places to fall in love with in your backyard, and help support LGBTQIA-friendly business. Finding new ways to celebrate this community during the month and throughout the year, Orbtiz’s #HappyPlace works to transport people to destinations, businesses and important points of interest that rally the community and remind us what’s at stake this year.
Feeling inspired? In honor of customers who refer a friend to book future travel on Orbitz during the month of October, Orbitz will make a donation of $5,000 to support The Trevor Project’s life-saving work. “There’s something really uplifting in sharing your ‘happy place’ with the world and reminding us all what’s at stake this year – now more than ever,” says Marketing Director, Carey Malloy. “Despite these unsettling times, Orbitz remains committed to finding new ways to celebrate this community, during LGBTQ History month and throughout the year.”
Below, are some of the most unique LGBTQIA+ favorites from Orbitz’s partners’ must-visit lists, to check off your bucket list. For Orbitz’s and their partners’ full lists and city itineraries, visit Orbitz’s new LGBTQIA Microsite!
Must-Visit List
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Vanderpump Dogs – There is nothing that I love more than dogs. My favorite place to get my puppy fix is at Vanderpump Dogs. They have rescued well over 1,000 dogs including my own two Chip and Dale!
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Mondrian Los Angeles – It has been my go-to place to host friends and family that visit for years. My husband Michael and I are regulars at the open air SkyBar which has the most amazing views of the city. If you need an oasis in this big city, this is definitely it.
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Rocco’s WeHo – Rocco’s WeHo is the newest and most popular edition to the neighborhood. What I love about it is the most inclusive bar and restaurant on the planet!
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Cathedral of Hope – A vibrant, inclusive and progressive congregation, it is the largest predominantly LGBTQ church in the world. Everyone is welcomed and greeted with warmth and acceptance.
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Round Up Saloon – Round up saloon is the epitome of Texas and was the first place I saw gay men line dancing.
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Pink Dolphin Monument – Located in R.A. Apffel Park/East Beach on Galveston Island, Pink Dolphin Monument is dedicated to celebrating gender and sexuality minority communities.
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Austin Motel – Queer-woman owned, this is a super cute boutique hotel with rainbow photo-ops at their shop, neon lights in the carport driveway area, iconic signs and a retro pool area.
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Cheer Up Charlies – Cheer Up is not located off of 4th street, but it’s still one of the most fun and most queer spaces in town. If you ever happen to be in Austin on a night that they’re having their Neon Rainbows event run by DJ Boi Orbison (a local queer/trans DJ), you are in for a 90’s country night you didn’t know you always needed.
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Pennybacker Bridge (360 Bridge) – Also known as the 360 bridge, this landmark is located atop a short hike with an overlook that is breathtaking. This is a very Austin-y place to get outdoors, take your pup, and snag a photo to show all your friends the endless Texas skies.
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A Drag Show at The Palace – A Drag Show at the Palace is a must-see! You’ll be laughing until you cry! We loved going for dinner, too.
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Biscayne Bay – There’s nothing like sailing along the waters, cruising by all the fancy homes, and sipping on some rosé at sunset! The perfect activity to relax and get a totally unique view of Miami.
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Holi Vegan Kitchen – This is a must-stop spot for any plant based travellers out there! Get ready to have the best lunch ever that could fool any meat-eater; I wish we could have ordered one of everything on the menu.