By Christine Hochkeppel
Since I happen to be situated near one of the most well-beloved LGBTQ destinations–Provincetown–I thought it would be fun to compile a list of the most queer-friendly cities and towns for an engagement session.
Provincetown, MA – This place truly does have a little bit of everything! Beautiful sand dunes, ocean views, sunsets and quirky, upbeat nightlife. Every where you turn there’s pride and good cheer! Want to make your session super queer? Come up for the annual Carnival parade–the third Thursday is August. This year’s theme is “The Holidays” and last year’s was “Enchanted Forest.”
South End, Boston – Home to Boston’s original gay clubs and bars, Club Cafe and the Boston Eagle, this neighborhood has so much history. Gentrification has drastically changed the face of this once gay ghetto but the city has led the nation in bringing the gay rights movement forward. It was the first state to legalize gay marriage in 2004.
Dupont Circle, Washington D.C. – Complete with beautiful historic museums, row houses and a stunning marble fountain, this little corner of the District has long been known as a haven for queer folks. Since 1986, it’s hosted the “High Heel Race”–a drag queen sprint down 17th Street NW. Thank you to Aimee Custis for sharing this photo!
Gayborhood, Philadelphia – This place is so gay-friendly that in 2007 the city of Philadelphia officially recognized the Gayborhood area by adding 36 gay pride rainbow flag symbols to street signs. Situated in the Washington West neighborhood of Philly this is a great choice for a sophisticated, urban look.
Ogunquit, Maine – Yet another queer enclave in the Northeast. Ogunquit is a great option if you’re a couple who loves the outdoors paired with quaint, nautical New England vibes. Thank you, Jackie Riccardi for contributing the photo!
Greenwich Village, Manhatthan – So much queer love here! Tons of great landmarks to work with plus the stunning New York City skyline. For a classic backdrop, visit the Washington Square Arc and Fountain then hit up some of the iconic gay bars like Stonewall and Cubby Hole, and, of course, Gay Street!
Portsmouth, NH – This Historic seaport on the Piscataqua River may appear to be a just another sleepy New England town but there’s plenty of nightlife and gay-owned businesses to support.
Castro St, San Francisco – The home to the late, great gay rights activist Harvey Milk and the site of many demonstrations that advanced the movement. You can have fun with the rainbow painted crosswalks! Thanks Zoe Larkin for contributing this photo!
Rehoboth Beach – One of the mid-Atlantic’s most popular tourist destinations for LGBTQ people! Take a stroll on Queen Street and be sure to get a shot in front of Dolle’s Saltwater Taffy on the boardwalk!
Northampton, MA – This Pioneer Valley town nestled in Western Massachusetts has hosted an annual LGBTQ Pride Parade since 1981! It’s a hub for academics and creatives alike. Lots of unique LGBT-owned businesses to support on Main Street.
Do you have a location to recommend? Make a comment below and share your favorite place!
