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A string of LGBTQ+ flags hang from a former Metro stop in Dupont Circle.

Essential LGBTQ+ Experiences in Washington, DC



From iconic neighborhoods and historic landmarks to under-the-radar hangouts, discover 12+ ways to celebrate LGBTQ+ culture in the nation's capital.

Washington, DC has not only been the backdrop of historic milestones in queer history – it's home to an LGBTQ+ community that fuels the city with its creativity, innovation and resilience.

 

With 14.5% of locals identifying as LGBTQ+, Washington, DC is one of the most welcoming destinations in the U.S., offering countless ways to engage with people, places and stories that define the District. 
 

01

Celebrate WorldPride in DC: May 17 – June 8, 2025

Pride Parade WorldPride Bus


This year marks the 50th anniversary of Pride in Washington, DC and we're celebrating by making it an all-out international experience. Join the momentous celebrations as the nation’s capital is painted with pride, featuring a variety of events to inspire, empower and connect the international LGBTQ+ community and their allies. 
More info | Book Your Stay
 

02

Visit the Supreme Court

An LGBTQ+ flag flies in front of the Supreme Court.

@epiclifeimages


Activists, Washingtonians and visitors from around the country and world have gathered outside of 1 First Street NW to mark key moments in American history, including landmark decisions like the June 2015 ruling that made same-sex marriage legal. Visitors can take a free tour Monday through Friday, from 9 a.m. – 4:30 p.m.

 

“No longer may this liberty be denied. No union is more profound than marriage, for it embodies the highest ideals of love, fidelity, devotion, sacrifice and family. In forming a marital union, two people become something greater than once they were,” wrote Justice Anthony M. Kennedy in the majority opinion. 
 

03

Take a guided tour of LGBTQ+ DC

A group of women poses in front of a mural that says, "Sisterhood."


Deepen your knowledge with the help of an expert. Hone in on LGBTQ+ history with Art with Tosca, Unscripted Tours or DC Cycling Concierge's Pride Ride. You can also book an excursion with an LGBTQ+-owned company like A Tour of Her Own or Politico-turned-tour guide Andrew Rawls' Fiat Luxe, which donates a portion of the tour fee to the Gay Men’s Chorus of Washington, DC. 

 

04

Visit an LGBTQ+-friendly bar


The District has a stacked lineup of LGBTQ+ bars. Catch the big game at Pitchers or Nellie's (DC's first gay sports bar), dance all night at As You Are or kick back with a cold one at Red Bear Brewing Co., the District's only 100 percent gay-owned brewery. If you're looking for a non-alcoholic spot to socialize, stop by Spark Social Club on U Street; it's open to all ages during the day, 18+ after 8 p.m. Whichever vibe you're chasing, you'll find it in DC.

05

Stroll down 17th Street NW

A busy neighborhood street filled with people celebrating Pride.


A few blocks east of Dupont Circle you'll find the signature rainbow-colored crosswalks of 17th Street NW. Stop by spots like JR’s (a DC favorite since 1986 that hosts Retro Fridays, Sunday Fundays and drag-themed trivia on Wednesdays) or Dito’s (located in the basement of Italian restaurant Floriana). In an unofficial nod to the neighborhood’s LGBTQ+ scene, look for the “Frank Kameny Way” street sign at 17th and R streets. Kameny, an astronomer by trade, became a gay rights activist when he was fired from the U.S. Army in 1957. 
 

06

Immerse yourself in history at DC's museums

Couple in front of painting at Phillips Collection

 

Historical highlights and works by queer artists can be found all over the District. The National Museum of American History's collection features a number of iconic items from LGBTQ+ history, such as archival photos of civil rights protests, political buttons and "Gay Comics" from the 1990s. The National Gallery of Art features an online guide to LGBTQ+ artists in its collections and for WorldPride, the Capital Jewish Museum will host an exhibit titled "LGBTJews in the Federal City." 

 

07

Relax with a view from a rooftop pool, restaurant or bar


LGBTQ+-friendly favorites like Hotel Zena, Eaton and the Embassy Row Hotel are perfectly poised for exploring DC's historic gay neighborhoods. Each is fabulous for an afternoon hangout, happy hour or late-night drinks – all with a stunning view. Want to hit more rooftop hotsspots? Take your pick.  
 

08

Experience Adams Morgan by day or night

A view of the buildings on Adams Morgan's main street in DC.


The neighborhood may be known for heating up at night, but Adams Morgan's cozy restaurants and trendy shops also make it a must-see during the day. Explore the storefronts in and around 18th Street NW for some of the best thrifting and bites in the city. 
 

09

Explore buzzing businesses in Dupont Circle

Person relaxing at Dupont Circle Monument


Dupont Circle, DC's original "gayborhood," remains one of the District’s most popular swaths of real estate, boasting a happening scene of restaurants and shops, plus outdoor activities (pick-up chess game anyone?) on its central grassy circle. You’ll want to pop into Kramerbooks & Afterwords Café, a longtime independent bookstore with a robust LGBTQ+ section. 
 

10

Celebrate love with public art

Four garage doors painted with bright, rainbow letters that spell LOVE.

LOVE by Lisa Marie Thalhammer


Some of DC's best artworks can't be found inside museum galleries – the city's murals and public artworks are not to be missed. Venture to the National Gallery of Art's sculpture garden to see Robert Indiana's AMOR. Lisa Marie Thalhammer's "Love is For Everyone" climbs up the side of the Little Gay Pub in Logan Circle, while her rainbow LOVE mural lives in a Shaw alleyway. Nearby, the massive but somewhat-hidden "Together" can be found at 1309 9th Street NW.
 

11

Catch a performance at one of DC’s stellar theaters

The exterior of Woolly Mammoth Theatre Company in Washington, DC with it doors open.

Woolly Mammoth Theatre Company


The region’s theater and performing arts scene is one of the best in the country and a show is an obvious add to any itinerary. From beloved musicals to original works, browse the lineups at names like Woolly Mammoth Theatre Company (Penn Quarter), Atlas Performing Arts Center (H Street NE), the Keegan Theatre (Dupont Circle) and Arena Stage (Southwest/The Wharf).
 

12

Discover DC's drag brunch scene


The District goes big with weekend drag brunches, from award-winning restaurants like Officina and Perry's to breweries like City Tap House and fun-loving spots like Throw Social. If brunch isn't your scene, it's easy to find more drag shows and happenings throughout the city.
 

13

Peruse DC's packed events calendar


You can also get active with local organizations like Capital Pride or the DC Front Runners, a social club that meets four days a week for group runs and walks at 23rd & P Streets NW, usually followed by a relaxed gathering.
 

Free events, must-attend exhibits and galas galore make up the DC year-round calendar. Check out the brimming list of annual LBGTQ+ events, and don’t miss top things to do this weekend, month and year-round.

 


 

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