After traveling to seven incredible cities across the U.S. we have finally made our way back to our home in Los Angeles, California to highlight the thriving LGBTQ+ community in the City of Angels.
Los Angeles is a melting pot of so many cultures and each neighborhood showcases unique food, lively events and an all-around sense of community that welcomes every visitor.
Since we call this city home, it was only fitting that we showcase a few of our favorite locations while also learning more from leaders in the community. Sadly, all good things must come to an end which means this is the final stop on our cross country adventure as we Get Back Out There
West Hollywood
West Hollywood is home to a thriving LGBTQ+ community! We sat down to talk with West Hollywood City Councilmembers John Erickson and Sepi Shyne about what makes the city such an inclusive and inviting location for travelers. We also met with Lindsey Horvath (above), who at the time was the Mayor of West Hollywood, to talk about her experience as a community leader and what she loves most about the city. It is evident as you walk the streets of WeHo, how LGBTQ-friendly the 1.9 mile city is. From the many queer-owned and operated bars to the food and activities, there is always something happening that supports and uplifts the queer community.
Gym Sportsbar Bar and Grill
One such queer-owned bar is Gym Sportsbar Bar and Grill which was forced to shut its doors early on during the pandemic. The community rallied behind the Gym Bar community and helped the owners reopen the bar in a new location a few blocks from their previous home. We talked with Hunter Haliniak, a managing partner, about what the past two years have been like and how it felt to reopen the space after such support from the community. The bar is a great spot located right in the heart of WeHo that offers great drinks both beer and cocktails, fantastic bar food and a sense of community for anyone who visits.
Los Angeles Dodgers
Each year the Los Angeles Dodgers host PRIDE Night at Dodger Stadium to kick-off LA Pride festivities. Going to a Dodger’s game is always a fun experience. Before you take your seat you must grab a Dodger Dog (there’s a vegan option!) and ice cream served in a Dodger helmet. It is incredible that the Los Angeles Dodgers are such huge supporters of the LGBTQ+ community and ensure a safe space for all that want to enjoy a game.
The Dodgers won the game and when they do, a huge firework display takes place above the stadium and you can take a seat on the field to enjoy the spectacular display.
Kathleen Rawson, CEO of Downtown Santa Monica Inc
Santa Monica Pride
The city of Santa Monica is another local hotspot for travelers and we wanted to know what makes the city a welcoming spot for visitors. We met with Kathleen Rawson, CEO of Downtown Santa Monica Inc., to hear more about the city and talk about the Pride Art Walk display that takes place on the Third Street Promenade.
The Art Walk features art from queer artists in Santa Monica and celebrates the city's LGBTQ+ community. The Art Walk came about after the in-person Pride events were halted as a way to still celebrate Pride with the SaMo community.
Socalo Restaurant
Back when we visited Las Vegas we made a visit to Border Grill owned by celebrity chef, Susan Feniger. Because we enjoyed the food and ambiance so much we visited another restaurant owned by Susan Feniger (with us below), Socalo Restaurant, in Santa Monica. The food is street style tacos with a Southern California flair. Each dish is impeccable and well beyond any dish we’ve ever tasted throughout our trips. We especially loved the restaurant's commitment to sustainability in their menu and with their seafood, they go above and beyond with every detail at Socalo.
It's been an absolute blast traveling across the country visiting so many unique locations and meeting incredible people who are all uplifting the LGBTQ+ community. From Palm Springs, Las Vegas, Austin, Houston, New Orleans, Miami to Portland, and finally Los Angeles, each city is ready to welcome you when you are ready to Get Back Out There.
