Falling for Atlanta: Visit the South’s Queer Capital for an unforgettable Autumn Pride

As the crisp fall air settles over the Northern Hemisphere, there’s no better time for LGBTQ+ travelers to head to Atlanta for its vibrant and inclusive Pride celebration. Always the second full weekend in October (this year, the 12th and 13th), Atlanta Pride draws tens of thousands of Queer folk to the Big Peach. It’s the U.S. Southeast’s largest Pride celebration, and one of the country’s oldest.

The epicenter of the city's LGBTQ scene is Midtown, and during Pride, it truly comes alive. Piedmont Park, located right in the heart of Midtown, serves as the main hub for Pride events, including the festival stage and huge marketplace that doesn’t disappoint (like some others tend to do). This year’s headliner is global pop superstar Ava Max, who will take the stage for a FREE concert in Piedmont Park.

The Trans, Bi, and Dyke Marches are all on Saturday, concluding with the huge Pride March on Sunday. All four empty out into the festival area in Piedmont Park. We were there last year and to say this Pride festival is HUGE is an understatement. Remember: It’s a marathon, not a sprint—this handy Pride survival guide should help you.

No trip to Atlanta Pride would be complete without experiencing the city’s legendary LGBTQ nightlife. Here are a few hotspots you won’t want to miss:

• Blake’s on the Park: This iconic Midtown bar is known for its lively drag shows and friendly crowd. It’s the perfect spot to grab a drink and take in the diverse community that makes Atlanta so special.

• My Sister’s Room: A staple of Atlanta’s lesbian bar scene, this spot is a go-to for dancing, live music, and themed parties all year round, and Pride is no exception.

• Heretic Atlanta: If you’re looking to dance the night away, Heretic’s high-energy dance floor, featuring top DJs and themed nights, will keep you going into the early morning hours.

• Woofs: Atlanta’s only LGBTQ sports bar, Woofs is a great spot to catch a game or chill with friends in a relaxed environment during the festival.

And no trip to the U.S. American Southeast is complete without BBQ. Our favorite is Fox Bros. Bar-B-Q, just a short trip from Midtown. This spot is famous for its hearty plates of ribs, brisket, and pulled pork, all served up with delicious sides like mac and cheese and collard greens. Be sure to grab a group and share a platter after a long day at the festival.

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This Week’s *~Best Deals~*

We’re always on the hunt for top-tier experiences that welcome all and won’t break the bank—here are this week’s faves ✨ 

• Explore the sun-drenched U.S. city with a European feel: 4 nights in St. Augustine, Florida, from just $338, including flights!

• Speaking of Florida… beat the Autumn blues with a flight+hotel bundle to Miami, starting at $216 per person.

• Or spend 8 days sailing and sightseeing in the Caribbean on the MSC Seascape, starting at only $469.

• Delta's latest deals include discounts on premium flights to Florida, Europe, Japan, and more

• $49 & up—SUV rentals for fall road trips through Budget Rent-a-Car

• Puerto Rico Fairmont on one of Puerto Rico’s gay beaches — and one of the Caribbean's top beaches, 50% off

And finally, our favorite Tweet of the week: