O, Canada! The Must-Visit Gay Village Up North

O, Canada! Why You Should Add Gay Toronto to Your List

Sitting like a jewel along the northern shore of Lake Ontario is one of North America’s most friendly and safe gay cities: Toronto. As Canada's largest metropolis, it not only boasts the country's biggest LGBTQ+ community but also a rich tapestry of history, entertainment, and fine dining. Queer visitors will discover a city that embraces diversity with open arms, offering a plethora of experiences from lively entertainment districts to serene parks. Mark your calendars for the end of June, when Toronto's streets come alive with Canada’s largest Gay Pride celebration (this year June 28-30), a testament to the city's enduring spirit of inclusivity and love.

What to do: In the heart of Toronto, the vibrant Church-Wellesley Village serves as the cultural epicenter of the city's LGBTQ+ community, offering a rich array of experiences tailored for Queer visitors. Here, you can immerse yourself in the lively atmosphere of renowned bars and clubs like Woody's, famous for its welcoming ambiance and entertaining drag shows, or explore Buddies in Bad Times Theatre, a unique space dedicated to LGBTQ+ performances and art. The village's streets are lined with quaint cafés, Queer bookshops (including Glad Day, which may be North America’s oldest LGBTQ bookshop), and boutiques, making it perfect for leisurely exploration. 

For those seeking fun in the sun, the clothing-optional Hanlan's Point Beach on the Toronto Islands offers a secluded spot known for its LGBTQ+ friendly vibe. It was also the location of one of Canada’s first pride celebrations in 1971.

When to go: The ideal time to visit Toronto is undoubtedly during the summer months, particularly around late June for Pride. However, Toronto's vibrant LGBTQ+ scene thrives year-round with film festivals like the Inside Out LGBT Film Festival in May (this year May 24-June 1) and various cultural events that pepper the calendar. Those preferring a quieter visit might find the charm of spring and fall’s shoulder seasons appealing, with fewer crowds and mild temperatures ideal for city exploration. The best time to get great deals though is winter, but make sure to pack warm clothes.

Where to stay: For LGBTQ+ travelers seeking the heart of Toronto's vibrant community, stay in or near Church-Wellesley. For those looking for a more upscale experience, the downtown core and waterfront areas offer luxury hotels with stunning city and lake views, still just a short distance from The Village. Our favorites include the Fairmont Royal York and the Omni King Edward Hotel. If you want to splurge, the Four Seasons is the way to go—and there are some great deals in the winter months.

This Week’s *~Best Deals~*

We’re always on the hunt for top-tier deals and experiences that welcome all while not breaking the bank—here are this week’s faves ✨ 

• Even if you’re not in the ~path of totality~, you still may be able to see the solar eclipse—get 50% off lab-tested solar eclipse glasses

• Best Buy has slashed its price on the Apple Watch over $130—but only in pink

• Flights to Tenerife, just a quick hop over to Gran Canaria, are going for ridiculously low prices

• London calling! April flights NEXT WEEK for under $350 from various U.S. cities

• If you use wireless headphones, you need this handy bluetooth adapter for in-flight entertainment

• Stay at least 3 nights in Miami’s ‘heterofriendly’ Axel Hotel and get 20% off from the gay hotel chain

• Affordable, bucket-list luxury glamping in Utah from $149 per night—over 50% off to see one of the best U.S. National Parks!

• If you’re really into outdoors this enormous 8-person tent is over 30% off

• Traveling with kids? Kids stay free at all-inclusive Wyndham hotels (or, if no kids, get a credit to spend while there!)

• Here are the best points and miles travel deals for April 2024, including Starbucks deals, car rentals, and more