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Salt Lake City: the Surprising Gay Hotspot in the Mountains

As Salt Lake City prepares to host the upcoming Winter Olympics in 2034, now is the perfect time to get ahead of the curve and explore this emerging gay travel destination. Known for its stunning mountain backdrop and vibrant culture, Salt Lake City is fast becoming a hotspot for LGBTQ+ travelers. Here’s a primer before it blows up.

Key Gay Neighborhoods

  • Sugar House: This eclectic area is known for its quirky shops, art galleries, and a growing number of gay-friendly spots.

  • Downtown: The heart of the city offers a mix of culture, nightlife, and dining, with many establishments welcoming the LGBTQ+ community.

  • The Avenues: More residential, with picturesque, tree-lined streets, and an inclusive community vibe close to Downtown

Must-Visit Bars and Clubs

  • The Sun Trapp: A popular bar with a welcoming vibe, fantastic outdoor patio great drinks, and a lively dance floor.

  • Try-Angles: Known for its laid-back atmosphere and friendly crowd, it’s a great place to relax and meet new people.

  • Milk+: the new kid in town. A huge space with a nice outdoor area to dance, chill — and play darts.

  • Club Jam: A vibrant nightclub offering themed nights, drag shows, and an inclusive dance floor.

LGBTQ+ Friendly Restaurants

  • Zest Kitchen & Bar: An organic, vegetarian restaurant with delicious dishes and a welcoming atmosphere.

  • Tea Zaanti: A cozy, gay-owned tea house perfect for relaxing with a hot beverage and enjoying a calm environment.

  • Avenues Proper: Upscale, locally sourced, and house-made dishes pair with an extensive beer menu.

Key Events

  • Utah Pride Festival: Held annually in June, this event features a parade, live performances, and numerous activities celebrating the LGBTQ+ community.

  • Queer Prom: An inclusive event offering LGBTQ+ youth a safe space to celebrate prom.

  • LGBTQ+ Film Festival: Showcases films by and about the LGBTQ+ community, providing a platform for diverse voices.

Friendly and Approachable

Salt Lake City’s friendly and approachable vibe, coupled with its natural beauty and emerging gay scene, makes it a must-visit destination for LGBTQ+ travelers. Whether you’re looking to explore the outdoors, enjoy vibrant nightlife, or participate in community events, Salt Lake City has something for everyone.

Embrace the spirit of inclusivity and adventure in this dynamic city, and experience all that Salt Lake City has to offer before it steps onto the world stage with the upcoming Olympics.

24 Top Travel Essentials for the Gays

Whether you're planning your next adventure or just looking to score some great discounts, we’ve found the best deals for travelers and beyond. From top-notch luggage and travel gadgets to must-have electronics and stylish accessories and great gay beach reads, we've got you covered.