These newly blue states are leaning more liberal now, but they have always had gayborhoods — you just might not have heard of them before. These safe havens within conservative areas are full of thriving queer art scenes, countless gay bars and nightclubs, and parades and festivals that make them worth spending your time and money in.
So whether you are looking for a new city to move to or a new vacation destination, it’s time to start considering these hidden gems in former Republican strongholds.
Short North Arts District — Columbus, Ohio
The Short North Arts District.
Derek Jensen/Wikimedia Commons
The Short North Arts District serves as the heart of the LGBTQ+ community in Ohio with iconic rainbow crosswalks, queer-owned businesses, and a thriving gay nightlife. The gayborhood stretches along High Street from downtown to the Ohio State University area, and is home to gay bars, clubs, and drag performances, and is transformed every year for the Pride Festival and Parade.
Historic East Village — Des Moines, Iowa
Des Moines, Iowa.
SeanPavone/Envato
Sherman Hill might be the historic gay neighborhood in Iowa, but the Historic East Village has become the center of gay nightlife and ...