What exactly is a Gay Fly Drive?

A Gay Fly Drive is a self-drive holiday tailored for LGBT+ travellers. It combines flights, car hire, and custom itineraries through destinations that are welcoming, legally safe, and culturally affirming for the queer community.

Can Gay Fly Drives include LGBT+ events like Pride?

Yes, absolutely. We can time your trip to coincide with Pride festivals, queer film events, drag tours, and more. Just let us know what you’d like to experience.

Are Gay Fly Drives only for couples?

Not at all. Whether you're travelling solo, with friends, or as a family, we customise each trip to fit your group and goals.

What makes Gay Fly Drives different from regular road trips?

The difference is in the detail. We select routes, hotels, and activities based on LGBT+ safety, legal protections, and cultural relevance. It’s built for you.

Do I need to be based in the UK to book a Gay Fly Drive with you?

No. We welcome clients from the US, Canada, Australia, and beyond. While UK-based customers benefit from ATOL cover, all clients receive personalised service and insurance-backed bookings.

Can I choose which US states or cities I want to visit?

Yes. We build every Gay Fly Drive from scratch. Tell us where you’d like to go or what kind of vibe you’re after, and we’ll create something that fits.

Are the hotels included LGBT+ owned or just gay-friendly?

Where possible, we prioritise LGBT+ owned and operated properties. Otherwise, we use partners we trust—hotels that have a genuine reputation for inclusivity.

Is it safe to take a Gay Fly Drive through Southern US states?

Some Southern areas are less progressive, but many cities—like Austin and New Orleans—are vibrant and accepting. We’ll help you navigate the route safely and confidently.

How far in advance should I book a Gay Fly Drive?

We recommend at least 3–6 months in advance, especially if you're planning around events or peak seasons. But we’ll always do our best to help, even on shorter notice.

Can I mix city stays with national parks or beach stops?

Definitely. One of the biggest perks of Gay Fly Drives is flexibility. You can combine nightlife in San Francisco with hiking in Yosemite or relaxing in Palm Springs. Just ask.

Gay Fly Drives: Plan Your LGBT+ US Road Trip Today

There’s something liberating about hitting the open road with nothing but a map, good music, and someone you love beside you. For LGBT+ travellers, Gay Fly Drives across the United States offer the freedom to explore iconic cities, hidden gems, and welcoming communities—all at your own pace. Whether you're new to the idea of a gay holiday or a seasoned road-tripper looking for your next adventure, this guide is packed with practical advice, cultural tips, and protected travel insights.

From coast to coast, you’ll discover destinations that are not only inclusive but rich in queer history, nightlife, and natural beauty. Let’s help you plan the perfect journey that’s as unique as you are.

Why Choose a Gay Fly Drive Across the USA?

The USA is vast, diverse, and full of surprises. From New York’s queer culture to the sun-soaked beaches of California, every mile tells a different story. But why opt for Gay Fly Drives instead of a typical holiday?

Freedom: You’re in charge of your own schedule.
Flexibility: Stay longer where you feel most welcomed.
Connection: Visit places that hold cultural significance to the LGBT+ community. For a deeper look at LGBT+ legal protections around the world, including the US, ILGA World offers regularly updated legal maps and rights summaries.
Adventure: Discover local Pride events, queer-owned businesses, and scenic drives.
Privacy and Comfort: Travel with the people you choose and avoid hostile spaces.

If you’ve ever dreamed of walking in Harvey Milk’s footsteps, partying in Palm Springs, or soaking in the progressive vibes of Portland, this is the ideal format for you.

Planning Your Route: Start with Your Travel Style

Before diving into destinations, think about what matters to you. Are you the kind of traveller who loves big cities, or do you prefer charming small towns? Do you want nightlife, nature, or both?

Here are a few itinerary styles we can tailor for you:

East Coast Culture Trip: New York, Philadelphia, Washington D.C.
Desert and Diversity: Las Vegas, Palm Springs, San Diego
West Coast Wonders: San Francisco, Big Sur, Los Angeles
Southern Comfort: New Orleans, Austin, Savannah
Pacific Northwest Pride: Seattle, Portland, Eugene

We work closely with you to shape your trip around your interests. Every trip is tailor-made, so you’ll never get a one-size-fits-all plan.

Protections You Receive When Booking With Wide Awake Holidays

When you book your Gay Fly Drives with us, you're not just getting a holiday—you’re getting peace of mind. At Wide Awake Holidays, we’re proud to offer the following protections and benefits to every traveller:

ATOL Protection: Your holiday is financially protected.
Protected Trust Services (PTS) Membership: All customer payments are held in a trust account.
Supplier Failure Insurance: If a hotel or tour company goes under, you’re still covered.
Scheduled Airline Failure Insurance: We’ll get you home safely, even if an airline collapses.

Whether you’re based in the UK or travelling from the US or elsewhere, our support doesn’t end at booking. We're with you every step of the way.

New York City, NY

New York is a rite of passage for queer travellers. From Stonewall to Broadway, every street has a story.

Visit the Stonewall National Monument in Greenwich Village.
Explore queer-run cafes and boutiques in Brooklyn.
Experience world-class nightlife at iconic clubs like The Q and The Eagle.

We recommend The Civilian Hotel in Midtown for its stylish vibe and excellent Pride packages.

Ask us about our latest offers at The Civilian Hotel.

How Gay Friendly is New York?

Legal Since: Homosexuality decriminalised in 1980.
Marriage Equality: Recognised in 2011.
Anti-Discrimination: Strong state-level protections for sexual orientation and gender identity.
Employment Protections: Full rights under state and federal law.
Equal Age of Consent: Yes.
Public Opinion: Widely accepting, especially in urban areas.

Palm Springs, CA

Palm Springs is one of the most gay-friendly cities in the US. With over 40% of residents identifying as LGBT+, it’s a desert paradise for queer travellers.

Lounge at clothing-optional gay resorts.
Stroll down Arenas Road for bars, shops, and drag shows.
Relax with a spa day or a hike in nearby Indian Canyons.

We often book clients into the exclusive INNdulge Resort—an all-male, clothing-optional, gay-owned property.

Speak to us about current deals for INNdulge Resort.

How Gay Friendly is Palm Springs?

Legal Since: California decriminalised homosexuality in 1976.
Marriage Equality: Legal since 2013.
Anti-Discrimination: Strong protections statewide.
Employment Protections: Enforced under California law.
Equal Age of Consent: Yes.
Public Opinion: Exceptionally positive; the city is a celebrated gay mecca.

New Orleans, LA

The Big Easy knows how to throw a party, and the LGBT+ community is right at the heart of it.

Discover Bourbon Street’s queer nightlife scene.
Attend Southern Decadence (second only to Pride).
Try beignets by day and bounce music by night.

Ace Hotel New Orleans blends vintage charm with modern style and frequently offers Pride packages.
We’ll find you the best price at Ace Hotel when you book through us.

How Gay Friendly is New Orleans?

Legal Since: Sodomy laws repealed in 2003.
Marriage Equality: Legal since 2015.
Anti-Discrimination: Mixed; protections exist in New Orleans but not all of Louisiana.
Employment Protections: Limited state-level rights, but local ordinances provide cover.
Equal Age of Consent: Yes.
Public Opinion: Urban centres are welcoming; rural areas vary.

Portland, OR

Portland is progressive, artsy, and unapologetically queer.

Explore LGBTQ+ neighbourhoods like Alberta Arts and Pearl District.
Don’t miss Darcelle XV Showplace—the longest-running drag revue in the US.
Take a day trip to Crater Lake or Mt. Hood.

We suggest staying at The Jupiter NEXT, a locally loved boutique hotel with queer-friendly events.
Enquire with us to secure a discounted stay at The Jupiter NEXT.

How Gay Friendly is Portland?

Legal Since: Homosexuality decriminalised in 1972.
Marriage Equality: Legal since 2014.
Anti-Discrimination: Strong statewide protections.
Employment Protections: Comprehensive.
Equal Age of Consent: Yes.
Public Opinion: Very inclusive and affirming.

Austin, TX

Austin keeps things weird—and that includes its inclusive LGBT+ culture.

Check out Fourth Street’s gay nightlife scene.
Visit BookWoman, a feminist and queer-friendly bookshop.
Enjoy Barton Springs Pool for sunny social vibes.

Hotel ZaZa is a trendy option that balances location with LGBTQ+ friendly service.
Ask us about seasonal rates at Hotel ZaZa.

How Gay Friendly is Austin?

Legal Since: Sodomy laws struck down in 2003.
Marriage Equality: Legal since 2015.
Anti-Discrimination: Austin has local ordinances protecting LGBT+ rights.
Employment Protections: Limited state-level support, stronger locally.
Equal Age of Consent: Yes.
Public Opinion: Welcoming in Austin; less so in rural Texas.

Practical Tips for Planning Your Gay Fly Drive

A road trip across the US sounds thrilling, but it needs thoughtful planning—especially when you’re crafting it to be LGBT+ affirming. Here's how to ensure your journey runs smoothly from start to finish:

Book with confidence: Choose a company that understands LGBT+ needs. We offer tailor-made holidays that reflect your identity.
Map your safe zones: Stick to known gay-friendly cities or let us help build in stops with progressive reputations.
Know the local laws: Protections vary across states. We’ll guide you through each destination’s legal landscape.
Prepare your playlist: Road trip rule 101—music makes the journey.
Keep emergency contacts: Have details for roadside support, travel insurance, and local embassies if travelling from outside the UK.

Small things make a big difference.

Every route we design is tailored to you, whether you want Pride parades, national parks, or both. And yes, you can absolutely include both.

Understanding the ‘Fly’ in Fly Drive: Flights and Arrival Planning

The “fly” in Gay Fly Drives refers to the flight portion of your holiday. But not all flights are created equal, and planning your arrival can make or break your trip.

When you book with Wide Awake Holidays, we:

Help you select the best airport for your starting city.
Compare flight times that align with car hire pick-ups.
Offer flexible arrival options to avoid long layovers or odd landing hours.

You don’t want to start your road trip tired and jet-lagged. That’s why we often recommend flying in a day early and spending your first night in a centrally located hotel. It gives you time to rest, adjust, and prepare for the adventure ahead.

For multi-city routes, we also arrange open-jaw flights. That means you can fly into one city (e.g. New York) and fly out of another (e.g. San Francisco), without needing to loop back unnecessarily. It saves time and avoids boring drives just to return the vehicle.

Every mile should move you forward.

Can Non-UK Travellers Book With Wide Awake Holidays?

Absolutely. While we’re based in the UK, we welcome LGBT+ clients from the US, Canada, Europe, Australia, and beyond. If you live abroad but want the confidence of working with a travel company that truly gets it, you’re in the right place.

Our ATOL protection may not cover you if you live outside the UK, but you still benefit from our Scheduled Airline Failure Insurance and Supplier Failure Insurance. We also provide expert planning, 1:1 support, and custom itineraries made for queer travellers.

You don’t need to live in London to start your American dream. We’re just a phone call or message away.

Why Some Gay Friendly Isn’t Friendly Enough

You’ve probably seen “gay-friendly” slapped across travel websites and hotel brochures. But what does it actually mean?

Often, it means tolerance—not inclusion.

At Wide Awake Holidays, we believe the bar should be higher. You deserve destinations that celebrate you, not just accept you. That’s why we:

Work with LGBT+ owned and affirming properties
Include destinations with strong legal protections and visible queer culture
Create itineraries that honour both safety and joy

Some people want to relax poolside without being stared at. Others want to hold hands on a hike without fear. We plan for all of that. Because “friendly” isn’t enough—it needs to be personal, authentic, and empowering.

Tailor-Made Gay Fly Drives: Why Go Bespoke?

Generic road trip packages miss the mark when it comes to LGBT+ travellers. You deserve more than stock hotels and chain restaurants. With a bespoke Gay Fly Drive from Wide Awake Holidays, you get:

Handpicked hotels with proven LGBT+ credentials
Routes that blend iconic sights with hidden queer gems
Advice based on lived experience—not assumptions
Flexible booking and support, even on the road

Your journey should reflect who you are.

We make sure it does.

How Car Hire Works for Gay Fly Drives

Car hire is a major part of any Gay Fly Drive—and it needs to fit your travel style, comfort level, and budget. Booking through Wide Awake Holidays means you won’t just get “any car”—you’ll get the right car for your journey.

We help you:

Choose the correct vehicle size (compact, SUV, convertible, electric, etc.).
Understand local road rules and parking in each city.
Add extras like GPS, additional drivers, and insurance without overpaying.
Navigate age restrictions, surcharges, and credit card deposits.
Access 24/7 road support throughout the trip.

Confidence behind the wheel matters.

In the US, automatic vehicles are standard, but some companies limit which cars can cross state lines or be dropped off in another state. That’s where our insider knowledge comes in—we’ll handle the paperwork so you can just pick up the keys and go.

We also work with LGBT-friendly car hire firms where available. Not every rental counter is trained on inclusive service, so we prepare you ahead of time. You’ll know what to expect and what to avoid.

Whether you want a Mustang convertible for cruising Route 1 or an electric car for an eco-conscious adventure, we’ll help you get on the road in style and comfort.

How to Book Your US Road Trip with Us

Ready to start your engines?

Here’s how simple it is to plan your fly drive holiday with us:

Tell us your dream: Share where you want to go, and who you’re travelling with.
Let us do the work: We design a trip tailored to your needs and interests.
Customise it: You can adjust hotels, activities, and route.
Book with protection: Enjoy peace of mind with our travel safeguards.
Go explore: You hit the road—we stay on hand if you need us.

Whether you're a solo traveller, a couple, or a group of friends, we’ll create a plan that works for you.

Call Us Today to Start Planning Your Adventure

A gay fly drive is more than just a holiday—it’s a way to see the world safely and proudly, on your own terms.

Whether you're celebrating a milestone, planning your first trip as a couple, or ticking off your bucket list, Wide Awake Holidays can help you make it happen.

We know the destinations. We know the risks. And we know how to make your journey unforgettable.

To start planning, call us on 01495 400947 or use our holiday enquiry form to get started. You deserve more than just a “gay-friendly” experience. You deserve a holiday that feels like home.

What exactly is a Gay Fly Drive?
A Gay Fly Drive is a self-drive holiday tailored for LGBT+ travellers. It combines flights, car hire, and custom itineraries through destinations that are welcoming, legally safe, and culturally affirming for the queer community.
Can Gay Fly Drives include LGBT+ events like Pride?
Yes, absolutely. We can time your trip to coincide with Pride festivals, queer film events, drag tours, and more. Just let us know what you’d like to experience.
Are Gay Fly Drives only for couples?
Not at all. Whether you're travelling solo, with friends, or as a family, we customise each trip to fit your group and goals.
What makes Gay Fly Drives different from regular road trips?
The difference is in the detail. We select routes, hotels, and activities based on LGBT+ safety, legal protections, and cultural relevance. It’s built for you.
Do I need to be based in the UK to book a Gay Fly Drive with you?
No. We welcome clients from the US, Canada, Australia, and beyond. While UK-based customers benefit from ATOL cover, all clients receive personalised service and insurance-backed bookings.
Can I choose which US states or cities I want to visit?
Yes. We build every Gay Fly Drive from scratch. Tell us where you’d like to go or what kind of vibe you’re after, and we’ll create something that fits.
Are the hotels included LGBT+ owned or just gay-friendly?
Where possible, we prioritise LGBT+ owned and operated properties. Otherwise, we use partners we trust—hotels that have a genuine reputation for inclusivity.
Is it safe to take a Gay Fly Drive through Southern US states?
Some Southern areas are less progressive, but many cities—like Austin and New Orleans—are vibrant and accepting. We’ll help you navigate the route safely and confidently.
How far in advance should I book a Gay Fly Drive?
We recommend at least 3–6 months in advance, especially if you're planning around events or peak seasons. But we’ll always do our best to help, even on shorter notice.
Can I mix city stays with national parks or beach stops?
Definitely. One of the biggest perks of Gay Fly Drives is flexibility. You can combine nightlife in San Francisco with hiking in Yosemite or relaxing in Palm Springs. Just ask.