LGBT+ History Month: The Best Destinations to Celebrate

September 19, 2025


Travel Inspiration for LGBT+ History Month Celebrations

LGBT+ History Month is more than a calendar event. It is a time to honour stories of resilience, celebrate diversity, and explore the places where queer voices made their mark. Whether you’re inspired by civil rights movements, vibrant arts, or hidden landmarks, travelling during this month connects you to a living history.


At Wide Awake Holidays, we believe that “gay friendly” is not always friendly enough. You deserve more than tolerance—you deserve recognition, safety, and joy in your travel experience. That’s why we design tailor-made holidays that not only highlight the best destinations to celebrate LGBT+ History Month but also give you the peace of mind of full financial protection through our ATOL licence and membership of Protected Trust Services.



You may be travelling from the UK, the United States, or further afield. Wherever you begin, our role is to help you find destinations that embrace LGBT+ History Month with authenticity and pride.

Top Destinations for LGBT+ History Month

Berlin, Germany

Postcards with

Berlin is one of Europe’s strongest voices in queer history. The city was home to thriving gay and lesbian communities as early as the 1920s. Today you can explore the Schwules Museum, a world-leading institution dedicated to LGBTQ+ history and art. Its exhibitions move from early activism to contemporary trans experiences, offering depth and context.


Near the Tiergarten, you’ll find the Memorial to Homosexuals Persecuted under Nazism. This solemn site reflects the courage and struggles faced by Berlin’s queer community. In Schöneberg, rainbow flags line the streets around Nollendorfplatz, a district that has been a safe space for decades.


Berlin’s nightlife adds another dimension to LGBT+ History Month. Legendary clubs like SchwuZ and queer film nights show how history continues to influence today’s culture.
We can secure exclusive hotel offers in Berlin during LGBT+ History Month—ask us about the latest options.

San Francisco, USA

Cable car on a San Francisco street with tall buildings and a steep red-painted hill in the background.

San Francisco is synonymous with LGBT+ rights. The Castro District is central to this heritage, with rainbow crosswalks and Harvey Milk’s former camera shop. The GLBT History Museum captures milestones from grassroots activism to the fight for equal marriage.


The city’s Golden Gate Park and Civic Centre have hosted many Pride events, anchoring them into public memory. You can also join walking tours that highlight the AIDS Memorial Grove, queer street murals, and sites of the first Pride parades.



San Francisco’s cultural calendar aligns with LGBT+ History Month through queer film, theatre, and community talks. Beyond history, the city offers a lively dining and nightlife scene where you are welcomed as part of the story.We often feature boutique hotels in the Castro with tailored offers—please check with us for current rates.

London, United Kingdom

Pride flag with multiple colors, including trans flag colors, waving in a crowd in front of a building.

London stands at the heart of LGBT+ History Month in the UK. The capital is home to the Bishopsgate Institute, which holds one of the world’s most extensive LGBTQ+ archives. Collections include banners, diaries, and photographs from queer activism across decades.


Events throughout February celebrate writers, artists, and performers who shaped British queer culture. You can attend talks at the British Library, exhibitions at Tate Modern, or plays that explore queer identity on the West End stage.


A walk through Soho brings you to iconic pubs and clubs that supported LGBTQ+ communities when visibility was rare. Today, Soho remains a vibrant hub during LGBT+ History Month.We can arrange hotel stays in central London that put you at the heart of the celebrations—speak to us for tailored options. The British Museum also highlights queer heritage through dedicated exhibitions, which provide further insight into the stories celebrated during LGBT+ History Month.”

Amsterdam, Netherlands

Canal in Amsterdam, Netherlands, with a bicycle parked on a bridge, lined by buildings and bare trees.

Amsterdam has long been one of the most inclusive cities in Europe. The Homomonument near the Westerkerk is the first memorial in the world dedicated to LGBTQ+ people persecuted for their identity. Its pink granite triangles symbolise past, present, and future struggles and victories.


The city’s queer history is celebrated in events across galleries, universities, and cultural centres during LGBT+ History Month. Amsterdam is also home to the International Gay and Lesbian Archives and Information Centre (IHLIA), which preserves thousands of queer publications.



Alongside history, the city’s nightlife is famous for inclusivity. From drag cabarets to canal-side clubs, the atmosphere blends historic pride with contemporary celebration.Wide Awake Holidays often partners with boutique hotels in Amsterdam for LGBT+ History Month breaks—ask us about seasonal offers.

New York City, USA

Hand holding rainbow flag in DUMBO, Brooklyn, with the Manhattan Bridge in the background.

New York is central to LGBT+ History Month celebrations. The Stonewall Inn in Greenwich Village is a landmark of queer resistance. It was here in 1969 that the Stonewall uprising ignited the modern LGBTQ+ rights movement. Today, the Stonewall National Monument preserves that legacy, and walking tours bring the history to life.


The Leslie-Lohman Museum of Art showcases queer creativity across generations. Exhibitions often explore the intersections of art, politics, and identity. In February, New York’s cultural institutions add LGBT+ History Month exhibitions and talks that connect past struggles with present voices.



From Broadway shows with queer themes to nightlife in Hell’s Kitchen, the city offers both history and living culture.We often feature stays in Manhattan hotels close to key LGBTQ+ landmarks—ask us for current deals.

Brighton, United Kingdom

Brighton Palace Pier at sunset, silhouetted against a colorful sky, with the sun reflecting on the water.

Brighton is often called the UK’s “gay capital”. For LGBT+ History Month, the city’s theatres, museums, and universities hold talks and screenings that celebrate queer heritage. The Brighton Museum and Art Gallery features exhibits on LGBTQ+ culture and local activism.


Walking along the seafront or through the Lanes, you’ll notice rainbow flags above bars and cafes that have been safe spaces for decades. The Marlborough Pub and Theatre remains a hub for queer performances and events.


Brighton also offers easy connections for day trips, making it ideal for both UK and international travellers.We can arrange boutique stays in Brighton’s heart, many with a strong LGBTQ+ connection—speak to us about available options.

Madrid, Spain

Man standing outside a comic book store,

Madrid combines historic activism with a vibrant present. The Chueca district is the centre of LGBTQ+ life, filled with cafes, bars, and cultural venues. During LGBT+ History Month, you can visit exhibitions and talks at local cultural centres that highlight Spain’s queer history and resilience under dictatorship.


The Museo Reina Sofía often hosts works by LGBTQ+ artists. Public squares in Chueca and beyond reflect the pride of a city that embraces diversity openly. Madrid is also home to one of Europe’s largest Pride events, and its community spirit extends throughout the year.


Whether you’re drawn to historic sites or the contemporary scene, Madrid offers both depth and celebration.We frequently work with central Madrid hotels that are fully welcoming—contact us for offers linked to LGBT+ History Month travel.

Sydney, Australia

Sydney Opera House and Harbour Bridge at night; white structures, blue sky, city lights.

Sydney is a Southern Hemisphere destination with global recognition for LGBTQ+ culture. The city is home to the Sydney Mardi Gras, one of the world’s most famous Pride festivals, which often aligns with LGBT+ History Month in timing and spirit.


You can explore the Australian Queer Archives and exhibitions at the Powerhouse Museum. The Darlinghurst district, once the site of protests and activism, now flourishes with inclusive nightlife and cultural events.



Visiting Sydney during this period offers both historic perspective and a joyful present. Beaches like Bondi provide relaxation, while the city’s cultural calendar ensures your trip is rich with meaning.Wide Awake Holidays can tailor Sydney stays, with hotel partners that welcome LGBT+ travellers—ask us for tailored itineraries.

Paris, France

Louvre Pyramid reflected in a puddle; Paris, France. Blue sky, glass structure, people nearby.

Paris blends romance with rich queer heritage. The Marais district has long been the hub of LGBTQ+ life, offering bars, clubs, and cafes where community history continues to unfold. During LGBT+ History Month, cultural institutions across the city highlight queer artists, writers, and activists.


You can visit the Archives Lesbiennes de Paris or join guided walks exploring sites linked to 20th-century activism. The Centre Pompidou often stages exhibitions featuring LGBTQ+ voices in art and design. Even a stroll along the Seine brings you close to landmarks where generations gathered in solidarity and pride.We often feature boutique hotels in the Marais, right in the centre of queer Paris—ask us for current offers during LGBT+ History Month.

Toronto, Canada

Toronto skyline with CN Tower, blue sky, waterfront view.

Toronto’s Church-Wellesley Village is the beating heart of LGBTQ+ culture in Canada. During LGBT+ History Month, the city hosts talks, theatre, and exhibitions that highlight queer Canadian stories.


The Canadian Lesbian and Gay Archives hold one of the world’s largest collections of LGBTQ+ materials. Tours and exhibitions there provide insight into Canada’s activism and cultural development. Toronto also has a lively queer nightlife and a strong drag scene.



For travellers, Toronto offers inclusivity and diversity in both its culture and its people.Wide Awake Holidays works with partner hotels in Toronto that are welcoming to LGBTQ+ travellers—speak to us for seasonal packages.

Cape Town, South Africa

Colorful houses in pink, blue, and yellow line a street with a teal car parked in front; blue sky above. Gay City Breaks in Cape Town

Cape Town has a vibrant LGBTQ+ community rooted in resilience. The city’s De Waterkant district is the hub of queer life, filled with cafes, clubs, and boutique hotels. During LGBT+ History Month, galleries and theatres often run programmes that reflect queer South African culture.


The Gay and Lesbian Memory in Action (GALA) archives in Johannesburg also link South Africa’s wider history to activism and storytelling. Visitors to Cape Town can connect with this heritage while enjoying Table Mountain views, Cape Point, and the beaches.



Cape Town offers both history and natural beauty, making it a strong choice for a long-haul LGBT+ History Month journey.We can arrange stays in Cape Town’s most welcoming boutique hotels—ask us about tailored itineraries.

Buenos Aires, Argentina

Sydney Opera House at night, viewed through an archway, along a waterfront promenade with decorative railing and palm trees. Gay City Breaks in Sydney

Buenos Aires is often considered the most LGBTQ+-friendly city in Latin America. Argentina was the first country in the region to legalise same-sex marriage, and its capital reflects that progressive spirit.


The city’s tango scene now includes queer tango events, where travellers can dance regardless of gender pairing. Cultural centres across Buenos Aires mark LGBT+ History Month with film screenings and lectures. The Museo de la Diversidad Sexual is a growing institution dedicated to queer heritage.



Neighbourhoods such as San Telmo and Palermo offer lively nightlife and inclusive dining. The city feels both historic and forward-looking.We often secure exclusive offers for Buenos Aires hotels during LGBT+ History Month—contact us for the latest options.

Booking Protections with Jamie Wake Travel


When you book through Jamie Wake Travel, you don’t just plan a holiday—you secure peace of mind. Every tailor-made trip includes full protection that ensures your money and your experience are safe.


  • ATOL licence: All flight-inclusive holidays are covered by the Civil Aviation Authority’s ATOL scheme. This guarantees that if anything happens to your airline, you are financially protected.
  • Protected Trust Services membership: As part of PTS, every payment you make is fully safeguarded. Your money is kept in trust until it is used for your booking.
  • Supplier Failure Insurance: If one of our trusted partners unexpectedly closes, your holiday remains secure.
  • Scheduled Airline Failure Insurance: Your flights are backed by insurance so you can book with confidence.


This combination of protections means you can focus on celebrating LGBT+ History Month without worrying about the unexpected. Whether you’re travelling from the UK, the United States, or further afield, your booking is safe with us.

Jamie and his ultimate guide to packing

Jamie Says:

"Travel should never make you feel like an afterthought. LGBT+ History Month is about recognising our shared past and celebrating our present. At Wide Awake Holidays, we build journeys that go beyond tolerance. We believe your holiday should honour who you are, while giving you the reassurance of full financial protection.”



Jamie Wake, Managing Director


Why Book Your LGBT+ History Month Trip with Wide Awake Holidays



Celebrating LGBT+ History Month abroad connects you to a global story. From Berlin’s memorials to Sydney’s Mardi Gras, every destination reminds you that queer history is alive and growing. But making the most of these trips requires more than just booking a flight. You need a travel partner who understands your needs and prioritises your security.


Wide Awake Holidays is a gay-owned travel company based in the UK with global reach. We know the places where queer travellers are not just welcomed but celebrated. We tailor every trip, pairing you with the right flights, hotels, and cultural experiences. And with our ATOL licence and membership of Protected Trust Services, you know your holiday is protected from start to finish.


Your LGBT+ History Month trip deserves to be memorable, safe, and personal. Let’s make it happen together. To start planning, call us today on 01495 400947 or complete our holiday enquiry form on our website.

Send an Enquiry:

Frequently Asked Questions

  • What is LGBT+ History Month?

    LGBT+ History Month is an annual event that celebrates the lives, achievements, and struggles of lesbian, gay, bisexual, and trans communities. It highlights key moments in history while promoting education and inclusion.

  • When does LGBT+ History Month take place?

    In the UK, LGBT+ History Month is held every February. In some countries, such as the United States, it is observed in October.

  • Why travel for LGBT+ History Month?

    Travelling during this month lets you connect with global stories, visit historic landmarks, and join cultural events that celebrate diversity.

  • Which destinations are best for LGBT+ History Month celebrations?

    Berlin, San Francisco, London, Amsterdam, Madrid, Sydney, and New York are among the most popular. Each has deep cultural ties to queer history.

  • Can I book a holiday for LGBT+ History Month if I live outside the UK?

    Yes. Wide Awake Holidays can arrange tailor-made holidays whether you live in the UK, the United States, or elsewhere.

  • How do I know my booking is protected?

    All trips booked with Jamie Wake Travel include ATOL protection, membership of Protected Trust Services, and full supplier and airline failure insurance.

  • Are there LGBT+-only hotels I can book during this month?

    Yes, some destinations such as Berlin and Mykonos offer exclusively gay properties. We can advise on the best options available at the time of travel.

  • What kind of events happen during LGBT+ History Month?

    Expect exhibitions, theatre, talks, walking tours, and community events. Many focus on historic activism, queer art, and contemporary voices.

  • Can Wide Awake Holidays create a tailor-made trip for LGBT+ History Month?

    Absolutely. Every holiday is designed around your preferences, from hotels to cultural experiences, so your trip reflects your interests and comfort.

  • How do I start planning my LGBT+ History Month holiday?

    You can call us directly on 01495 400947 or use our online enquiry form. We’ll help you create a holiday that celebrates LGBT+ History Month in the way you want.


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