Jun 18
Salt Lake City: An Unexpected Beacon for Queer Travelers in the American West
READ TIME: 3 MIN.
A Surprising Shift in the Shadow of the Wasatch Mountains
Salt Lake City may not be the first place that comes to mind when envisioning queer-friendly travel in North America, but recent years have seen the Utah capital transform into an unexpected bastion of inclusivity and progressive values in a region better known for conservatism. Nestled at the base of the Wasatch Mountains, Salt Lake City now boasts a thriving LGBTQIA+ community and a growing array of queer-owned businesses, cultural events, and welcoming spaces that offer something for every kind of traveler.
An Inclusive Scene Flourishes
Salt Lake City’s evolution into a queer-friendly destination has been shaped by both grassroots activism and visible leadership. The city made headlines when Jackie Biskupski, an openly lesbian politician, served as mayor from 2016 to 2020, signaling a new era of openness and representation in local government. Today, the city supports a vibrant LGBTQIA+ nightlife, with popular venues like Milk+ and Club Try-Angles providing safe and celebratory spaces for locals and visitors alike. These establishments, along with a range of queer-owned cafes and boutiques, have become pillars of the community, fostering connection and visibility in the heart of Utah.
Salt Lake City’s annual Pride celebration, held each June, has grown significantly in both size and spirit, attracting visitors from across the region and beyond. The festivities span parades, concerts, and family-friendly events, bringing together diverse identities to celebrate progress and advocate for equality.
Outdoor Adventure and Year-Round Attractions
Beyond its urban offerings, Salt Lake City serves as a gateway to some of North America’s most spectacular natural landscapes. The city is within an hour’s drive of several world-class ski resorts, including Brighton, Solitude, Alta, and Snowbird, making it an ideal base for LGBTQ+ travelers seeking mountain adventures. Utah Gay Ski Week, held each February, has become a highlight of the winter calendar, drawing queer skiers and snowboarders for a week of sports, camaraderie, and après-ski festivities in a supportive environment.
For those who prefer urban exploration, Salt Lake City’s downtown is home to chic boutiques, acclaimed restaurants, and the bustling Downtown Farmers Market at leafy Pioneer Park. The city’s walkable streets and easy access to public transportation make it accessible for visitors looking to experience both its cultural and natural attractions.
A Welcoming Place to Stay
Inclusivity extends to Salt Lake City’s hospitality sector, with several hotels and accommodations going the extra mile to ensure LGBTQ+ guests feel respected and welcomed. The Kimpton Hotel Monaco Salt Lake, for example, offers whimsically decorated guest rooms and an outstanding restaurant, providing a central location for exploring the city’s vibrant neighborhoods.
Travel platforms such as Expedia also encourage LGBTQ+ travelers to use “welcoming” search filters to identify properties that have signed onto inclusivity pledges, helping to guarantee a safe and affirming experience throughout their stay.
The Broader Impact: Representation and Community
Salt Lake City’s rise as an LGBTQIA+-friendly destination holds broader significance for queer visibility and acceptance in less-expected regions of North America. By nurturing a culture of hospitality and inclusion, the city offers a model for other midsize and traditionally conservative cities seeking to create safer, more welcoming spaces for transgender people, nonbinary individuals, and the broader queer community. Salt Lake City’s progress is a testament to the power of local activism and the growing demand among travelers for destinations that prioritize safety, respect, and authenticity.
As the landscape of queer-friendly travel continues to evolve, Salt Lake City stands out as a place where LGBTQ+ travelers can experience both adventure and acceptance—proving that some of the most memorable journeys are found off the beaten path.
