San Francisco, California

Gay life in San Francisco used to revolve around the Castro District, but this famously progressive city has become such a mecca for the community that you’ll find gay-owned boutiques, clubs, eateries, and galleries in almost every neighborhood. If you’ve never been, a walk down Castro Street is a sort of rite of passage. Head south from Market Street and enjoy the iconic Castro Theatre sign fronting the movie palace built in 1922. A more recent addition, an enormous Pride flag at the corner of Castro and Market, looms over the area like a beacon, so it’s hard to get too lost here. Nearby sights include Harvey Milk Plaza, the GLBT Historical Society’s archives and museum, and an LGBTQ walk of fame called the Rainbow Honor Walk.