Greater Miami & Miami Beach is a can’t-miss destination for LGBTQ+ travelers—a vibrant, sun-soaked playground where queer culture shines as brightly as the Miami sun. With its iconic Art Deco streets, legendary nightlife, and inclusive vibe, this destination is an irresistible mix of energy and relaxation. From queer-owned restaurants and legendary queer events and lesbian bars that have been staples for decades, Miami knows how to celebrate our community.
In this 5-day gay Miami itinerary, you’ll get a mix of experiences—all curated with queer people at the forefront. Whether you’re lounging at the famous 12th Street Gay Beach, diving into Miami’s vibrant arts scene, or dancing until sunrise at a queer-owned club, you’ll feel the energy and warm embrace of the destination.
Day 1: Arrival & Immersing in Queer Culture
Morning:
Welcome to Miami! Touch down at Miami International Airport and check into one of the city’s LGBTQ-friendly hotels. Consider Hotel Gaythering, a lively LGBTQ+ hotel in Miami Beach known for its eclectic vibe, welcoming atmosphere, and vibrant events. Alternatively, The W Miami in Brickell offers sleek luxury, stunning skyline views, and a central location in one of the most luxe neighborhoods in the city.
Afternoon:
Ease into your trip with a stroll along Ocean Drive, where iconic Art Deco architecture meets shimmering ocean views. Stop by Palace Bar & Restaurant, a Miami Beach institution famous for its lively drag shows and oceanfront atmosphere. Sip a cocktail, enjoy light bites, and soak in the vibes.
Alternatively, if you’re looking for something more active you could grab a bike and enjoy a ride. Miami has tons of great bike trails. Choose from a leisurely ride along the beach through Lummus Park or get a bit more adventurous with a ride through Oleta River State Park, and expect to see some native wildlife. There are numerous places to rent bikes, some hotels even provide them to guests for a small fee.
Evening:
Kick off your Miami adventure at Twist, a legendary multi-level gay nightclub with seven bars and a different music vibe in every room. Dance the night away or relax on the patio with a drink. While the crowd leans toward gay men, the atmosphere is welcoming to all.
LezChic’ also runs Ladywood, a killer lesbian party every 3rd Thursday in Wynwood, and Uncut Gems, a South Florida-based burlesque troupe. Their events are always high-energy, with awesome DJs and entertainment that’ll keep you dancing all night. To stay in the loop, definitely follow them on Instagram—trust me, it’s worth adjusting your schedule to catch one of their parties!
Day 2: Beach Bliss & Queer Nightlife
Morning:
Head to 12th Street Gay Beach, the unofficial LGBTQ+ beach of Miami. Rent a lounge chair, sip on a refreshing drink, and bask in the sunshine. Don’t forget sunscreen—the Miami sun doesn’t play! This is also where the famous rainbow lifeguard tower is, all the lifeguard stations are cool but the rainbow one is of course our favorite.
Afternoon:
Make your way to Wynwood, one of the coolest neighborhoods you can explore. The area is famous as one of the world’s street art hubs, enjoy the art but don’t forget to check out the trendy boutiques and queer-friendly cafes that make Wynwood feel super unique.
While you’re in Wynwood, you’ve got to try The Salty’s Guava & Cheese donut—it’s a total game-changer. There are endless photo ops and fun spots to wander through, so if you’re the type who loves to wander and explore, this is the place for you.
Even if you’ve been to Wynwood before, it’s worth going back because it’s always changing. The creative energy here is next level. Don’t forget to stop by R House Wynwood, a queer-owned restaurant that’s well-known for its weekend drag brunches and amazing fusion dishes.
Evening:
If you’re staying in Wynwood for dinner, 1-800-Lucky is a must-visit. This Asian food hall features six different restaurants serving up delicious eats, plus a drink menu that ranges from classic cocktails to bubble tea. The vibe is super cool and trendy, with neon signs and DJs often spinning in the outdoor courtyard. Whether you’re stopping in for an early dinner or freshening up to make a night of it, 1-800-Lucky delivers good food, great drinks, and an unbeatable atmosphere.
Another option is at Finka Table & Tap, where queer chef Eileen Andrade is redefining Cuban cuisine with bold, creative twists. Known for her fusion of traditional Cuban flavors with modern techniques, Andrade’s menu features everything from tender pork belly to vibrant vegetarian options. With its cozy atmosphere and focus on fresh, locally sourced ingredients, Finka Table & Tap is the perfect spot to enjoy a flavorful meal before heading out for the evening’s adventures.
Day 3: Art, History & Gender Blender
Morning:
Kick off your day at The Bass Museum of Art in Miami Beach, a totally approachable spot for art lovers. With its mix of contemporary art and stunning architecture, it’s a place where creativity and culture collide. Make sure to check out Ugo Rondinone’s Miami Mountain, a bold, colorful sculpture that’s practically begging for an Instagram moment. The museum often showcases diverse voices, including LGBTQ+ artists, so you’ll leave feeling inspired. Whether you’re exploring the rotating exhibitions or just soaking in the vibe, The Bass is the perfect way to tap into Miami’s creative energy.
Afternoon:
Immerse yourself in Cuban culture with a visit to Little Havana. Sip café con leche and nibble on empanadas at El Patio, a queer-friendly café. Wander Calle Ocho to discover colorful murals, authentic cigar shops, and live salsa music. There is a park nearby, Domino Park with you guessed it, locals playing dominos and the music is pumping. The Cuban influence can be felt so deeply here in a way that feels distinct from other parts of Miami.
Evening:
For an unforgettable night out, check out Gender Blender, a monthly dance party celebrating all genders and sexual orientations with a mix of local and international talent. It’s a vibrant, inclusive space where everyone can dance and be themselves.
Another great option is Witches of Miami, a Latine-run collective that hosts events centered on trans and queer femmes, immigrants, and first-gen people of color. Their magical mix of astrology, music, and community creates a unique, inclusive atmosphere.
Follow both on Instagram to stay up-to-date on event dates!
Day 4: Day Trips & Relaxation
Morning:
Visit Vizcaya Museum and Gardens for a serene morning surrounded by European-inspired architecture and lush greenery. Stroll through beautifully landscaped grounds, ornate fountains, and hidden alcoves with breathtaking views of Biscayne Bay. Beyond its stunning aesthetics, Vizcaya actively supports the LGBTQ+ community through initiatives like the “We Met at Vizcaya Late: Pride Edition” event during Pride Month and an LGBTQ+ Stories archive showcasing historical photos, videos, and livestreams. With gender-neutral restrooms on-site, the museum offers an inclusive space for all visitors to experience art, history, and nature in harmony. It’s also incredibly photogenic if you want to capture shots to remember the trip by.
Afternoon:
Return to Miami Beach and treat yourself to lunch at The Standard Spa Miami Beach, a true oasis in the heart of the destination. After a delicious meal, spend the afternoon unwinding in their luxurious amenities. Start with a dip in the hydrotherapy pools, followed by some time in the cedar sauna or the aromatic steam room. Stroll through the serene gardens, or take a moment to lounge by the waterfront pool with a cocktail in hand. If you’re feeling extra indulgent, book a massage or a facial from their incredible spa menu. It’s the perfect mid-trip recharge, combining relaxation, pampering, and a touch of Miami’s effortless vibe.
Evening:
For dinner, head to Le Chick Miami, a queer-owned eatery serving elevated comfort food. Afterward, visit Hotel Gaythering, Miami’s LGBTQ+ hotel and bar, for trivia, karaoke, or themed events. The relaxed vibe makes it an ideal spot to connect with locals and fellow travelers.
Day 5: Farewell Miami
Morning:
Start your day with a soothing visit to the luxurious spa at The Ritz-Carlton, South Beach. Inspired by its 1950s Art Deco architecture, this oceanfront retreat offers a mindful approach to wellness with holistic treatments designed to promote rest, relaxation, and rejuvenation. Indulge in a deep muscle massage or experience the Jet Peel dermal infusion facial, setting a calm and rejuvenating tone for the day. Alternatively, soak up Miami’s sunshine at the W Brickell, where the rooftop pool offers stunning skyline views and plenty of shaded lounge spots—ideal for a leisurely morning by the water.
Whether you prefer the spa experience or a vibrant poolside retreat, both options are the perfect way to kick off the final day of your gay Miami adventure.
EveryQueer Tip: Both hotels allow you to store your bags after checkout, so you can enjoy the pool a little longer before heading to the airport.
Afternoon:
Explore Miami’s iconic Art Deco District, marveling at the pastel-colored buildings and unique 1920s-1930s architecture along Ocean Drive. Shop for souvenirs at queer-owned boutiques like Out of the Closet or Wynwood Pride Shop. If time allows, shop at the Miami Design District, even the nearby parking garages are overflowing with cool art installations.
LGBTQ+ Policy & Social Acceptance in Miami
Florida’s current political climate, particularly for our trans siblings, is undeniably rocky right now. Greater Miami & Miami Beach, however, stands apart as a welcoming and affirming destination for LGBTQ+ travelers. We fully understand and respect that everyone makes different choices about what travel destinations feel best for them. As a queer media company rooted in travel, we believe in our community’s right to see the world, claim space, and find joy wherever we go. Our job—and privilege—is to shine a light on the spaces in every destination that celebrate and affirm queer women, and Miami is absolutely one of those places.
Non-Discrimination Protections: Miami-Dade County and Miami Beach have strong non-discrimination ordinances that cover employment, housing, and public accommodations, protecting LGBTQ+ individuals from discrimination.
Marriage Equality: Same-sex marriage has been legal in Florida since 2015, ensuring marriage equality for LGBTQ+ couples in Miami.
Adoption: LGBTQ+ couples in Miami have the same adoption rights as straight couples.
Hate Crimes: Laws in Miami-Dade County and Miami Beach provide protections against hate crimes based on sexual orientation and gender identity.
Conversion Therapy Ban: Conversion therapy has been banned for minors in both Miami-Dade County and Miami Beach.
Inclusive Policies: While progress has been made, there’s a need for further development of inclusive policies across various sectors in Miami.
Community Support: Miami boasts a strong network of community organizations like SAVE and Pridelines that offer resources, advocacy, and support to LGBTQ+ individuals.
