Hotels gay friendly

The boards helps the hotel brand understand our community’s needs, implement inclusive policies at their properties, and provide staff with on-the-ground training, so they can make all travelers feel welcome.

MGM

MGM Resorts International partners with LGBTQ organizations such as the Human Rights Campaign and GLSEN.

In fact, MGM helped found the Las Vegas chapter of the Human Rights Campaign back in 2004, at a time when few brands were outwardly partnering with the LGBTQ community.

They’ve donated to LGBTQ causes throughout the years, helping to build a new LGBT community center in Nevada and donating for marriage equality campaigns in LGBTQ friendly states like Maryland.

Like many of the LGBTQ friendly airlines in the US, the hotel brand looks for ways to partner with diverse suppliers including LGBTQ-owned businesses!

Zona Romántica, in particular, is a haven for the gay community, offering gay bars, nightclubs, and welcoming accommodations.

While most establishments in tourist areas accept credit cards, smaller businesses, beach vendors, and taxis often only accept pesos.

ATM Tips:

• Use ATMs located in banks for added security.
• Avoid ATMs on the street to minimize the risk of fraud or skimming.
• Some places accept USD, but the exchange rate is usually poor, so pesos are preferred.

What should I pack for my trip to Puerto Vallarta?

Here’s a packing list to make your trip comfortable:

• Clothing: Lightweight, breathable clothes, swimwear, and a cover-up for the beach.
• Footwear: Comfortable sandals and walking shoes for exploring the city.
• Sun Protection: Sunscreen, sunglasses, and a wide-brimmed hat.
• Cash & Cards: Bring pesos for local businesses and credit cards for larger establishments.
• Reusable Water Bottle: Stay hydrated while reducing plastic waste.
• Bug Spray: Essential during the rainy season.

Pro Tip: Don’t forget a light jacket or sweater for cooler evenings, especially during winter months.

Is the water safe to drink in Puerto Vallarta?

The tap water in Puerto Vallarta is generally not recommended for drinking.

Flamingo: A casual open-air bar perfect for dancing and socializing.

Pro Tip: Most clubs don’t get busy until after 10 PM, so plan your night accordingly!

Are there any gay tours or activities in Puerto Vallarta?

Yes!

Yotel

From year-round inclusive programming to on-the-ground support at major Pride events, YOTEL makes it a point to show up for the LGBTQ+ community year round.

Their support of gay and lesbian travelers came to my attention several years ago when they first announced their Non-Stop Pride campaign, which combines exciting events at YOTEL properties with queer city guides from LGBTQ influencers who want to help you make the most of a stay in their city.

Want to explore Boston with AJ Hernandez, Miami with Amazing Race winners Will and James, Amsterdam with Roxane from Rox on a Journey, or Porto with influencer Dave Anica?

Near the best shops, Greenwich Village gay scene.

The ModernHaus hotel is ideally located in SoHo, close to the Brooklyn Bridge, Canal Street subway, and within waking distance to gay bars in Greenwich Village and Chelsea.

Guest rooms are spacious and stylishly understated, each including a 42" flat screen TV, free WiFi and excellent city views.

There are gay friendly hotels out there making a difference. I know firsthand how much of a difference it makes to feel truly welcome, to check in without awkward questions or assumptions, and to know that I’m safe to be myself when using the pool, dining in the hotel restaurant, or grabbing a drink at the bar with my partner. The hotel has two restaurants and a rooftop bar that serves a nice drink menu.

The friendly staff at the 24-hour front desk offer car/bike rentals, sightseeing arrangements, laundry, etc.

In 2013, 460 properties participated in the gay friendly campaign. This post highlights seven hotel brands that go out of their way to make gay and lesbian travelers feel welcome.

As a queer traveler, I’ve experienced the discomfort of checking into a hotel and being offered a room with two beds when I’d clearly booked one.

It’s a small interaction, but it can feel alienating—like a subtle reminder that queer couples don’t fit the “default” mold.

These LGBTQ friendly hotels go beyond surface-level gestures, creating spaces where LGBT travelers can relax, recharge, and enjoy our travels without worrying about discrimination. When you choose an LGBTQ-friendly hotel, you’re not just booking a room— you’re prioritizing your comfort, so you can spend less time worrying about how you’re perceived and more time making memories.

Looking for more inclusive brands to travel with?

December through March is perfect for whale watching.

Vallarta Pride (May): A week-long celebration with parades, parties, and other gay events.

Low Season (June to October): Expect hotter temperatures, humidity, and occasional rain, but hotel prices are significantly lower, and the crowds thin out.

Pro Tip: Book accommodations early for Pride Week and holidays, as they fill up quickly.

Is Puerto Vallarta safe for gay travelers?

Yes, Puerto Vallarta is considered one of the safest and most inclusive destinations in Mexico for gay travelers.

Hilton

Hilton is a great place to work if you’re LGBTQ, with inclusive benefits like adoption assistance benefits of up to $10,000 per child, a policy that helps all employees plan heir families, but is especially beloved by same-sex employees that have to get creative when planning their families.

Hilton partners with global LGBTQ+ organizations like IGLTA and the Matthew Shepard Foundation, and also nabs a perfect score on HRC’s Corporate Equality Index.

The hotel brand launched a marketing campaign geared toward gay travelers in 2012, called “Stay Hilton.