Gay Texas – Ultimate Travel Guide, Hotels, Restaurants, Bars & Activities (Updated 2024)

Gay Texas – a southwestern state and the second-largest state in terms of both geographic area and population in the United States.

It is also known as ‘The Lone Star State’ and its capital is Austin. It’s one of the country’s fastest-growing states.

Plains, forests, and mountains make up the state’s physical geography, with climates varying from rainy coastal parts to dry, arid deserts.

The size and diversity of the state can also be seen in every element of its physical landscape, economy, history, and culture.

Gay Texas boasts the most farms and the largest land area in the country, therefore, it is also ranked as No. 1 for revenue generated from total livestock and livestock products.

The state offers several gay bars, lesbian bars, and LGBTQ+ friendly places that allow LGBTQ+ travellers and locals to have fun and also enjoy the night out.

Anyone looking for a good time should travel to Gay Texas because of its diverse culture and dynamic nightlife.

It doesn’t matter if you’re a gay traveler who prefers water activities more than land activities and vice versa, Gay Texas adventures and attractions await you.

Gay Texas offers a diverse range of landscapes to explore, from the lonely highlands of Big Bend to the dense forests of the Piney Woods, and from the warm waters of the Gulf Coast to the chilly rivers of the Hill Country.

There is no better way to explore the grandeur and diversity of Gay Texas than behind the wheel of your car. 

There are plenty of opportunities for adventure, like jumping into spring-fed pools along the Central Texas swimming hole trail, living like a cowboy on the Panhandle Plains ranges, or comfort-eating your way across the state at the best roadside family-owned businesses.

The Lone Star State rewards every kind of traveler; whether you want to learn about the region’s rich history, experience its diverse cultural attractions, or dine at famous restaurants, you can do all of that in Gay Texas.

If you are thinking about going somewhere else you can try other Gay Travel Guides.

Remember to always check out the latest rules and restrictions before you leave.

Gay Scene in Gay Texas

Gay Texas towns and communities have a bad reputation for being intolerant and judgmental of the LGBTQ+ community, but the truth is that there are a large number of LBGTQ+ families and individuals that call Gay Texas home.

Same-sex marriage has been allowed in Gay Texas since June 26, 2015.

Major cities like Austin, Dallas, Houston, and San Antonio have won praise for their inclusiveness. They also have Pride festivals, vibrant art sectors, and a great selection of clubs.

Austin is described as a liberal and free-thinking city free of prejudice, however, the resident LGBTQ+ community is very small and subdued for a city of its size.

There are several bars and other venues worth checking out in Austin, such as the Halcyon coffee shop and bar on West 4th Street.

Several bars and nightclubs, including Castro’s, Olican’s Harry’s, and Rain on 4th, are also located in the popular Warehouse District, while the Iron Bear (West 8th Street) and Lipstick24 are located in downtown Austin (East 7th Street).

Houston, as the center of space exploration and rodeo, has something for everyone. It is a bustling and sprawling urban metropolis packed with exploration and discovery options.

Montrose, an upscale and picturesque neighborhood, just a few miles southwest of Houston’s downtown, is the beating core of the city’s gay scene.

Travellers will find a vibrant LGBTQ+ scene there scattered throughout the area. There are many gay clubs, bars, and shops.

Dallas is Gay Texas’ great cosmopolitan center. The city has a large LGBTQ+ community, centered around Oak Lawn and Turtle Creek.

It has a thriving gay bar and club scene, and the LGBTQ+ culture here is free, warm, and welcoming.

These gay-friendly Gay Texas cities take Pride in Southern hospitality and live up to the state’s name, Texas, which in the Caddoan Indian language means ‘friends’.

Gay Texas Safety

In general, the most dangerous areas in Gay Texas are not the largest cities, with only one of the five most populous cities making it into the top five of the list.

You’re more likely to visit gay-centric towns like Austin, Dallas, San Antonio, and Houston as a gay traveler.

Even though Houston is one of Gay Texas’ most violent cities, you’ll be alright if you use common sense and take safety precautions. The other cities mentioned are likewise somewhat safe.

There is still a risk of petty crime in this area, just as there is in any other part of the world, so precautions should be taken to avoid unfavorable circumstances.

You must also be wondering if it’s safe to travel as a gay individual. There is currently no statewide law against anti-LGBT discrimination, however, some Gay Texas cities have passed ordinances that provide LGBTQ+ individuals with a variety of legal protections and privileges.

Although Gay Texas has a reputation for being a socially conservative state, more Texans are supporting same-sex marriage and anti-discrimination laws for gay people.

With the ongoing global pandemic, you can also view the latest Gay Texas COVID updates by clicking here. You may also view Gay Texas travel guidelines and restrictions by clicking here.

Best Time to Visit Gay Texas

Summer is full of exciting events, but the shoulder seasons have something to offer as well. As a result, the months of March to May and September to November are ideal for visiting Gay Texas.

The main reason is the mild and pleasant weather. You can enjoy the beautiful spring flower blooms as well as events such as Fiesta San Antonio.

From June through August, you can relax on the beach and observe wildlife such as bats, raccoons, and armadillos, however, keep in mind that crowds are heavier and transport and accommodation costs are higher during these months.

If you want to keep your travel costs as low as possible, it is ideal to visit Gay Texas from September to November. There will be fewer people, and flight and accommodation prices will be lower.

There’s no need to be concerned; events such as the Austin City Limits Music Festival and the State Fair of Texas will still keep you entertained and have a good time during your stay.

Winter in Texas is a great time to travel on a budget, but you can’t go wrong with bringing a thick jacket.

Best Gay-Friendly Hotels in Texas

Here are some Gay-Friendly Hotels to try during your visit to Gay Texas:

Grand Galvez

Located on the Texas Gulf Coast in Galveston, the Grand Galvez is a historic beachfront hotel offering luxurious accommodations and breathtaking ocean views. With its AAA 4-diamond rating, this hotel is a perfect blend of elegance and relaxation.

Activities	Spa Restaurant Bar Pool Fitness Center
Price	$$$
Location	Grand Galvez 2024 SEAWALL BLVD. GALVESTON, TEXAS 77550
Contact	Call 409-765-7721 INFO@GRANDGALVEZ.COM
Website	Grand Galvez | Galveston Hotels

The Tremont House, Galveston, a Tribute Portfolio Hotel

Situated in the historic Strand District, The Tremont House is a tribute to the Victorian era.

With its luxurious guest rooms and modern amenities, this hotel offers a unique blend of historical charm and contemporary comfort.

Activities	Bar Restaurant Fitness Center
Price	$$$
Location	The Tremont House, Galveston, a Tribute Portfolio Hotel 2300 Ship Mechanic Row St Galveston, TX 77550
Contact	Call 409-763-0300 No Email
Website	The Tremont House™ A Luxury Downtown Galveston Hotel in Strand Historic District

Sheraton Austin Hotel at the Capitol 

Located in downtown Austin, this hotel offers spacious rooms, signature amenities, and convenient access to the city’s attractions. Enjoy the indoor/outdoor pools and full catering options during your stay.

Activities	Dining Recreation and Fitness Swimming Pool
Price	$$$
Location	Sheraton Austin Hotel at the Capitol  701 EAST 11TH STREET, AUSTIN, TEXAS, USA, 78701
Contact	Call +1 512-478-1111 No Email
Website	Hotels near UT Austin | Sheraton Austin at the Capitol (marriott.com)

Gay-Friendly Dining in Gay Texas

Gay Texas is known for its unique culinary offerings. Try mouthwatering barbecue, chicken-fried steak, and queso, which have become iconic Texan dishes. Explore the diverse influences on Texas cuisine, including Southern, Mexican, Creole, and German flavors.

Here are some gay-friendly restaurants in Gay Texas that you might wish to visit during your stay:

1. Happiest Hour

Indulge in delicious fries, chicken, salads, sandwiches, and burgers at this popular Dallas restaurant. Enjoy indoor and outdoor seating while savoring their carefully crafted cocktails.

Types of Food	Fries, Chicken, Salads, Sandwiches, Burgers
Price	$$
Location	2616 Olive St, Dallas, TX 75201
More Information	HAPPIEST HOUR (happiesthourdallas.com)

2. Moonshine Patio Bar & Grill

This iconic Austin restaurant offers a fresh take on classic American comfort food. With its laid-back atmosphere and top-quality cuisine, Moonshine Patio Bar & Grill is a must-visit for food enthusiasts.

Types of Food	Salads, Sandwiches, Steaks, Desserts
Price	$$
Location	303 Red River St, Austin, TX 78701
More Information	Moonshine Grill

3. Sundown at Granada

Sundown at Granada is a double-decker patio place. The chef-driven casual menu can be matched with a range of 60+ beers and specialty beverages.

The owner has established the Granada Theatre philosophy of catering to its customers with a background in music, resort, and hotel business.

You can anticipate the same level of excellent service as you would receive at the Granada Theatre.

Sundown at Granada will be a terrific spot to catch up with friends, eat a delicious dinner, and relax during happy hour.

Types of Food	Tacos, Mac N’ Cheese, Vegetables, Salads, Flatbreads, Burgers, Seafood
Price	$$
Location	3520 Greenville Ave, Dallas, TX 75206
More Information	Sundown at Granada

4. Eddie V’s – 5th Street

Eddie V’s Edgewater Grille is the place to go for seafood in town.

The Gulf Coast menu includes oysters, gulf snapper, fresh tuna, and lobster, as well as excellent prime steaks and chops.

Classic seafood appetisers include half-shell oysters, fried cold water baby lobster tails, and the famed All Lump Crab Cakes. Over 150 wines are available on the wide wine list.

Types of Food	Seafood, Beefs, Steaks
Price	$$-$$$
Location	301 E 5th St, Austin, TX 78701
More Information	https://www.eddiev.com/home

5. STEEL Sushi

Located in Dallas, Texas, STEEL Restaurant & Lounge is a restaurant that serves a variety of menu options, including pork ribs, spring rolls, beef tartar, crabs, salads, soups, and seafood.

Types of Food	Seafood, Beefs, Steaks
Price	$$-$$$
Location	301 E 5th St, Austin, TX 78701
More Information	https://www.eddiev.com/home

Gay-Friendly Bars and Clubs in Gay Texas

Once the sun sets in Gay Texas, there is no shortage of thrills and adventures.

When in Texas, sing your heart out at an incredible karaoke night, sip a magical blend of inventive beverages while admiring dreamlike city views from a rooftop, and dance the night away.

Here are some of the lists of gay-friendly bars and clubs to have an awesome nightlife during your stay in Gay Texas:

1. JR’s Bar and Grill

Located in Dallas, JR’s Bar and Grill is a popular gay bar known for its happy hours, drag performances, and karaoke nights.

With a mix of professionals and a welcoming atmosphere, it’s a great place to unwind and have a good time.

Price	$$
Food and Drinks	Both Offered
Location	3923 Cedar Springs Rd. Dallas, TX 75219
Contact	(214) 528-1004
Website	JR’s Bar and Grill Dallas | Bar and Restaurant (jrsdallas.com)

2. EAGLE Houston

This inclusive bar in Houston welcomes everyone and hosts weekly events, including dance parties and drink specials. Embrace the vibrant LGBTQ+ scene and enjoy the energetic ambiance.

Price	$$
Food and Drinks	Both Offered
Location	611 Hyde Park Blvd, Houston, TX 77006
Contact	No Contact Number
Website	Houston Eagle | Favorite LGBTQ Bar | (eaglehouston.com)

3. Round-Up Saloon

A legendary nightclub in Dallas, the Round-Up Saloon has been serving the LGBTQ+ community for decades.

With multiple themed and specialty bars, it offers a diverse range of experiences, including country dancing, karaoke, and vintage dance nights.

Price	$$
Food and Drinks	Drinks Only
Location	3912 Cedar Springs Rd, Dallas, TX 75219
Contact	214-522-9611
Website	The Round-Up Saloon and Dance Hall – The home of Good Times – Home of Good People (roundupsaloon.com)

4. Hidden Door Bar

The Dallas LGBTQ+ community’s longest-serving meeting place for 40 years.

Hidden Door is in the popular Oak Lawn neighbourhood, which is known for its vibrant gay nightlife. The simple bar is recognised for its friendly staff, good atmosphere, and reasonable drink rates.

There’s also plenty of free parking, as well as amazing daily drink specials and much more.

Price	$$
Food and Drinks	Drinks Only
Location	5025 Bowser Ave, Dallas TX 75209
Contact	214-526-0620
Website	Hidden Door Bar

Gay-Friendly Activities and Attractions in Gay Texas

You’ll leave here with a completely new perspective, thanks to everything from twisting coasters to high-flying zip lines. You can also take advantage of the beautiful scenery, hiking, and other water and land activities.

Gay Texas has something for everyone, whether you’re on the water, on land, or in the air.

Here are some of the lists of gay-friendly activities that you can enjoy and experience during your stay in this state: 

1. Dallas Reunion Tower Observation Deck 

Take in the breathtaking views of the Dallas skyline from the 470-foot GeO-Deck at Reunion Tower.

Enjoy 360-degree panoramic views and capture memorable photos of the city.

Activities	Sightseeing
Location	300 Reunion Blvd E, Dallas, TX 75207
Price	$$
Availability	All Year Round
More Information	Reunion Tower | Observation Deck in Downtown Dallas, TX

2. Weekend Tandem Kayak Rental at Lady Bird Lake

Explore the scenic Lady Bird Lake in Austin by renting a tandem kayak. Paddle along the river, admire the skyline, and discover secluded beaches and wildlife along the way.

Activities	Sightseeing, Rafting, Kayaking
Location	1610 E Riverside Dr, Austin, TX 78741
Price	$$
Availability	All Year Round
More Information	Live Love Paddle

3. Parasailing Adventure South Padre Island

Experience the thrill of parasailing above the clear waters of the Laguna Madre Bay in South Padre Island. Soar 600 feet above the island, marvel at the panoramic views, and create unforgettable memories.

Activities	Sightseeing, Parasailing
Location	204 W Palm St, South Padre Island, TX 78597
Price	$$
Availability	All Year Round
More Information	South Padre Island Parasailing & Watersports SPI (spiexcursions.com)

4. Galveston Suntime Jet Boat Thrill Ride

The most exciting water adventure in Galveston!

The thrill and excitement of right-angle turns, accelerated speeds, and ‘The Hamilton Spin’, a manoeuvre that rotates the boat 360 degrees on its axis and throws a head-high wall of water into the air, will be enjoyed by you, your partner, or even by your friends.

Activities	Sightseeing, Jet Boat Thrill Riding
Location	2100 Harborside Dr. Pier 21, Galveston, TX 77550, Galveston, TX 77550
Price	$$
Availability	All Year Round
More Information	Galveston Jet Boat Ride Thrill Ride From Historic Pier 21 (galvestonwateradventures.com)

Top 10 Things to Do in Texas

• President Kennedy and The Sixth-Floor Museum, Dallas – This museum served as President John F. Kennedy’s details, usually, you can’t find a museum at Dallas County Administration Building at Dealey Plaza but surprisingly there is.
  
  All the artefacts, recordings of eyewitness accounts, photographs, and 45,000 items are currently on display in this museum.
  
  
• Houston Museum of Natural Science – You can try to visit this Science Museum located at 5555 Hermann Park Dr, Houston, TX 77030. Real Dinosaur skeletons, gemstones, and jewels can be seen there.
  
  Also, Butterfly Center, Giant Screen Theatre, and the George Observatory can be visited there. 
  
  
• Six Flags over Texas, Arlington – Six Flags Over Texas is the largest and most popular theme park in the state. There are live country music events and other entertainments throughout the year, in addition to rides for all ages and interests.
  
  
• Guadalupe Mountains National Park – A national park about 100 miles west of El Paso is home to some of the most breathtaking desert scenery you’ll ever see. Despite its harsh appearance and lack of life, Guadalupe Mountains National Park is home to a diverse range of species, woods, and natural hot springs.
  
  
• Dallas Arboretum and Botanical Garden – Some of the most stunning desert scenery you’ll ever see can be found in a national park about 100 miles west of El Paso.
  
  Despite its desolate appearance and lack of life, Guadalupe Mountains National Park is home to a varied range of animals, woodlands, and natural hot springs.
  
  There are over 150 activities to delight and educate youngsters. The Arboretum and Botanical Garden can also be rented for corporate retreats, weddings, reunions, and other social events.
  
  
• Kimbell Art Museum, Fort Worth – The museum was founded to stimulate creativity and appreciation for art. The Kimbell Art Museum has amassed works by masters such as Monet, Picasso, Rembrandt, Matisse, and others since its inception.
  
  The two buildings and the interior exhibitions are filled with paintings, relics, and architectural splendours.
  
  
• South Padre Island Dolphin Research, & Sea Life Nature – Have you ever wanted to get up close and personal with marine life like octopus, starfish, dolphins, and other creatures? Then you must travel to South Padre Island at the Dolphin Research and Sea Life Nature Center.
  
  The facility also educates and engages with the community while protecting marine creatures. The dolphin cruises are another reason for the centre’s popularity. You may take a boat ride out into the Laguna Madre Bay to see wild dolphins.
  
  
• San Antonio Missions National Historical Park – San Antonio Missions is a national historical park and a UNESCO World Heritage Site that protects wildlife as well as four of San Antonio’s five Spanish border missions.
  
  The places are extremely stunning and allow for excellent hiking and picnicking opportunities.
  
  
• Dallas Zoo – The Dallas Zoo is located 3 miles south of Downtown Dallas, amid the lovely Marsalis Park. The Dallas Zoo, founded in 1888, is a 106-acre nonprofit attraction with a lot of history.
  
  It houses roughly 2000 animals from all around the world.
  
  
• Hamilton Pool Preserve – On a hot summer day, Texans will tell you that the only thing to do is go to a natural swimming hole. Hamilton Pool, part of the Balcones Canyonlands Preserve, is the greatest.
  
  The natural pool has been popular with visitors and residents of Austin, Texas, since the 1960s, for both swimming and the natural beauty of the limestone and stalactites that surround the region.
  
  

How to get to Texas?

From Canada

For Canadian citizens who want to visit Texas for its stunning attractions, there are actually two options on how to get to Texas.

If you are near the border of Canada and the United States, you can just drive it for about 29 hours with a distance of 3,087 KM / 1,632 miles, this is only for those who live at Montreal, and Ottawa.

For Canadians who are far away from the border where Texas is near, you may book a flight with Air Canada from Vancouver-Texas, Toronto-Texas, Alberta-Texas, Ontario-Texas, etc.

The flight will commence at the nearby airport in your area and it will land at Dallas Fort Worth International Airport or any other nearby airport in the area.

From the United Kingdom

For residents from the United Kingdom who really want to visit and explore the tourist spots in Texas, riding in a plane is the best choice to go with.

You may book a flight at the London Heathrow Airport from London to Texas, the flight will take 10 hours and 21 minutes before departing at Austin-Bergstrom International Airport.

From Australia

As for the citizens of Australia that has the desire to discover the spectacular places of Texas, taking a plane is the best and fastest way to get to Texas.

American Airlines offers a non-stop flight from Sydney to Dallas, U.S. From Sydney International Airport, it will take 15 hours and 20 minutes to take off at Dallas Fort Worth International Airport or any other neighbouring airport.

From Italy

For Italians who want to witness the beauty that Texas gives off, riding in a plane is the fastest and most efficient way to get to Texas. You may book a flight at the Fiumicino-Leonardo da Vinci Airport from Rome to Texas.

This flight will take 11 hours and 40 minutes before you take off at Dallas Fort Worth International Airport or any nearby airport in the area.