Gay Boston – Ultimate Travel Guide, Hotels, Restaurants, Bars & Activities (Updated 2024)
Gay Friendly Travel Guides 17th Mar, 2023
Gay Boston – the largest city and capital of Massachusetts. With its rich history, diverse neighborhoods, and thriving arts and culture scene, Gay Boston offers an impressive range of attractions and activities for LGBTQ+ travelers.
Boston is not just one of America’s oldest cities, but it’s also one of the most walkable and easy to get around in.
The city offers historical and cultural allure around every corner, from the Italian roots of the North End to Boston’s distinctive brick facades and New England charm. First-time travelers to Gay Boston who are unsure what to do will be delighted to learn that there is an activity to suit every type of traveler.
Ivy League schools and die-hard sports fans are only two of Boston’s many impressive things. However, many people are unaware that Boston also has a vibrant LGBTQ+ community.
The city may not be recognized for its LGBTQ+ culture, nightlife, or bar scene, but that doesn’t mean there aren’t hidden gems concealed in Boston and its surrounding neighborhoods. After all, Massachusetts was the first state in the US to legalize gay marriage.
Gay Boston locals and visitors can find over-the-top drag brunch parties and other entertainment and nightlife options in Boston. If you’re ever unsure whether or not Boston is a good destination to visit, don’t be. Boston has a lot to offer.
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 Boston – the Scene
Gay Boston stands proud, inclusive, and welcoming as the capital city of the first state in the United States to legalize same-sex marriage.
The city has one of the largest LGBTQ+ populations on the East Coast, with neighborhoods like the South End and Jamaica Plain offering a diverse selection of neighborhood bars, dance clubs, and cozy lounges that cater to both gay and straight patrons. Several mainstream clubs in the city also organize weekly or monthly gay nights.
You’ll also be surprised to see how many rainbow flags are proudly displayed on homes and businesses in almost every part of the city.
Gay Boston hosts important annual events and festivals such as Boston Pride Week, which is celebrated across the city every June, and the annual LGBTQ+ Film Festival, which takes place in late March or early April and is a must-attend and see event.
In addition, the Boston Pride Committee also organizes a week of events around the parade to highlight the community’s diversity and social progress.
Is Gay Boston Safe?
Tourists in Gay Boston are generally safe, but some areas should be avoided.
Criminal activity does occur, but it is mostly between members of street gangs or individuals who know each other, and it takes place in places that are uninteresting to visitors. Avoid sketchy areas and take standard safety precautions.
Pickpockets are also a common thing in Boston, as the city attracts a large number of visitors. Stealing is a common occurrence, so keep your stuff close to you at all times. Keeping your valuable belongings in your accommodation is the best option.
Although Gay Boston is considered generally safe, there is still a risk of petty crime in the city, just as there is in any other part of the world, therefore precautions should be taken to avoid unpleasant situations.
Best Time to Visit Gay Boston
From June to October is the best time to visit Boston.
The pleasant autumn weather makes walking around a pleasure. Summer brings hordes of tourists and high hotel costs, but the sidewalk cafes, baseball games, and outdoor concerts make it worthwhile to visit.
If you’re looking to keep your travel costs as low as possible, the best time to visit Gay Boston is during the winter season. Traveling in the winter has the advantage of being able to secure a better hotel deal.
If winter is too chilly and cold for you and summer and fall hotel prices are out of your price range, consider traveling in the early spring.
Best Gay-Friendly Hotels in Gay Boston
Mandarin Oriental
Mandarin Oriental, Boston is an enchanting and luxurious hotel that blends classic New England elegance with refined Oriental influences, resulting in a truly unique hospitality experience.
With the prestigious Forbes Five-Stars and AAA Five-Diamonds awards, this hotel offers 148 exceptionally spacious guestrooms and suites, along with impeccable meeting and event facilities.
Guests can expect legendary personalized service that sets Mandarin Oriental, Boston apart as a destination of distinction.
| Activities | Spa Restaurant Fitness Center |
| Price | $$$-$$$$ |
| Location | Mandarin Oriental, Boston 776 Boylston Street, Boston, Massachusetts 02199 |
| Contact | Call +1 (617) 535 8888 mobos-reservations@mohg.com |
| Website | Luxury 5 Star Hotel | Back Bay | Mandarin Oriental, Boston |
The Eliot Hotel
Nestled on the picturesque Commonwealth Avenue, The Eliot Hotel stands as a distinguished Neo-Classical Georgian landmark. Since its establishment in 1927, this boutique hotel has evolved into a haven of unmatched personalized service, luxury, and comfort.
Its prime location places it amidst Boston’s vibrant cultural landmarks, esteemed universities, renowned medical campuses, and thriving hubs of technological innovation.
| Activities | Dining Meeting Rooms Spa |
| Price | $$$ |
| Location | The Eliot Hotel 370 Commonwealth Avenue Boston, MA 02215 |
| Contact | Call (617) 267-1607 email@eliothotel.com |
| Website | The Eliot Hotel – Back Bay Boston Hotels |
No. 284
Situated on prestigious Commonwealth Avenue, this exquisite former private residence has been transformed into a captivating haven, offering a unique and personalized experience.
Unlike larger hotels in the Back Bay area of Gay Boston, this boutique gem stands out with its thoughtful amenities, luxurious design, and unwavering commitment to exceptional service.
| Activities | Restaurant Bars Sports & Recreational Activities |
| Price | $$$ |
| Location | No. 284 284 Commonwealth Ave, Boston, MA 02115 |
| Contact | Call +1 617-603-0084 info@no284.com |
| Website | No. 284 Guest House | A Luxury Boston Back Bay Hotel Alternative (no284.com) |
XV Beacon
Nestled in the charming Beacon Hill neighborhood, this luxury boutique hotel, with its 63 exquisite rooms, embodies the perfect blend of past and present. Housed in a magnificent Beaux-Arts building from the turn of the century, XV Beacon Hotel boasts a captivating fusion of modern elegance and timeless grandeur.
| Activities | Fitness Center Dining Business Center |
| Price | $$$ |
| Location | XV Beacon 15 BEACON STREET, BOSTON MA 02108 |
| Contact | Call 617.670.1500 reservations@xvbeacon.com |
| Website | XV Beacon | Luxury Beacon Hill Boston Hotel | Official Site |
Recommended:
Gay Massage Boston
Gay-Friendly Dining in Gay Boston
Gay Boston is an internationally renowned gastronomic destination. Succulent seafood, delectable desserts, and ethnic enclaves with diverse menus are all available.
All of these diverse inspirations are combined in trendy fusion restaurants to create contemporary food that is uniquely Boston. ‘Sacred Cod,’ freshly cooked lobster, half-shell oysters, and rich, creamy chowder are also local delicacies.
Seafood is available all around the city, but particularly in the fish-centric Seaport District, where it’s accompanied by stunning harbor views. Don’t miss out on the chance to eat delicious pasta in the North End or try a variety of Asian dishes in Chinatown.
1. O Ya
A chef’s choice omakase meal is served, containing signature O ya’s favourites as well as seasonal specialties.
O Ya offers contemporary Japanese dining in a friendly atmosphere, nestled in a 100-year-old fire station in the historic Leather District of Gay Boston.
Ten tables and a 17-seat chef’s counter make up the compact 37-seat restaurant, which allows customers to see the chefs produce the delicacies.
| Types of Food | Sushi, Nigiri, Sashimi, Vegetables |
| Price | $$-$$$ |
| Location | 9 East St, Boston, MA 02111 |
| More Information | o-ya.restaurant |
2. The Beehive
The Beehive is a popular Bohemian restaurant and bar in Boston’s South End, located in the Gay Boston Center for the Arts complex.
Delicious food, luscious cocktails, and world-class live music are presented along with the backdrop of an eclectic, funky, yet sophisticated art environment. They serve simple, pleasant, and rustic comfort food with Middle Eastern, Eastern European, and American flavours.
Exotic cocktails, delicious beers, a diverse and accessible wine list, and one of the most extensive Champagnes and sparkling wine lists anywhere are among their extensive libations.
| Types of Food | Seafood, Salads, Vegetables, Pork |
| Price | $$ |
| Location | 541 Tremont St, Boston, MA 02116 |
| More Information | Best restaurant in Boston | Www.beehiveboston.com | Boston |
3. No. 9 Park
Chef Barbara Lynch’s refined cuisine is served in an intimate setting at No. 9 Park, which is located in an attractive townhouse in Boston’s historic Beacon Hill.
No. 9 Park continues to set the standard for exquisite dining in Boston, with awards including an AAA Four-Diamond rating, the 2012 James Beard Foundation Award for Outstanding Wine Program, and Boston Magazine’s Best of Boston and 50 Best Restaurants lists.
| Types of Food | Chicken, Lamb, Gnocchettini, Seafood, Desserts |
| Price | $$ |
| Location | 9 Park St, Boston, MA 02108 |
| More Information | No. 9 Park (no9park.com) |
4. Mistral
Mistral, located in Boston’s fashionable South End, serves straightforward French cuisine made with the freshest seasonal ingredients.
Their decor is reminiscent of Provence, with hand-picked pottery and arched windows that radiate warmth and sophistication and is inspired by the wind that blows through the south of France.
| Types of Food | Seafood, Pizzas, Meat, Desserts |
| Price | $$ |
| Location | 223 Columbus Ave, Boston, MA 02116 |
| More Information | Mistral Bistro – Best of Boston French Bistro |
Gay-Friendly Bars and Clubs in Gay Boston
With its numerous theaters, restaurants, bars, and clubs, Boston’s nightlife is vibrant and thriving.
Whatever your enjoyment, whether it’s a busy night on the town or simply sitting comfortably at a piano bar, Gay Boston has a lot to offer that will captivate you while you enjoy your night out.
1. Club Café
Club Café is a gay bar, seven day a week restaurant, and nightclub in the Back Bay area of Boston, Massachusetts, United States. The bar first opened its doors in 1983.
Various weekly events, such as cabaret and dance parties, are held at this piano bar. The superb food, energetic music, and pleasant crowds draw locals and travelers here.
| Price | $$ |
| Food and Drinks | Both Offered |
| Location | 209 Columbus Ave, Boston, MA 02116 |
| Contact | +1 617-536-0966 |
| Website | Club Café – Dine Drink Dance with the leader in Boston Nightlife (clubcafe.com) |
2. Midway Café
Since 1987, the Midway has showcased the best and most diverse acts in Gay Boston. For its unique mix of genres and audiences, the Midway has been compared to New York’s Knitting Factory.
They book everything, including special events, benefits, movie screenings, and their famed Queeraoke every Thursday.
It’s one of Boston’s longest-running LGBTQ+ parties, and it’s especially popular among lesbians.
| Price | $$ |
| Food and Drinks | Drinks Only |
| Location | 3496 Washington St, Jamaica Plain, MA 02130 |
| Contact | +1 617-524-9038 |
| Website | Midway Cafe |
3. Dbar
Dbar is a full-service restaurant that morphs into a nightclub and lounge as the evening advances. It is open seven days a week.
The attractiveness of the decor relates to the space’s previous life as an Irish pub, but thanks to owner Brian Piccini’s vision, dbar has become the quintessential neighborhood restaurant for locals and curious visitors alike.
Show Tunes Tuesdays, Karaoke Fridays, and Magnum Saturdays are among the events hosted by Dbar.
| Price | $$ |
| Food and Drinks | Both Offered |
| Location | 1236 Dorchester Ave, Dorchester, MA 02125 |
| Contact | +1 617-265-4490 |
| Website | dbar (dbarboston.com) |
4. Jacque’s Cabaret
Jacques’ Cabaret, a popular LGBTQ+ show bar, hosts nightly drag and cabaret events as well as karaoke and open mic evenings every week.
It’s the longest-running show bar in Gay Boston.
| Price | $$ |
| Food and Drinks | Drinks Only |
| Location | 79 Broadway, Boston, MA 02116 |
| Contact | +1 617-426-8902 |
| Website | Jacque’s Cabaret (jacques-cabaret.com) |
5. Cathedral Station
Cathedral Station is a gay sports bar and neighborhood pub. The venue provides a bar area, dining space, an outside patio area, and free parking in the back.
With TV screens showing various games throughout, it is a favorite hangout location for LGBTQ+ sports lovers in Gay Boston.
| Price | $$ |
| Food and Drinks | Both Offered |
| Location | 1222 Washington St, Boston, MA 02118 |
| Contact | +1 617-338-6060 |
| Website | Cathedral Station – Neighborhood Sport Bar & Pub |
Gay-Friendly Activities and Attractions in Gay Boston
Explore a city where the old and modern coexist; where cobblestone streets meet glass-enclosed shopping galleries; where Freedom Trail landmarks coexist with cutting-edge restaurants; and where famous performing theatres live side by side with contemporary nightclubs.
Discover Boston’s history while appreciating its distinct modern edge. Whether you’re up for a land tour or some water activities, there’s so much to see and do in Boston!
1. Boston Common
Locals and tourists alike flock to Gay Boston Common to eat, watch musical events, and play.
It’s also the starting point of the Freedom Trail, and it’s often bustling with tourists eager to start their tour of Boston’s Revolutionary War sites, but, before you head out on the trail, make sure to spend time walking through this beautiful 50-acre (20-hectare) public park.
| Activities | Sightseeing, Dining, Activities |
| Location | 139 Tremont St, Boston, MA 02111 |
| Price | Free |
| Availability | All Year Round |
| More Information | Boston Common | Boston.gov |
2. Boston Tea Party Ships & Museum Experience
Live it up in Gay Boston and travel back in time to one of the most significant moments in American history. On a fully narrated guided tour, see restored ships at this historic and awe-inspiring sight.
Set off on a journey through history to remember the time when the United States acquired its independence and freedom as a nation. This tour gives visitors an inside look at the Boston Tea Party and the events that occurred on December 16, 1773.
| Activities | Sightseeing, Historical Tour |
| Location | 306 Congress St, Boston, MA 02210 |
| Price | $$ |
| Availability | All Year Round |
| More Information | Boston Tea Party Ships & Museum | #1 Best Patriotic Attraction |
3. Boston Historic Sightseeing Cruise
Take in the city skyline and closer views of both historic and modern architecture as you travel along the Inner Harbor and out into the greater Boston Harbor.
During your 90-minute trip, you can hear stories about the Revolutionary War and anecdotes about the sites you pass.
You’ll pass the many wharves and piers that make up Boston’s working port on your way out of the Inner Harbor. As you travel further out into Boston Harbor, you’ll pass Castle Island, which is home to Fort Independence. As you approach your Long Island turn-around location, you’ll notice Boston Light (a lighthouse) in the distance.
As you return to Long Wharf, you’ll also see the Charles River’s mouth, which you may cross via the Boston Harborwalk.
| Activities | Sightseeing, Historical Tours, Cruising |
| Location | 1 Long Wharf, Boston, MA 02110 |
| Price | $$ |
| Availability | All Year Round |
| More Information | Historic Sightseeing Cruise | City Cruises (cityexperiences.com) |
4. Whale-Watching Cruise in Stellwagen Bank Marine Sanctuary
Scanning the horizon for spouting, breaching, and tail-slapping whales as they cruise through the grey-blue waters of the Stellwagen Bank Marine Sanctuary.
Board the catamaran at Long Wharf and take a seat inside or outside, clinging to the handrail for the journey out to the best viewing places. Allow your captain to navigate you to the Stellwagen Bank Marine Sanctuary, where you may begin watching for whales, dolphins, and squawking sea birds.
| Activities | Sightseeing, Whale Watching, Cruising |
| Location | 175 Edward Foster Rd, Scituate, MA 02066 |
| Price | $$ |
| Availability | All Year Round |
| More Information | Contact | Stellwagen Bank National Marine Sanctuary (noaa.gov) |
How to get to Gay Boston?
From Canada
If you are from Canada and want to explore the beautiful places in Boston, riding on a plane is the most convenient and swift way to get to Boston.
Air Canada Airlines offers a one-stop flight from Ottawa to Boston, this flight will leave from Ottawa Macdonald Cartier International Airport which will take 4 hours and 32 minutes to arrive at Boston Edward L Logan International Airport.
From the United Kingdom
For British citizens who want to visit Boston, the most suggested and fastest way to get to Boston is by riding a plane. A direct flight is offered by British Airways from London to Boston. This flight will originate from London Heathrow Airport which will take 7 hours and 20 minutes to take off at Boston Edward L Logan International Airport.
From Italy
If you are from Italy and wish to discover and witness the pretty stunning amazing places in Boston, taking a plane is the most comfortable and quickest way to get to Boston.
Alitalia Airlines offers a nonstop flight from Rome to Boston, this flight will commence from Fiumicino-Leonardo da Vinci International Airport which will take 9 hours and 20 minutes to arrive at Boston Edward L Logan International Airport.
From Australia
For Australians who want to visit Boston, riding in a plane is the safest and fastest alternative to go to Boston. Qantaslink-Sunstate Airlines offers a two stops flight from Canberra to Boston, this entire flight will take 32 hours and 55 minutes to arrive at Boston Edward L Logan International Airport from Canberra Airport.
