San Francisco

If you are gay or lesbian, chances are you’ve already visited Gay San Francisco. San Francisco has long been considered a hub of gay and lesbian life in North America. Its inclusive spirit isn’t just limited to gays and lesbians, however, but also a thriving transgendered community. Gay and lesbian bars, restaurants and attractions are sprinkled throughout the city, but the Castro is by far the most notable gay neighborhood in San Francisco and its history runs deep. On the whole, San Francisco’s identity is so closely aligned with the GLBT community that it is a must-do for all “family.”

San Francisco has all the attractions of any good city. If food is your thing you are in one of the United States’ best cities for it. San Fran is awash with restaurants of every variety and you can bet that the city’s proximity to world-class wineries and countless fantastic small farms means that you have the privilege of some of the country’s best food and drink. If you are more of a sightseer then San Francisco won’t disappoint either. Take the ferry over to Alcatraz and take a tour of this famous prison. Or head on over to the MoMa and take their incredible collection of modern art. Hop onto a cable car and get transported back in history. If you are a shopper than you will want to come to San Francisco just for Union Square, the third largest shopping area in the U.S. If you are partier than you’ve got the right place as well. It really doesn’t matter what you are into because San Francisco will satisfy.

When packing make sure to grab a jacket just in case. San Francisco can get chilly, especially when the fog rolls in. This city has a mostly moderate climate, but warmer weather sets in around September and October. Rarely does it go higher than 80 degrees here and below 40. Just be prepared for a nip in the air at anytime of the year. What to pack: Always bring a sweater or light jacket to SF, and better yet, keep it handy. Even though the sun might shine all day, it can get chilly within a few minutes’ time here. If you plan on visiting fall through spring, you’ll need a warm jacket and layers. You sometimes need layers in the summer, depending on the fog. You should also spend some time deciding, which shoes to bring. Most likely you’ll be doing a lot of walking, and probably uphill. Be warned.

There are as many places to stay in San Francisco as there are things to do so spend some time and find the perfect place for you with our San Francisco Lodging List.

For more information on the HOT places to go, eat, stay and see in San Francisco, check out EDGE San Francisco, the city’s premier LGBT publication.

NEARBY CITIES:

Oakland
Just across the San Francisco Bay from “The City”, Oakland has a lovely old downtown, with many architectural gems surviving from the early 20th century, and a sweet little saltwater lake in the heart of town. Here you’ll find a diverse population from UC Berkeley students to middle-class families raising kids to some of the state’s most integrated ‘hoods. It is a city of neighborhood joints, local groceries, small clusters of clubs and restaurants.

The Gay Scene in Oakland is not as vibrant as San Francisco, although there are a number of great gay friendly bars and clubs.  Several boast an urban flavor and attract heavily black and Latino crowds for salsa and hip-hop style. If you’re looking for a more affordable option of accommodation while visiting San Francisco, staying in one of Oakland’s gay friendly hotels can be a great option. 

San Jose
Located about 45 miles from San Francisco, San Jose has become a mecca for arts and culture as well as a rapidly growing center for technology. The hands-on Tech Museum of Innovation is a popular illustration of art of technology. Adding to the never-ending list of fun activities are over 15 golf courses, more than 20 vineyards, 150 parks and gardens, and theme parks. The city’s diverse nightlife scene has it all – gay friendly dance clubs, ultra-cool lounges, even casual pubs.

Geographically close to San Francisco, San Jose has a vibrant, though small, gay community of its own. There are several gay bars, many gay-friendly hotels, and the annual gay pride event all giving “the city by the bay” a run for its money.