Discovering LGBTQ+ Friendly Guadalajara: Where to Stay, Eat and Play
Located in the heart of Mexico, Guadalajara is a vibrant and culturally rich city that welcomes travelers from all walks of life. With its thriving LGBTQ+ community and a wide range of LGBTQ+-friendly establishments, this city is an ideal destination for those seeking an inclusive and diverse travel experience. In this guide, we’ll explore Guadalajara’s relationship with the LGBTQ+ community and highlight the best places to stay, eat, and explore.
Embracing Diversity: Guadalajara’s LGBTQ+ Scene
Guadalajara is recognized for its inclusive and accepting attitude towards the LGBTQ+ community. The city hosts one of Mexico’s most prominent LGBTQ+ pride parades, which draws crowds from around the world. In addition, LGBTQ+ rights are protected by law and discrimination is illegal, making Guadalajara a safe destination for LGBTQ+ travelers.
Where to Stay: LGBTQ+ Friendly Hotels
Hotel Me encanta: Hotel Love Located in the “Gayborhood” Colonial Americana just one block from the main street of Avenida Chapultepec. Combining the sophistication and elegance of a luxury hotel with an original, authentic, and personalized guest service concept, your stay will be an unforgettable experience.
Casa Alebrijes Boutique Hotel: This charming boutique hotel is not only LGBTQ+ friendly but also a member of the International Gay and Lesbian Travel Association (IGLTA). Its central location in the historic center of the city makes it an excellent choice for exploring Guadalajara’s cultural attractions.
Hotel Demetria: A chic and contemporary boutique hotel, Hotel Demetria offers a welcoming atmosphere for LGBTQ+ travelers. The rooftop bar offers stunning views of the city, making it a perfect place to relax with a cocktail.
Hotel Guadalajara: Part of the Marriott family, this sleek, modern hotel caters to LGBTQ+ guests. Its prime location in the financial district is ideal for those looking to combine business with pleasure.
Savoring the flavors: LGBTQ+-friendly dining
Guadalajara’s culinary scene is as diverse as its people and offers a variety of LGBTQ+-friendly dining options.
La Minerva: This lively neighborhood is home to several LGBTQ+-friendly restaurants and bars. Try “La Chata,” a local favorite known for its delicious traditional Mexican dishes, and enjoy the lively atmosphere.
Casa Trapiche: Located in Colonial Americana and offers traditional Guadalajara cuisine elevated with a modern twist.
Yunaitas: Pronounced “Unitas,” this place opened in January 2021 in Mercado Centenario by chef Fabian Delgado, a leading chef in the city, and is dedicated to traditional Mexican dishes from the region.
Peligro Bien Rico: Run by Alex Serratos, a leading figure in the LGBTQ+ community, this modern indoor/outdoor restaurant and bar offers a charming setting to enjoy its delicious food and cocktails. As a monthly highlight, they host a lively event known as “Jotero,” a fabulous drag show.
Hueso: Located in the Lafayette neighborhood, Hueso is an artistic and gastronomic masterpiece. The restaurant’s unique décor features thousands of bones, creating a visually stunning backdrop for an unforgettable dining experience. Plus, the food is delicious!
Café Rin Tin Tin: This beautiful café is the perfect place to enjoy authentic tatemado chilaquiles or their morning coffee and muffins. The building is an indoor/outdoor venue filled with greenery and inclusive artwork in every corner.
Bravo: Located on Bravo is a modern Mexican cuisine restaurant that also offers a variety of craft liquors. The location is gorgeous, with an intricate garden situated in the back. The cuisine reaches new heights, but the flavors remain comforting and familiar.
El Parián: For authentic Mexican cuisine and live mariachi music, head to El Parian. This LGBTQ+-friendly establishment is a great place to soak up the local culture.
Guadalajara has a lively LGBTQ+ scene with numerous bars and nightclubs to suit all tastes. The city’s LGBTQ+ community is inclusive, ensuring that everyone feels welcome.
Xiquito Bar: Located in Colonial Americana, Xiquito Bar offers a daily drag show.
California Bar: A long-standing LGBTQ+ institution in Guadalajara, California bar is known for its vibrant atmosphere and drag shows.
Caudillos: This popular nightclub attracts a diverse crowd and hosts themed parties throughout the week.
Cultural Scene
Museo Memoria LGBTTTIQ Mexico: This important museum opened its doors in 2021 to showcase the history of how the media, television, and radio have in the past been against the LGBTQ+ community in Guadalajara.
Galería Amalgama: Located inside Peligro Bien Rico, this intimate gallery is lesbian-owned and features many notable LGBTQ+ art exhibits and workshops.
Dulces Mis Dulces: Traditional candy store.
Gay Games: The world’s most important sporting and cultural event for the LGBTQ+ community and its allies will be held in Guadalajara later this year.
Centro Historico: Explore the heart of Guadalajara with its stunning architecture, including the Cathedral and Hospicio Cabañas. Don’t miss Orozco’s vibrant murals.
Avenida Chapultepec: Stroll down this modern avenue lined with bars, restaurants, and art galleries. It’s an LGBTQ+ hotspot with a lively atmosphere.
Tequila Tours: Take a day trip to nearby Tequila for distillery tours and tastings of Mexico’s iconic drink.
Tlaquepaque and Tonalá: Shop for local crafts and art in these charming neighborhoods known for their vibrant markets.
Plaza Mariachi: Immerse yourself in the sounds of mariachi music at the Plaza de los Mariachis at night.
Traveling in Guadalajara
Guadalajara has modern highways connecting the city to its metropolitan area and beyond. Visitors can easily access cabs, public buses, and car rentals. Guadalajara’s light rail system serves Guadalajara, Zapopan and Tlaquepaque.
Exploring Beyond the City
While Guadalajara itself offers plenty to see and do, consider taking day trips to explore the surrounding area. The town of Tequila, just an hour’s drive away, offers tours of tequila distilleries and picturesque landscapes.
In conclusion, Guadalajara, Mexico, is a welcoming and LGBTQ+-friendly destination that celebrates diversity and inclusion. From its welcoming atmosphere to LGBTQ+-friendly accommodations, dining options, and nightlife, this city has something for everyone. So, whether you’re traveling for pride or simply looking for an enriching cultural experience, Guadalajara is a city that should be on your travel radar.
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