Inspiration
Why Connecticut is a Top LGBTQ+ Destination
"It’s a great time to be queer in Connecticut!" — Patrick Dunn, Executive Director of New Haven Pride Center
From being the second state to legalize same-sex marriage in 2008 to passing the parentage act in 2021 and offering great medical resources, the small state of Connecticut has long taken big steps to not only protect LGBTQ+ residents, families and visitors—but to celebrate them. Connecticut even became the first-ever state to join the LGBTQ+ Travel Association (IGLTA) at the global partner level!
But Connecticut isn’t just a fantastic place for the LGBTQ+ community to live, it’s a great place to visit as well.
Arts & Culture
It’s no secret that Connecticut is filled with theaters and arts organizations adding vibrancy to the state. And many of them are using arts to celebrate LGBTQ+ culture.
New Haven Pride Center works with organizations to bring queer arts to the stage and plans to restart their performing arts series. The center also as partners with the International Festival of Arts & Ideas, runs multiple gallery spaces, and is partnering with Triangle Community Center to start a new gallery space. Soon, they plan to create the nation’s first permanent art installation dedicated to drag.
Many of Connecticut’s great theater companies are also committed to LGBTQ+ storytelling. Discover productions and events at the spots below.
LGBTQ+ Bars and Nightlife
When you’re looking for a night out, Connecticut’s got you covered. Here are a few great LGBTQ+ bars to check out.
Pride Celebrations & Conferences
Pride is a big deal in Connecticut. You’ll find celebrations across the state – and beyond the month of June, too. But these five events are considered the top, and they all offer their own unique flair.
You can also find upcoming Connecticut Pride events and celebrations here or by searching on our events page.
The Drag Community
Connecticut’s drag community is steadily growing! Whether you’re boozy brunching or slaying a night out, Sky Casper Entertainment puts on drag shows all over the state. At Mohegan Sun, check out weekly drag variety shows. Meanwhile, Foxwoods Resort Casino has been known to host drag bingo. And if you thought Jerry’s Pizza in Middletown was just about savory slices, think again. You’ll find frequent drag shows there once the sun goes down.
Places to Stay
Looking to get away? Have your pick of inclusive hotels, inns and B&Bs across Connecticut, whether looking to party all night in a rainbow suite at the casino or reconnect in a quiet country setting. Shoreline towns and vibrant city centers offer even more options for LGBTQ+ individuals, couples and families, including the gay-owned Scranton Seahorse Inn.
LGBTQ-Owned Businesses
Connecticut is home to an abundance of LGBTQ-owned small businesses – and it’s always important to support them. In fact, there are some great resources for LGBTQ+ entrepreneurs. New Haven Pride Center has a small business incubator, and both the Gay & Lesbian Chamber of Commerce and Collab New Haven work to support LGBTQ+ businesses.
Below are just a few to consider supporting.
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