LGBTQ: Richmond, Va.

You might think the city that was once the capital of the Confederacy wouldn’t welcome members of the LGBT community with open arms, but you’d be pleasantly surprised by how pro-gay this gem truly can be.

Richmond is teeming with gay bars and LGBT-friendly establishments, along with a progressive atmosphere, making it the perfect place to relax while also taking in great historical attractions.

If you’re seeking a place to unwind at night, Barcode is one of the most prominent gay clubs in town, with karaoke and attractive men galore. It’s also open for lunch, so feel free to stop in for a midday snack. Otherwise you can check out the always-entertaining Babe’s of Carytown for a good drag show.

Carytown is one of Richmond’s most eclectic and gay-friendly neighborhoods, so there are plenty of places to dine here. Be sure to have a bite at popular gay hangout Nacho Mama’s, a Latin fusion restaurant with a fun vibe. There’s also Crossroads Coffee & Ice Cream, a gay-owned establishment that serves up some pretty tasty treats.

While you’re in town, don’t miss out on the Virginia Historical Society. They have a rotating collection of exhibits, but the LGBT archive is a mainstay.

The city of Richmond is a vibrant, welcoming place for members of just about any community, so if you had any qualms about visiting go ahead and squash them.