LGBT: Boston

Lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender culture in Boston has a lot of history, a lot of pride and a lot of fun. The term “Boston Marriage” was used in the 19th and 20th centuries to describe two single women living together, independent of men and Massachusetts was the first state to fully legalize gay marriage in 2004. Today, you’ll find Boston’s gay community showing their true colors in prime fashion all over the city.

Gay clubs and bars aren’t hard to come by, if you know where to look. One local favorite is the video dance bar Club Cafe in Back Bay. In addition to a video lounge and nightly dancing, they offer wicked fun Drag Bingo on Mondays. And every night is the best ladies’ night in town at The Midway Cafe in Jamaica Plain.

On the weekend, hit up Epic Saturdays at House of Blues, which turns the massive performance venue into the self-proclaimed biggest weekly gay event in New England. On Sunday, don’t miss Hot Mess! Sundays at Underbar.

And while you’re in town, check the schedule for Guerilla Queer Bar, which takes over a “stereotypically straight” venue once a month.

Smooth moves aside, if you’re looking for some good entertainment, make the time to see a performance by the Boston Gay Men’s Chorus or Jacques Cabaret. For a more low-key time out, stop by the Calamus Bookstore. Located near South Station, it’s one of the first complete LGBT bookstores in the nation.

Boston is also host to a slew of annual LGBT events worth planning your trip around. The Boston Pride Festival takes place every June, and consists of block parties, pride nights and a city-wide pride parade. Also make plans for the LGBT Film Festival in April.