Destination Gay Atlanta Travel Guide 2021-2022

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PO Box 77401 Atlanta, GA 30357 P: 404-815-6941 F: 404-963-6365 EDITORIAL Editor: Katie Burkholder kburkholder@thegavoice.com

PRODUCTION Art Director: Rob Boeger rboeger@thegavoice.com

BUSINESS Managing Partner/Publisher: Tim Boyd tboyd@thegavoice.com

SALES Sales Executive: Dixon Taylor dtaylor@TheGaVoice.com Sales Executive: Jim Brams jbrams@thegavoice.com Business Advisor: Lynn Pasqualetti Financial Firm of Record: HLM Financial Group National Advertising: Rivendell Media, 908-232-2021 sales@rivendellmedia.com

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Welcome to the ATL: Greetings from Atlanta’s Director of LGBTQ Affairs

Atlanta: A Top LGBTQ 9 Destination:

Greetings from the Atlanta

Convention & Visitors Bureau 10

LGBTQ Atlanta: Welcome to Atlanta, Y’all!

We’ll make you feel right at home!

16 Events:

ATL’s biggest LGBTQ events 18 Festivals:

Atlanta’s array of attractions

A PRODUCT OF

22

georgia

24 Neighborhoods:

Atlanta’s best gayborhoods

voice

6 Destination Travel Guide

Insider Info: Our handy-dandy guide to navigating the A

32 Arts:

Atlanta’s repetoire of artistry 42 Sightseeing:

Sights to see inside

and out Atlanta

48 Food:

Our scene’s cuisine 64 Nightlife:

Our best LGBTQ

nightlife hotspots 72 Shopping:

Non-stop shopping 80 Lodging:

Luxurious lodging 88

The Gay Outdoors: Outdoor activities geared towards the LGBTQ

90 Fitness:

Options to help keep you

fit during your stay 92 Sports:

Where to participate in

your favorite sports activity 94 Organizations:

Where to get help

and volunteer 98

LGBTQ Worship: Inclusive congregations

save the dateS OCTOBER 8–10, 2021 OCTOBER 7–9, 2022

www.atlantapride.org @atlantapride

Atlanta

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Greetings from

The Director Friends,

As a lifelong Atlantan, it is my honor to welcome you.

Atlanta is the LGBTQ capital of the South, and we are home to a thriving and diverse LGBTQ community. I am proud to be a member of The city of Atlanta, which remains dedicated to the quality of life for LGBTQ citizens and visitors. One of the strongest allies of this community is Mayor Keisha Lance Bottoms. Elected in 2017, Mayor Bottoms quickly established Atlanta as a global leader for municipal LGBTQ affairs by establishing the first directorlevel position in the South to engage the community.

Today, there are more than 100 city-owned, singleuser restrooms designated as all-gender, a historic first, prioritized by Mayor Bottoms. The voices of Atlanta’s LGBTQ community are heard throughout our local government via the Mayor’s LGBTQ Advisory Board and the LGBTQ liaisons within our public safety departments.

8 Destination Travel Guide

Atlanta is the epicenter of culture and influence and the cradle of the civil rights movement. As the 2020 top “destination city” by the Gay Travel Awards, Atlanta is home to several LGBTQ-affirming spaces, and whether you are a returning guest or this is your first visit, Atlanta feels like home. From Midtown to the West End, LGBTQ lives and culture are celebrated.

Take this opportunity to explore the city I love, where y’all means all and Southern hospitality is always included.

Yours in Equality, Malik Brown Director of LGBTQ Affairs, City of Atlanta

Atlanta

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A Top Destination Locale for

LGBTQ Travelers Greetings!

On behalf of Atlanta’s hospitality community, it is my pleasure to welcome you to our city. As a global partner with the International LGBTQ Travel Association, Atlanta takes great pride in being the LGBTQ capital of the South and a destination that welcomes all visitors.

Our city is well known as a fantastic choice for travelers, as Atlanta was named to Travel Pulse’s 2021 list of top LGBTQ-inclusive cities for Pride Month. Atlanta Black Pride Weekend is held each Labor Day and celebrates diversity within the community. Atlanta Pride Festival is a weeklong celebration in October and is the largest of its kind in the Southeast. The event draws members of the LGBTQ community, allies, and advocates together, concluding with National Coming Out Day. I encourage you to visit Centennial Olympic Park surrounded by world-class attractions including Chick-fil-A College Football Hall of Fame, Georgia Aquarium, World of Coca-Cola, and National Center for Civil and Human Rights. The center is home to the LGBTQ Institute which develops and implements programming to advance equality through research and education.

As the birthplace of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., Atlanta served as the catalyst for the American civil rights movement. The Martin Luther King, Jr. National Historical Park explores the life and history of Dr. King, allowing visitors to follow in his footsteps and honor his legacy.

Atlanta’s arts and culture scene generates offerings unmatched in the South. You’ll find an array of visual arts, music and theatrical venues across the destination such as Atlanta Symphony Orchestra, Fox Theatre, High Museum of Art, and Museum of Design Atlanta.

Out Front Theatre Company tells LGBTQ stories through theater and performing arts in Atlanta’s Westside, and don’t forget to explore Midtown to see our iconic rainbow crosswalk at the intersection of 10th Street and Piedmont Avenue.

Since 2013, Atlanta has earned a perfect score on the Human Rights Campaign’s Municipal Equality Index, which measures the inclusiveness of cities. Adorned with personality and pride flags on many businesses and homes, Atlanta’s intown neighborhoods champion the LGBTQ community.

For a quick and easy approach to finding places to eat and things to do and see in Atlanta, visit DiscoverAtlanta.com.

Once again, we extend a warm welcome and hope you have an enjoyable time in Atlanta.

Sincerely, William C. Pate President and CEO Atlanta Convention & Visitors Bureau

Destination Travel Guide 9

Atlanta

PHOTO BY ISTOCK.COM

Welcome to Atlanta, Our open arms and hearts will make you feel right at home! y’all! We’ll make you feel right at home!

We’re so happy you’re here! Deemed the gay mecca of the South, Atlanta has been one of the crown jewels of equality and acceptance in the South and country for years.

This culture of love and acceptance has been carefully cultivated, though, after a history of LGBTQ activism.

The fight started more than 50 years ago outside of the Stonewall Inn in New York City, where brave queer people stood up against homophobia, transphobia, and state-sanctioned violence. Not too long after, activists and protestors began organizing right here in Atlanta and demanding equality. It is because of their hard work, bravery, and dedication that we as a city are now able to tout LGBTQ-friendly culture, space, and community — but the work is far from over.

Queer activists, particularly Black activists and other people of color, in Atlanta have made Atlanta — and Georgia — a household name nationwide with their dedication to not only LGBTQ equality, but racial equality, gender equality, voting rights, etc. As you peruse both this travel guide and our beautiful city, know that both are what they are only because of the work of these individuals, now and throughout history.

Georgia Voice is proud to produce Destination Gay Atlanta, a travel guide with everything you need to know about exploring gay Atlanta: where to shop, what to eat, where to stay, what to do… everything. Due to last year’s COVID-19 pandemic, we had to take a break, but we’re back and better than ever! We’re dedicated to providing

10 Destination Travel Guide

Atlanta’s visitors and locals alike with the most up-to-date and LGBTQ-friendly guide to exploring our beautiful city.

For those new here, Georgia Voice is the oldest and largest LGBTQ publication in Atlanta with roots tracing back to the ‘80s, a period rife with LGBTQ activism. When this publication was launched, it was with the mission of fighting to be a voice of gay Atlanta, and we continue this mission today. We pride ourselves on creating a safe haven for all Georgians and those around the region and country who want to experience a taste of Southern hospitality without fear.

As Georgia Voice continues to cover the issues affecting our community, locally and nationally, we’d like to take on a journey back in time to see how our state and city have evolved over the years.

Georgia’s LGBTQ History

In 1817, Georgia enacted our first anti-sodomy law.

A few years later, in 1833, the law was expanded to outlaw “carnal knowledge and connection against the order of nature by man with man, or in the same unnatural manner with woman.” The punishment? A sentence of life imprisonment with labor.

The law existed for more than 50 years before the U.S. Supreme Court heard and overturned Georgia’s first-ever conviction of sodomy in 1884. However, the law was still in place. In 1949, the penalty was reduced to one to 10 years in prison, something Michael Hardwick faced

after being caught having consensual sex with his partner after the police raided his home on a warrant for failing to appear in court on a charge of public drinking. The warrant was deemed invalid because Hardwick had already paid the fine, and Hardwick challenged the anti-sodomy law in court, deeming it an infringement on his right to privacy.

In 1986 the Supreme Court finally ruled in Powell v. State that an individual’s right to privacy trumped the law, effectively making homosexuality legal in Georgia. After fear of arrest was eliminated for LGBTQ Georgians, LGBTQ presence in Atlanta and beyond grew exponentially — and with it, LGBTQ activism.

Here’s a quick look at more of Atlanta’s LGBTQ history:

1997: Cathy Woolard becomes first openly LGBTQ politician elected to the Atlanta city council.

2000: Karla Drenner becomes first openly LGBTQ member of the Georgia House of Representatives.

2001: Cathy Woolard becomes the first openly LGBTQ City Council President of Atlanta.

2003: Fulton County becomes the first county in the state to pass domestic-partnership registration for county residents and municipal employees in same-sex relationships.

2004:

The passage of a constitutional ban on same-sex marriage stymies the recognition of same-sex relationships by our state.

1971:

2005: The General Assembly passes a law which legalizes

1972: The Metropolitan Community Church, which works specifically to reach out to the LGBTQ community, establishes itself in the Atlanta area.

2007:

1972: Mayor Sam Massell appoints the first-ever community liaison, Charlie St. John, an activist and journalist working for the Atlanta Journal-Constitution.

2010: Simone Bell becomes first openly lesbian African American woman to be elected to the Georgia General Assembly.

1974: Bill Smith, a local activist, founds the Atlanta Barb,

2011: House member Rashad Taylor comes out, becoming

The first Pride Parade, organized by the Georgia Gay Liberation Front, takes to the streets.

the first publication for, by, and about our community.

1976: The Atlanta Gay Center is opened.

1978: Anti-gay activist and national celebrity Anita Bryant

speaks to an anti-LGBTQ crowd as she plays host to the Southern Baptist Convention and its parishioners. The event, drawing a crowd of 4,000, is held at the Georgia World Congress Center.

1982: The first official proclamation for Pride is issued by

the city government of Atlanta.

1983: The Atlanta Campaign for Human Rights is established. It’s now known as Georgia Equality.

1984: Mayor Andrew Young inaugurates the first Gay and Lesbian Civil Rights Day.

1985:

Congregation Bet Havarim, the first LGBTQ welcoming synagogue, opens its doors.

1988: Our predecessor, Southern Voice, begins its historic LGBTQ coverage of Atlanta and the surrounding area.

1988: Mayor Maynard Jackson becomes first Atlanta mayor to attend Pride.

the ability of counties to establish domestic-partnership benefits for county employees.

The city-county government of Athens legalizes health benefits for unmarried domestic partners.

the first male, openly gay member of the Georgia House of Representatives.

2015: The Eleventh Circuit Court ruled in Glenn v. Brumby that firing someone based on gender-nonconformity violates the Constitution’s prohibition on sex discrimination, giving trans and gender nonconforming employees legal protections in Georgia, Alabama, and Florida.

2016: Gov. Nathan Deal vetoes House Bill 757, legislation that made it through both bodies of our state government.

The bill would have allowed state adoption agencies to deny children to same-sex couples on religious grounds.

2018: The Senate passes SB 375, which calls for allowing

private adoption agencies receiving state funds to deny adoptions for certain couples or individual parents based on sincerely held religious beliefs. It does not make it through the House.

2020: Gov. Brian Kemp signs HB 426 into law, which mandates enhanced sentencing for people convicted of targeting a victim due to their “actual or perceived race, color, religion, national origin, sex, sexual orientation, gender, mental disability, or physical disability.” It is the first bill passed in Georgia protecting LGBTQ people from hate crimes.

1992:

Emory University establishes its Gay and Lesbian Student Life office.

2020: Kim Jackson becomes the first openly LGBTQ politician to be elected to the Georgia Senate.

1993: Fulton County is the first country in the state to issue

Now that you’ve got a crash course in Georgia LGBTQ history, it’s time to see what Atlanta and our surrounding communities have to offer while you’re here in our great city!

an official Pride proclamation, joining Atlanta.

1996: The Atlanta Gay and Lesbian Visitors Center gives the city an Olympics-worthy campaign to attract LGBTQ tourism to our welcoming city, starting with the games.

Enjoy y’all, Georgia Voice

Destination Travel Guide 11

Take a stroll on the Atlanta Rainbow Crosswalk at 10th and Piedmont in Midtown.

GENE PHILLIPS | ATLANTAPHOTOS.COM

LGBTQ+ OWNED BUSINESSES IN ATLANTA YOU SHOULD KNOW Atlanta is one of the most influential cities of the South, celebrating Pride three times throughout the year. Whether you are visiting for National Pride Month in June, Black Gay Pride during Labor Day weekend or the annual Atlanta Pride Festival in October, you’ll be interested in the top Atlanta LGBTQ+ owned businesses, restaurants, merchants and attractions. Here are some places you don’t want to miss.

The status and hours of the businesses listed below may vary due to COVID-19. Please check the business website for the most up-to-date information.

RESTAURANTS Baker Dude Bakery Cafe

Since 2012, Orran Booher’s Black-owned business boasts fresh French and Italian desserts, crafty cakes and bou-cakes, with a healthy lunch menu including specialty items for all to enjoy. Indulge in one of these signature more-than-

just-frosting treats: almondpecan carrot cake, what the fudge brownie or chocolate marshmallow rainbow cupcake.

Where: Grant Park, The Beacon Atlanta and West Midtown, Chattahoochee Food Works

INSTAGRAM: @BAKERDUDECAKES

BY ALECIA ZACKERY

Georgia Beer Garden

Sweet Auburn District’s classic beer garden draws the most excitement on Atlanta United FC game days, hosting watch parties and pouring from more than 20 taps of locally brewed beer. Swing by with a friend to experience Downtown’s largest backyard patio with feel-good music. It’s open as late as 2:30 a.m.

Where: Downtown, Edgewood Avenue

Guac y Margys

Guac y Margys, known for its guacamole, is a go-to spot for a variety of tacos, fresh margaritas (#NoMix) and giving back to the Atlanta community. Located on the Atlanta BeltLine, it has been dubbed as “Atlanta’s Margarita Bar,” creating a buzz around the

Baker Dude’s One Love Cake

most-sought-after Strawberry Pineapple Holla! and Forever, Forever Ever refreshers.

Where: Inman Park, near Krog Street Market

MetroFresh

Mitchell Anderson’s Midtown fast-casual cafe has focused on providing the freshest locally sourced food for breakfast, lunch and dinner for more than 16 years. Be on the lookout for occasional music events hosted

by Mitchell’s husband, Richie Arpino, at Richie’s Wine Bar (inside MetroFresh).

Where: Midtown Continued on next page

SPECIAL ADVERTORIAL FROM ATLANTA CONVENTION & VISITORS BUREAU

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All amigos are welcome at No Mas! Cantina where authentic Mexican cuisine is served in one of Atlanta’s most historic neighborhoods. Part cafe (ADios Cafe Chocolate & Espresso Bar), part Artisan Market, there’s plenty of food and shopping to take in before and after your dining experience.

Where: Downtown, Castleberry Hill

Ria’s Bluebird

Because breakfast and lunch specials are served all day at Ria’s Bluebird diner, there’s no excuse not to meet with friends for brunch any day of the week.

Take in the scenery with views of Historic Oakland Cemetery, and try patio dining in the eclectic garden oasis for an allaround local experience.

Where: Eastside, Grant Park

Roxx Tavern

Whether you’re in the mood for an omelet for Sunday brunch or an upbeat atmosphere in Buckhead this locally owned eatery is the place to be. Roxx Tavern has been serving ATL natives and visitors affordable food for more than 20 years

INSTAGRAM: @METROFRESHATL

Stop in MetroFresh Bar in Midtown

Virgil’s serves the ultimate Gullah Geechee spread

and doesn’t plan on stopping anytime soon.

Where: Buckhead

Woof’s Atlanta

Woof’s sports bar has been providing undefeated vibes for Atlanta’s gay community since 2002. All LGBTQ+friendly patrons are welcome to take part in classic eats on game days and specials on Wing Wednesday, $5-Burger Thursday and BBQ Friday.

Where: Buckhead

Virgil’s Gullah Kitchen & Bar Virgil’s menu serves up a unique soul food infusion of Geechee flavors and fresh seafood with rice dishes prepared with pride. Feeling courageous? Start off with “shawk” bites or okra soup and graduate to shrimp n’ grits wit’ crab or slammin’ sammen for the ultimate Gullah faire.

Midweek happy hours and Friday nights with friends, hookah and drinks always guarantee a good time.

Where: South Atlanta, College Park

BARS & NIGHTCLUBS Bulldogs

Midtown Atlanta’s popular male gay club, better known

INSTAGRAM: @VIRGILSGULLAHKITCHEN

No Mas! Cantina

as Bulldogs, has come alive in the night time for more than 40 years. Bulldogs is a favorite for Atlanta’s Black gay culture with DJs spinning the latest rap and hip-hop sounds, sending everyone to the dance floor.

Where: Midtown

Joystick Gamebar

The LGBTQ+ dynamic duo of Georgia Beer Garden and Joystick Gamebar bring more childhood nostalgia and excitement to Edgewood Avenue. Joystick Gamebar takes fun to another level with retro video, classic arcade and tabletop games. Pinball challenge, anyone? Stay in the social loop for upcoming themed game nights and specials for nerds and sci-fi characters alike.

Where: Eastside, Old Fourth Ward

Mary’s East Atlanta

Out magazine named Mary’s East Atlanta one of the world’s best gay bars. Whether you’re looking to sing your heart out to one of 15,000 songs or dance to Alternative DJ sets, you’re sure to have a good time. Be on the lookout for weekly drag shows and live performances from Atlanta’s top queer talent.

Where: Eastside, East Atlanta

My Sister’s Room holds the title for Atlanta’s longest-running lesbian bar for more than 20 years. No matter the time of day, this two-story Edgewood bar is a staple for the LGBTQ+ community with its burlesque shows, comedy nights and karaoke showdowns.

Where: Midtown

MERCHANTS ABETTERBUZZ Brand Goods A Better Buzz (ABB) encourages its patrons to Live Bold. From graphic tees and sporty tanks to cool headwear and trendy accessories, Buzz Busbee takes pride in producing top-quality merchandise for Atlanta’s queer locals and visitors. ABB also collaborates with local artists and brands to further spread awareness of the LGBTQ+ community.

Where: Eastside, East Atlanta, The Beehive

THINGS TO DO, ATTRACTIONS, ENTERTAINMENT 7 Stages Theatre

Located in the heart of Little Five Points, 7 Stages is a professional, nonprofit theater company devoted to

INSTAGRAM @ABETTERBUZZBRANDGOODS

My Sister’s Room

ABETTERBUZZ Brand Goods

engaging artists and audiences by focusing on the social, political and spiritual values of contemporary culture. 7 Stages gives primary emphasis to international work and the support and development of new plays, new playwrights and new methods of collaboration.

Where: Eastside, Little Five Points

Horizon Theatre Company

Horizon Theatre Company has been bringing exciting area and world premieres of contemporary plays to Atlanta’s audiences under the leadership of co-artistic directors and founders Lisa and Jeff Adler since 1983. Horizon has introduced Atlanta audiences to the works of such well-known contemporary playwrights

as Rebecca Gilman, Wendy Wasserstein and David Hare, as well as plays by talented emerging writers.

Where: Eastside, Inman Park

Museum of Design Atlanta (MODA)

Museum of Design Atlanta (MODA) is the only museum in the Southeast devoted exclusively to the study and celebration of all things design, featuring exhibitions highlighting architecture, industrial and product design, interiors and furniture, graphics, fashion and more. MODA examines how design affects our daily lives through engaging exhibitions, educational outreach and special events designed to initiate conversation and community dialogue.

Where: Midtown

Out Front Theatre Company

Since 2016, Out Front Theatre takes pride in artistic storytelling specifically crafted for the LGBTQ+ communities of Atlanta. Talented actors and producers innovatively focus on sharing insightful and inclusive experiences through theater and performing arts. Out Front’s most notable programing includes landmark queer pieces like “The Most Fabulous Story Ever Told,” “The Rocky Horror Show” and “The Ethel Merman Disco Christmas Spectacular.”

Where: Westside, West Midtown

MELISSA MCALPINE

DISCOVER ATLANTA NOW

Pick up an unusual souvenir at the Museum of Design Atlanta Gift Shop

Visit DiscoverAtlanta.com to find out more and plan your next trip.

Atlanta LGBTQ

AIDS Walk Atlanta

Atlanta’s PHOTO VIA FACEBOOK

Best LGBTQ Bets There’s no end to what you can do out and about in Atlanta, but the city’s home to a few signature LGBTQ events each year that are worth planning a trip around. We’ve rounded out some of Atlanta’s most well-attended events, fundraisers, parties, and galas that showcase what the LGBTQ “mecca of the South” has to offer visitors and residents alike.

Black Gay Pride

September 1-7, 2021 What began as informal house parties grew into the largest Black Gay Pride celebration in the world. Join fellow Black LGBTQ folks for a weekend full of partying and community!

AtlantaPrideWeekend.com

Pure Heat Community Festival

September 5, 2021 This free “day of unity” is a gathering of Atlanta’s LGBTQ minorities and allies, organized by Atlanta Black Pride. The event is hosted at the Piedmont Park Promenade and Fountain this year and will be equipped with market and food vendors, live celebrity and local performers, entertainment, dance competitions, live hair battles, educational forums, prizes, and giveaways. A portion of proceeds benefit homeless LGBTQ youth and those impacted by HIV/AIDS. PureHeatCommunityFestival.com

16 Destination Travel Guide

Peach International Tennis Championships

September 4-6, 2021 The Peach International Tennis Championships is hosted by the Atlanta Team Tennis Association, the city’s LGBTQ league, at the South Fulton Tennis Center. It draws players from throughout the region for competition in men’s and women’s singles, doubles, and mixed doubles in as many as four divisions.

Atta.org

Out On Film

September 23 – October 3, 2021 You’re invited to attend the 34th annual Out On Film LGBTQ film festival! A slew of movies will hit the big screen in various theaters across the city as part of this epic event, many of them documentaries or never-beforeseen indie films.

OutOnFilm.org

AIDS Walk Atlanta

September 25, 2021 Atlantans and tourists are encouraged to register as individuals or teams to run or walk in this 5K course to raise money for critical HIV/AIDS research.

AIDSWalkAtlanta.com

Atlanta Pride Festival

October 8-10, 2021 For more than 40 years, Atlanta Pride has been the most powerful reminder of the city’s LGBTQ progress.

An estimated 300,000 attendees come to the weekend of festivities and to support local businesses and organizations at the market. The festival is one of the largest Pride celebrations in the country and continues to bring locals and visitors alike to Piedmont Park and the parade down Peachtree Street.

AtlantaPride.org

Big Ol’ Slice of 100% Atlanta Gay Pride

October 7-11, 2021 Come party with thousands of men from around the country for this ultimate circuit party experience! This year’s DJ lineup includes Ed wood, Isis Muretech, Shane Marcus, Alex Acosta, Isaac Escalante, Jerac, Micky Friedmann, Paulo, Sam Gee, Joe Gauthreaux, Cindel, and Nina Flowers.

GaBoyEvents.com

Toy Party

COURTESY PHOTO

Southern Fried Queer Pride

Late June 2022 This homegrown version of Pride puts the spotlight on queer and trans Southerners, offering an inclusive atmosphere at each of its parties, potlucks, pop-ups and workshops.

SouthernFriedQueerPride.com

Toy Party

AIDS Vaccine 200 Bike Ride

Dogwood Invitational Bowling Tournament

Peach Party Atlanta

HRC Atlanta Gala Dinner & Auction

Atlanta Pride Run

December 2021 TBD One of the most poignant signs of LGBTQ Atlantans’ commitment to their city and neighbors is the mound of toys on display each December at the annual Toy Party.

The event, presented by For the Kid in All of Us, has grown into one of the largest social events of the year.

ForTheKid.org

July 29-August 1, 2021 The Dogwood Invitational gathers LGBTQ bowlers for a long weekend of family, friends, and fun.

DogwoodBowl.org

TBD Raising about $400,000 annually for the Human Rights Campaign, the Atlanta HRC dinner is a standard-bearer throughout the nation. The annual black-tie affair, which will celebrate its 33rd year, features leading activists and entertainers advancing gay rights and honors local LGBTQ leaders and allies.

HRCAtlanta.com/gala-dinner

Big Peach Softball Tournament

Late May 2022 Hosted by the gay Hotlanta Softball League, the Big Peach draws hundreds of players from dozens of teams around the country for a weekend of softball competition in multiple divisions, plus plenty of socializing.

HotlantaSoftball.org

April-May 2022 Each year, dozens of bike riders gather for a 200-mile fundraising ride from Emory University to Rock Eagle 4-H Center. The ride raises money for HIV/AIDS research at the Emory Vaccine Center and other LGBTQ nonprofits, while celebrating the memories of lives lost to the disease.

ActionCyclingAtl.org June 2022 Atlanta’s premier circuit party weekend brings in the hottest DJ talent from around the world! Thousands of the hottest men from around the world converge in the metro to dance the night away to the best beats in the Southeast.

PeachPartyAtlanta.com Summer 2022 Celebrating their 31st year, the Atlanta Pride Run & Walk is an annual 5K race and walk organized by the Front Runners Atlanta running club. Proceeds from the registration and other fundraisers are donated to a local charity that supports the LGBTQ community in Georgia.

FrontRunnersAtlanta.org

Joining Hearts Main Event

Summer 2022 An extra dose of “fun” is added to “fundraising” each summer during the Joining Hearts party, which uses 100 percent of proceeds to provide housing for people with HIV. The annual party, held at the Piedmont Park Pool, regularly features free-flowing drinks and plenty of shirtless boys with this year’s entertainment, DJ Dan slater and DJ GSP. JoiningHearts.org

Destination Travel Guide 17

Atlanta LGBTQ

Dragon Con

COURTESY PHOTO

Atlanta’s Array of Attractions Dragon Con

September 2-6, 2021 Sci-fi and fantasy lovers, this one’s for you! At Dragon Con, you’re sure to see some of the biggest names in scifi and fantasy, some of your favorite characters in the form of cosplay and costumes, and so much more.

DragonCon.org

historic Stone Mountain Park for this festival. The 53-year-old awardwinning festival connects families and friends with shopping, live music, delicious food, and oodles of fun. The Yellow Daisy Festival is a big show with a small-town feel, perfect for those of all ages.

StoneMountainPark.com

North Georgia State Fair

Atlanta Jazz Festival

The Fandemic Dead

Atlanta Greek Festival

Atlanta Balloon Glow

Music Midtown

September 5-6, 2021 Piedmont Park AtlantaFestivals.com

September 9-12, 2021 Check out glowing hot air balloons, plus food, retail, and kid-friendly activities, at Atlanta Balloon Glow in Piedmont Park!

Ogle at the magnificence for free or take a ride for just $25 a person. eventbrite.com/e/atlanta-balloonglow-tickets-153054332629

Yellow Daisy Festival

September 9-12, 2021 Travel a bit outside the perimeter to

18 Destination Travel Guide

September 17-19, 2021 Georgia World Congress Center FandemicTour.com September 18-19, 2021 No matter what your sound, Music Midtown is sure to have something for you. Two days of outdoor concerts from some of the biggest names in hip-hop, pop, and rock paired with delicious food and drinks makes for a great time. This year’s headliners include Maroon 5, Miley Cyrus, the Jonas Brothers, 21 Savage, and DaBaby.

MusicMidtown.com

September 23 – October 3, 2021 There’s nothing better than a classic state fair. Great rides, free concerts, live-action and death-defying events, and all the trimmings that come with the annual state fair abound once again in Jim R. Miller park in Marietta.

NorthGeorgiaStateFair.com

September 24-26, 2021 For over four decades, Greek Orthodox Cathedral has opened its doors to host one of Atlanta’s landmark cultural events, The Atlanta Greek Festival. Come experience warm hospitality, exuberant dancing, sumptuous wines, unique artisan jewelry and apparel, rich history, deep faith, and some of the most delicious food in Atlanta!

Atlgoc.org

Sweet Auburn Music Festival

September 24-26, 2021 This festival, deemed the most exciting

Music Midtown

PHOTO VIA FACEBOOK

urban music festival in the U.S., draws in thousands of people to the Sweet Auburn District to experience good food, good music, and tons of fun. From upcoming hip-hop acts to timeless R&B, gospel stars, rap veterans, and alternative greats, the Sweet Auburn Music Fest has it all.

SweetAuburnMusicfest.com

East Atlanta Strut

September 25, 2021 The East Atlanta Strut is a free, oneday extravaganza that showcases the hottest in-town neighborhood in Atlanta, East Atlanta Village. More than 10,000 folks from the Atlanta metro area join the Strut as paraders, shoppers, eaters, drinkers, and players.

EastAtlantaStrut.com

Virginia-Highland Summerfest September 25-26, 2021 Virginia Ave. VaHiSummerfest.org

Candler Park Fall Fest

October 2-3, 2021 Fall Fest in Candler Park has been recommended by City of Atlanta, Scoutmob, and AJC as a must-do for fall. The free event features two full days of music, 200+ artists and vendors, Tour of Homes, 5K & Fun Run, Kidlandia, and Atlanta’s best food trucks — with all proceeds

going directly to benefit the community.

FallFest.CandlerPark.org

Decatur Book Festival

October 2, 2021 For years, more than 1,000 worldclass authors and thousands of book worms have gathered to enjoy the largest independent book festival in America. Come to the First Baptist Church of Decatur to enjoy book signings, author readings, panel discussions, an interactive children’s area, live music, parades, cooking demonstrations, poetry slams, writing workshops, and more.

DecaturBookFestival.com

Old Fourth Ward Arts Festival

October 2-3, 2021 Head out to Historic Fourth Ward Park to celebrate community and tradition and enjoy fine arts and crafts, a children’s play area, local food and beverages, and live acoustic entertainment. This festival is presented by the Atlanta Foundation for Public Spaces.

OldFourthWardPark ArtsFestival.com

Festival on Ponce

October 9-10, 2021 Olmsted Linear Park FestivalOnPonce.com

Stone Mountain Highland Games October 15-17, 2021 Stone Mountain Park Smhg.org

A3C Festival and Conference October 22-24, 2021 A3CConference.com

Anime Weekend Atlanta

October 28-31, 2021 Cobb Galleria Center and Renaissance Waverly Hotel Awa-con.com

Little 5 Points Halloween Festival & Parade

October 2021 TBD Each October, over 35,000 people flock to Little 5 Points to experience the signature Halloween festival in the Southeast and one of the top ten Halloween events in the country.

Come enjoy great food and drink, live entertainment, and the best Halloween parade in the South!

L5PHalloween.com

Chastain Park Arts Festival November 6-7, 2021 Chastain Park ChastainParkArtsFestival.com

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Destination Travel Guide 19

Atlanta LGBTQ Continued from page 19

Garden Lights, Holiday Nights

Nightly November 13 2021 – January 2022 Atlanta Botanical Garden AtlantaBG.org

Atlanta Veterans Day Parade and Festival November 2021 TBD Downtown Atlanta GeorgiaVeteransDay.org

Macy’s Great Tree Lighting Show November 2021 TBD Lenox Square Mall

Chomp & Stomp Chili Festival

November 2021 TBD Cabbagetown Park ChompAndStomp.com

Voices of Note Holiday Concert

Little 5 Points Halloween Festival & Parade Downtown Decatur DecaturArtsFestival.com

Atlanta Food & Wine Festival

December 2021 TBD VoicesOfNote.org

September 11-12, 2021 Historic Fourth Ward Park AtlFoodAndWineFestival.com

December 2021 TBD Peachtree Street at 16th Street Choa.org

June 2022 TBD Chattahoochee Nature Center ChattnatureCenter.org

The Children’s Christmas Parade

Callanwolde Artist Market

February 2022 TBD Callanwolde.org

Cupid’s Undie Run

February 2022 TBD CupidsUndieRun.com/City/Atlanta

Atlanta Jewish Film Festival February 2022 TBD Ajff.org

Atlanta St. Patrick’s Day Parade March 2022 TBD AtlantaStPats.com

Atlanta Film Festival April 21-May 1, 2022 Various theaters AtlantaFilmFestival.com

Decatur Arts Festival May 2022 TBD

20 Destination Travel Guide

Flying Colors Butterfly Festival

Tunes from the Tombs Atlanta Music Festival

June 2022 TBD Oakland Cemetery OaklandCemetery.com

Atlanta Summer Beer Fest

June 2022 TBD Historic Fourth Ward Park AtlantaSummerBeerFestival.com

Peachtree Road Race

COURTESY PHOTO

#1 family-friendly comic convention.

Head to the Georgia World Congress Center to enjoy a weekend of comic books, cosplay, panels, celebrity appearances, and more!

AtlantaComicCon.com

Decatur BBQ, Blues & Bluegrass Festival

Summer 2022 Head to Legacy Park to sing the blues and chow down on the best BBQ metro Atlanta has to offer! This delicious festival proudly benefits the Community Center of South Decatur by supporting educational programs, community events, and providing grants to other non-profit groups in the city of Decatur.

DecaturBBQFestival.com

Decatur Craft Beer and Music Festival

Summer 2022 The Devon Lakeshore Amphitheater DecaturArts.org

Piedmont Park Arts Festival

April 8-10, 2022 Piedmont Park Dogwood.org

Summer 2022 Enjoy art, live music, and familyfriendly fun while basking in the summer sun at this two-day festival.

Up to 250 painters, photographers, sculptors, and other visual artists will be featured at one of Sunshine Arts Magazine’s Top 100 Arts Festivals.

PiedmontParkArtsFestival.com

Atlanta Comic Con

Taste of Atlanta

July 4, 2022 PeachtreeRoadRace.org

Atlanta Dogwood Festival

Summer 2022 Embrace your inner nerd at Atlanta’s

Fall 2022 TasteOfAtlanta.com

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Insider Info

Tourist No More!

Avoid the “confused tourist” look with our handy-dandy guide to navigating the A. Getting Around Town

Atlanta’s public transportation system, known as MARTA (ItsMarta.com), is a convenient way to get around town, but the bus system can be confusing — even to locals! You may want to stick to our trains, which are easy to navigate and have stops near some of the city’s largest tourist attractions. MARTA’s train is also a cheap, quick way to get to Hartsfield-Jackson International Airport.

If you’re staying in the downtown area, the Atlanta Streetcar (AtlTransit.org/About/Agencies/Asc/) is a prime mode of transportation for you. It connects the Centennial Olympic Park area to the Martin Luther King Jr. National Historic Site. Cars run about every 15 minutes and there are 12 stops along this 2.7-mile route.

Overall, Atlanta isn’t the most walkable city. However, the Atlanta BeltLine (BeltLine.org) is working to change that.

The massive project is comprised of a 22-mile route around the city along abandoned railroad tracks and 33 miles of multi-use trails for the ultimate outdoor experience. The BeltLine links you to Piedmont Park, Ponce City Market, Krog Street Market and dozens of other green spaces.

Other walkable pockets that provide a charming afternoon of shopping and dining include the tourist area around Centennial Olympic Park (including the Georgia Aquarium and the World of Coca-Cola), Atlantic Station, Decatur, East Atlanta Village, Little Five Points, Virginia-Highland, the Midtown epicenter of 10th and Piedmont, and more!

Depending on where you plan to visit, make sure to carry cash for parking. Not feelin’ it? No worries! Download the Park Mobile app, which allows you to pay for parking in a number of city lots without feeding a meter. Our city’s parking enforcement is known for vigilance, especially in Midtown, so you will be ticketed or even booted.

Stay Safe

As with any big city, Atlanta has its share of break-ins, robberies, and other crimes. If you’re out for a night on the town, think safety first: Don’t leave valuables in your car, park only in well-lit areas, and remember there’s safety in numbers.

If drinking is part of your nightlife plan, take a Lyft or Uber: a DUI is a terrible souvenir and roadblocks are common near popular bars.

Should you need, the Atlanta Police Department has two

22 Destination Travel Guide

Atlanta BeltLine

COURTESY PHOTO

dedicated LGBTQ liaison officers: Senior Police Officer Eric King and Officer Brandon Hayes. Request their help if it makes dealing with police more comfortable for you.

Style For Days! (And Nights)

Our nightlife is casual, but not sloppy. Shorts, jeans, polos, stylish tees, and button-ups are generally appropriate in most bars. Keep your casual choices classy and comfortable but look like you give a damn if you want to catch the eye of that hot local across the bar. If you’re considering a night of dancing at Heretic Atlanta, less is more! Grab your leather harness, a pair of Nasty Pig® socks and some tight shorts to show off for the crowds! Trust us, we love our visiting men and will give you a good ol’ dose of Southern hospitality!

Look and Sound like a Southerner

It’s fine to integrate with the locals, but nothing will have us clutching our beads faster than misusing the Southern expression “y’all.” A contraction for “you all,” y’all is only used for in plural. Use it to refer to one person, and you might be met with a “bless your heart.”

Also, avoid calling the city “Hotlanta.” No true Atlantan actually calls it that, so it’ll make you stick out like a sore thumb. Bonus points for dropping the second t — “Atlanna” — to really sound like a local.

Southerners are also taught to mind our manners, so expect to have locals hold the door for you (regardless of your gender) and be prepared to do the same. Oh, and don’t be offended if someone calls you “ma’am” or “sir” — our mamas raised us that way. Note: If you hear “sir” at the Heretic Atlanta, it might have an entirely different meaning.

Sir, yes sir!

Neighborhoods

Welcome to our

Gayborhood!

Atlanta is full of microcosms — neighborhoods big and small, each with its own distinct flavor and flair. Though some parts of the metro area have a reputation as LGBTQ enclaves — we’re looking at you, Midtown and Decatur — in reality, the queer heartbeat pulses throughout all parts of the city and even some of its neighboring suburbs. Here’s our take on the must-dos and hidden gems of Atlanta’s best gayborhoods.

Moon, drunken karaoke at spots like at Felix’s, or the thumping dance floors at the Heretic! It’s all just a quick drive or Uber/Lyft ride from your front door! Even the apartment complexes are queer rites of passage — shout out to Vaseline Valley, err, Ansley Forest. In this ‘hood, you can search for a soulmate equally at Starbucks, in an adult-video arcade, or from the comfort of your own living room!

Ansley Mall/Cheshire Bridge

Midtown

The nightlife is hot, from the go-go boys at BJ Roosters, the hip-hop flow at Mixx, the drag queens at Midtown

And we haven’t even gotten to Piedmont Park, which hosts every major festival Atlanta offers, including the Atlanta Pride Festival, Music Midtown, and the Atlanta Dogwood Festival. The park recently underwent a breathtaking expansion, with serene trails that course alongside the Atlanta Botanical Garden and connect with the BeltLine.

Locals consider this the ultimate gayborhood. The Ansley Mall shopping center houses everything a queer person would need to live a productive life, from supermarkets, pharmacies, an LGBTQ-friendly gym, Starbucks (also known as the “Bearbucks”), and a wide assortment of other gayfriendly establishments. Atlanta doesn’t get any tastier than Ansley Mall/Cheshire Bridge, with regard to both cuisine and clubbing. The neighborhood entices LGBTQ diners: savory enchiladas from La Hacienda, delicious pizza from Varuni Napoli, or American fare at Roxx.

24 Destination Travel Guide

Midtown went from being a dilapidated slum in the ‘70s and ’80s to becoming the city’s top gay neighborhood in the ’90s and ’00s. From those roots, today it stands as arguably the premier neighborhood in all of Atlanta, with sky-rise condos and office towers, miles of chic places to shop and eat, and an unrivaled nightlife scene.

Atlanta Skyline The intersection of 10th Street and Piedmont Avenue is considered the crossroads of gay Atlanta and a starting point for many LGBTQ visitors to the city because of its famed rainbow crosswalk. There are popular gay bars like Blake’s on the Park, while restaurants like 10th & Piedmont, Henry’s and G’s Midtown are likely to be just as brimming with LGBTQ folks as any club. For that matter, the nearby laundromat, Caribou Coffee, and Subway are likely flaming, too. If you’re in need of a great Sunday fun day celebration, especially during the height of spring and summer season, Zocalo and TEN Atlanta are ground zero for strong frozen margaritas, DJ’s and the who’s who of the Atlanta gay scene!

Other heavily-LGBTQ restaurants include Apres Diem, Zocalo, and Campagnolo. The gay nightlife that aided the area’s transformation was largely pushed out of the core of Midtown by gentrification, but the bars that remain — Blake’s and Bulldogs — are two of the city’s most reliable good times.

Midtown is also a cultural hub, with the Fox Theatre on the southern border, while to the north is the Woodruff Arts Center, home of the Atlanta Symphony Orchestra, the Alliance Theatre, and the High Museum of Art.

Buford Highway

Atlanta’s global village, this area on the city’s northern border is a melting pot of cultures, cuisine, and queer life. The neighborhood’s diversity and affordability make it a popular area for LGBTQ residents to live and party. If you’re looking for authentic international fare — be it Korean Barbecue (Hae Woon Dae) or Mexican

PHOTO BY SHUTTERSTOCK.COM / SEAN PAVONE

seafood (Marisqueria El Veneno) — head to Buford Highway, which is home to more than 1,000 immigrantowned businesses. The busy strip of Buford is home to the drag-themed restaurant Lips Atlanta and the EDMheavy Rush Lounge. Just on the other side of Interstate 85 is the original location of Lost-n-Found Youth Thrift & Consignment Store, as well as the Barking Leather shop.

Buckhead

Home to Atlanta’s old money, and long considered one of the poshest areas in the Deep South, Buckhead is a land of condo towers, sprawling estates, and ritzy retail. From Lenox Square Mall to Phipps Plaza, if you’re looking to grab the hottest designer items from Fendi and Armani to Versace and Gucci, this is your neighborhood! It has a legacy as one of Atlanta’s wildest party districts, although it’s tamed significantly in the past decade and has become most a straight, college crowd in the past few years.

Where rowdy nightclubs once proliferated here, the neighborhood is increasingly known for upscale restaurants such as Umi sushi bar, Fogo de Chao, and Del Frisco’s Grill. Though the LGBTQ offerings in Buckhead have waned, venues like the Buckhead Theatre that cater to LGBTQ events including circuit parties from Peach Party and Joining Hearts Weekend.

Inman Park/Candler Park

Here, you’ll find quaint, growing neighborhoods filled with young families and hip, locally owned businesses like the LGBTQ-friendly Sugar Magnolia B&B in Inman Park and

Continues on page 26 Destination Travel Guide 25

Neighborhoods

Little Five Points

PHOTO BY SHUTTERSTOCK.COM / IRIS VAN DEN BROEK

Continued from page 25

nutrition to clubgoers in the early-morning hours.

the lesbian-run My Favorite Mechanic in Candler Park.

The latter neighborhood is named for the scenic Candler Park, which bustles with neighborhood festivals such as the Sweetwater 420 Fest, Fall Fest, the Candler Park Music & Food Fest, and Atlanta’s Black Gay Pride Festival. Inman Park has the Krog Street Market, a tasteful collective of trendy restaurants with easy access to the Beltline — rent a bike from Electrobike at Atlanta Bicycle Barn to travel along the Beltline with ease. It’s also home to the Skin and Bone Docs, a gay-owned business specializing in sports medicine and dermatology among other specialties.

Manuel’s Tavern is another iconic restaurant along Highland Avenue, just a few blocks away from the Carter Center and Presidential Library. Continuing south, Highland Avenue exploded with residential and retail targeting young professionals, buoyed by the nearby BeltLine.

Virginia-Highland/Poncey-Highland

Highland Avenue has emerged as one of the trendiest strips in Atlanta, cutting through several popular neighborhoods. Centered at the intersection of Virginia and Highland avenues, Virginia-Highland is packed with independent restaurants and retail — from clothes shopping at Dakota J’s, to steaks and martinis at Highland Tap, brunch at Murphy’s and many more shopping and dining treats. The annual SummerFest, held in June, is also among Atlanta’s most popular neighborhood festivals.

A few blocks south is Poncey-Highland, which is the younger (and slightly less affluent) sibling of VirginiaHighland. The neighborhood has gay-popular restaurants like Fellini’s Pizza and El Ponce Cantina; The Plaza Theatre, an independent movie theater that regularly shows “The Rocky Horror Picture Show;” and the Majestic Diner, an Atlanta institution that provides life-saving

26 Destination Travel Guide

Little Five Points/ Reynoldstown/East Atlanta

Moreland Avenue is the artery that unites these three prior neighborhoods, all of which share an eastside flavor. Little Five Points (L5P) is one of the city’s most colorful areas, with record stores, vintage and thrift stores like Rag-o-rama and Psycho Sisters, head shops, pubs, and an affinity for all-natural food (Sevananda Market and Arden’s Garden).

It’s also one of Atlanta’s hippest theater districts, with Variety Playhouse, Horizon Theatre, Dad’s Garage, and 7 Stages all in one place. It’s also a hotspot for getting inked and pierced with a handful of tattoo shops, including Southern Star, Sacred Heart and Long Island Ink. To the south of L5P is Reynoldstown, which experienced a boom thanks to the Edgewood Retail District. Aside from Morelli’s Gourmet Ice Cream (an eastside treasure), the shopping district has nothing of interest for most tourists (Lowe’s, Best Buy, Staples), although there’s always LGBTQ eye candy for locals while shopping at Target and Kroger.

Residentially, Reynoldstown remains primarily comprised of refurbished bungalows, reflecting a different type of

Continues on page 28

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Neighborhoods Continued from page 26 neighborhood redevelopment from the condo towers and luxury apartments that are driving other parts of Atlanta.

The attitude here is, not surprisingly, embodied by the East Atlanta Village (EAV), your hipster capital of Atlanta.

EAV’s primary strip is home to kick-ass restaurants (Graveyard Tavern, Holy Taco, The Glenwood) and SoPo Bikes, a lesbian-founded bicycle cooperative that teaches folks how to repair their bikes and offers pay-what-youcan for parts and equipment. EAV is also home to the legendary gay bar Mary’s. Once recognized as the best gay bar in the country, Mary’s is the kind of speakeasy where facial hair and eyeglasses increase your chances of scoring, and where drunken karaoke is an almost spiritual experience. Speaking of channeling nirvana, up the street from Mary’s is Delia’s Chicken Sausage Stand, the lesbian-owned drop-in whose food has earned a devout local following.

Downtown/Old Fourth Ward

As you might expect, downtown Atlanta is built for tourists — but do tourists want to go to Hooters? If you walk past places like Hard Rock Cafe, downtown offers plenty of options for unique outings. The crown jewel of downtown is the Georgia Aquarium, which hosts the annual Atlanta Pride opening party every October. The aquarium’s popularity drove a resurgence in the surrounding area, which now includes the LGBTQ-inclusive Center for Civil & Human Rights, Centennial Olympic Park, and the World of Coca-Cola. Old Fourth Ward is likewise becoming the poster child for Atlanta’s redevelopment, its turnaround accelerated by the Big-Bang popularity of the Atlanta BeltLine. The recreational path bustles with straight and LGBTQ walkers — not to mention shirtless jogging men!

The Old Fourth Ward portion of the BeltLine also hosts the bedazzling Lantern Parade every September and connects with fun joints like Jake’s Ice Cream and romantic restaurants like TWO urban licks. On the southern tip of Old Fourth Ward, near the Martin Luther King Jr. Center for Nonviolence, is Sister Louisa’s Church of the Living Room & Ping Pong Emporium, an irreverent mustexperience bar for any Atlanta visitor or resident.

Along the northern edge of Old Fourth Ward is Ponce City Market, a historic structure that has undergone an extreme makeover, re-emerging as a knockout condo/retail complex that houses an eclectic mixture of food choices from around the world, plus unique shopping outlets that redefine what it means to be a hipster! Plus, the sweets corner (edible cookie dough, doughnuts, ice cream, and candy from around the world) nestled within the market is sure to keep you coming back!

Grant Park/Cabbagetown

Just south of Old Fourth Ward is Cabbagetown, an eclectic neighborhood where old factories were converted to hip lofts and businesses and where LGBTQ residents and merchants are helping the area carve a new identity.

The area’s main commercial strip, which it shares with neighboring Grant Park, is Memorial Drive, lined with businesses and restaurants that pay homage to the neighborhood’s industrial roots with their facades.

28 Destination Travel Guide

Decatur, Georgia

PHOTO VIA FACEBOOK

Among the places to eat on Memorial Drive is Ria’s Bluebird Cafe, a breakfast joint that continues to thrive in honor of its beloved departed founder, Ria Pell, a badass lesbian who triumphed on the Food Network reality show “Chopped.”

Another strip worth checking out is Carroll Street, a tuckedaway hotspot that features cozy, acclaimed restaurants.

Across from Carroll Street is the historic Oakland Cemetery, which offers tours of the final resting places of local notables such as Margaret Mitchell, author of “Gone with the Wind,” and Maynard Jackson, Atlanta’s first Black mayor and partial namesake of the city’s airport.

Adjacent to Cabbagetown is Grant Park, one of Atlanta’s oldest in-town neighborhoods and the city’s largest historic district. Grant Park is full of older Craftsman and Victorian homes and is also full of gay residents who played a key role in the neighborhood’s rebound from its decline after Interstate 20 split the ’hood in half back in the ’60s.

The neighborhood is named after the 130-plus acre park which houses Zoo Atlanta.

Castleberry Hill

One of the defining traits of many Atlanta neighborhoods is gentrification, as the urban exodus of past decades reverses itself with suburbanites flocking to in-town neighborhoods. Castleberry Hill was on the forefront of this transition more than a decade ago, but unlike many other almost-unrecognizable neighborhoods, Castleberry Hill found a nice blend between fresh, modern residences and businesses, while retaining its original character.

Located just west of downtown, the strip bills itself as Atlanta’s historic/creative district and features countless art galleries and popular event venues like The Loft.

Bonus? No Mas! Cantina, which regularly hosts events for LGBTQ groups.

Decatur/Oakhurst Village/ Avondale Estates

Sappho capital of the south, Decatur is a city where the LGBTQ social scene is more likely to be centered around PTA meetings and soccer games than bar stools and dance floors. Along with neighboring Avondale Estates,

Continues on page 30

Neighborhoods

Continued from page 28 Decatur is among the most densely concentrated areas of same-sex couples in the nation. The growth has been phenomenal over the past decade, and it now touts a slew of rainbow flag-wielding, equality-stickered homes and cars as far as the eyes can see! The result brings queer life to Main Street, through the downtown square and in the many LGBTQ-affirming churches. The city is home field for the Decatur Women’s Sports League and the highly regarded Paws, Whiskers & Wags Pet Crematorium — two bona fides of Decatur’s lesbian cred.

And new to the Decatur business circle is lesbian/feminist Charis Books and More. Formerly in Little Five Points, this bookstore is a go-to spot for book signings, readings and the latest in written masterpieces.

West End

Located a few miles south of downtown, the historic West End neighborhood is home to the renowned Atlanta University Center, comprised of Morehouse College, Spelman University and Clark Atlanta University. Each of the historically Black schools is known for having sizable gay and lesbian populations, and in recent years, LGBTQ students increased their organizing and programming.

West End also has a range of unique destinations, from the emerging art and business district known as The Metropolitan, to longtime venues like Busy Bee Cafe.

A few blocks from the Atlanta University Center is the Herndon Home Museum, a historic site that chronicles the Herndon family, chiefly Alonzo Herndon, Atlanta’s first Black millionaire, and his son, Norris Herndon, an openly gay man who helped finance the civil rights movement.

The nearby tennis courts at Perkerson Park are also a LGBTQ hidden gem.

College Park/East Point

College Park is a city that almost everyone has been to, but few have ever visited. Hartsfield-Jackson International Airport is located in the city just south of Atlanta, but there is more to College Park than terminals and baggage belts.

The city’s rejuvenated Main Street (located directly across from the MARTA train station) is dotted with restaurants like pan-Asian noodle house Noodle and brunch spot The Real Milk and Honey.

About four miles north on Main Street, in the direction of downtown Atlanta, is East Point. This city has also enjoyed an upswing in its downtown commercial district and is home to Greenbriar Mall. College Park and East Point are both predominantly African American areas, but both have a vibrant LGBTQ presence comprised of folks of all colors.

Stone Mountain

Neighboring Decatur on the eastern edge of the metro Atlanta area is Stone Mountain, a city named after the massive granite boulder. It’s located in Stone Mountain Park, which has a golf course, fishing lakes, mini golf, and hiking trails all the way up the gigantic rock, giving everyone the pleasure of trampling all over the grounds.

Outside Stone Mountain Park, the city itself is a

30 Destination Travel Guide

Hartsfield-Jackson International Airport PHOTO BY SHUTTERSTOCK.COM / MARKUS MAINKA

predominantly Black area, which includes a vibrant LGBTQ community that’s got you covered for Saturday night and Sunday morning. Phase One nightclub on Memorial Drive has been bringing LGBTQ hip-hop fans together for a decade, while Victory for the World Church is a dynamic congregation that has welcomed LGBTQ Christians for almost 20 years.

Stone Mountain is a diverse city, and LGBTQ residents are instrumental in their communities, too. Half a dozen operated businesses are helping revitalize downtown Stone Mountain, including a nonprofit community coffee shop called Stone Mountain Public House and the ART Station Contemporary Arts Center and Theatre Company.

The ’burbs

LGBTQ life in metro Atlanta extends far beyond the city limits. In addition to Decatur, Stone Mountain, East Point, and College Park, other nearby cities made accomplishments in gay progress and acceptance. The metro area grows more conservative as you move out of the in-town core, but many LGBTQ people gladly call places like Sandy Springs, Marietta, Kennesaw, and Dunwoody home. It’s certainly worth checking out an act at the Cobb Galleria Centre, or hiking up Kennesaw Mountain.

Blue Ridge, about a 90-minute drive from Atlanta, is a mountain town of less than 1,500 residents and its main street is filled with LGBTQ-owned businesses. Gay Cove at Lake Lanier is a popular summer hangout. The energy that spurred LGBTQ advancement and a better quality of everyday life in Midtown consistently gained momentum and spread in all directions of metro Atlanta and allows queer culture to thrive in the conservative South.

Destination Destination Travel Guide 39 31

The Arts

The Fox Theatre

COURTESY PHOTO

Atlanta’s Repertoire

of Artistry

While some folks call it ATLwood these days, Atlanta had a top-notch art scene long before the film crews moved in. Whether you prefer theater, dance, vocal performances, or visual art, Atlanta’s got you covered.

The World’s a Stage

Theatre (HorizonTheatre.com) has 172 seats to watch its contemporary plays. LGBTQ-owned Out Front Theatre Company (OutFrontTheatre.com) has a summer camp and regular performances to be determined.

The famous Fox Theatre is coming back from the coronavirus pandemic strong with a slew of Broadway favorites in its 2021/22 season. Check out “Hamilton” starting in late August, “Fiddler on the Roof” come November, “Jesus Christ Superstar,” Disney’s “Frozen,” “Mean Girls,” and more. Learn more and buy tickets at FoxTheatreAtlanta.com.

Actor’s Express grows talent through regular performances at the King Plow Arts Center. This season, enjoy shows like “Red Speedo,” “Heathers,” “Hometown Boy,” “Intimate Apparel,” “Bootycandy,” “Sunset Baby,” “Desire under the Elms,” and “Lizzie.” Learn more and buy tickets at Actors-Express.com.

If plays and musical theater are your things — but a pricey ticket to the Big Apple isn’t — take a look at what’s on stage in the ATL.

You may have heard of the Alliance Theatre because it boasts its very own Tony Award. This season, Alliance is back at the Woodruff Arts Center with “Darlin’ Cory,” “A Christmas Carol,” “Toni Stone,” “Bina’s Six Apples,” and more. Learn more at AllianceTheatre.org.

Atlanta is also home to theaters that bring independent and lesser-known works into the spotlight. Horizon

32 Destination Travel Guide

7 Stages Theatre (7Stages.org), located in Little 5 Points off Euclid Avenue, has brought works of political and social importance to the stage since 1979. It also hosts educational workshops and youth events to get the community more engaged in the performing arts.

Now’s the time to make plans to attend the spectacular

Continues on page 36

2021-2022 SEASON

The Atlanta Gay Men’s Chorus has a long-standing tradition of providing support and service as well as musical excellence to the Atlanta LGBTQ community and our city at large! Adding to this wonderful tradition was the formation of the Atlanta Women’s Chorus just five years ago. Both organizations are artistic jewels, bringing quality entertainment as well as music with messages of hope and inspiration. We pride ourselves on speaking to issues of inclusion and acceptance. Today, over 150 talented and diverse singers comprise the two choruses; together, the volunteer members of the AGMC and AWC entertain thousands of gay and straight audience members from metro Atlanta and beyond, through their thought-provoking performances.

AWC: Phoenix Rising SEP 30, 2021 • MABLE HOUSE BARNES AMPHITHEATER A unique look at Atlanta’s history through stories and music. We explore the glories and hardships of being a southern city with a diverse and unique past and a future full of so much potential.

AWC: December 2021 A beautiful and heartwarming holiday treat for family and friends. We will also pay our respects to so many who left us too soon with the glorious Faure’ Requiem for women’s voices.

AWC: June 2022 It’s all about summertime and great music.

Who doesn’t remember the joy of being released from school to spend days listening to the latest hits and dreaming of summer fun?!

AGMC: 40th Anniversary Holiday Celebration DECEMBER 2021 • THE CATHEDRAL OF ST. PHILIP It’s an Atlanta tradition! AGMC at the Cathedral of St. Philip is THE way to start the holiday season.

This year, we also celebrate the group’s 40 years of making great music.

AGMC: March 2022 Broadway, Broadway, Broadway! We will have a lot of surprises for you in this big bash of a concert.

Who knows who will pop in for a solo or two?

This show will be so much fun!

AGMC: June 2022 The Southeast Premiere of a major work exploring and celebrating transgender youth! While life has changed somewhat for our youth, there’s still so much work to do. Hear authentic stories from transgender youth told with so much love, compassion, humor and poignancy.

Tickets and more at www.voicesofnote.org

DISCOVER THE SPIVEY DIFFERENCE 2021-2022 Concert Series For tickets or more information call (678) 466-4200 or visit

SPIVEYHALL.ORG

CHRISTMAS WITH THE KING’S SINGERS

PAUL LEWIS, piano

BENJAMIN GROSVENOR, piano

GAUTIER CAPUÇON, cello JEAN-YVES THIBAUDET, piano

JAKUB JÓZEF ORLIŃSKI, countertenor MICHAŁ BIEL, piano

The Badass & the Beautiful: MS. LISA FISCHER with Taylor Eigsti

SEAN JONES QUARTET

and much more ….

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The Arts

Atlanta Ballet’s “Stars and Stripes”

COURTESY PHOTO

Continued from page 32 shows scheduled for the City Springs Performing Arts Center at City Springs! In their 2021-22 season, they’re showing classics like “The Sound of Music,” “The Color Purple,” “West Side Story,” and “A Chorus Line.”

Learn more and buy tickets at CitySpringsTheatre.com.

Theatrical Outfit is an Atlanta-based theater company whose purpose is to provide their diverse audiences, actors, and artists with rich theater experience. In their 2021-22 season, they’re showing “An Iliad,” “Baskerville: A Sherlock Holmes Mystery,” “Bright Half Life,” “The Wolf at the end of the Block,” and “Lady Day at Emerson’s Bar and Grill.” Learn more and buy tickets at TheatricalOutfit.org.

Kenny Leon’s True Colors Theatre Company (TrueColorsTheatre.org) is a non-profit theater company co-founded by Tony-winning Broadway director Kenny Leon and Jane Bishop in 2002. The theatre company produces world-premiere plays by diverse playwrights with a commitment to preserving African American classics.

As there is no permanent theater space for the company, they have dubbed themselves a “moveable feast,” presenting plays at the Southwest Arts Center, Theatrical Outfits Balzer Theatre, Porter Sanford III Performing Arts Center, and the Rialto Center for the Arts.

The Aurora Theatre (AuroraTheatre.com) in Lawrenceville welcomes in a number of performances this summer, including their Summer Chills and Thrills series in partnership with Lawrenceville Ghost Tours.

The Sound of Music

There’s more — much more! — to Hotlanta’s art scene

36 Destination Travel Guide

Voices of Note

COURTESY PHOTO

than theater. Atlanta Ballet (AtlantaBallet.com) is one of the nation’s premier dance companies, and its 92-year history helped make it the State Ballet of Georgia.

The dancers bring us a fabulous slate of performances this season, including their annual “The Nutcracker” performance during the winter holidays.

Voices of Note, the organization that includes both the Atlanta Women’s Chorus and the Atlanta Gay

Continues on page 38

Out Front Theatre Company tells stories of the LGBTQIA+ experience and community, giving voice to LGBTQIA+ artists through theatre.

INSIGHTFUL

Tickets and more at: OutFrontTheatre.com

INNOVATIVE INCLUSIVE

Atlanta Opera’s “Barber of Seville”

COURTESY PHOTO

Continued from page 36 Men’s Chorus, presents dynamic vocal performances that act as catalysts for social change.

The Atlanta Opera is another can’t-miss swarm of vocal talent, bringing performances like “Julius Caesar,” “The Pirates of Penzance,” “The Barber of Seville,” and “The (R)evolution of Steve Jobs” to audiences at the Cobb Energy Centre in Marietta. Learn more and buy tickets at AtlantaOpera.org.

We can’t forget the Atlanta Symphony Orchestra. This season, the symphony offers four different classical series: Come On Down, a highlight of the string section; Orchestral Fireworks, a collection of everyone’s orchestral favorites; Iconic Masterpieces; and Off the Beaten Path, a celebration of beauty along paths less trodden. Learn more at Aso.org.

Eye Spy

It’s hard to be in Atlanta without noticing all the visual art around — it’s in gift shops, it’s on murals, it’s on the famous Krog Street Tunnel. It’s also on display in more traditional museums and galleries, like the High Museum in Midtown. The High’s upcoming exhibits include “Calder-Picasso,” “Electrifying Design: A Century of Lighting,” “Outside the Lines,” “Gatecrashers: The Rise of the Self-Taught Artist in America,” “Really Free: The Radical Art of Nellie Mae Rowe,” “Picturing the South: 25 Years,” and “KAWS PRINTS.” Visit the museum in early 2022 to catch of glimpse of the famous Obama portraits as they stop in Atlanta on their tour across the country. Learn more and buy tickets at High.org.

Be sure to also check out the Westside Cultural Arts

38 Destination Travel Guide

High Museum’s KAWS Prints Exhibit COURTESY PHOTO

Center (WestsideArtsCenter.com) and Mutiny Artwrx (MutinyArtwrx.com), and if seeing art isn’t enough for you, you can also make your own! Make a pit-stop at Decatur Glassblowing (DecaturGlassblowing. com), All Fired Up (AllFiredUpArt.com), and Mudfire (Mudfire.com) for some one-of-a-kind, handmade souvenirs from your trip to the big city.

T E L L U S

S C I E N C E

M U S E U M

BECAUSE SCIENCE MATTERS! 100 TELLUS DRIVE I-75 EXIT 293 CARTERSVILLE GA 30120 770-606-5700 OPEN DAILY 10AM – 5PM

Smithsonian Affiliate

tellusmuseum.org

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Sightseeing

Atlanta Botanical Garden

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Sights to See Inside and Out Atlanta You’ve powered your way through our infamous Atlanta traffic jams, crazy Georgia drivers, and that always crowded HOV lane. It’s time to relax and take in the sights and sounds in and around the metro! Here are some of our favorite attractions you shouldn’t miss, both inside the perimeter (aka the Interstate 285 loop) and outside.

IN ATLANTA

Atlanta Botanical Garden

performance space for popular bands.

With 30 acres of cultivated gardens and a fantastic restaurant, Longleaf, the Atlanta Botanical Gardens offers something new to see every season of the year. If you’re visiting during the winter holidays, stop in and see the incredible Garden Lights exhibit after dark, and don’t forget to stop into the satellite garden in Gainesville for even more natural beauty.

CNN Center

Center for Civil and Human Rights

Georgia Aquarium and World of Coca-Cola

City Winery

Martin Luther King Jr. National Historic Site

Located in the heart of downtown Atlanta, the Center for Civil and Human Rights connects the African-American, LGBTQ, and global human rights movements in an engaging and thought-provoking way, which is why this attraction is at the top of many lists and has quickly become a favorite among locals and visitors alike.

This popular live-music venue and restaurant has made its mark in multiple major cities across the country and found a home in Atlanta at Ponce City Market. LGBTQ lovers of great wine, food, and music will enjoy the ambience at City Winery, which also houses an intimate 300-seat

42 Destination Travel Guide

Take an educational tour of the world headquarters of CNN. A ride on the longest freestanding escalator in the world (it’s 193 feet long, ascending eight stories!) will take you up to the main newsrooms and studios for several of CNN’s news channels where you can get a behind-thescenes look at television and news production.

Located across the street from one another, visitors can go from high fiving a polar bear to watching live penguins, marine mammals, and fish swim to their hearts’ content.

Plan your trip in advance, and you can schedule a time to come face-to-face with beluga whales or spend a night under the sea.

Atlanta’s activist roots can be tied to the Civil Rights movement with heroes like Martin Luther King, Jr. Tour the 35 acres dedicated to his life and work and see where he and his wife (and ardent LGBTQ ally) Coretta Scott King are now laid to rest. You can also stop by and tour Dr. King’s

Mercedes-Benz Stadium

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birth home just down the street.

Mercedes-Benz Stadium

Catch a Falcons game or Atlanta United match at this massive architectural icon. The concessions are uber affordable, and if the weather is nice, you’ll be able to watch the dome open up.

The Roof at Ponce City Market

Yes, that’s the name — The Roof. It’s 1.7 acres of sheer entertainment that harkens back to its 19th-century amusement park roots, featuring a beer garden, snow cones, gourmet hot dogs, and more. And if that isn’t enticing, miniature golf and other low-tech rides, including a giant slide simulating a free fall, are also available.

SkyView

Enjoy the best views in the city on this 20-story Ferris wheel, located directly across Centennial Olympic Park. Go at night to soak in the lights of downtown from your own climate-controlled gondola.

Zoo Atlanta

One word: pandas. Kidding. They’re, of course, a highlight of Zoo Atlanta, but definitely not the only animal to learn about. Come see birds, reptiles, mammals, and more — and if you time it right, you can even help feed the giraffes.

Piedmont Park

Grab an electric scooter or bicycle or put on your comfiest walking shoes for an afternoon of sheer beauty! The sprawling hills, breathtaking lake, and miles of walking paths are perfect for an afternoon outdoors. The park offers several baseball fields, beach volleyball courts, several playgrounds, two dog parks, and even a pool for those hot summer days! It’s also the perfect place for a picnic under one of the parks hundreds of lush, shaded trees.

Six Flags Over Georgia

Love the thrill of going upside down at 60 miles per hour?

Head to Georgia’s most visited amusement park just

The Roof at Ponce City Market

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miles from downtown Atlanta! Located in Austell off the Chattahoochee River, the theme park houses more than 11 roller coasters and a total of 44 rides for all ages. Don’t forget to cool off at Hurricane Harbor with three water slides and more than a dozen attractions.

A SHORT DRIVE AWAY Babyland General Hospital

Children of the 1980s will get a kick out of this peculiar tourist attraction in Cleveland, Georgia — the hometown of Cabbage Patch Kids creator Xavier Roberts. Babyland is the place where Cabbage Patch Kids are “born” and presents itself as a real hospital, with staffers dressed as doctors and nurses.

Blue Ridge

This mountain town 90 miles north of Atlanta is full of lush scenery, can’t-miss shops, and restaurants in the downtown area. It’s also a surprising haven for a sizable number of LGBTQ people, so you’ll see plenty of friendly faces.

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Destination Destination Travel Guide 57 43

Sightseeing

Callaway Gardens

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Booth Western Art Museum

A little less than an hour from downtown Atlanta, you’ll land in Cartersville — home to Booth Western Art Museum, one of the greatest museums featuring contemporary Western-American art, presidential portraits, and letters and Western-movie memorabilia. There’s also a cafe and multimedia theater on the premises.

Callaway Gardens

Head southwest of the city for 1.5 hours and you won’t regret what you find at this resort complex in Pine Mountain.

Gardens of azaleas and magnolias, lakes, and even a large enclosed butterfly habitat dot the area, and the Festival of Lights is worth a drive up during the winter holidays.

Chattahoochee National Forest

Tellus Science Museum

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Point your car toward North Georgia and take your pick of the 750,000 acres of lush scenery, with rivers, lakes, and waterfalls, plus the perfect terrain for hiking, swimming, picnicking, kayaking, and more.

its much bigger brother — there are over 300 acres to roam there! Be sure to stop for a meal or afternoon cocktail in the always fun downtown area.

Helen

Take a break from the blistering Georgia heat at Six Flags’ water park, located in Marietta. This refreshing 69-acre park boats countless exciting water slides, a 700,000-gallon wave pool, and a slew of kid-friendly attractions.

Because nothing says “Deep South” quite like a replica of a Bavarian alpine. Helen is a quirky little north-Georgia town, great for a day trip to stroll around the various shops or go river rafting in the Chattahoochee. Plus, you’re only a 20-minute drive from beautiful Anna Ruby Falls.

Lake Lanier

Lanier is the most popular lake for Atlanta residents looking for a day or weekend to water ski, swim, sunbathe, or just relax on the water. Make sure to visit Gay Cove on the west side of the lake just north of marker 21 to make some likeminded friends!

State Botanical Garden of Georgia

Sure, the Atlanta Botanical Garden is no slouch at 30 acres of beautiful grounds, but head for Athens, Georgia, to visit

44 Destination Travel Guide

Six Flags White Water

Stone Mountain Park

The city of Stone Mountain is uber-LGBTQ-friendly, with numerous “family-owned” businesses dotting the downtown area and a welcoming mayor to boot. Just make sure to visit the 3,200-acre park and either walk or take a chairlift to the top to get the ultimate Georgia view.

Tellus Science Museum

Take a drive out to Cartersville to visit this world-class, 120,000-square-foot natural history and science museum.

This hands-on museum, an affiliate of the Smithsonian Institution, is perfect for nature lovers and future scientists.

Food

Our Scene’s

Cuisine

Bacchanalia

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Get a taste of almost every culture around the world with some of the best dining Atlanta has to offer. With countless gay-owned and LGBTQ-friendly spots, Atlanta offers everything from beers and bar food with buds to gourmet candlelit dinners with your partner. Bon Appetit!

10th & Piedmont

991 Piedmont Avenue Atlanta, GA 30309 404-602-5510 10thAndPiedmont.com Located at the former home of LGBTQ landmark Outwrite Bookstore, 10th & Piedmont has made its name in gay Atlanta. Owned by the same team as neighboring G’s, 10th & Piedmont features organic ingredients and multicultural flavors with a Southern flair.

a mano

587 Ralph McGill Boulevard NE Atlanta, GA 30312 404-549-7727 AmanoAtl.com Handmade pasta and other seasonal Italian dishes in a cozy cottage with a snug bar and patio.

Agave Restaurant

242 Boulevard SE Atlanta, GA 30312 404-588-0006 AgaveRestaurant.com From stuffed mountain trout tomatillo

48 Destination Travel Guide

to Mexican rack of lamb and traditional Posole soup, Agave is known for its eclectic Southwestern menu and extensive tequila bar.

Alon’s Bakery & Market

Virginia-Highland 1394 North Highland Avenue NE Atlanta, GA 30306 404-872-6000 Buckhead 4505 Ashford Dunwoody Road NE Atlanta, GA 30346 678-397-1781 Alons.com This relaxed bakery and sandwich shop features prepared snacks and sweets in snug digs with sidewalk seats.

Apres Diem

931 Monroe Drive, Suite C-103 Atlanta, GA 30308 404-872-3333 ApresDiem.com For a romantic night out, you can’t beat Apres Diem. Among the bistro’s perks are its candlelit ambience, great wine choices, and wait staff that never

seem in a hurry to rush customers out the door. The roasted lamb and Moroccan salmon are fan favorites.

Atmosphere French Restaurant

1620 Piedmont Avenue Atlanta, GA 30324 678-702-1620 AtmosphereBistro.com Conveniently located on Piedmont Avenue near Ansley Mall, Atmosphere offers French food with a modern twist in a charming, remodeled home.

Bacchanalia

1460 Ellsworth Industrial Boulevard NW Atlanta, GA 30318 404-365-0410 StarProvisions.com/bacchanalia Long rated as one of Atlanta’s best restaurants, Bacchanalia offers a seasonal, organic menu of contemporary American cuisine from chef/owners Anne Quatrano and Clifford Harrison, who source many of the ingredients from their own farm.

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WHERE YOU’RE ALWAYS WELCOME

Food

Casseroles

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Continued from page 48

Bangkok Thai

1492 Piedmont Avenue NE Atlanta, GA 30309 404-874-2514 BangkokThaiAtl.com This long-running, family-friendly eatery serves up traditional Thai favorites such as pad Thai & an assortment of curries.

BeetleCat

299 N. Highland Avenue NE Atlanta, GA 30307 678-732-0360 BeetleCatAtl.com BeetleCat is a shore-style, casual cocktail lounge with a coastal ’70s and ’80s vibe in Inman Park.

BoccaLupo

753 Edgewood Avenue NE Atlanta, GA 30307 404-577-2332 BoccaLupoAtl.com Tucked away in Atlanta’s historic Inman Park is BoccaLupo, an ItalianAmerican eatery owned by Atlantanative chef, Bruce Logue. An intimate restaurant, BoccaLupo focuses on extruded and rolled, hand-cut pastas.

Café Intermezzo

Midtown 1845 Peachtree Road Atlanta, GA 30309 404-355-0411 Dunwoody 4505 Ashford Dunwoody Road NE Atlanta, GA 30346 770-396-1344 CafeIntermezzo.com

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This sultry, Vienna-style cafe may have a full menu, but the desserts make it a top-flight destination. Bring your sweet tooth — tarts, tortes, and oodles more beckon.

Casseroles

1393 North Highland Avenue NE Atlanta, GA 30306 404-228-3260 CasserolesAtlanta.com This take-out hideaway delivers an array of premade casseroles, from brunch to dinner, for you to heat at home.

Campagnolo

980 Piedmont Avenue NE Atlanta, GA 30308 404-343-2446 CampagnoloAtl.com Before Maureen Kalmanson opened up Henry’s Midtown Tavern, she brought us this popular Italian and Mediterranean restaurant.

Campagnolo offers a casual atmosphere for dinner and a weekend brunch. The patio provides a streetlevel view of Atlanta’s most beautiful, LGBTQ-friendly neighborhoods.

City Winery

Ponce City Market 650 North Avenue NE, #201 Atlanta, GA 30308 404-946-3791 CityWinery.com/Atlanta City Winery is a hip, intimate venue with a New American restaurant, bar, and on-site winery located inside Ponce City Market.

The Colonnade Restaurant 1879 Cheshire Bridge Road

Atlanta, GA 30324 404-874-5692 ColonnadeAtlanta.com The gays mingle with the grays at this Atlanta landmark of Southern food served up the way you want it. This place gives tomato aspic a good name.

Dancing Goats Coffee Bar Ponce City Market 650 North Avenue NE Atlanta, GA 30308 404-874-0370

Decatur 419 W. Ponce De Leon Avenue Decatur, GA 30030 404-687-1100 BatdorfCoffee.com Modern haunt with espresso, singleorigin coffee, & free Wi-Fi inside a restored, historic building.

Delia’s Chicken Sausage Stand

489 Moreland Avenue Atlanta, GA 30316 404-474-9651 881 Marietta Street NW Atlanta, GA 404-254-0408 TheSausageStand.com Delia Champion burst onto the Atlanta food scene in 1993 when she opened the first Flying Biscuit in Candler Park. The lesbian restaurateur returned in 2011 with her Chicken Sausage Stand, which offers “slingers” (link sausages served on a hoagie) and sliders based on her homemade sausage recipe,

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Food

Doc Chey’s Noodle House

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Continued from page 52

El Azteca

dished up with a variety of creative toppings. Open 24 hours on weekends.

Doc Chey’s Noodle House

1424 North Highland Avenue NE Atlanta, GA 404-888-0777 563 Memorial Drive SE Atlanta, GA 404-688-4238 DocCheys.com Pick up spring rolls, dumplings, curries, and stir-fries — or on a stay-in evening, have those goodies brought to you. Peace. Love. Noodles.

Doc Chey’s Dragon Bowl

1556 N. Decatur Road Atlanta, GA 404-378-8188 DragonBowlAtl.com This bustling noodle shop dishes up classic Asian fare plus beer and wine in a family-friendly space.

Eats

600 Ponce de Leon Avenue Atlanta, GA 30307 404-888-9149 EatsOnPonce.net Eats is quick, conveniently located, and won’t put a dent in your pockets. Enjoy pasta dishes and good ol’ jerk chicken, plus delicious Southern sides like green beans and baked sweet potatoes.

54 Destination Travel Guide

1784 Peachtree Street Atlanta, GA 30309 404-249-1522 ElAztecaAtlanta.com Located in the heart of Midtown/ Buckhead, El Azteca serves authentic Mexican food, amazing margaritas, and an all-you-can-eat Sunday brunch! Also located in Dunwoody, Milton, and Sandy Springs.

Floataway Cafe

1123 Zonolite Road Atlanta, GA 30306 404-892-1414 StarProvisions.com/Floataway-Cafe The menu features fresh cuisine created with French, Mediterranean, and Italian influences. Changing daily, the menu reflects seasonal influences and the finest local ingredients.

Flying Biscuit

1655 McLendon Avenue Atlanta, GA 30307 404-687-8888 1001 Piedmont Avenue NE Atlanta, GA 30309 404-874-8887 FlyingBiscuit.com Founded in Atlanta and now a franchise with multiple locations, the Biscuit is THE place for breakfast and brunch. Breakfast is served all day (with lip-smacking omelets), and there are salads, sandwiches, desserts, and entrees that sate. It’s not unheard of to see weekend lines, but the wait is worth it.

Folk Art

465 N. Highland Avenue NE Atlanta, GA 30307 404-537-4493 FolkArtRestaurant.com This feel-good restaurant serves breakfast, lunch, dinner, and brunch in Inman Park. Artful eats for simple folks!

Fontaine’s Oyster House

1026½ N. Highland Avenue Atlanta, GA 30306 404-872-0869 NightcapFoodAndSpirits.com Belly up to the bar or grab a cozy booth and enjoy some of Atlanta’s freshest oysters and happy-hour food specials.

Fox Brothers BBQ

1238 DeKalb Avenue Atlanta, GA 30307 404-577-4030 FoxBrosBBQ.com Featuring meats slow cooked with hickory chips, Fox Brothers BBQ serves up delicious food with Texas roots and Southern style.

G’s Midtown

219 10th Street Atlanta, GA 30309 404-872-8012 GsMidtown.com/gs-midtown The owners of Gilbert’s changed the name and did a total rebranding and renovation in their switch to G’s, but the popularity has never waned as people continue to flock to this Midtown gastropub.

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Food

Continued from page 54

Green Ginger

265 Ponce De Leon Place Decatur, GA 30030 404-373-2788 GreenGingerDecatur.com Featuring Asian fusion cuisine with a focus on sushi and Thai, Green Ginger is the place to enjoy the creative drinks at the bar or their covered patio.

Guac y Margys

661 Auburn Avenue, NE, #120 Atlanta, GA 30312 404-343-4691 GuacyMargys.com As the name suggests, this restaurant is the go-to for margaritas and guacamole — and with its location on the BeltLine, you can load up on delicious Mexican fare before walking all those calories off.

Henry’s Midtown Tavern

132 10th Street Atlanta, GA 404-537-4477 HenrysAtl.com Maureen Kalmanson, owner of Italian eatery Campagnolo, opened Henry’s in May 2013 with a chef-driven menu of appetizers, tacos, wings, sandwiches, entree salads, and desserts. The huge multi-level deck provides a casual atmosphere for you and your dog!

Herban Fix

Downtown 565-A Peachtree Street NE Atlanta, GA 30308 404-815-8787 HerbanFix.com Located in downtown Atlanta, Herban Fix creates authentic plantbased fusion cuisines for vegans, vegetarians, and meat-lovers.

Highland Bakery

655 Highland Avenue NE, #10 Atlanta, GA 30312 404-586-0772 HighlandBakery.com Southern dining with traditional comforts and interesting twists.

Stop by for brunch or anytime in the day to try their famous sweet potato pancakes and decadent desserts.

56 Destination Travel Guide

La Hacienda

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Hobnob

1551 Piedmont Avenue Atlanta, GA 30324 404-968-2288 HobnobAtlanta.com Hobnob offers a Southern twist on tavern food. The likes of fried green tomatoes and collard greens go toe-to-toe with hamburgers and other traditional dinner fares.

Home Grown GA

968 Memorial Drive SE Atlanta, GA 30316 HomeGrownGa.com This Reynoldstown meat-and-three is well-known for their tasty use of locally grown produce and affordable prices for breakfast, brunch, and lunch.

Iberian Pig

121 Sycamore Street Decatur, GA 30030 404-371-8800 TheIberianPigAtl.com This modern Spanish restaurant serves up cured meats and cheeses with exquisite attention to style and flavor. Sample some charcuterie or enjoy one of their delectable entrees.

Kevin Rathbun Steak

154 Krog Street NE #200 Atlanta, GA 30307 404-524-5600 KevinRathbunSteak.com This modern chophouse features steaks and seafood in a chic converted warehouse.

La Hacienda

900 Monroe Drive NE Atlanta, GA 30308 404-941-7890 Facebook.com/LaHaciendaMidtown This casual Mexican restaurant offers tableside guacamole, a full bar, a rooftop patio, and vibrant decor.

Las Margaritas

1842 Cheshire Bridge Road NE Atlanta, GA 30324 404-873-4464 LasMargaritasMidtown.com This lively, casual space draws crowds for its Pan-Latin cuisine, margarita pitchers, live music, and more.

Lazy Betty Atlanta

1530 Dekalb Avenue NE Atlanta, GA 30307 404-975-3692 www.LazyBettyAtl.com Chef Ron Hsu’s new restaurant uses exquisite ingredients and a thoughtful approach, where every part contributes to the whole. Come together, eat well, and live unhurried.

Livingston Restaurant & Bar

659 Peachtree Street Atlanta, GA 30309 404-897-5000 LivingstonAtlanta.com Located in the Georgian Terrace Hotel just across the street from the Fabulous Fox Theatre, Livingston is the perfect place for cocktails and a bite to eat before or after catching a show. Very LGBTQ-friendly.

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Food

Noni’s Italian Deli & Bar Continued from page 56

Majestic Diner

1031 Ponce de Leon Avenue Atlanta, GA 30306 404-875-0276 MajesticDiner.com With “food that pleases since 1929” and the most colorful clientele one can find, the Majestic is open 24/7 with good, Southern food that makes late-night eating the best guilty pleasure.

Mama’s Cocina Latina

1958 Piedmont Road NE Atlanta, GA 30324 404-885-9199 MamasCocinaAtl.com Familiar Mexican specialties and cocktails are served 24/7 in a roomy, down-to-earth venue with a patio.

Mary Mac’s Tea Room

224 Ponce de Leon Avenue Atlanta, GA 30308 404-876-1800 MaryMacs.com Established in 1945 and only getting better, Mary Mac’s is a favorite among business folk, celebrities, and families of every stripe. With chicken and dumplings, collard greens with crackling bread, and Georgia peach cobbler on the menu, it’s understandable.

Metrofresh

931 Monroe Drive, Suite A-106 Atlanta, GA 30308 404-724-0151 MetrofreshAtl.com This “world food” restaurant delivers

58 Destination Travel Guide

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fresh fare fast and gives back to its community; fundraisers for AID Atlanta and PALS are just a few of its LGBTQ-friendly gestures.

lasagna Bolognese and meatballs, there is plenty to inspire your love at this East Atlanta eatery.

Midtown Moon

1397 North Highland Avenue NE Atlanta, GA 30306 404-347-9747 NowaksRestaurant.com Nowak’s neighborhood bar and restaurant serves high-quality steaks and seafood. It’s located in the North Virginia Highlands neighborhood of Morningside.

1492 Piedmont Avenue Atlanta, GA 30309 404-872-4403 Facebook.com/MidtownMoon Come on into Midtown Moon restaurant, and you’ll be treated like a queen! Enjoy daily steak specials, burgers, sandwiches and salads.

Miller Union

999 Brady Avenue Atlanta, GA 30318 678-733-8550 MillerUnion.com Miller Union offers rustic Southern fare made with local organic ingredients. The Harvest Dinner is especially lip-smacking.

Minero

Ponce City Market 675 Ponce De Leon Avenue NE Suite136 Atlanta, GA 30308 404-532-1580 MineroRestaurant.com Imaginative, locally sourced Mexican fare and craft cocktails are served in buzzy quarters with a patio inside Ponce City Market.

Noni’s Italian Deli & Bar 357 Edgewood Avenue Atlanta, GA 30312 404-343-1808 NonisDeli.com With a risotto of the day, Noni’s

Nowak’s

Papi’s Cuban & Caribbean Grill

216 Ponce de Leon Avenue Atlanta, GA 30308 404-607-1525 PapisGrill.com Papi’s features an extensive menu, and their specials include Churrasco steak and camarones al ajillo (shrimp scampi). The Midtown location is the most convenient for LGBTQ tourists, but Papi’s also has restaurants in Stockbridge, Kennesaw, Lawrenceville, and Tucker.

Park Tavern

500 10th Street NE Atlanta, GA 30309 404-249-0001 ParkTavern.com Park Tavern has something for everyone. The dog-friendly patio is located right on the corner of Piedmont Park and 10th, offering scenic views of the Midtown skyline and Piedmont Park.

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L OREM I PSUM

A PLACE FOR EVERYONE - OPEN 7 DAYS A WEEK! 736 PONCE DE LEON AVENUE - ATLANTA, GA. (404) 817-3820 - FRIENDSONPONCE.COM Destination Travel Guide 59

Food

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Parker’s on Ponce

116 East Ponce de Leon Avenue Decatur, GA 30030 404-924-2230 ParkersOnPonce.com Located in the heart of historic downtown Decatur, Parker’s calls itself a steakhouse, but it’s so much more.

It’s hard to pass on the salmon, sea scallops, and calamari here. Two local brothers have created an oasis of wood, warmth, and wine, which begs your return.

Poor Calvin’s

510 Piedmont Avenue NE Atlanta, GA 30308 404-254-4051 PoorCalvins.com Offering a rare cuisine of Thai fusion with Southern influences, Chef Calvin Phan has brought his perspective of international culinary fusion to this quaint restaurant. Acknowledged as one of Atlanta’s best kept secrets, it serves up an innovative blending of Eastern flavors and Western techniques and presentations.

The Porter Beer Bar

Little Five Points 1156 Euclid Avenue NE Atlanta, GA 30307 404-223-0393 ThePorterBeerBar.com A vast beer selection, inventive pub fare, and a funky setting draw fans to this bustling, hip bar.

Pure Taqueria

300 N. Highland Avenue NE Atlanta, GA 30307 404-522-7873 PureTaqueria.com Six locations featuring award-winning authentic Mexican food and the city’s best margaritas. Menu highlights include fresh fish tacos, unmatched “street” tostadas, corn-masa cakes, and ceviche that makes you forget you live inland.

Revolution Doughnuts & Coffee

Inman Park 745 Edgewood Avenue NE Atlanta, GA 30307 Decatur 908 W. College Avenue Decatur, GA 30030

60 Destination Travel Guide

Revolution Doughnuts & Coffee www.RevolutionDonuts.com Their goal is to revitalize the American doughnut, to help restore it to its former glory as a simple, tasty, hand-crafted treat — and they have!

Ria’s Bluebird

421 Memorial Drive Atlanta, GA 30312 404-521-3737 RiasBluebird.com Retro and tiny with an all-day breakfast menu chock full of killer huevos and pancakes. We sadly lost queer chef Ria Pell in 2013, but her legacy continues at this popular spot.

Roxx Tavern

1824 Cheshire Bridge Road Atlanta, GA 30324 404-892-4541 Best known for its burgers and gay male crowd, Roxx Tavern serves up heaping dishes of atmosphere and friendliness.

Shake Shack BeltLine

670 DeKalb Avenue, NE Suite 103 Atlanta, GA 30312 470-377-8697 ShakeShack.com Shake Shack is a modern day “roadside” burger stand known for its delicious burgers, chicken, hot dogs, frozen custard, beer, wine, and more.

Sotto Sotto

313 N. Highland Avenue Atlanta, GA 30307 404-523-6678 SottoSottoAtl.com A cozy eatery offering pasta, risotto, and other Italian classics, plus an all-

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Italian wine list.

Southern Art & Bourbon Bar 3315 Peachtree Road Atlanta, GA 30326 404-946-9070 SouthernArt.com InterContinental Buckhead Atlanta’s swanky bar serves 70+ bourbons and fare from acclaimed chef, restaurateur, and cookbook author Art Smith.

Southern Art combines a hip, urban eatery with classic down-home charm and offers Southern-inspired cuisine in a welcoming, relaxed atmosphere.

Southern Sweets Bakery

186 Rio Circle Decatur, GA 30030 404-373-8752 SouthernSweets.com You can find Southern Sweets’ desserts in numerous Atlanta restaurants. Across from the DeKalb Farmers Market, the bakery also offers lunch and breakfast menus along with its award-winning sweets.

Star Provisions Market & Café

1460 Ellsworth Industrial Boulevard Atlanta, GA 30318 404-365-0410, ext. 4 StarProvisions.com Star Provisions is the culinary dream shop for the gourmet expert and novice alike. Imagine having access to a restaurant pantry and walk-in cooler for your cooking preparations.

Also features a bustling breakfast, lunch, and dinner counter.

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Food

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Steamhouse Lounge

1051 West Peachtree Street Atlanta, GA 30309 404-233-7980 SteamhouseLounge.com Award-winning lobster bisque and fresh seafood served in a laid-back atmosphere with tables and booths inside the two-level indoor space, plus a wrap-around outdoor deck, patio, and outdoor bar.

Superica

Krog Street Market 99 Krog Street NE Atlanta, GA 30307 678-791-1310 Superica.com Yeehaw, amigo! Atlanta has a stylish “Mex-Tex” restaurant featuring reinvented Texas favorites such as puffy tacos and fajitas.

Sweet Cheats

692 B Kirkwood Avenue SE, Suite B1 Atlanta, GA 30316 404-590-6086 SweetCheatsAtlanta.com Have a treat day (fine, a cheat day) at this bakery and coffee shop, specializing in cupcakes, “cruffles,” custom cakes, and catering for parties, weddings, and corporate events.

TEN Atlanta

990 Piedmont Avenue Atlanta, GA 30309 404-347-3360 TenAtlanta.com Billed as an upscale restaurant by day and bar by night, TEN Atlanta has quickly made its place in the city’s LGBTQ scene. Brunch and dinner menus include a variety of salads, sandwiches, burgers, and Southern entrees like the fried catfish.

Taverna Plaka

2196 Cheshire Bridge Road NE Atlanta, GA 30324 404-636-2284 TavernaPlakaAtlanta.com Ever been to a lively Greek taverna with a full bar, belly dancing, napkin throwing, and covered patio seating?

It’s a must.

Ton Ton

Ponce City Market 675 Ponce de Leon Avenue, NE Suite 151

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Twisted Soul Cookhouse & Pours Atlanta, GA 30308 TonTonRamen.com Ton Ton is a top-notch seat-yourself ramen bar with a cozy dining area and a brief menu of brothy noodles and Japanese bites.

Twisted Soul Cookhouse & Pours

Apex West Midtown 1133 Huff Road NW Atlanta, GA 30318 404-350-5500 TwistedSoulCookhouseAndPours.com Come in for a comfortable, modern soul food restaurant that gives Southern classics and brunch a creative approach.

The Varsity

61 North Avenue Atlanta, GA 30308 404-881-1706 TheVarsity.com First visit to ATL? Get to The Varsity for a naked dog, a burger, or a PC (Google it). This is the largest drivein in the country where, for a few dollars, you can lessen your hangover with grease and be insulted if you don’t order quickly enough.

Vickery’s Bar & Grill

Glenwood Park 933 Garrett Street Atlanta, GA 30316 404-627-8818 Vickerysatlanta.com The perfect place to grab a casual lunch, gather with friends for cocktails, or wine and dine your special someone.

COURTESY PHOTO

Victory Sandwich Bar 340 Church Street Decatur, GA 30030 404-377-9300

913 Bernina Avenue NE Atlanta, GA 30307 404-963-1742 VicSandwich.com Hip atmosphere, delicious homemade sandwiches, and refreshing Jack and Coke slushies make this spot divine.

Wahoo Grill

1042 W. College Avenue Decatur, GA 30030 404-373-3331 WahooGrillDecatur.com This neighborhood bistro serves seafood and American fare in a glass-walled interior and on a garden patio.

Woody’s CheeseSteaks

981 Monroe Drive Atlanta, GA 30308 404-876-1939 WoodysCheeseSteaks.com Drop in for one of their delicious cheesesteak sandwiches, subs, and hot dogs — all within walking distance from Piedmont Park, gay Atlanta’s backyard.

Zocalo

187 10th Street Atlanta, GA 30309 404-249-7576 EatZocalo.com A favorite at the Midtown epicenter of 10th Street and Piedmont Avenue, Zocalo offers “Mexican comfort food,” margaritas, and more.

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Nightlife

Friends Neighborhood Bar

PHOTO BY RUSSEL BOWEN-YOUNGBLOOD

Party Like an ATLien From extravagant drag to superstar DJs, Atlanta’s LGBTQ bars and clubs offer a little something for everyone.

840ATL

840 Ralph David Abernathy Boulevard Atlanta, GA 30310 404-669-6721 840atl.com 840ATL is the West End’s brandnew premier event space, providing Atlanta’s Westside with invigorating cultural experiences. Whether it’s the lights, the food, the drinks, the sound, or the people, there’s something to attract everyone to 840ATL.

BJ Roosters

2043 Cheshire Bridge Road Atlanta, GA 30324 404-634-5895 Facebook.com/BJRoostersAtlanta This friendly neighborhood gay bar features pool, darts, videos, and an eclectic handful of go-go boys on the bar and milling about.

Blake’s on the Park

227 10th Street Atlanta, GA 30309 404-892-5786 BlakesOnTheParkAtlanta.com Blake’s is a must for gay male

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travelers. There’s not much of a dance floor, but that doesn’t stop the party.

Blake’s attracts a beautiful mix of men of all ages, a fair number of women, and boasts some of the city’s most legendary drag queens. Conveniently located just off Piedmont Park.

Bulldogs

893 Peachtree Street NE Atlanta, GA 30309 404-872-3025 Facebook.com/BulldogsBarAtlanta An ATL institution since 1978 and located in the heart of Midtown, Bulldogs has some of the finest DJs spinning house and hip-hop to go with those heavy-handed bartenders assuring you get your money’s worth. Expect a line out the door on weekends.

District Atlanta

269 Armour Drive NE Atlanta, GA 30324 404-464-5924 DistrictAtlanta.com As the only venue in the U.S. with a unique, 300+ floating orbs kinetic light system, District creates an unparalleled

sensory experience, making it the perfect spot to dance the night away.

Felix’s Atlanta

1510-G Piedmont Avenue NE Atlanta, GA 30324 404-249-7899 FelixsAtlanta.com A friendly, small neighborhood bar in the Ansley Square strip mall. Fun for early evening drinks and hanging out with friends.

Flex

76 4th Street Atlanta, GA 30308 404-815-0456 FlexSpas.com/Atlanta Flex is a gay bathhouse complete with sauna, steam room, pool, sun deck, and private rooms. A membership is required and available on daily, six-month, and annual rates.

Friends Neighborhood Bar 736 Ponce De Leon Avenue Atlanta, GA 30306 404-817-3820

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Nightlife

Lips

PHOTO BY RUSSEL BOWEN-YOUNGBLOOD

Continued from page 64 FriendsOnPonce.com/ A no-attitude bar with inexpensive drinks and pool tables popular among the alt gay crowd, this quiet, easygoing spot was made for hanging out with friends. It’s also a great choice if you’re new in town.

Located steps from the BeltLine.

Future

Underground Atlanta 50 Upper Alabama Street SW #12 Atlanta, GA 30303 678-904-2457 Future-Atlanta.com This 14,000-square-foot cabaret and dance club is brand new and sure to become an Atlanta staple.

The Heretic

2069 Cheshire Bridge Road Atlanta, GA 30324 404-325-3061 HereticAtlanta.com If you’re looking to dance with a mix of shirtless and light leather crowds, the Heretic is definitely the place to go. You’ll find a diverse mix on weekends with heavy beats from guest DJs from around the country. It’s a butch bunch, but you’ll find all types scattered about the Heretic’s labyrinth layout. 3-Legged Cowboy dancing on Thursdays draws out the ladies, too.

The Hideaway

1544 Piedmont Avenue Atlanta, GA 30324 404-874-8247

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The Heretic

PHOTO BY RUSSEL BOWEN-YOUNGBLOOD

AtlantaHideaway.com The Hideaway is Midtown’s oldest neighborhood gay bar. With free pool and Wi-Fi, it’s the perfect spot for a casual afternoon drink. Located behind Cook’s Warehouse at Ansley Mall.

LIPS Atlanta

3011 Buford Highway NE Atlanta, GA 30329 404-315-7711 LipsAtl.com Colorful spot for set-price or à la carte American dinners and brunches served during drag shows.

Mary’s

1287 Glenwood Avenue Atlanta, GA 30316 404-624-4411 MarysAtlanta.com Mary’s has been the hip bar of choice for alt gays and selfproclaimed queers for several years.

Proudly called East Atlanta’s gay dive bar, don’t miss Mary-oke held every Tuesday and Saturday evening or the massive theme parties almost every weekend.

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Nightlife

My Sister’s Room Sports Bar & Grill Continued from page 66

Midtown Moon

1492 Piedmont Avenue Atlanta, GA 30309 404-872-4403 Facebook.com/MidtownMoon Midtown Moon has something for everyone: a wide range of glam and camp drag keeps the energy going in the main area, an upstairs with pool tables, a balcony overlooking the performance area, and perhaps the best patio in Midtown. Mosey on down there after work, and you’ll find a dinner crowd noshing from Moon’s full menu of tavern favorites.

Mixx Atlanta

1492 Piedmont Avenue, Suite B Atlanta, GA 30309 404-228-4372 MixxAtlanta.com Atlanta’s premier video venue hosts three different lounges for socializing with friends or hosting a party or event. Chill on weeknights with piano night on Tuesdays and other weekly events, then sizzle with DJs Fridays through Sundays.

My Sister’s Room Sports Bar & Grill

84 12th Street NE Atlanta, GA 30309 678-705-4585 MySistersRoom.com Now in Midtown, MSR is the longestrunning lesbian bar in Atlanta, with

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PHOTO BY RUSSEL BOWEN-YOUNGBLOOD

nightly events that cross musical genre’s and performances. Nonsmoking with a sports-themed menu and a fun patio, this legendary spot is 21+ after 8pm.

Oscar’s Martini Bar

1510 Piedmont Avenue, Suite C Atlanta, GA 30324 404-815-8841 OscarsAtlanta.com A recent renovation with a new look and feel in the same location at popular Ansley Square. Video on demand with weekly events that include show tunes, karaoke, and DJs.

Sister Louisa’s Church of the Living Room & Ping Pong Emporium

466 Edgewood Avenue SE Atlanta, GA 30312 404-522-8275 SisterLouisasChurch.com Though not specifically geared to a gay audience, you’ll find plenty of gay folks partying throughout the week. Church, as it’s commonly called, is a quirky spot loaded with tongue-in-cheek religious art and a killer Organ Karaoke every Wednesday. Also look out for supergay patio parties helmed by lesbian DJ Vicki Powell.

Swinging Richards 1400 Northside Drive Atlanta, GA 30318 404-352-0532

SwingingRichards.com Legendary men’s strip club acclaimed for its huge stable of totally nude hunky dancers. A particularly fun adventure for a group of friends looking to celebrate and cut loose.

The T

465 Boulevard SE, Suite 103A Atlanta, GA 30312 404-343-2450 ModelTAtlanta.com A casual neighborhood gay bar with karaoke, pool, video games, a jukebox, and nightly specials.

Known for its friendly atmosphere, great drinks, and good times, it’s “always a party.”

Tripps Bar

1931 Piedmont Circle Atlanta, GA 30324 404-724-0067 This cozy, unassuming bar offers karaoke, darts, free Wi-Fi, and a taco bar on Wednesdays.

Woofs

494 Plasters Avenue NE Atlanta, GA 30324 404-869-9422 WoofsAtlanta.com Atlanta’s only gay sports bar, Woofs hosts a pretty regular bear crowd with little elbow room on game days.

The weekly line-up includes trivia, poker, sports on 21 screens, pool, darts, and a popular menu of bar grub.

Shopping

Atlantic Station

PHOTO BY ATLANTIC STATION / RAFTERMAN

Non-Stop Shopping There’s no doubt that Atlanta has one of the most diverse shopping experiences in the Southeast.

Each neighborhood within the city touts its own style and vibe with unique shops and businesses that call it home. Whether you’re looking for the perfect souvenir, a gift for a loved one, or a treat for yourself, we’ve got your go-to stops for a shopping trip you’ll never forget!

Ansley Wine Merchants

1544 Piedmont Avenue NE, #211 Atlanta, GA 30324 404-876-6790 AnsleyWine.com In-store shopping, curbside pickup Located in Ansley Mall, this 7-days-a-week wine shop offers over 1,000 bottles of wine, 600 types of liquor, 200 types of beer, mixers, and a knowledgeable staff happy to help you find the perfect pairing.

Atlanta Water Gardens

2165 Cheshire Bridge Road NE Atlanta, GA 30324 404-235-0739 AtlantaWaterGardens.com In-store shopping Providing “serenity to the city,” Atlanta Water Gardens offers fountains of every size, sculptures, statuaries, garden accessories, and amazing gifts. A stroll through the outdoor showroom alone will relax you for the rest of the day.

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Atlantic Station

1380 Atlantic Drive Atlanta, GA 30363 404-961-7112 AtlanticStation.com Located off 17th Street near Interstate 75/85 in Midtown, Atlantic Station is a mixed-use development on the site of an old steel mill. This open-air mall includes an excellent mix of shopping — Athleta, H&M, Forever 21, Charming Charlie and the Atlanta Falcons and Atlanta United Team Store, to name a few — restaurants like Bantam + Biddy, envegan, and The Pig and the Pearl; a Regal Cinema; plus the city’s IKEA store.

Barking Leather 1510 Piedmont Avenue, Suite A Atlanta, GA 30324 404-900-5847 BarkingLeather.com In-store shopping, in-store pickup Leather clothing, accessories, and more for the BDSM, fetish, and fashion lifestyles. Want something

different? If they don’t have it, they’ll “fetch” it for you.

Book Nook

3073 N Druid Hill Road NE Decatur, GA 30033 404-448-2166 BookNookBookstoreDecaturGa.com In-store shopping Book Nook has helped customers find quality used books, music, movies, board games, video games, and comics since 1973. Whether you’re looking for something specific, want to sell or trade, to browse and relax, this bookstore is the place for you.

Boy Next Door Menswear

1447 Piedmont Avenue Atlanta, GA 30309 404-873-2664 BoyNextDoorMenswear.com In-store shopping, curbside pickup Boy Next Door is proud to offer an expanding selection of brands for men’s activewear, undergarments, and swimwear, not to mention the perfect

This eco-friendly shop offers great gifts like responsibly sourced jewelry, handmade crafts, beautiful candles, stationary and cards, home décor, and more.

Flora/Fauna

751 Gaskill Street SE Atlanta, GA 30316 404-500-2192 FloraFaunaAtl.com In-store shopping This Black woman-owned local plant shop is nestled in Cabbagetown. They offer a unique procurement of rare and hard-to-find houseplants and also carry locally handmade pottery perfect for your favorite plant’s next re-potting.

Green’s Beverages

Criminal Records

PHOTO VIA FACEBOOK

outfits for business and date nights.

Brushstrokes Pleasures

1510-D Piedmont Avenue NE Atlanta, GA 30324 404-876-6567 BrushstrokesAtlanta.com In-store shopping An Ansley Square staple since 1989, Brushstrokes is the one-stop-shop for gifts, pleasures, DVDs, and other adult entertainment.

Charis Books & More

184 S Candler Street Decatur, GA 30030 404-524-0304 CharisBooksandMore.com In-store shopping Thursday-Saturday, curbside pickup, delivery Charis Books & More is the oldest and largest independent feminist bookstore in the Southeast, carrying a wide range of titles covering feminist, LGBTQ, and intersectional topics. The store also offers writing groups, book discussions, author visits, and more, funded in part by its charitable arm, Charis Circle.

The Cook’s Warehouse 1544 Piedmont Avenue NE, #403 Atlanta, GA 30324 404-815-2993 CooksWarehouse.com

In-store shopping, in-store pickup, local delivery This local chain carries a huge selection of more than 15,000 kitchen tools and supplies, including the top brands of cookware, cutlery, kitchen electrics, and gadgets, as well as some unique local products. More than 700 cooking classes taught yearly by renowned chefs are also offered.

Criminal Records

1154 Euclid Avenue NE, Suite A Atlanta, GA 30307 404-215-9511 CriminalATL.com In-store shopping This classic record store houses both new and used vinyl from across almost every genre. You’ll be sure to find your next favorite album among their crates, and they also offer posters, comic books, and tees from your favorite bands.

Eco Denizen

999 Peachtree Street NE, #180 Atlanta, GA 30309 678-705-9880 335 W Ponce de Leon Avenue, Suite G Decatur, GA 30030 404-835-2629 EcoDenizen.net In-store shopping, curbside pickup, delivery

737 Ponce De Leon Avenue Atlanta, GA 30306 404-872-1109

2614 Buford Hwy Atlanta, GA 30324 404-321-6232 GreenBeverages.com In-store shopping, curbside pickup, delivery Green’s offers two locations and a huge stock of liquors, craft beer, wine, and even kegs. Party responsibly.

Intaglia Home Collection

1544 Piedmont Avenue NE, Suite 105 Atlanta, GA 30324 404-607-9750 IntagliaHome.com In-store shopping, delivery A furniture and home décor store that brings a fresh approach to Atlanta furniture, one that ultimately relies on timeless interior design.

Jonathan Buckhead

110 E Andrews Drive NW #4 Atlanta, GA 30305 404-846-7988 JonathanBuckhead.com In-store shopping Get a diamond for that special someone or a ring to pop the question at private jeweler Jonathan Shapero’s posh boutique.

Junkman’s Daughter

464 Moreland Avenue NE Atlanta, GA 30307 TheJunkmansDaughter.com In-store shopping, curbside pickup A Little Five Point’s staple, this store offers something for everyone, from

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Shopping

Continued from page 73 clothing and footwear to prints from local artists and gifts for your favorite person. No matter how alternative your style is, The Junkman’s Daughter has something in store for you.

Kaboodle Home

485-B Flat Shoals Avenue SE Atlanta, GA 30316 404-522-3006 KaboodleAtlanta.com In-store shopping, in-store pickup, delivery Kaboodle Home in East Atlanta Village offers local art, locally made eclectic home furnishings, home décor, candles, gifts, and more.

Kudzu Antiques

2928 E Ponce de Leon Avenue Decatur, GA 30030 404-373-6498 KudzuAntiques.com A family-owned business, Kudzu has grown over 35 years into one of Atlanta’s most beloved furniture stores. The unique marketplace imports fabulous finds from worldwide to craft an eclectic selection of both old and new items.

Lost-n-Found Youth Thrift & Consignment

2585 Chantilly Drive NE Atlanta, GA 30324 678-856-7824 Lnfy.org In-store shopping Lost-n-Found Youth’s thrift stores have thousands of donated items for sale.

Proceeds help fund the operation of the nonprofit, which takes homeless LGBTQ youth off the street and transitions them to more permanent housing.

M2/Mode Marche

1544 Piedmont Avenue NE, #226 Atlanta, GA 30324 404-892-7463 ShopModeMarche.com In-store shopping Midtown’s shoe and clothing boutique offers carefully selected unique, highquality brands for all genders. Find them in the iconic Ansley Mall.

The Merchant Atlanta

99 Krog Street NE Atlanta, GA 30307 404-331-1200 77 West Paces Ferry NW, Suite 35C

98 Destination 74 Destination Travel Travel Guide Guide

The Pet Set

PHOTO VIA FACEBOOK

Atlanta, GA 30305 404-228-2372 TheMerchantAtl.com In-store shopping Whether you’re looking for books, bedding, stationary, candles or something one-of-a-kind, The Merchant’s perfectly curated selection of gifts, stationary, and vintage goods has something for you

The Mission Motif

747 Miami Circle NE Atlanta, GA 30324 404-370-1505 MissionMotif.com In-store shopping, in-store pickup, delivery Atlanta’s source for Arts and Crafts-style furniture, The Mission Motif supports a portfolio of fine artisans and designers to deliver top-quality, customizable products perfectly suited for you.

Nandina Home & Design

6170 Roswell Road Sandy Springs, GA 30328 404-521-9303 NandinaHome.com Call for consultation Whether you’re looking to outfit your home in rustic, minimalist, or mod styles, Nandina has you covered.

After a consultation, their team helps you select appropriate fabric, colors, art, and accessories to pull together your dream home.

Out of the Closet Thrift Store

1858 Cheshire Bridge Road Atlanta, GA 30324 470-447-6473 OutOfTheCloset.org In-store shopping A nationwide enterprise, Out of the Closet is a multipurpose thrift shop

that donates 96% of proceeds to the AIDS Healthcare Foundation.

In addition to shopping, they also offer confidential HIV testing and a pharmacy, where prescriptions are filled while you shop.

Oxford Comics and Games

2855 Piedmont Road NE Atlanta, GA 30305 404-233-8682 Facebook.com/ OxfordComicsAndGames/ In-store shopping Browse their amazing selection of new and vintage comics, graphic novels, action figures, DVDs, posters, and more!

Park Pet Supply

479A Flat Shoals Avenue, #A Atlanta, GA 30316 404-588-0140 ParkPetSupply.com In-store shopping, curbside pickup Park Pet Supply offers dozens of brands of natural-based and gourmet remedies, foods, and treats. Plus, you can adopt one of its “Park Pets” if you don’t have a furry friend already.

The Pet Set

976 Piedmont Avenue NE Atlanta, GA 30309 404-249-6668

2480 Briarcliff Road NE, #3 Atlanta, GA 30329 404-633-8755 ThePetSet.com This shop offers an extensive line of pet toys and accessories. If Fido is traveling with you, take him in for a day spa or grooming.

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TOGETHER THE FUTURE IS BRIGHT

404.873.2664 1447 PIEDMONT AVE NE

BOYNEXTDOORMENSWEAR.COM

Shopping Continued from page 74

Phipps Plaza

3500 Peachtree Road NE Atlanta, GA 30326 404-261-7910 Simon.com/Mall/Phipps-Plaza Buckhead’s Phipps Plaza is for Atlanta’s most upscale shoppers.

Anchors include Nordstrom and Saks Fifth Avenue, with many smaller posh retailers like Johnny Was, Cole Haan, Gucci, Anne Fontaine, Tiffany & Co., Rigby & Peller, and more!

Ponce City Market

675 Ponce De Leon Avenue NE Atlanta, GA 30308 404-900-7900 PonceCityMarket.com This vibrant marketplace breathes new life into the historic Sears, Roebuck & Co building. Check out the numerous eclectic and trendy shops and boutiques, the impressive Central Food Hall, or mini-golf, carnival games, and craft cocktails on The Roof.

Rag-O-Rama

1111 Euclid Avenue NE Atlanta, GA 30307 404-658-1988 RagORama.com In-store shopping This unique thrift store offers some of the most interesting finds you’ll see in a secondhand shop. They offer a wide range of recycled classic, current, and vintage styles, with something for everyone.

Simple Finds

3614 Chamblee Dunwoody Road Chamblee, GA 30341 678-691-4241 SimpleFindsConsignment.com In-store shopping, delivery A unique destination for the smallest décor or outfitting an entire room.

Not only do they showcase a myriad of antique and vintage items but also a wide variety of everyday items from beautiful accessories to more current furniture items.

Trina Turk and Mr. Turk

Phipps Plaza 3500 Peachtree Road NE Atlanta, GA 30326 404-949-1444 MrTurk.com In-store shopping With a California dapper style, Mr. Turk is designed for men — and Trina

98 Destination 78 Destination Travel Travel Guide Guide

Ponce City Market

PHOTO VIA FACEBOOK

Turk for women — who want to make a statement with simple silhouettes in unique patterns, textures, and colors.

Tokyo Valentino Erotique 1739 Cheshire Bridge Road NE Atlanta, GA 30324

850 Northside Drive NW Atlanta, GA 30318 404-875-9200 TokyoValentino.com This iconic Atlanta landmark has touted the largest selection of adult toys, products, lingerie, and bondage gear in the Southeast since 1995.

Tower Beer, Wine & Spirits 2161 Piedmont Avenue NE Atlanta, GA 30324 404-881-0902

5877 Buford Highway Doraville, GA 30340 770-458-3272 TowerWineSpirits.com In-store shopping, curbside pickup, delivery Tower is not just a package store. In spite of being #1 in volume sales for the entire state of Georgia, Tower offers personalized service to each customer to help you find just the right drink for every occasion. Wine consultants are always on hand.

Westside Provisions District 1198 Howell Mill Road Atlanta, GA 30318 678-974-1940

WestsideProvisions.com In-store shopping Westside Provisions District has everything from upscale clothing boutiques to glasses shops. It has furniture stores and ice cream all in one place. What more could you ask for?

The Works Atlanta

1295 Chattahoochee Avenue NW Atlanta, GA 30318 678-974-8534 TheWorksATL.com In-store shopping Located in the heart of Atlanta’s Upper Westside, this converted space houses several shops and eateries.

With places like BOBO’s Intriguing Objects and Adelina Social Goods, you’ll be sure to find something here to spark joy in your life.

Worthmore Jewelers

500 Amsterdam Avenue NE Atlanta, GA 30306 404-892-8294

117 E Court Square Decatur, GA 30030 404-370-3979 WorthmoreJewelers.com In-store shopping With a slogan like “enlarging your family jewels since 1994,” you know to expect more than just your average jewelry store. They offer a wide array of wedding rings, watches, necklaces, and even custom work at two locations — Midtown and Decatur — in an LGBTQ-welcoming atmosphere.

Lodging

The Candler Hotel Atlanta

COURTESY PHOTO

Luxurious Lodging Looking for the perfect place to call your temporary home away from home?

Atlanta has countless options, ranging from beautifully high-end to conveniently affordable. Whether you prefer a unique boutique or a chain close to all the attractions, you’ll find it below with our best LGBTQ-friendly hotels.

AC Hotel by Marriott Buckhead at Phipps Plaza

3600 Wieuca Road NE Atlanta, GA 30326 470-231-3030 Marriott.com This modern European hotel experience offers authentic tapas and cocktails at AC Lounge, delicious breakfast at AC Kitchen, and a heated indoor pool.

Aloft Atlanta Downtown

300 Ted Turner Drive NW Atlanta, GA 30308 678-515-0300 Marriott.com This hip hotel is just steps from downtown Atlanta’s hottest attractions. Get some R&R at the Bliss Spa and enjoy free Wi-Fi throughout the hotel. *Pet-friendly

Artmore Hotel

1302 W Peachtree Street NW Atlanta, GA 30309 404-876-6100 ArtmoreHotel.com In the heart of Midtown’s arts district,

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this independent boutique hotel boasts a lovely renovation of a 1924 architectural landmark building, plus easy access to MARTA and the High Museum of Art. *Pet-friendly

Atlanta Marriott Buckhead

3405 Lenox Road NE Atlanta, GA 30326 404-261-9250 Marriott.com Temporarily closed due to COVID-19. *Pet-friendly

Atlanta Marriott Marquis

265 Peachtree Center Avenue NE Atlanta, GA 30303 404-521-0000 Marriott.com Experience urban energy and a stylish vibe in the heart of downtown at the newly renovated four-star hotel with amazing atrium and cool cocktail lounge, indoor/outdoor pool, spa, and unique dining options. Relax in their modern rooms and enjoy the upscale amenities and gorgeous city views.

The Candler Hotel Atlanta

127 Peachtree Street NE Atlanta, GA 30303 404-523-1200 Hilton.com This boutique hotel is housed in a 17-story high-rise originally built in 1906 as Atlanta’s first steel skyscraper. Located in the heart of downtown, this hotel perfectly blends modern and historic styles while putting you only blocks from some of Atlanta’s best attractions.

Canopy By Hilton Atlanta Midtown

1414 W Peachtree Street NW Atlanta, GA 30309 404-685-1677 Hilton.com This new hotel in Midtown offers complimentary Canopy Bikes to explore the Arts District and delicious culinary options at Xhibit Studio Kitchen and Bar. *Pet-friendly

Clarion Inn and Suites 186 Northside Drive SW Atlanta, GA 30313

Four Seasons Hotel Atlanta 404-893-4663 ChoiceHotels.com Experience the convenience of affordable accommodations for groups, meetings, and events.

This location offers easy access to entertainment, nightlife, and dining. *Pet-friendly

Courtyard Marriott Atlanta Downtown

133 Carnegie Way NW Atlanta, GA 30303 404-222-2416 Marriott.com Experience both historic charm and sophistication at this high-energy downtown location with an array of boutique amenities including on-site restaurant The Bistro. Easy access to Centennial Olympic Park, the Georgia Aquarium, the World of Coca-Cola, and more.

Crowne Plaza Atlanta - Midtown

590 W Peachtree Street NW Atlanta, GA 30308 404-877-9000 CPAtlantaMidtown.com Enjoy panoramic views of the city from all rooms in this hotel at the edge of downtown and Midtown, on-site coffee shop THRIVE Coffee, and on-site bar and restaurant NEXT. Want to splurge? Four unique pool suites have private terrace pools. *Pet-friendly

The Ellis Hotel

176 Peachtree Street NW

COURTESY PHOTO

Atlanta, GA 30303 404-523-5155 EllisHotel.com Offering superb service and an excellent location, the Ellis is the only independent boutique hotel in downtown. *Pet-friendly

Embassy Suites by Hilton Atlanta at Centennial Olympic Park

267 Marietta Street NW Atlanta, GA 30313 Hilton.com 404-223-2300 The Embassy touts spacious two-room suites, free made-to-order breakfast, and complimentary evening reception with snacks and drinks, plus 16,000 square feet of flexible space for events.

Four Seasons Hotel Atlanta

75 14th Street NE Atlanta, GA 30309 404-881-9898 FourSeasons.com/Atlanta The only five-star, five-diamond hotel in the city, chic urban meets Southern tradition in this neoclassical wonder of polished marble and sweeping staircases. Just steps from the High Museum of Art, eclectic Peachtree Street, and Piedmont Park. *Pet-friendly

Georgian Terrace Hotel

659 Peachtree Street NE Atlanta, GA 30308 404-897-1991 TheGeorgianTerrace.com Across the street from the Fox Theatre,

the Georgian Terrace is more than a century old and was added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1986. Very LGBTQ-friendly — the perfect place to host your wedding!

Glenn Hotel

110 Marietta Street NW Atlanta, GA 30303 404-521-2250 GlennHotel.com The Glenn Hotel touts110 rooms of intimacy, comfort, and personalized service in downtown Atlanta. Enjoy cocktails on the rooftop SkyLounge or dinner at Glenn’s Kitchen.

Grand Hyatt Atlanta

3300 Peachtree Road NE Atlanta, GA 30305 404-237-1234 Hyatt.com Located in the heart of Buckhead with easy access to luxury shopping at Lenox Square and Phipps Plaza.

Soak in views of Stone Mountain, downtown, and a peaceful Japanese Zen garden.

Hilton Atlanta

255 Courtland Street NE Atlanta, GA 30303 404-659-2000 Hilton.com A central location meets high-quality amenities with extensive meeting space, comfortable guestrooms, and three unique dining options. *Pet-friendly

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Lodging

Hotel Clermont

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Hilton Atlanta Airport

1031 Virginia Avenue Hapeville, GA 30354 404-767-9000 Hilton.com/AtlantaAirport Located only minutes away from Hartsfield-Jackson Airport, this is the perfect stay for the busy business traveler. It hosts tons of business amenities, as well as a barber shop, beauty salon, laundry, valet, pool and fitness room. *Pet-friendly

Hilton Garden Inn Atlanta Midtown and Homewood Suites

97 10th Street NW Atlanta, GA 30309 404-524-4006 / 404-524-4076 HiltonGardenInn.com HomewoodSuites.com These modern, connected properties are located just one block from the Midtown MARTA train station. Both offer complimentary wi-fi, fitness center, and pool. Homewood Suites is an all-suites hotel with fully equipped kitchens.

Hilton Garden Inn Atlanta Downtown 275 Baker Street NW Atlanta, GA 30313

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404-577-2001 Hilton.com This contemporary hotel in vibrant area is only one block from top Atlanta attractions including the Georgia Aquarium. Offers over 9,000 square feet of multi-use event and meeting space with lots of natural light.

Hotel Clermont

789 Ponce De Leon Avenue NE Atlanta, GA 30306 470-485-0485 HotelClermont.com Set in a landmark 1920s building overlooking the vibrant Poncey– Highland district, this trendy and sleek boutique hotel is adjacent to a MARTA bus stop, three miles from the Atlanta Botanical Garden, and five miles from the High Museum of Art.

Hotel Colee

3377 Peachtree Road NE Atlanta, GA 30326 678-500-3100 Hotelcolee.com This boutique destination offers an enticing rooftop, inviting meeting space, and tempting room service.

Hotel Indigo Midtown 683 Peachtree Street NE Atlanta, GA 30308 404-874-9200

HotelIndigo.com This Midtown boutique hotel offers free wireless throughout the property and is directly across the street from the Fox Theatre. Bring your pets to visit live-in furry resident, Indie. *Pet-friendly.

Hyatt Centric Atlanta Midtown

125 10th Street NE Atlanta, GA 30309 404-443-1234 Hyatt.com Four-star property with 194 redesigned guestrooms with floorto-ceiling windows and views of Piedmont Park and downtown Atlanta. *Pet-friendly

Hyatt Place Atlanta/ Downtown

330 Peachtree Street NE Atlanta, GA 30308 404-577-1980 Hyatt.com Located in the heart of downtown and ideally situated near popular area attractions, their 24-hour guest kitchen offers cafe-quality, made-toorder meals, and snacks, along with free breakfast daily for members. *Pet-friendly

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Lodging

Continued from page 82

Hyatt Place Atlanta/ Centennial Park

300 Luckie Street NW Atlanta, HA 30313 404-521-0008 Hyatt.com Stay directly across the street from the famed Georgia Aquarium and unwind at the gorgeous outdoor pool. *Pet-friendly

Hyatt Place Atlanta/ Buckhead

3242 Peachtree Road NE Atlanta, GA 30305 404-869-6161 Hyatt.com This affordable and unassuming hotel offers an outdoor pool and 24-hour gym, plus free parking and Wi-Fi. *Pet-friendly

Hyatt Regency Atlanta

265 Peachtree Street NE Atlanta, GA 30303 404-577-1234 Hyatt.com Downtown location with easy access to the Georgia World Congress Center, the Mercedez-Benz Stadium, and the Georgia Aquarium. The world’s first contemporary atrium hotel, built in 1967, is home to the most event space in the city and the largest hotel ballroom in Georgia.

Inman Park Bed & Breakfast

100 Waverly Way NE Atlanta, GA 30307 404-688-9498 InmanParkBandB.com Built in 1912 as a residence of Coca-Cola magnate Robert Woodruff, this lovely B&B has been lovingly restored and is on the National Register for Historic Places.

All rooms have private baths. Very LGBTQ-friendly.

Inn at the Peachtrees

330 W Peachtree Street NW Atlanta, GA 30308 404-577-6970 InnAtThePeachtrees.com An affordable stay and modern alternative to big downtown hotels, this hotel features complimentary breakfast buffet, free wireless internet, and meeting rooms.

Very LGBTQ-friendly.

84 Destination Travel Guide

InterContinental Buckhead Atlanta InterContinental Buckhead Atlanta

3315 Peachtree Road NE Atlanta, GA 30326 404-946-9000 InterContinentalAtlanta.com Offers an upscale urban retreat within easy reach of attractions and adventures. Shopping, dining, entertainment, and top city attractions are only steps away.

JW Marriott Atlanta Buckhead

3300 Lenox Road NE Atlanta, GA 30326 404-262-3344 Marriott.com Discover timeless elegance at one of the premier hotels in Buckhead, featuring luxurious suites, modern amenities, and updated décor.

Loews Atlanta Hotel

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with streaming services. *Pet-friendly

Omni Atlanta Hotel at CNN Center

100 CNN Center NW Atlanta, GA 30303 404-659-0000 Omnihotels.com 1,059 spacious luxury guest rooms and suites with breathtaking views overlooking the downtown Atlanta skyline, Centennial Park, and the lively CNN Center atrium. *Pet-friendly

The Peach House

88 Spruce Street NE Atlanta, GA 30307 404-908-0788 ThePeach.House This adorable peach and tea bed and breakfast is 120 years old and one of the few Black-owned B&Bs in the country.

1065 Peachtree Street NE Atlanta, GA 30309 877-872-0104 LoewsHotels.com/Atlanta-hotel Luxury in the heart of Midtown, Loews is known for their hospitality.

Gay-friendly, pet-friendly, and the incomparable Exhale Spa make Loews a top choice for visitors. *Pet-friendly

Renaissance Atlanta Midtown Hotel

Moxy Hotel Midtown

Reverb by Hard Rock Downtown

48 13th Street NE Atlanta, GA 30309 404-249-9446 Marriott.com This brand-new hotel offers everything you need in a boutique hotel — including a complimentary cocktail with your room key! Located in the heart of Midtown, enjoy access to great local spots, free Wi-Fi, and TVs equipped

866 W Peachtree Street NW Atlanta, GA 30308 678-412-2400 Marriott.com This way gay-friendly boutique hotel is in the heart of Midtown, close to MARTA and all Midtown attractions.

89 Centennial Olympic Park Drive NW Atlanta, GA 30313 470-552-8410 Reverb.HardRockHotels.com This brand-new smart hotel from Hard Rock is perfect for music fans and located right next to Mercedes-Benz

Continues on page 86

Lodging Continued from page 84 Stadium. Come for the rooftop bar but stay for the amazing skyline, incredible music, and contemporary atmosphere. *Pet-friendly

Ritz-Carlton Atlanta

181 Peachtree Street NE Atlanta, GA 30303 404-659-0400 RitzCarlton.com Luxury, first-rate service and an excellent location for business and downtown tourist fun.

Sheraton Atlanta Hotel

165 Courtland Street NE Atlanta, GA 30303 404-659-6500 Marriott.com Southern charm and modern style blend in this expansive, completely renovated Atlanta hotel ideal for both business and leisure travelers. *Pet-friendly

Stonehurst Place

923 Piedmont Avenue NE Atlanta, GA 30309 404-881-0722 StonehurstPlace.com This woman-owned romantic B&B combines the comfort and intimacy of a small inn and the amenities and luxury of a large hotel. Honeymoon suites are available for newlyweds.

Very eco-friendly and LGBTQ-friendly.

St. Regis Atlanta

88 West Paces Ferry Road NW Atlanta, GA 30305 404-563-7900 StRegisAtlanta.com A true in-town luxury resort with several restaurants, extraordinary cuisine, and wines, plus the fabulous Reméde Spa. *Pet-friendly

Sugar Magnolia Bed and Breakfast

804 Edgewood Avenue NE Atlanta, GA 30307 404-222-0226 SugarMagnoliaBB.com This beautiful Queen Anne Victorian home will transport you back in time to 1892, when the home was constructed. This gorgeous bed and breakfast is located in Inman Park, Atlanta’s first suburb.

86 Destination Travel Guide

St. Regis Atlanta

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Twelve Downtown

400 W Peachtree Street NW Atlanta, GA 30308 404-418-1212 TwelveHotels.com If you’re looking for an upscale urban experience right in the middle of downtown, look no further than Twelve’s spacious designer suites.

Twelve Midtown

361 17th Street NW Atlanta, HA 30363 404-961-1212 TwelveHotels.com Located in thriving and colorful Midtown, Twelve offers complimentary Wi-Fi, an on-site pool, and on-site restaurant Allora Bistro.

W Atlanta Downtown 45 Ivan Allen Jr. Boulevard Atlanta, GA 30308 404-582-5800 Marriott.com

W Atlanta Midtown

188 14th Street NE Atlanta, GA 30361 404-892-6000 Mariott.com Two excellent locations in Atlanta, each with its own charm and the W stamp of quality. The W Atlanta Midtown is walking distance to Piedmont Park, where Atlanta Pride is held each October. *Pet-friendly

Waldorf Astoria Atlanta Buckhead

3376 Peachtree Road NE Atlanta, GA 30326 404-995-7500 Hilton.com

You can expect over-the-top luxury and pampering at the exclusive spa, relaxation in the private gardens, and incredible views of the city at this boutique hotel located near Lenox and Phipps Plaza.

Westin Buckhead

3391 Peachtree Road NE Atlanta, GA 30326 404-365-0065 Marriott.com This upscale hotel has sweeping skyline views and close proximity upscale shopping.

Only a three-minute walk from the Buckhead MARTA train station. *Pet-friendly

Westin Peachtree Plaza

210 Peachtree Street NW Atlanta, GA 30303 404-659-1400 Marriott.com Towering 73 stories and topped by the famous Sun Dial Restaurant, this John Portman-designed hotel is conveniently located in the heart of downtown — a business traveler’s dream location. *Pet-friendly

The Whitley

3434 Peachtree Road NE Atlanta, GA 30326 404-237-2700 Marriot.com This hotel touts a blend of cosmopolitan style with timeless elegance, an ideal location in Buckhead, and easy access to worldclass shopping, dining, and nightlife. *Pet-friendly

PrEP Low cost or no cost

PrEP is a daily pill that is 99% effective against HIV.

For more information, call one of our nurse lines or visit positiveimpacthealthcenters.org.

DECATUR

523 Church St. 404.589.9040

DULUTH

3350 Breckinridge Blvd., Ste 200 770.962.8396

The Gay Outdoors

The Gay Outdoors

Did you know that Atlanta is also known as the city in a forest? The truth is Atlanta and its surrounding cities have an ample amount of natural beauty to be enjoyed. There’s plenty of outdoor activities geared towards the LGBTQ community, and they’re not far from the Atlanta metro! From organized groups to weekend getaway spots, you’ll find what you need to take in the natural beauty of our amazing city.

Women’s Outdoor Network

Take a stroll along one of Georgia’s many remote rivers or pitch a tent with other women in the Atlanta metro area. The group’s been around for nearly 20 years and focuses on helping queer women stay in shape and healthy. Membership is only $15 per year.

Meetup.com/WonAtlanta

Funky Black Gals

Grab your girlfriends and take a trip into nature with this group geared towards adventure-seeking Black queer women. You can plan on hiking, horseback riding, camping, and canoeing with those who share your passion for the outdoors!

Meetup.com/FunkyBlackGals

Wilderness Network of Georgia

This gay and bisexual men’s outdoor group will take you on an adventure you won’t forget. It’s a volunteerdriven group open to men-loving men 18 and older. This group plans regular activities, including whitewater rafting trips, hikes in Georgia’s scenic mountains and even a group outing to the annual Beltline lantern parade. Day and overnight trips give members a chance to connect and bond with other men in the area. Annual membership dues are only $20.

Meetup.com/WildNetGa

In The Woods Campground

Let your wild side out at this “naturist” campground in Northeast Georgia, owned and operated by

110Destination 88 DestinationTravel TravelGuide Guide

Oz Campground

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two gay men. The campground sits on 30 acres of wooded area and is clothing-optional, so you can relax freely with nature. Enjoy landscaped trails, a crystal clear pool, and relaxing hot tub, and meet new people in the comfortable clubhouse.

142 Casey Court Canon, GA 30520 InTheWoodsCampground.com/

Oz Campground

Georgia’s finest LGBTQ campground and resort offers amazing LGBTQ events including Muscle Bear fitness weekend, Country Boys weekend and drag shows, making this the perfect place for those looking to take a breather from the hustle and bustle of city life. After a hard day’s hike, relax in your personal cabin, tent or RV underneath the night sky.

50 GA Highway 230 Unadilla, GA 31091 OzCampground.com

The River’s Edge

The campground bills itself as “100% gay owned-and-operated,” so you’ll be with like-minded individuals who love nature as much as you do! This 21+ campground is clothing-optional and gives you the opportunity to take in the outdoors as little or as much as you want.

Pitch your tent along the river, bring your RV or rent one of the luxurious cabins.

2311 Pulliam Mill Road Dewy Rose, GA 30634 CampTheRiversEdge.com

Roy’s Hideaway

The Hideaway is a members-only, 21+ gay and lesbian campground.

This campground has everything: six freshwater lakes and springs, quaint lake-side cabins, and an amazing pool and spa area. Party the night away in the expansive entertainment room, equipped with a full stage, disco, and DJ booth.

268 Catfish Lane Collins, GA 30421 RoysHideaway.com

CHRIS 180 is the first and largest nonprofit organization in the Southeast to serve and celebrate LGBTQ+ youth and young adults.

Help us continue our legacy.

CHRIS180.org/give Safe Housing • Trauma-Informed Therapy • Community Outreach • Training • Adoptions

40 YEARS OF CHANGING DIRECTIONS & CHANGING LIVES

Fitness

Gravity Fitness

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Work It Out

From fresh farmers markets across the city to health restaurants on almost every corner, Atlanta is the perfect spot for health nuts. The city is loaded with gyms of all types, no matter what experience you want or fitness goals you have. Bonus: you’ll likely run into members of the LGBTQ community while you’re there, especially in Midtown!

Anytime Fitness

LA Fitness

Lion’s Den Fitness

Buckhead 550 Pharr Road NE Atlanta, GA 30305 404-549-3523 AnytimeFitness.com

Atlantic Station 261 19th Street, Suite 1140 Atlanta, GA 30363 404-810-9015

The Training Room ATL

North Buckhead 4920 Roswell Road NE Atlanta, GA 30342 404-343-6017

FitWit

828 Ralph McGill Boulevard Atlanta, GA 30306 888-534-8948 FitWit.com

Gravity Fitness

2201 Faulkner Road NE Atlanta, GA 30324 404-486-0506 GravityFitnessAtl.com

Iron Tribe Fitness

West Midtown 1409 Howell Mill Road Atlanta, GA 30318 678-576-4766 IronTribeFitness.com

90 Destination Travel Guide

Ansley Mall 1544 Piedmont Avenue NE, Suite 115 Atlanta, GA 30324 404-249-6463

Midtown 75 Fifth Street NW, Suite E Atlanta, GA 30308 404-212-1065 Brookhaven 755 Brookhaven Avenue Atlanta, GA 30319 678-280-8844 Lenox/Buckhead 3232 Peachtree Road Atlanta, GA 30305 404-233-8311 Peachtree Road 3535 Peachtree Road NE #300 Atlanta, GA 30326 404-389-1143 LaFitness.com

900 Peachtree Street NE, Suite 105 Atlanta, GA 30309 678-835-8699 LionsDenAtlanta.com 742 Ponce de Leon Place NE Atlanta, GA 30306 404-333-3677 TheTrainingRoomAtl.com

Urban Body Fitness

500 Amsterdam Avenue NE Atlanta, GA 30306 404-885-1499 UrbanBodyFitness.com

The Forum Athletic Club

Ponce City Market 675 Ponce De Leon Avenue NE Suite E179 Atlanta, GA 30308

Lenox Square

Buckhead 3393 Peachtree Road NE #2010 Atlanta, GA 30326 678-904-1940 TheForumAthleticClub.com

Sports

Atlanta Braves

PHOTO BY RUSS BOWEN-YOUNGBLOOD

ATL LGBTQ Sports Leagues and Welcoming Pro Teams Got the urge to get active? There are tons of LGBTQ sports teams across the city to quench that thirst, no matter your skill level or activity of choice. Prefer to be a spectator only? Take in a game from one of Atlanta’s incredible professional teams. There’s something for everyone.

Local LGBTQ Sports

Front Runners Atlanta

AtlantaBucksRugby.org

Georgia Dyno’Mos

Atlanta Bucks Rugby Club

Atlanta Roller Girls AtlantaRollerDerby.com

Atlanta LGBTQ Bowling League

Check online for the various local leagues listed IGBOSouthernRegion.com/leagues

Atlanta Rainbow Trout Gay-friendly aquatics club AtlantaRainbowTrout.com

Atlanta Team Tennis Association Atta.org

92 Destination Travel Guide

FrontRunnersAtlanta.org/

Professional Sports Atlanta Braves MLB.com/Braves

Queer rock-climbing Dynomos.org

Atlanta Dream

Hotlanta Softball League

Atlanta Falcons

Hotlanta Volleyball

Atlanta Hawks

National Flag Football League of Atlanta

Atlanta United

HotlantaSoftball.org

HotlantaVolleyball.org

Nffla.com

Southern Softpaw League LGBTQ softball league SouthernSoftpaw.com

Dream.WNBA.com AtlantaFalcons.com NBA.com/hawks AtlUtd.com

UNITY. GOSTRIPERS.COM

LGBTQ Organizations

Atlanta Freedom Bands

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LGBTQ Organizations

Abound Throughout Atlanta Whether you’re a political junkie, legal eagle, art aficionado, business owner, or LGBTQ youth, there’s an organization in Atlanta for you!

ADVOCACY/POLITICAL ACLU of Georgia

Stonewall Bar Association of Georgia

Georgia Equality

BUSINESS

Acluga.org

GeorgiaEquality.org

Georgia Log Cabin Republicans

StonewallBar.org

Metro Atlanta Association

Charis Circle CharisCircle.org

In the Life Atlanta InTheLifeAtl.com

OurSong

Mixed gay and lesbian chorus.

OurSongAtlanta.org

GeorgiaLogCabin.org

of Professionals MaapAtl.org

Georgia Stonewall Democrats

Out Georgia Business Alliance OutGeorgia.org

FAMILY/YOUTH

Georgia Unites Against Discrimination

CULTURE/ARTS

Provides assistance to homeless LGBTQ youth.

Chris180.org

GLAAD Atlanta

Atlanta Gay Men’s Chorus & Atlanta Women’s Chorus

StonewallDemocrats.us/Georgia

GeorgiaUnites.org

Glaad.org/tags/atlanta

Human Rights Campaign Atlanta Steering Committee HRCAtlanta.com

Lambda Legal

Southern Regional Office LambdaLegal.org/sro

94 Destination Travel Guide

Atlanta Freedom Bands AtlantaFreedomBands.com

VoicesOfNote.org

Atlanta Philharmonic Orchestra AtlantaPhilharmonic.org

Atlanta Pride Committee AtlantaPride.org

Out On Film OutOnFilm.org

CHRIS 180

Georgia Safe Schools Coalition GaSafeSchools.org

Lost-n-Found Youth

Provides emergency housing 24/7 for homeless LGBTQ youth.

Lnfy.org Hotline (call or text): 678-856-7825

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Founded in January 2016 by Michael Greenbaum (owner of Tower Beer, Wine & Spirits), Tower Lights provides monthly community service opportunities for employees, customers, and friends of Tower, in a partnership with United Way of Greater Atlanta.

Our mission is to serve the under-served.

Whether it be planning an ice cream social for senior citizens, feeding the homeless at various shelters, painting and serving lunch to veterans, or bowling with youth in foster care, Tower Lights hopes to make our community a little brighter, one volunteer event at a time.

In seven years, Tower Lights’ annual Tower of Talent concert has raised more than $1.75 million for Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta (and counting!).

To learn more or to donate, visit:

TowerLights.org

LGBTQ Organizations

The Women of TRANScending Barriers Continued from page 94

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Living Room

PFLAG Atlanta

Housing placement and financial assistance for people living with HIV. LivingRoomAtl.org

HEALTH

The Names Project AIDS Memorial Quilt

PFLAGAtlanta.org

AID Atlanta

HIV testing with same-day results, education, and support groups targeting gay men and gay men of color.

AIDAtlanta.org

AIDSMemorial.org

Project Open Hand

Meals for homebound people with HIV and other critical illnesses.

OpenHand.org

AIDS Research Consortium of Atlanta

Pets Are Loving Support

Galano Club

Positive Impact Health Centers

Grady Health

SUPPORT/SOCIAL/ SERVICE

Free HIV and STD testing ArcAtlanta.org

LGBTQ-friendly Alcoholics Anonymous plus other 12-step groups.

Galano.org Ponce de Leon Center One of largest and most comprehensive HIV/AIDS facilities.

GradyHealth.org/Locations/Ponce-deLeon-Center

Emory’s Hope Clinic

Help with pet care for people with HIV. PalsAtlanta.org

HIV and STD testing PositiveImpactHealthCenters.org

American Veterans for Equal Rights aver.us

Asians and Friends Atlanta

Meetup.com/Asians-and-Friends-Atlanta

HopeClinic.Emory.edu

Atlanta Prime Timers

Feminist Women’s Health Center

Fourth Tuesday

FeministCenter.org

Jerusalem House

Housing for homeless and people living with HIV. JerusalemHouse.org

96 Destination Travel Guide

Aptatl.com

Sisters of Perpetual Indulgence

Drag nuns who conduct community outreach and fundraisers.

TheSisters.org

SOJOURN

Southern Jewish Resource Network for Gender and Sexual Diversity.

SojournGSD.org

Southern Bears

AtlantaBearFest.com

Southern Fried Queer Pride

SouthernFriedQueerPride.com

Southerners on New Ground (SONG)

SouthernersOnNewGround.org

Transgender Health & Education Alliance TransHealthEducation.org

TRANScending Barriers TranscendingBarriersAtl.org

Trikone

For LGBTQ South Asians.

Trikone.org

Touching Up Our Roots

Lesbian networking and social events Facebook.com/FourthTuesdayAtlanta

Non-profit preserving Atlanta’s LGBTQ history TouchingUpOurRoots.org

SAGE

Zami NOBLA

Serves LGBTQ seniors.

SAGEUSA.org

For Black lesbians 40 and older.

ZamiNOBLA.org

LGBTQ Worship

Keep the Faith

No matter which way you worship, Atlanta has a safe space for you. Amen!

All Saints Episcopal Church 634 W Peachtree Street NW Atlanta, GA 30308 404-881-0835 AllSaintsAtlanta.org Cathedral of St. Philip 2744 Peachtree Road NW Atlanta, GA 30305 404-365-1000 StPhilipsCathedral.org Catholic Shrine of the Immaculate Conception 48 Martin Luther King Jr. Drive SW Atlanta, GA 30303 404-521-1866 CatholicShrineAtlanta.org Central Congregational United Church of Christ 2676 Clairmont Road NE Atlanta, GA 30329 404-633-4505 Central-UCC.org Central Presbyterian Church 201 Washington Street SW Atlanta, GA 30303 404-659-0274 CPCAtlanta.org City of Light 3125 Presidential Parkway Atlanta, GA 30340 470-545 2821 cityoflightatlanta.com Congregation Bet Haverim 2074 Lavista Road Atlanta, GA 30329 404-315-6446 CongregationBetHaverim.org Decatur United Church of Christ 6552 James B. Rivers Memorial Drive Stone Mountain, Georgia 678-744-8822 Facebook.com/DecaturUcc First Existentialist Congregation of Atlanta 470 Candler Park Drive NE Atlanta, GA 30307 404-378-5570 FirstExistentialist.org

98 Destination Travel Guide

The Gathering Place Worship Center 999 Brady Avenue NW, Suite 10 Atlanta GA 30318 404-815-0007 GLBTChurch.com Gentle Spirit Christian Church Worships in Candler Park at Pavilion 2 601 W Ponce de Leon Avenue Decatur, GA 30030 404-604-8124 GentleSpirit.org Just As You Are Religious Center 6566 James B. Rivers Memorial Drive Stone Mountain, GA 30083 404-456-4380 JustAsYouAre.org METRON Community Worships at Landmark Midtown Art Cinema 931 Monroe Drive NE Atlanta, GA 30308 404-879-0160 MetronCommunity.Blogspot.com Oakhurst Baptist Church 222 East Lake Drive Decatur, GA 30030 404-378-3677 OakHurstBaptist.org New Covenant Church of Atlanta 1600 Eastland Road Atlanta, GA 30316 404-929-1400 NewCovenantAtlanta.com Saint Mark United Methodist Church 781 Peachtree Street NE Atlanta, GA 30308 404-873-2636 StMarkUMC.org St. Bartholomew’s Episcopal Church 1790 Lavista Road NE Atlanta, GA 30329 404-634-3336 Facebook.com/St.BartsAtlanta St. John’s Lutheran Church 1410 Ponce de Leon Avenue NE

Atlanta, GA 30307 404-378-4243 StJohnsAtlanta.org St. Luke’s Episcopal Church 435 Peachtree Street NE Atlanta, GA 30308 404-873-7600 StLukesAtlanta.org Tabernacle Baptist Church 1041 Moreland Drive Atlanta, GA 30315 404-876-3777 TBCAtlanta.net Trinity Center for Spiritual Living 1095 Zonolite Road Ste.100 Atlanta, GA 30306 404-296-6064 TrinityCenterAtlanta.org Unitarian Universalist Congregation of Atlanta 1190 West Druid Hills Drive NE Suite 150 Atlanta, GA 30329 404-634-5134 Uuca.org Unity Fellowship Church, Greater Atlanta 601 W. Ponce de Leon Avenue Decatur, GA 30030 404-599-8243 UnityWideOpen.com Victory for the World Church 1170 N. Hairston Road Stone Mountain, GA 30083 678-476-6000 VictoryForTheWorld.org Virginia-Highland Church 743 Virginia Avenue NE Atlanta, GA 30306 404-348-4830 VHChurch.org Vision Church of Atlanta 704 Ormewood Avenue SE Atlanta, GA 30312 404-622-9470 TheVisionChurch.org