Destination Gay Atlanta Travel Guide: 2022-2023 Edition

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table of contents 6

WELCOME: Greetings from the Atlanta Mayor

8

WELCOME: Greetings from the Atlanta Convention and Visitors Bureau

10 WELCOME TO ATLANTA, Y’ALL: Here in Atlanta, we pride ourselves on love, acceptance, and creating a culture where “y’all” includes all, served with a side of good ol’ Southern hospitality 14 INSIDER INFO: Avoid the “confused tourist” look with our handy-dandy guide to navigating the A 16 THE ATL’S BEST BETS: Atlanta’s most well-attended events, fundraisers, parties, and festivals

TheGeorgiaVoice.com

20 ATLANTA’S ARTISTIC ARRAY: Check out what’s going on in Atlanta’s art world this season

Business

32 ATTRACTIONS INSIDE ATLANTA AND OUT: Atlanta and its surrounding areas boast a myriad of sights and attractions that you don’t want to miss

PO Box 77401 • Atlanta, GA 30357 P: 404-815-6941; F: 404-963-6365 Principal/Publisher: Tim Boyd tboyd@thegavoice.com

Editorial

Editor: Katie Burkholder kburkholder@thegavoice.com

Production

Art Director: Rob Boeger rboeger@thegavoice.com

Sales

38 NEIGHBORHOODS: A tour through some of Atlanta’s best gayborhoods 74 OUR SCENE’S CUISINE: Atlanta offers everything from beers and bar food with buds to gourmet candlelit dinners with your partner

Sales Executive: Dixon Taylor

84 NIGHTLIFE: Our best LGBTQ nightlife hotspots

dtaylor@thegavoice.com

Sales Executive: Jim Brams

92 SHOPPING: Retail therapy heaven

jbrams@thegavoice.com

98 LODGING: Your home away from home

Sales Executive & Photographer: Russell Bowen-Youngblood russ@alphabetsoupmarketing.com

Business Advisor: Lynn Pasqualetti Financial Firm of Record: HLM Financial Group

National Advertising:

Rivendell Media • 908-232-2021 sales@rivendellmedia.com

A PRODUCT OF

voice

georgia

4 DESTINATION TRAVEL GUIDE

104 THE GAY OUTDOORS: Outdoor activities geared towards the LGBTQ community 106 FITNESS: Options to help keep you fit during your stay 108 SPORTS: Where to participate in your favorite sports activity 112 ORGANIZATIONS: Where to get help and volunteer 116 WORSHIP: Inclusive congregations

WARM WELCOMES,

GOOD TIMES

IN DECATUR

Sip, savor, selfie, shop – and stay the night!

HAMPTON INN and SUITES

COURTYARD

by MARRIOTT

BOHO115 SHOPPING on the SQUARE

MAKE IT A STAY!

Book a room just steps away from downtown shops, award-winning dining, and easy MARTA access.

See what’s happening this week in Decatur.

VISITORS CENTER

113 Clairemont Ave., Decatur 30030 | visitdecaturga.com

atlanta

mayor GREETINGS FROM THE

Greetings:

As the 61st Mayor of Atlanta, it is my pleasure to welcome you to the A! Atlanta is the LGBTQ capital of the South, the epicenter of culture, and the cradle of the Civil Rights Movement. In this city, we know two things: Atlanta influences everything and Atlanta includes everybody. We proudly host the largest Black Pride weekend in the world, and welcome international visitors for Atlanta Pride weekend, coinciding with National Coming Out Day. Since 2013, Atlanta has maintained a perfect score on the Human Rights Campaign’s Municipal Equality Index, which examines how inclusive municipal laws, policies, and services are for LGBTQ people who live and work here. We are the only city in the South to have a Mayor’s Division of LGBTQ Affairs. As Mayor, our administration works every day to ensure that our city remains inclusive for all of our residents, workers, and visitors — including the LGBTQ community.

During your stay, I encourage you to visit unique and charming attractions, including the National Center for Civil & Human Rights, the Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Center, Piedmont Park, Oakland Cemetery, Atlanta Botanical Garden, Westside Park, Atlanta BeltLine, Atlanta Rainbow Crosswalks, Colony Square, and much more.

On behalf of the people of Atlanta, I welcome you to Atlanta and extend best wishes for a memorable trip.

Sincerely,

Mayor Andre Dickens

6 DESTINATION TRAVEL GUIDE

atlanta

travelers A TOP DESTINATION LOCALE FOR LGBTQ

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 being the LGBTQ capital of the South and a destination that welcomes all visitors.

Atlanta offers an unparalleled visitor experience, and everyone is buzzing about the destination including Lonely Planet and National Geographic. These travel experts and global brands named Atlanta to their Best of Travel lists for 2022.

Setting the city apart is its inclusivity, with a thriving LGBTQ community that celebrates its diversity and its progressive role throughout the South.

Our city is well known as a fantastic choice for travelers as Atlanta was named to Travel Pulse’s 2021 list of top LGBTQinclusive cities for Pride Month. Atlanta Black Pride Weekend is held each Labor Day and celebrates diversity within the community. Atlanta Pride Festival is a week-long 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.

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 a wonderful time in Atlanta.

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

8 DESTINATION TRAVEL GUIDE

y’all!

atlanta

WELCOME TO ATLANTA,

Here in Atlanta, we pride ourselves on love, acceptance, and creating a culture where “y’all” includes all, served with a side of good ol’ Southern hospitality.

The South gets a back rap, but we’re here to put the myths to rest. In truth, the South is a vibrant and diverse region to live. Did you know that more LGBTQ people — 1 in 3! — live in the South than any other American region? Of course, there are plenty of nasty people here, just like in any other place, that are full of hate and prejudice (unfortunately, some of them have the power to introduce and make laws), but that doesn’t mean it’s not possible to find yourself a place here where you can be loved for who you are. Atlanta is that place.

Our city is one with a rich LGBTQ history, and it’s because of this history and the work of those who came before us that we are able to call ourselves the gay mecca of the South. This history isn’t a pretty one; it is one of tragedy, but it’s also one of triumph. That’s because when something needs to be done, Atlantans get it done.

The South isn’t just home to the most LGBTQ Americans; it’s home to more than half of Black Americans as well. So, we would be remiss if, when discussing the work queer Atlantans have put in to fight for our right to life, freedom, and joy, we didn’t highlight the role Black queer Atlantans have taken on at the forefront of this fight.

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In 1980, the Gay Atlanta Minority Association was founded and sponsored a forum called “Black Lesbian/Gay/ Transperson Survival in the ‘80s.” Of course, the ‘80s would come to bring tragedy that would threaten the survival of LGBTQ Atlantans for decades to come. In 1981, what would later become known as HIV first came to public awareness through a Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) report. Even today, Black LGBTQ people are disproportionately impacted by HIV. Out of this tragedy, though, emerged Black LGBTQ organizations dedicated to creating community and bolstering solidarity in the face of adversity. These organizations include ZAMI NOBLA, Second Sunday, Southerners on New Ground, Brothers Back 2 Back, and In the Life Atlanta.

LGBTQ activists, particularly Black activists and other people of color, have made Atlanta — and Georgia — a household name nationwide with their dedication to not only LGBTQ issues, but racial and gender equality, combatting police brutality, the eradication of HIV, advocating for voting rights, and more. They are truly the backbone not only of this city, but this state and country.

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 the city: where to shop, what to eat, where to stay, what to do… everything. We’re dedicated to providing 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 culture 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.

Continues on page 12

DESTINATION TRAVEL GUIDE 11

atlanta Continued from page 11 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: 1971: The first Pride Parade, organized by the Georgia

Atlanta Pride

Gay Liberation Front, takes to the streets.

1972: The Metropolitan Community Church, which

File photo

works specifically to reach out to the LGBTQ community, establishes itself in the Atlanta area.

1992: Emory University establishes its Gay and Lesbian

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

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

1974: Bill Smith, a local activist, founds the Atlanta Barb, the first publication for, by, and about our community.

the city an Olympics-worthy campaign to attract LGBTQ tourism to our welcoming city, starting with the games.

1976: The Atlanta Gay Center is opened.

1997: Cathy Woolard becomes first openly LGBTQ

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.

1981: The first cases of AIDS are reported by the CDC. 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.

12 DESTINATION TRAVEL GUIDE

Student Life office.

issue an official Pride proclamation, joining Atlanta.

1996: The Atlanta Gay and Lesbian Visitors Center gives

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.

2005: The General Assembly passes a law which legalizes the ability of counties to establish domesticpartnership benefits for county employees.

2007: The city-county government of Athens legalizes health benefits for unmarried domestic partners.

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

2011: House member Rashad Taylor comes out,

becoming 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 HB 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.

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

2022: The Fulton County District Attorney’s office establishes an LGBTQ Advisory Committee, the first of its kind in the Southeast.

2022: Gov. Brian Kemp signs SB 164 into law, which modernizes the state’s HIV laws.

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! We’re so glad to have you here, enjoy y’all!

With love and solidarity, Georgia Voice

DESTINATION TRAVEL GUIDE 13

insider info

a local ACT LIKE

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

Atlanta is infamous for its transportation. To truly be an Atlantan, you need to learn the art of defensive driving, as Atlanta’s drivers are some of the worst in the country. When it comes to driving around the city, you will need to be comfortable with driving the highway. While you can drive back roads pretty much anywhere within the perimeter (aka I-285, which loops around the city), chances are it’ll take much longer, and — unless there’s a crash on the highway — the traffic probably won’t be much better. So, if you’re driving, be ready to brave the crowded Atlanta highways: the major ones you’re bound to encounter are I-20, which runs east to west; I-75, which runs northwest to southeast; and I-85, which runs northeast to southwest.

Be mindful when it comes to parking. Our city’s parking enforcement is known for vigilance, especially in Midtown, so you will be ticketed, booted, or even towed. If you’re in a paid lot with Park Mobile signs, make sure you pay through the app.

Unfortunately, thanks to a lack of long-term, historic infrastructure (shoutout Sherman’s march to the sea!), Atlanta’s public transportation system isn’t comparable to other major American cities like Chicago or New York.

MARTA (ItsMarta.com), our train and bus system, is a convenient way to get some places around town, but it won’t take you everywhere. We suggest opting for MARTA to get to Piedmont Park (especially if you’re going to a festival like Music Midtown), the Fox Theatre, the Woodruff Arts Center (home to the High Museum, Alliance Theatre, and Atlanta Symphony Orchestra), downtown Atlanta, downtown Decatur, or the airport. The bus system will take you further outside the bounds of the subway, but it can be confusing and tedious even for locals.

If you’re staying in the downtown area, the Atlanta Streetcar (ItsMarta.com/streetcar.aspx) is a prime mode of transportation for you. It connects the Centennial Olympic Park area to the Martin Luther King Jr. National

14 DESTINATION TRAVEL GUIDE

Historic Site. Cars run about every 15 minutes and there are 12 stops along this 2.7-mile route.

This lack of infrastructure, which results in an almost complete lack of grid system in the city, plus our hilly geography, means that Atlanta isn’t very walkable. 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, World of Coca-Cola, and the National Center for Civil and Human Rights), Atlantic Station, Decatur, East Atlanta Village, Little Five Points, Virginia-Highland, the Midtown epicenter of 10th and Piedmont, and more! You can learn more about each of Atlanta’s distinct neighborhoods later in this guide.

If you’re looking to just take a walk without a destination, Atlanta has several expansive parks that offer a more relaxing, nature-filled experience than the bustling BeltLine.

Some of our favorites include Westside Park, Piedmont Park, Freedom Park, and the Decatur Cemetery.

Make a Plan

When it comes to braving a day out in Atlanta, there are several things to consider before making your plan.

Atlanta is known for its hot hot HOT summers. So, if you’re going somewhere outdoors anytime from May to even as late as October, dress accordingly. Luckily, Atlanta is a city in a forest — 48 percent of land within the city limits is covered by tree canopy — which means chances are there will be some shade to find relief from the brutal Atlanta heat.

Our beautiful – if not scorching – Southern weather attracts

MARTA

Photo via Facebook

people in troves. If you’re going out during the weekend, especially somewhere outdoors, expect crowds. Atlantans also love their weekend brunch, so if you’re planning on a morning of chicken and waffles and mimosas, make a reservation or be ready for a wait.

Finally, if you’re driving, be prepared for Atlanta’s infamous traffic. If you can, avoid the roads from 4-7pm on weekdays. If you can’t (which is likely – it’s rush hour for a reason!), give yourself ample time to get to your destination, pick a good playlist to pass the time, and remember to breathe through the road rage when someone inevitably cuts you off.

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.

Should you need, there are four LGBTQ liaison safety officials for the city: Officer Brandon Hayes with the Atlanta Police Department, Captain Latia Posey and Firefighter Anare Holmes with the Atlanta Fire and Rescue Department, and Captain Kamula McKnight-Butler with the Department of Corrections.

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.”

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.

Look Out for One Another

In Atlanta, we advocate for one another, especially those of us who are marginalized. Atlanta is a queer city. Atlanta is a Black city. If you are not down for that, we’re not down for you.

Unfortunately, the state surrounding our wonderful city is not completely on the same page, and while Atlanta is a wonderful place to live and be, it also has its problems. So, we Atlantans have to regularly take to the streets in protest.

Larger protests often happen at the Capitol and Centennial Olympic Park, but smaller actions happen all over the city.

To keep up with protests going on, follow @WhereProtest on Twitter.

If you don’t have the time or ability to protest, there are still ways to be involved. You can volunteer with or donate to any of Atlanta’s LGBTQ organizations (find a list on pages 112-113), and above all else, you can be kind and loving and respectful to everyone you meet, especially Atlantans who are unhoused. Give when you can and show humanity always. That’s the real Atlanta way.

DESTINATION TRAVEL GUIDE 15

events

best bets ATLANTA’S

There’s no end to what you can do out and about in Atlanta, but the city’s home to several events each year, LGBTQ and otherwise, that are worth planning a trip around.

We’ve rounded out some of Atlanta’s most well-attended events, fundraisers, parties, and festivals — start filling up your calendar now!

Piedmont Park Arts Festival August 20-21, 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 Black Gay Pride September 2022 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 2022 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

Dragon Con September 1-5, 2022 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 Peach International Tennis Championships September 3-5, 2022 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

Joining Hearts Weekend File photo by Russell Bowen-Youngblood

16 DESTINATION TRAVEL GUIDE

DragonCon File photo

for competition in men’s and women’s singles, doubles, and mixed doubles in as many as four divisions.

Atta.org Yellow Daisy Festival September 8-11, 2022 Travel a bit outside the perimeter to historic Stone Mountain Park for this festival. The 54-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 Heart of Hearts – “Fall Back in Love” September 10, 2022 This fundraising event will feature music from Roland Belmares and will benefit Joining Hearts, an organizing raising awareness and funds to support prevention, care, and housing assistance to those impacted

by HIV/AIDS. JoiningHearts.com Atlanta Food & Wine Festival September 15-18, 2022 Historic Fourth Ward Park AtlFoodAndWineFestival.com Music Midtown September 17-18, 2022 Held in Piedmont Park, Music Midtown is one of Atlanta’s best music festivals. This year’s headliners

are My Chemical Romance, Future, Jack White, and Fall Out Boy. MusicMidtown.com North Georgia State Fair September 22 – October 2, 2022 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 Out On Film September 22 – October 2, 2022 You’re invited to attend the 35th 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-before-seen indie films.

OutOnFilm.org Atlanta Greek Festival September 23-25, 2022 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!

AtlantaGreekFestival.org

Sweet Auburn Music Festival September 23-25, 2022 This festival, deemed the most exciting 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 AIDS Walk Atlanta September 24, 2022 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.

AIDAtlanta.org East Atlanta Strut September 24, 2022 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 Old Fourth Ward Arts Festival October 1-2, 2022 Head out to Historic Fourth Ward Park to celebrate community and tradition and enjoy fine arts and crafts, a children’s play area, local

Continues on page 18

DESTINATION TRAVEL GUIDE 17

events Continued from page 17 food and beverages, and live acoustic entertainment. This festival is presented by the Atlanta Foundation for Public Spaces.

OldFourthWardParkArtsFestival.com Big Ol’ Slice of 100% Atlanta Gay Pride October 6-10, 2022 Come party with thousands of men from around the country for this ultimate circuit party experience! This year’s DJ lineup includes Rosabel, Paulo, Nina Flowers, Cindel, Ana Flor, Alex Acosta, Tony Moran, Deanne, Micky Friedman, Martin Fry, Ed Wood, Seth Breezy, Jess Montanez, Karlitos, and Phoenix.

GaBoyEvents.com Atlanta Pride Festival October 7-9, 2022 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 Festival on Ponce October 8-9, 2022 Olmsted Linear Park FestivalOnPonce.com Stone Mountain Highland Games October 14-16, 2022 Stone Mountain Park Smhg.org Little 5 Points Halloween Festival & Parade October 22-23, 2022 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

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Anime Weekend Atlanta October 27-30, 2022 Renaissance Waverly Hotel and Cobb Galleria awa-con.com Macy’s Great Tree Lighting Show November 2022 TBD Lenox Square Mall Chomp & Stomp Chili Festival November 2022 TBD Cabbagetown Park ChompAndStomp.com Chastain Park Arts Festival November 5-6, 2022 Chastain Park ChastainParkArtsFestival.com Atlanta Veterans Day Parade and Festival November 12, 2022 Downtown Atlanta GeorgiaVeteransDay.org Garden Lights, Holiday Nights Nightly November 12, 2022 – January 14, 2023 Atlanta Botanical Garden AtlantaBG.org Toy Party December 2022 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 Voices of Note Holiday Concert December 2022 TBD VoicesOfNote.org The Children’s Christmas Parade December 3, 2022 Choa.org “Love is a Gift” Fundraiser for Joining Hearts December 11, 2022 JoiningHearts.org Atlanta Jewish Film Festival February 2023 TBD Ajff.org

Cupid’s Undie Run February 2023 TBD Cupids.org Atlanta St. Patrick’s Day Parade March 2023 TBD AtlantaStPats.com Atlanta Dogwood Festival Spring 2023 TBD Piedmont Park Dogwood.org Atlanta Film Festival Spring 2023 TBD Various theaters AtlantaFilmFestival.com Atlanta Jazz Festival Memorial Day Weekend 2023 Piedmont Park AtlJazzFest.com AIDS Vaccine 200 Bike Ride May 2023 TBD 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.com Big Peach Softball Tournament May 2023 TBD 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 Decatur Arts Festival May 2023 TBD Downtown Decatur DecaturArtsFestival.com Peach Party Atlanta May 2023 TBD 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

Atlanta Pride Run

Photo via Facebook

best beats in the Southeast.

PeachPartyAtlanta.com Atlanta Comic Con Summer 2023 TBD Embrace your inner nerd at Atlanta’s #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!

AtlComicConvention.com Decatur BBQ, Blues & Bluegrass Festival Summer 2023 TBD 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 HRC Atlanta Gala Dinner & Auction Summer 2023 TBD Raising about $400,000 annually for the Human Rights Campaign, the Atlanta HRC dinner is a standardbearer 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 Joining Hearts Weekend Summer 2023 TBD 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. This year, which celebrates the organization’s 35th anniversary, will feature music from DJs Liza Rodriguez, Mauro Mozart, and Manny Lehman.

JoiningHearts.org Atlanta Pride Run Early June 2023 TBD 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 Atlanta Summer Beer Fest June 2023 TBD

Historic Fourth Ward Park AtlantaSummerBeerFestival.com Flying Colors Butterfly Festival June 2023 TBD Chattahoochee Nature Center ChattNatureCenter.org Southern Fried Queer Pride June 2023 TBD 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 Virginia-Highland Summerfest June 2023 TBD VaHiSummerfest.org Peachtree Road Race July 4, 2023 PeachtreeRoadRace.org Taste of Atlanta Fall 2023 TBD Historic Fourth Ward Park Taste of Atlanta is an annual festival celebrating the best restaurants and dishes in Atlanta. Purchase “points” and use them to get samples from 30+ of the best restaurants in the city.

TasteOfAtlanta.com

DESTINATION TRAVEL GUIDE 19

the arts

artistic array ATLANTA’S

Whether you’re a theater geek, a dance fanatic, musical maniac, or art afficionado, Atlanta’s arts scene is top-notch and sure to impress. Check out what’s going on in Atlanta’s art world this season.

The World’s a Stage

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. Since its inception in 2016, LGBTQ-owned Out Front Theatre Company (OutFrontTheatre.com) has produced outstanding theatrical experiences which focus on the voices of the LGBTQ community. The theatre is the only in Atlanta that caters specifically to LGBTQ audiences. Each summer, Out Front also hosts camps for emerging young artists ages 13 to 17 to teach them about the art of theatre, film, and TV. The famous Fox Theatre has a slew of Broadway favorites in its 2022/23 season. Check out classics like “Chicago,” “Moulin Rouge,” “Wicked,” “Chicago,” and more. Learn more and buy tickets at FoxTheatre.org.

20 DESTINATION TRAVEL GUIDE

You may have heard of the Alliance Theatre (AllianceTheatre.org) because it boasts its very own Tony Award. For its 54th season, Alliance is back at the Woodruff Arts Center with “Everybody,” “The Hot Wing King,” “Water for Elephants,” “The Many Condrous Realities of Jasmine Starr-Kidd,” “Lonely Planet,” and of course, their annual performance of “A Christmas Carol.”

If you’re a theater buff who’s looking to discover a new, lesser-known favorite, Atlanta is also home to theaters that bring independent works into the spotlight. Horizon Theatre (HorizonTheatre.com) has 172 seats to watch its contemporary plays. On September 30 through November 6, catch “Natasha, Pierre, and the Great Comet of 1812,” deemed by the New York Times as “the

Continues on page 24

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the arts Continued from page 20 best new musical to poen on Broadway since ‘Hamilton!’”

Actor’s Express grows talent through regular performances at the King Plow Arts Center. This season, enjoy shows like “Oh, to be Pure Again,” “Urinetown,” “Jesus Hopped the ‘A’ Train,” “Prayer for the French Republic,” “cullud wattah,” “Hedwig and the Angry Inch,” and more. Buy tickets at Actors-Express.com.

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. They also host the Atlanta Fringe Festival, a week’s worth of live performances spanning genre and format, including comedy, drama, dance, circus, aerial, puppetry, poetry, and more.

Now’s the time to make plans to attend the spectacular shows scheduled for the City Springs Performing Arts Center at City Springs! In their 2022/23 season, enjoy “Anything Goes,” “In The Heights,” “Monty Python’s Spamalot,” and “Cats.” 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 2022/23 season, they’re showing “Flex,” “The White Chip,” “Tiny Beautiful Things,” and “The Humans.” Learn more and buy tickets at TheatricalOutfit.org.

Kenny Leon’s True Colors Theatre Company (TrueColorsTheatre.org) is a non-profit theater company cofounded by Tony-winning Broadway director Kenny Leon and Jane Bishop in 2002. The theatre company produces worldpremiere 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. This season, expect “Mary Poppins,” “Summer: The Donna Summer Musical,” “Kim’s Convenience,” and “The Play That Goes Wrong.”

The Sound of Music

There’s more — much more! — to Hotlanta’s art scene 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 as well as “Beauty and the Beast” and “Don Quixote.”

Voices of Note, the organization that includes both the Atlanta Women’s Chorus and the Atlanta Gay Men’s Chorus, presents dynamic vocal performances that act as catalysts for social change. Keep up with their performances at VoicesOfNote.org.

Continues on page 28

24 DESTINATION TRAVEL GUIDE

SEASON TICKETS AVAILABLE!

Season Ticket holders receive many exclusive offers and discounts throughout the year, plus invitations to special events and reserved seating for every show!

Tickets and more at: OutFrontTheatre.com

Season

Balanchine Inspired — A Mixed Bill Sept 16–18, 2022 The Nutcracker With the Atlanta Ballet Orchestra Dec 9–26, 2022 Midwinter Dreams — A Mixed Bill February 10–12, 2023 Beauty and the Beast A One-Hour Family Ballet February 18–19, 2023 Don Quixote With the Atlanta Ballet Orchestra March 17–19, 2023 Significant Others — A Mixed Bill May 12–14, 2023

Don’t Miss a Moment!

From works you know and love such as the swashbuckling Don Quixote and George Balanchine’s Serenade, to premieres from Tony Award-winning choreographer Justin Peck and the critically acclaimed Cathy Marston, the 2022-2023 season brims over with excitement and joy. Join us!

See the full season at atlantaballet.com

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Photo by Rachel Neville.

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the arts Continued from page 24 The Atlanta Opera is another can’t-miss swarm of vocal talent, bringing performances like “Madama Butterfly,” “Don Giovanni,” “Candide,” and “Das Rheingold” to audiences at the Cobb Energy Performing Arts Centre in Marietta. Learn more and buy tickets at AtlantaOpera.org.

We can’t forget the Atlanta Symphony Orchestra.

This season, the symphony is hosting a variety of events, including Beethoven’s Ninth, conducted by Nathalie Stutzmann; Coco in Concert; The Fab Four, a Beatles tribute show; Vivaldi’s “Four Seasons;” and more. Learn more and buy tickets 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 walls of 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 “Stephen Burks: Shelter in Place,” “Rodin in the United States: Confronting the Modern,” and “Monir Farmanfarmaian: A Mirror Garden.” Learn more and buy tickets at High.org.

Atlanta also boasts several other amazing art galleries, including the Museum of Contemporary Art (MocaGa. org), the Museum of Design Atlanta (MuseumOf

Design.org), Bill Lowe Gallery (LoweGallery.com). Alan Avery Art Company (AlanAveryArtCompany.com), Tew Galleries (TewGalleries.com), and the rek Gallery (Rek.Gallery).

If paintings and pictures aren’t your thing, you can also check out SCAD FASH Museum of Fashion + Film (ScadFash.org) and the Center for Puppetry Arts (Puppet.org).

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), Atlanta Clay Works (AtlClayWorks.org), and MudFire (Mudfire.com) for some one-of-a-kind, handmade souvenirs from your trip to the big city.

Catch a Concert

If you’re looking to see your favorite artist in concert, they might be coming to Atlanta! Some of Atlanta’s best music venues include the Eastern (EasternAtl.com), the Masquerade (MasqueradeAtlanta.com), Tabernacle (TabernacleAtl.com), Terminal West (TerminalWestAtl. com), Variety Playhouse (Variety-Playhouse.com), and City Winery (CityWinery.com). Bigger artists may perform at State Farm Arena (StateFarmArena.com), MercedesBenz Stadium (MercedesBenzStadium.com), or Ameris Bank Ampitheatre (EncoreParkAmpitheatre.com).

Ellsworth Kelly (American,1923–2015), Red Curve VI, 1982, Oil on canvas at the High Museum.

Courtesy image

28 DESTINATION TRAVEL GUIDE

BENEFITING

“Strictly Sondheim” is a celebration of the life of legendary Broadway composer and lyricist, Stephen Sondheim. Sondheim made his debut as a lyricist in 1957 with “West Side Story”, and went on to revolutionize the modern musical with his unique style, which is represented by shows like “Company”, “Sweeney Todd”, “Sunday in the Park with George”, “Into the Woods”, and many more. The AGMC and AWC look forward to honoring this gay icon by performing pieces from his illustrious career. All proceeds from this concert will benefit the choruses, allowing us to keep making music for years to come.

Featuring soloists from:

Tickets and more at:

VoicesOfNote.org

Use promo code GAVOICESCPA for a 15% discount on all individual concert tickets.

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sightseeing

Atlanta Botanical Garden Photo via Facebook

ATTRACTIONS

inside atlanta and out

Whether it’s your first time in Atlanta or you’re a lifelong resident, Atlanta and its surrounding areas boast a myriad of sights and attractions that you don’t want to miss. From illuminating museums and outdoor marvels to renowned theme parks and one-of-a-kind attractions, there’s something for everyone.

In Atlanta

Atlanta Botanical Garden 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.

Center for Civil and Human Rights 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

32 DESTINATION TRAVEL GUIDE

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.

CNN Center 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-the-scenes look at television and news production.

Continues on page 34

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sightseeing

Mercedes-Benz Stadium Photo via Facebook

Continued from page 32 Georgia Aquarium and World of Coca-Cola 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.

Illuminarium Embark on an African safari, explore the depths of space, or sip cocktails in a Tokyo night market, all without leaving the city! Illuminarium offers these a one-of-akind experience (or rather, two-of-a-kind – the only other location is in Las Vegas) through the combination of 4K interactive projection, 360-degree audio, in-floor vibrations, and scent systems. Enjoy a family-friendly experience or opt for the 21+ after dark option.

Martin Luther King Jr. National Historic Site 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 birth home just down the street.

for the study of art and culture from around the world, with collections from Africa; ancient Egypt, Nubia, and the Near East; ancient Greece and Rome; the Indigenous Americas; and South Asia; as well as American and European Works on Paper.

Historic Oakland Cemetery Historic Oakland Cemetery is Atlanta’s oldest public park and the final resting place of many of the city’s most noted citizens, like Margaret Mitchell and Ivan Allen, Jr. Less than a mile from downtown, its 48 acres are full of treasures – history and gardens, sculpture and architecture, ancient oaks and magnolias.

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 t summer days! It’s also the perfect place for a picnic under one of the parks hundreds of lush, shaded trees.

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. Visit during the winter to ice skate with views of the Atlanta skyline.

Michael C. Carlos Museum Set in the heart of Emory’s campus in Decatur, the Michael C. Carlos Museum is a dynamic, interdisciplinary center

SkyView Enjoy the best views in the city on this 20-story Ferris wheel, located directly across Centennial Olympic Park.

34 DESTINATION TRAVEL GUIDE

Go at night to soak in the lights of downtown from your own climate-controlled gondola.

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 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.

Truist Park Calling all baseball fans! Located just outside the perimeter, Truist Park is home to the Atlanta Braves. Catch a game, take a guided tour, or stop by The Battery, the outdoor dining and shopping centr located steps from the field. From bowling to bull-riding, karaoke to concerts at the CocaCola Roxy, The Battery the perfect pre- or post-game plan.

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.

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.

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.

Helen 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 like-minded friends!

Savoy Automobile Museum Cartesville’s newest attraction is a must-visit for car enthusiasts. Savoy Automobile Museum connects people to the cultural diversity of the automobile. Through changing exhibits, educational programs, and engaging experiences, you’ll have the opportunity to appreciate the beauty and history of automobiles.

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 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.

Six Flags White Water 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.

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.

Historic Oakland Cemetery Photo via Facebook

Chattahoochee National Forest 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.

DESTINATION TRAVEL GUIDE 35

,

& 2022

on view through September 10, 2022

Coming Soon: The 2022/23 SEASON featuring...

FEB 10–MAR 5 2023

Winner of the 2021 Pulitzer Prize for Drama

SEP 2–OCT 2 2022

An irreverent, rollicking, and uproarious ride that asks BIG questions of all who see it.

By BRANDEN JACOBS-JENKINS Co-Directed by SUSAN V. BOOTH & TINASHE KAJESE-BOLDEN

A fierce new comedy about the risks and rewards of celebrating who you are.

Written & Directed

by KATORI HALL

SUMMER

2023

World Premiere // Musical

APR 26–MAY 31

2023

A portrait of friendship set in the height of the AIDs epidemic.

By STEVEN DIETZ Directed by SUSAN V. BOOTH

A show-stopping new musical filled with adventure and romance, all under the big top of a traveling circus.

Book by RICK ELICE Music & Lyrics by PIGPEN THEATRE CO. Based on the Novel by SARA GRUEN Directed by JESSICA STONE

Plus many more!

Tickets and memberships available at alliancetheatre.org 1280 PEACHTREE ST NE // ATLANTA, GA 30309

neighborhoods

Centennial Olympic Park Photo via GWCC.org

midtown & downtown

THE HEART OF ATLANTA

Home of some of Atlanta’s most recognizable landmarks, from the rainbow crosswalk and Fox Theatre in Midtown to the World of Coke and Georgia Aquarium in Downtown, the heart of Atlanta is a tourist favorite.

While Midtown boasts some of Atlanta’s best gay nightlife, Downtown is the perfect locale for a day trip: stop by the National Center for Civil and Human Rights or take a ride on Skyview, the 20-story Ferris wheel overlooking Centennial Park. Regardless of your plan, Midtown and Downtown Atlanta host a myriad of restaurant and retail options, offering up something for everyone.

Start your day with breakfast (or brunch) at one of Atlanta’s favorites, Mary Mac’s Tea Room. Established in 1945, Mary Mac’s offers Southern favorites like chicken and dumplings, collard greens with crackling bread, and Georgia peach cobbler. Another great choice for brunch is Flying Biscuit — can’t get up early enough? Have no fear; they serve breakfast all day.

Continues on page 40

38 DESTINATION TRAVEL GUIDE

National Center for Civil and Human Rights Photo via Facebook

neighborhoods Continued from page 38 If you haven’t yet gone, every Atlanta tourist has to stop for lunch at least once at The Varsity, the largest drive-in in the country. The food is simple — hot dogs, hamburgers, and PCs (Google it) — but the fun of The Varsity experience is unmatched.

As for dinner, some of our favorites include 10th and Piedmont (it’s located at the former home of LGBTQ landmark Outwrite Bookstore!) for delicious Southern fare, Campagnolo for Italian and Mediterranean, Henry’s Midtown Tavern for American fare, Poor Calvin’s for Thai fusion with Southern influences, Mediterranean Grill, and Papi’s Cuban and Caribbean Grill. If you want to splurge on an upscale meal, head to The Sun Dial on top of the Westin Peachtree for 360-degree views of the city skyline.

If you’re seeing a show at the fabulous Fox Theatre, pair the evening with food and drinks at Livingston. 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.

Looking to do some shopping? Atlantic Station is your one-stop shop, with mall favorites including Athleta, H&M,

The Fox Theatre Courtesy photo

Forever 21, and Charming Charlie as well as the Falcons and United Team Store, a Target, IKEA, bowling, and a Regal Cinema.

If you’re looking for something for your furry friend, make sure you stop by The Pet Set. This shop offers an extensive line of pet toys and accessories. If Fido is traveling with you,

A New Era Begins Introducing

Nathalie Stutzmann Music Director

The 2022/23 season delights with outstanding music and world-renowned guest artists — BEETHOVEN: Symphony No. 9 FRANCK: Le chasseur maudit BARTÒK: Concerto for Orchestra VAUGHAN WILLIAMS: A Sea Symphony SHOSTAKOVICH: Symphony No. 5 MOZART: Piano Concerto No. 18 RACHMANINOV: Symphonic Dances JENNIFER HIGDON: Concerto for Orchestra MUSSORGSKY: Night on Bald Mountain MAHLER: Symphony No. 5 BACH: St. Matthew Passion BRAHMS: A German Requiem ON SALE RAVEL: Boléro Programs and artists are subject to change.

Season presented by

40 DESTINATION TRAVEL GUIDE

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neighborhoods Continued from page 40 take him in for a day spa or grooming.

Midtown and Downtown are Atlanta’s gay nightlife hot spots. Gay men, make sure to stop by Blake’s on the Park, located just off of Piedmont Park; Bulldogs for house music, hip-hop, and heavy-handed bartenders; and Flex, a gay bathhouse complete with sauna, steam room, pool, sun deck, and private rooms. Lesbians can find their folks at My Sister’s Room, the longest-running lesbian bar in Atlanta, and everyone regardless of sexuality will enjoy dancing the night away at Future Atlanta, a 14,000-square-foot cabaret and dance club.

Blake’s on the Park Photo via Instagram

fun facts

• The intersection at 10th and Piedmont, where the rainbow crosswalks are currently located, was the location of Outwrite Bookstore and Coffeehouse, Atlanta’s first LGBTQ bookstore.

• In 1971, the Georgia Gay Liberation Front held Atlanta’s first Gay Pride March through Midtown, from Peachtree Street to Piedmont Park.

• Midtown residents are more than twice as wealthy as the average American; the average household income is about $120k, compared to about $52k.

• Downtown traces its roots back to 1826, when railroad surveyors began looking for a route from Milledgeville to Chattanooga. As a result, a town named Terminus was founded in 1837 in what is now Downtown Atlanta.

• Auburn Avenue was once called “the richest Negro street in the world” and is now home to Black historical sites like Apex Museum, Auburn Avenue Research Library, Martin Luther King Jr. National Historical Park, the King Center, and Ebenezer Baptist Church, where Dr. King preached.

42 DESTINATION TRAVEL GUIDE

neighborhoods

Ansley Mall Photo by Russell Bowen-Youngblood

ATLANTA’S GAY MECCA

piedmont heights/ virginia-highland

Just north of Midtown is Piedmont Heights, the oldest neighborhood in Atlanta and known as a “small town in a big city.” It’s true; if you’re looking for a chiller, more suburban vibe, Piedmont Heights is the place for you.

They offer an expanding selection of brands for men’s activewear, undergarments, and swimwear — they’ve got everything you need for any occasion, from tea dances to circuit parties.

The area is home to Ansley Mall and Ansley Square Shopping Center, gay Atlanta’s hot spot There you can find a slew of uber gay-friendly establishments (even the Starbucks is loving referred to as Bearbucks). Hit up Brushstrokes Pleasures, the one-stop-shop for gifts, pleasures, DVDs, and other adult entertainment since 1989; or check out Barking Leather for leather clothing, accessories, and all things BDSM and fetish. Ansley Mall is also the home of Ansley Wine Merchants, onestop-shop for gifts, pleasures, DVDs, and other adult entertainment, a seven-days-a-week wine shop with over 1,000 bottles of wine, 600 types of liquor, and 200 types of beer; The Cook’s Warehouse, a local chain carries a huge selection of more than 15,000 kitchen tools and supplies; and Intaglia Home Collection, a furniture and home décor store that brings a fresh approach to Atlanta furniture.

When it comes to gay nightlife, Ansley is the place to be. Felix’s Atlanta is friendly, small neighborhood bar that’s perfect for early evening drinks and hanging out with friends. The Hideaway is Midtown’s oldest neighborhood gay bar. With free pool and Wi-Fi, it’s a great spot for an afternoon drink. Oscar’s Martini Bar offers video on demand with weekly events that include showtunes, karaoke, and DJs.

Head only a block down the street to find Boy Next Door Menswear, the place to shop for gay men.

46 DESTINATION TRAVEL GUIDE

Other gay nightlife in the area includes District Atlanta, the only venue in the U.S. with a unique, 300+ floating orbs kinetic light system, making it the perfect spot to dance the night away. Friends on Ponce is a no-attitude bar with inexpensive drinks and pool tables popular among the alt gay crowd, and Mixx Atlanta is Atlanta’s premier video venue, hosting three different lounges for socializing with friends or hosting a party or event. Chill on weeknights with piano night on Tuesdays, then sizzle with DJs Fridays through

Continues on page 48

neighborhoods

Virginia Highland Photo by Virginia Highland District

Continued from page 46 Sundays. Keep the party going with libations from Green’s Beverages or Tower Beer, Wine, and Spirits.

Virginia-Highland is also home to Ponce City Market, a favorite among tourists and locals alike. Housed in a former Sears catalogue facility, Ponce City Market is home to a number of retailers, including Citizen Supply, Madewell, Lululemon, Modern Mystic, Nike, Sephora, West Elm, and Williams-Sonoma, as well as a diverse food hall. Some of our favorites are Minero, serving imaginative, locally sourced Mexican fare and craft cocktails in buzzy quarters with a patio; and Ton Ton Ramen and Yakitori, a top-notch ramen bar with a cozy dining area and a brief menu of brothy noodles and Japanese bites. Just outside Ponce City Market is City Winery, a hip, intimate venue with a New American restaurant, bar, and on-site winery. You can even go up on The Roof to enjoy carnival games, delicious cocktails, seasonal ice skating, and awe-inspiring views of the Atlanta skyline.

Outside of Ponce City Market, there are so many other delicious choices for dinner in the neighborhood. La Hacienda is a casual Mexican restaurant offering tableside guacamole, a full bar, a rooftop patio, and vibrant decor. Metrofresh is “world food” restaurant that delivers fresh fare fast and gives back to its community; fundraisers for AID Atlanta and PALS are just a few of its LGBTQ-friendly gestures. Nowak’s neighborhood bar and restaurant serves high-quality steaks and seafood,

48 DESTINATION TRAVEL GUIDE

fun facts

• Piedmont Heights is Atlanta’s oldest community, settled in 1822 by Benjamin Plaster.

• Entrenchments built by General T.J. Wood’s troops during the Civil War remained in the area until they were destroyed by the construction of a Holiday Inn in the 1950s. Today, a few crumbling stone steps and historic marker on the site honor the Edwin Cheshire family’s handyman “Gold Tooth John,” whose ghost is rumored to still wander the halls of the old hotel at night.

• Virginia-Highland used to be considered one of the seven “arboreta” in the city of Atlanta.

• In 2021, thatsister.com rated Virginia-Highland as the best neighborhood for Black families to move to.

• Virginia-Highland is home to Fire Station #19, Atlanta’s oldest fire station. but if you’re looking for something more casual, 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.

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

neighborhoods

BeltLine’s Eastside Trail Photo by Shutterstock.com

ATLANTA’S HISTORIC

old fourth ward, cabbagetown, & edgewood

Head east from Downtown and find Old Fourth Ward and Cabbagetown, two of the best neighborhoods for walking and street art.

Old Fourth Ward is one of Atlanta’s trendiest historic neighborhoods — located in a former industrial area, it holds the BeltLine’s Eastside Trail, a converted railway line for walking and cycling through the city; Historic Fourth Ward Park; and Ponce City Market. It’s also home to one of Atlanta’s best hidden gems Carroll Street Café, a cozy bohemian restaurant serving eclectic American-Mediterranean fusion meals and tapas; The T, a casual neighborhood gay bar with karaoke, pool, video games, a jukebox, and nightly specials; and a mano, a cozy cottage serving handmade pasta and other seasonal Italian dishes.

Cabbagetown is best known for Krog Street Tunnel, which acts as a graffitied canvas for Atlanta’s best street artists. Walk through the tunnel right and you’ll

50 DESTINATION TRAVEL GUIDE

Ponce City Market Photo via Facebook

find a path lined with beautiful city-sponsored murals and the first of Atlanta’s famous “tiny doors” (check out tinydoorsatl.com for more info) — don’t forget your camera! Get a beer steps away at 97 Estoria, or walk a few blocks to find Krog Street Market, one of Atlanta’s best (and busiest) food halls. There, you can get a delicious wood-fired pizza at Varuni Napoli or “Mex-Tex” at Superica.

While you’re in the area, pick up a rare houseplant and locally handmade pot at Flora/Fauna (it’s Black woman-owned!) or get a gift for a loved one (or yourself) at The Merchant.

fun facts

• Prior to the city’s 1909 annexation, Edgewood was originally its own town and was developed during Atlanta’s Reconstruction-era economic boom that lasted from 1870 to 1910.

• Edgewood was geared primarily towards blue collar workers, hence the abundance of primarily craftsman bungalows.

While in Cabbagetown, make sure you stop by Agave Restaurant. From stuffed mountain trout tomatillo to Mexican rack of lamb and traditional Posole soup, Agave is known for its eclectic Southwestern menu and extensive tequila bar.

• Edgewood has an Edgewood Community Learning Garden.

If you’re looking for a fun night out, look no further than Edgewood Avenue. While there, visit Joystick, Atlanta’s premium bar-cade, for some old school arcade games like pinball, Pac-Man, and Mortal Kombat. Or hit up Sister Louisa’s Church of the Living Room and Ping-Pong Emporium (it’s a mouthful, locals just call it Church). It’s a quirky spot loaded with tongue-in-cheek religious art and killer Organ Karaoke every Wednesday.

Though not specifically geared to a gay audience, you’ll

• Old Fourth Ward is where Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr was born.

• The original location for Morris Brown College, the first educational institution in Georgia for African Americans.

find plenty of gay folks partying throughout the week.

Also look out for super-gay patio parties helmed by lesbian DJ Vicki Powell. Edgewood is also a foodie hot spot: we suggest Noni’s for some delish Italian or Slutty Vegan for some vegan-friendly junk food.

DESTINATION TRAVEL GUIDE 51

neighborhoods

The Heretic File photo by Russell Bowen-Youngblood

cheshire bridge

THE LEGACY OF ATLANTA’S

Cheshire Bridge is an area just above Piedmont Heights that is home to several LGBTQ-owned and loved businesses.

However, the area has been struck by misfortune. In November of 2021, a large fire broke out under a bridge on Cheshire Bridge Road near I-285, only months after another bridge on the same road was severely damaged by fire. No one was injured, but a section of road between Woodland Avenue and Faulkner Road has been closed to all traffic, negatively impacting businesses on the road.

Utility work has begun, with construction schedule to begin in July and the roadway to be opened by October 31. But businesses have taken significant financial hits and will likely continue to until the road reopens. Local businesses have reported a 40 percent loss. With so many LGBTQ-friendly businesses in the area, it’s important for LGBTQ Atlantans to continue spending money here to keep them afloat.

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Taverna Plaka is a lively Greek taverna with a full bar, belly dancing, napkin throwing, and covered patio seating.

If you’re traveling north, access the restaurant by taking Lenox Road, turning left on Woodland Avenue, and then left onto Cheshire Bridge Road.

As well as LGBTQ nightlife mainstays BJ Roosters, a friendly neighborhood gay bar features pool, darts, videos, and an eclectic handful of go-go boys, and The Heretic.

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. If you’re traveling south, take exit 86 off SR-13, take the exit onto Armour Road, turn left onto Armour Drive and then left onto Monroe Drive, right onto Piedmont Avenue, and then left on Cheshire Bridge Road.

The Colonnade Photo via Facebook

fun facts

• As the first southbound exit on I-85 in the non-dry Fulton County, Cheshire Bridge became a magnet for liquor stores and bars because northern Georgia outlawed alcohol.

• The Colonnade has been a local favorite restaurant since 1927.

Cheshire Bridge is also home to The Colonnade, a favorite among gay Atlanta. 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. Mama’s Cocina Latina is a great spot for Mexican food. Las Margaritas and Roxx Tavern are two of LGBTQ Atlanta’s darlings, but both are temporarily closed at the time of writing.

As for shopping, make sure to visit Out of the Closet Thrift Store. A nationwide enterprise, Out of the Closet is a multipurpose thrift shop that donates 96 percent 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.

Tokyo Valentino Erotique, an iconic Atlanta landmark

• Cheshire Bridge was the home to Sweet Gum Head, which was once the leading drag bar in the South.

• Cheshire Bridge is a result of Captain Cheshire’s two sons, Napoleon and Jerome, building two farms and a small bridge to connect them.

• The Cheshire Bridge is home to the Cheshire Farm Trail, which was named after Captain Hezekiah Cheshire, a captain from the War of 1812. touting the largest selection of adult toys, products, lingerie, and bondage gear in the Southeast since 1995, also has a location on Cheshire Bridge Road.

DESTINATION TRAVEL GUIDE 53

neighborhoods

Lenox Square Mall Photo via Facebook

buckhead LUXURY LIVING WITH A SENSE OF STYLE

Located uptown, Buckhead is a hot spot for the bougiest of Atlantans. Since at least the 1950s, Buckhead has been known as an area of extreme wealth. In 2011, The Gadberry Group compiled the list of the 50 wealthiest zip codes in the United States, ranking Buckhead’s western zip code (30327) as the second wealthiest zip code in the South. If you’re a lover of luxury goods or an enthusiastic patron of high-end nightlife, Buckhead is the place for you.

If you’re looking to live lavishly, take a visit to Phipp’s Plaza, a mall 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., and Rigby & Peller.

There, stop by Trina Turk/Mr. Turk. With a California dapper style, Mr. Turk is designed for men — and Trina Turk for women — who want to make a statement with simple silhouettes in unique patterns, textures, and colors. Or stop by private jeweler Jonathan Buckhead to splurge on a diamond for a special someone (hey, you’re a special someone, too!).

When it comes to food and drinks, Buckhead’s highend ethos remains steadfast. The Garden Room is a must visit. Delectable small bites are served with creative cocktails in one of the most awe-inspiring atmospheres in Atlanta. Plants, flowers, and extravagant light fixtures fill

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The Garden Room Photo via Facebook

the greenhouse-like glass building. Make sure to make reservations and be ready to drop some moolah. Upscale casual bistro Terra Terroir is a hidden gem, boasting a lengthy wine list, an eclectic menu created by awardwinning chef Charles Zeran, and a gorgeous woodsy

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neighborhoods

Lips Atlanta File photo by Russell Bowen-Youngblood

Continued from page 56 patio, and if you’re a fan of tapas, wine, and charcuterie, you won’t want to skip The Iberian Pig. Even if you’re not a high roller, there are some more affordable options in the Buckhead area. Lost-n-Found Youth Thrift Store has thousands of reasonably priced, secondhand items for sale. Proceeds help fund the operation of the nonprofit, which takes unhoused LGBTQ youth off the street and transitions them to more permanent housing. If you’re a proud nerd, you definitely won’t want to stop by Buckhead without visiting Oxford Comics and Games new and vintage comics, graphic novels, action figures, DVDs, and posters. And don’t forget your furry friend – visit The Pet Set to pick them up a souvenir from your travels.

Some more low-key dining options in Buckhead include Alon’s Bakery and Market, Fellini’s Pizza, Grindhouse Killer Burgers, and Roasters Rotisserie.

When it comes to LGBTQ nightlife, Buckhead has a couple fabulous offerings. Lips Atlanta is the ultimate in drag dining in Atlanta. Georgia’s top drags perform Vegasstyle shows five nights a week: Twisted Broadway on Wednesdays, The Divas on Thursdays, Glitz and Glam on Fridays and Saturdays, Taboo: The Dirty Show late Saturday nights, and Showstoppers on Sundays. They

58 DESTINATION TRAVEL GUIDE

fun facts

• Built in 1974, Tower Place was Buckhead’s first skyscraper.

• Buckhead was not officially a part of Atlanta until it was annexed in 1952.

• One of America’s wealthiest zip codes, 30327, is in Buckhead.

• Out of all generations, Millennials are Buckhead’s largest population.

• “Peachtree” is in the name of 15 streets in Buckhead. also host a Dragalicious Brunch on Sunday afternoons. If you’re looking for something will less frills, Woofs is the place for you. 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.

Tripp’s Bar is a cozy, unassuming gay bar that offers karaoke, darts, free Wi-Fi, and a taco bar on Wednesdays – plus male go-go dancers on Fridays. If you’re looking to keep the party at home, shop Green’s Beverages’ huge stock of liquors, craft beer, wine, and kegs.

FOR THE Braves Baseball Is For Everyone

BRAVES.COM/PRIDE

neighborhoods

Little Five Points Photo by Shutterstock.com

east atlanta ARTISTRY & COUNTERCULTURE IN

East Atlanta is the hot spot for Atlanta’s artsiest countercultural crew. If you’re one for witches, hippies, street performers, and vintage shopping, Little Five Points is a must-visit. Here, you can shop for vinyl at Criminal Records or Wax ‘n’ Facts; vintage clothing at The Clothing Warehouse, secondhand streetwear at Rag-O-Rama, and over-the-top costumes and fashion at Psycho Sisters; and crystals, tarot cards, and other witchy wares at Crystal Blue. Finish off your day with a drink (or several!) at The Porter Beer Bar – they have a menu of over 430 beers!

When it comes to nightlife, East Atlanta Village is the place to be. Mary’s has been the hip bar of choice for alt gays and self-proclaimed 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.

If you’re looking got dance the night away, there’s no better place than The Basement. They regularly host ’90s and ’00s dance parties – did someone say Lady Gaga and the Spice Girls?!

Mary’s

Courtesy photo

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EAV is also the spot for live music. Check out local bands (and the edgy locals they attract) at 529 and The EARL. As for grub, check out Gaja Korean Bar. This tucked-

The Earl

Photo via Facebook

Gaja Korean Bar Photo via Instagram

fun facts

• Little Five Points gets its name from the five-pointed intersection between Moreland Avenue, Euclid Avenue, and Seminole Avenue at the center of the neighborhood.

• Know whose land you’re on: before East Atlanta Village was colonized, it was home to one of the Creek Nation tribes.

• East Atlanta first became annexed to the greater city of Atlanta in 1915, a decision residents voted on to gain fire protection and public education in the area. away spot is uber hip with a focused menu of traditional Korean dishes given a contemporary spin. If you want to look cool and in-the-know when taking out a date or friends, it;s is a great choice.

East Atlanta also consists of Candler Park, Kirkwood, and Reynoldstown. Some of the best spots in these neighborhoods include El Tesoro for Mexican food on an expansive and eclectic patio (expect long lines on the weekends!), Home Grown GA for a classic meatand-three made with local ingredients, and Sun in My Belly for a delish breakfast.

• While it might be sizeable now, East Atlanta wasn’t always so big! During the 1890s, the town (not yet officially part of Atlanta) was home to just five businesses: a grocery store, blacksmith, feed and seed store, a livery stable, and a dry goods store.

• East Atlanta is the primary site of the Battle of Atlanta, which is considered to have sealed the fate of the Confederacy towards the end of the Civil War.

DESTINATION TRAVEL GUIDE 63

neighborhoods

Atlantic Station

Photo by iStock.com / Sean Davis

west atlanta A SPRAWLING INDUSTRIAL AREA WITH A TON OF FUN

Atlanta’s Westside, located — you guessed it! — on the west side of I-75, is a sprawling industrial area — but it still hosts a ton of fun! Catch a movie or a round of bowling at Atlantic Station, visit one of Westside Provisions District’s upscale food and retail, swing your club at TopGolf or Puttshack, or spend the day at Westside Reservoir Park, one of the largest parks in Atlanta complete with a creek and quarry.

The area boasts some of the most delectable food in Atlanta. Come in for comfortable, modern soul food at Twisted Soul Cookhouse and Pours from LGBTQ chef Deborah Van Trece, who gives Southern classics and brunch a creative approach. 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.

Enjoy a romantic night out at Barcelona Wine Bar with a selection from its extensive list of wine and Spanish tapas in an intimate, warmly lit atmosphere, or Cooks and Soldiers, an upscale Spanish restaurant offering up Basque tapas and other shareable dishes, all cooked on a wood-burning grill.

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Star Provisions is a culinary dream for the gourmet chef and novice cook alike. This market sells cheeses, meats, seafood & other gourmet foods — imagine having access to a restaurant pantry and walk-in cooler for your cooking preparations. Not a cook? Stop by their café for breakfast or lunch.

Tucked away into the Westside Provision District, you can find Little Trouble, a futuristic urban space with inventive cocktails and Asian street food, and Ormsby’s, a stylish speakeasy offering up craft beers and pub fare alongside games like bocce, shuffleboard, darts, and pool.

If you’re looking for a chill night at a brewery, look no further than Fire Maker Brewing Company. Ranked #2 best new brewery in America by USA Today, Fire Maker has a rotating list of in-house beers, as well as weekly general and themed trivia on Wednesdays and Thursdays, respectively.

Head south to find Cascade Heights, one of Atlanta’s up-and-coming neighborhoods. The neighborhood

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neighborhoods

Twisted Soul Cookhouse & Pours Photo via Facebook

Continued from page 64 is rich with natural beauty, with the second largest tree canopy in the city of Atlanta, second only to Piedmont Park; 600 acres of green space; and Cascade Springs Nature Preserve, which boasts miles of hiking trails. It’s also rich with history and diversity. Cascade Heights is a predominantly Black neighborhood — 95 percent of the 76,000 residents are Black — and has been since the ‘60s. There, Chef VanTrece has two brand new restaurants: Oreatha’s at the Point, offering up internationally inspired comfort food, and Serenidad, a Latin Soul restaurant.

West Atlanta is also home to Tokyo Valentino Erotique, an iconic Atlanta landmark touting the largest selection of adult toys, products, lingerie, and bondage gear in the Southeast since 1995, as well as 840ATL, the West End’s 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. They regularly host LGBTQ events, including parties for Black Gay Pride in September.

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fun facts

• In 1961, the state of Georgia allowed for nine Black students to attend four previously segregated schools, one of which was Brown High School (now Herman J. Russell West End Academy).

• Cascade Heights Nature Preserve boasts the only waterfall in Atlanta.

• Much of Atlanta’s industrial and Civil War-era history occurred in West Midtown. Several buildings still in use today are located next to the Norfolk Southern fail lines General Sherman used when he invaded Atlanta in 1864.

• West End is listed on the National Register of Historic Places and was the first locally designated historic district in the City of Atlanta.

• Outkast made their public debut at Club Fritz in West End.

d ou r P

YOU. BELONG. HERE.

Proudly serving as Georgia’s only LGBTQ+ and Allied Chamber of Commerce

outgeorgia.org Established in 1994, OUT Georgia Business Alliance serves the LGBTQ+ and Allied business community by advocating for the most inclusive and equitable business environment; providing support and resources to fuel economic growth; and driving meaningful community connections and impact across the State of Georgia. © 2022 Out Georgia Business Allinace. All rights reserved.

Welcome to Atlanta’s DeKalb!

It’s no secret that Atlanta is the LGBT capital of the South. Atlanta’s DeKalb is rich in diversity and progressive communities, just east of downtown.

Dine and drink at one of Decatur’s award-winning restaurants and cocktail bars and attend some of the best festivals the South has to offer throughout DeKalb.

Whether you are shopping, dining, or looking to enjoy the city nightlife, DeKalb has it all.

Atlanta’s DeKalb is just a short drive away from Midtown Atlanta, Piedmont Park and a host of LGBT nightlife, restaurants and shops.

Discover more at www.discoverdekalb.com

Discover more at

Mike Vescio AtlantasDeKalb.com/lgbt LGBT Sales Manager 770-492-5012

Convention & Visitors Bureau

neighborhoods

Downtown Decatur

decatur

Photos via Facebook

EXPLORE DELIGHTUL

A city all its own, Decatur is every suburbanite’s dream.

Minutes east of Atlanta proper, Decatur combines the charms of a small town, the excitement of a college town (it’s home to renowned colleges Emory University and Agnes Scott University), and the connection of a major city. Named after 19th century U.S. Naval hero Stephen Decatur, the city’s strong connection to history is apparent.

The streets of Decatur are lined with gorgeous historic homes and buildings, ivy-covered stone, and oodles of trees, making it one of the prettiest areas to walk, bike, or drive through.

If you find yourself in Decatur, visit the Dekalb History Center’s museum in the Old Courthouse to get a glimpse into local history through furniture and Civil War artifacts, the Woodlands Garden for tree-lined trails and native plants, and Emory’s Michael C. Carlos Museum for ancient art and artifacts from Egypt, Greece, Rome, and Asia.

Whether you’re a local or a tourist opting for groceries over restaurants, Your Dekalb Farmer’s Market is a must-visit. While the name may bring to mind a quaint outdoor market with individual sellers in stalls (which Atlanta has in abundance — Decatur’s is on

70 DESTINATION TRAVEL GUIDE

Decatur Bonfire and Marshmallow Roast Photo via Facebook

Wednesdays from 4-7pm at the First Baptist Church from March to November), Your Dekalb Farmer’s Market is actually a huge warehouse with a diverse selection of fresh produce and food from around the world. If you’re looking for something you can’t find at Kroger, you’ll be able to find it here.

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neighborhoods

Parker’s On Ponce Photos via Facebook

Continued from page 70 If you are looking to eat out, though, Decatur has an abundance of options. Parker’s On Ponce, located in the heart of historic downtown Decatur, calls itself a steakhouse, but it’s so much more. It’s hard to pass on the salmon, sea scallops, and calamari. The oasis of wood, warmth, and wine begs your return.

Wahoo Grill is also an excellent dining choice. The glass-walled dining room of this European-influenced bistro is surrounded by an enchanting garden paradise, making it a warm and intimate setting for a delicious dinner of lamb lollipops or sea scallops.

Visit The Iberian Pig for a delectable Spanish charcuterie board or opt for a warm bowl of Japanese ramen at Wagaya.

Decatur is a perfect place to grab a coffee and pastry on a lazy Sunday morning: Dancing Goats Coffee Bar, Revolution Doughnuts and Coffee, and Southern Sweets Bakery are all excellent options. Pair your coffee with a book from Book Nook or Charis Books and More, the oldest and largest independent feminist bookstore in the Southeast.

If you’re interested in antiquing, Decatur is the perfect spot for you. Kudzu Antiques + Modern is a 25,000 sq

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fun facts

• Decatur is known for its food scene — the New York Times even dubbed the city “Atlanta’s gastronomic equivalent of Berkeley or Brooklyn” in 2016.

• Decatur’s downtown area was named a top 10 neighborhood by the American Planning Association.

• The Decatur Book Festival is the largest independent book festival in the country.

• Decatur used to be a trading center for small farmers.

• Decatur is home to the Benjamin Swanton House, the city’s oldest structure. ft space featuring 100 of Atlanta’s best antique dealers, selling everything from glassware and trinkets to clothing and furniture. You’re bound to find something that’s truly one of a kind.

When night falls, make your way to downtown Decatur.

There, grab a drink at The S.O.S. Tiki Bar or Twain’s Brewpub and Billiards.

food

cuisine OUR SCENE’S

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!

ASIAN

Bangkok Thai 1492 Piedmont Ave NE Atlanta, GA 30309 404-874-2514 BangkokThaiAtl.com

Doc Chey’s Dragon Bowl 1556 N Decatur Rd Atlanta, GA 30307 404-378-8188 DragonBowlAtl.com

Gaja Korean Bar 491 Flat Shoals Ave SE A Atlanta, GA 30316 404-835-2126 GajaEAV.com

Green Ginger 265 Ponce De Leon Pl Decatur, GA 30030 404-373-2788 GreenGingerDecatur.com

Doc Chey’s Noodle House 563 Memorial Dr SE Atlanta, GA 30312 404-688-4238

Little Trouble 1170 Howell Mill Rd NW #P-10C Atlanta, GA 30318 404-500-4737 Little-Trouble.com

1424 North Highland Ave NE Atlanta, GA 404-888-0777 DocCheys.com

Poor Calvin’s 510 Piedmont Ave NE Atlanta, GA 30308 404-254-4051

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PoorCalvins.com Thai fusion with Southern influences.

Ton Ton Ramen & Yakitori 675 Ponce de Leon Ave NE Atlanta, GA 30308 404-883-3507 TonTonRamen.com Wagaya 1579 N Decatur Rd Atlanta, GA 30307 678-949-9278 339 14th St NW Atlanta, GA 30318 470-575-5799 WagayaAtlanta.com

Continues on page 76

food Continued from page 74

BREAKFAST, BRUNCH, & BAKERIES Alon’s Bakery & Market 3500 Peachtree Rd Atlanta, GA 30326 404-978-2901

1394 North Highland Ave NE Atlanta, GA 30306 404-872-6000 Alons.com Café Intermezzo 1065 Peachtree St NE Atlanta, GA 30309 404-355-0411 CafeIntermezzo.com Dancing Goats Coffee Bar 419 W Ponce De Leon Ave Decatur, GA 30030 404-687-1100 650 North Ave NE Atlanta, GA 30308 404-874-0370 DancingGoats.com Delia’s Chicken Sausage Stand 881 Marietta St NW

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Atlanta, GA 30318 404-254-0408 489 Moreland Ave SE Atlanta, GA 30316 404-474-9651 TheSausageStand.com Flying Biscuit 1001 Piedmont Ave NE Atlanta, GA 30309 404-874-8887 1655 McLendon Ave NE Atlanta, GA 30307 404-687-8888 FlyingBiscuit.com Folk Art 465 N Highland Ave NE Atlanta, GA 30307 404-537-4492 FolkArtRestaurant.com Highland Bakery 655 Highland Ave NE Atlanta, GA 30312 404-586-0772 HighlandBakery.com Revolution Doughnuts & Coffee 745 Edgewood Ave NE Atlanta, GA 30307 470-428-2023

3506, 908 W College Ave Decatur, GA 30030 RevolutionDonuts.com Ria’s Bluebird 421 Memorial Dr SE Atlanta, GA 30312 404-521-3737 RiasBluebird.com Southern Sweets Bakery 186 Rio Cir Decatur, GA 30030 404-373-8752 SouthernSweets.com Sweet Cheats 692 B Kirkwood Ave SE #B1 Atlanta, GA 30316 404-590-6086 SweetCheatsAtlanta.com

ITALIAN & MEDITERRANEAN

a mano 587 Ralph McGill Blvd NE Atlanta, GA 30312 404-549-7727 AmanoAtl.com Barcelona Wine Bar 1085 Howell Mill Rd

Atlanta, GA 30318 404-872-8000 BarcelonaWineBar.com BoccaLupo 753 Edgewood Ave NE Atlanta, GA 30307 404-577-2332 BoccaLupoAtl.com Campagnolo 980 Piedmont Ave NE Atlanta, GA 30308 404-343-2446 CampagnoloAtl.com Carroll Street Café 208 Carroll St NE Atlanta, GA 30312 404-577-2700 CarrollStreetCabbagetown.com Cooks & Soldiers 691 14th St NW Atlanta, GA 30318 404-996-2623 CooksAndSoldiers.com Divan Restaurant and Hookah Lounge 87 15th St NE Atlanta, GA 30309 404-467-4297 DivanAtlanta.com

Fellini’s Pizza 333 Commerce Dr Decatur, GA 30030 404-370-0551 2908 Peachtree Rd Atlanta, GA 30305 404-266-0082

MediterraneanGrill.com Noni’s 357 Edgewood Ave SE Atlanta, GA 30312 404-343-1808 NonisDeli.com

909 Ponce De Leon Ave NE Atlanta, GA 30306 404-873-3088 FellinisAtlanta.com

Sotto Sotto 313 N Highland Ave NE Atlanta, GA 30307 404-523-6678 SottoSottoAtl.com

Floataway Cafe 1123 Zonolite Rd NE #15 Atlanta, GA 30306 404-892-1414 StarProvisions.com/Floataway-Cafe

Taverna Plaka 2196 Cheshire Bridge Rd NE Atlanta, GA 30324 404-636-2284 TavernaPlakaAtlanta.com

The Iberian Pig 121 Sycamore St Decatur, GA 30030 404-371-8800

Varuni Napoli 99 Krog St NE Atlanta, GA 30307 404-500-5550

3150 Roswell Rd NW #A3 Atlanta, GA 30305 404-994-4990 TheIberianPigAtl.com

1540 Monroe Dr NE Atlanta, GA 30324 404-709-2690 Varuni.us

Mediterranean Grill 985 Monroe Dr NE Atlanta, GA 30308 404-917-1100

Agave Restaurant 242 Boulevard SE

LATIN & MEXICAN Continues on page 78

DESTINATION TRAVEL GUIDE 77

food Continued from page 77 Atlanta, GA 30312 404-588-0006 AgaveRestaurant.com

Mama’s Cocina Latina 1958 Piedmont Rd NE Atlanta, GA 30324 404-874-6152 MamasCocinaAtl.com

Zocalo 187 10th St NE Atlanta, GA 30309 404-249-7576 EatZocalo.com

El Azteca 1784 Peachtree Rd NW Atlanta, GA 30309 404-249-1522 ElAztecaAtlanta.com

Minero 675 Ponce De Leon Ave NE #136 Atlanta, GA 30308 404-532-1580 MineroAtlanta.com

SOUTHERN & AMERICAN

El Tesoro 1374 Arkwright Pl SE Atlanta, GA 30317 470-440-5502 ElTesoroAtl.com

Papi’s Cuban & Caribbean Grill 216 Ponce de Leon Ave NE Atlanta, GA 30308 404-607-1525 PapisGrill.com

Guac y Margy’s 661 Auburn Ave NE #120 Atlanta, HA 30312 404-343-4691 GuacyMargys.com

Pure Taqueria 300 N Highland Ave NE Atlanta, GA 30307 404-522-7873 PureTaqueria.com

La Hacienda 900 Monroe Dr NE Atlanta, GA 30308 404-941-7890 LaHaMidtown.com Las Margaritas TEMPORARILY CLOSED 1842 Cheshire Bridge Rd NE Atlanta, GA 30324 404-873-4464 LasMargaritasMidtown.com

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Serenidad 2317 Cascade Rd SW Atlanta, GA 30311 RestaurantSerenidad.com Superica 99 Krog St NE Atlanta, GA 30307 678-791-1310 Superica.com

10th & Piedmont 991 Piedmont Ave Atlanta, GA 30309 404-602-5510 10thAndPiedmont.com 97 Estoria 727 Wylie St SE Atlanta, GA 30316 678-974-7919 97Estoria.com

Apres Diem 931 Monroe Dr #C103 Atlanta, GA 30308 404-872-3333 ApresDiem.com Bacchanalia 1460 Ellsworth Industrial Blvd NW #1 Atlanta, GA 30318 404-365-0410 StarProvisions.com/bacchanalia

BeetleCat 299 N Highland Ave NE Atlanta, GA 30307 678-732-0360 BeetleCatAtl.com City Winery 650 North Ave NE Atlanta, GA 30308 404-946-3791 CityWinery.com/Atlanta The Colonnade Restaurant 1879 Cheshire Bridge Rd NE Atlanta, GA 30324 404-874-5642 TheColonnadeAtlanta.com Eats 600 Ponce De Leon Ave NE Atlanta, GA 30308 404-888-9149 EatsOnPonce.net Fat Matt’s Rib Shack 1811 Piedmont Ave NE Atlanta, GA 30324 404-607-1622 FatMattsRibShack.net

404-688-8864 FlatironAtl.com Fox Brothers BBQ 1238 DeKalb Ave NE Atlanta, GA 30307 404-577-4030 FoxBrosBBQ.com G’s Midtown 219 10th St NE Atlanta, GA 30309 404-605-5510 GsMidtown.com/gs-midtown Grindhouse Killer Burgers 701 Memorial Dr SE Atlanta, GA 30316 404-228-3722 1842 Piedmont Ave NE Atlanta, GA 30324 404-254-2273 433 N McDonough St Decatur, GA 30030 404-400-0509 2565 Apple Valley Rd NE

Brookhaven, GA 30319 470-355-2745 GrindhouseBurgers.com Hattie B’s Hot Chicken 299 Moreland Ave NE Atlanta, GA 30307 678-990-5100 HattieB.com Henry’s Midtown Tavern 132 10th St NE Atlanta, GA 30309 404-537-4477 HenrysAtl.com Hobnob 245 18th St NW Atlanta, GA 30363 404-343-2800 HobnobAtlanta.com Home Grown GA 968 Memorial Dr SE Atlanta, GA 30316 404-222-0455 HomeGrownGa.com

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Flatiron Bar and Restaurant 520 Flat Shoals Ave SE Atlanta, GA 30316

DESTINATION TRAVEL GUIDE 79

food Continued from page 79 Kevin Rathbun Steak 154 Krog St NE #200 Atlanta, GA 30307 404-524-5600 KevinRathbunSteak.com

404-924-2230 ParkersOnPonce.com The Porter Beer Bar 1156 Euclid Ave NE Atlanta, GA 30307 ThePorterBeerBar.com

Livingston 659 Peachtree St NE Atlanta, GA 30308 404-897-5000 LivingstonAtlanta.com

Roasters Rotisserie 2770 Lenox Rd NE Atlanta, GA 30324 404-237-1122 RoastersFresh.com

Majestic Diner 1031 Ponce De Leon Ave NE Atlanta, GA 30306 404-875-0276 MajesticDiner.com

Shake Shack 670 DeKalb Ave NE Atlanta, GA 30312 470-377-8697 ShakeShack.com

Mary Mac’s Tea Room 224 Ponce de Leon Ave Atlanta, GA 30308 404-876-1800 MaryMacs.com

Slutty Vegan 476 Edgewood Ave SE Atlanta, GA 30312 470-604-7841 SluttyVeganAtl.com

Metrofresh 931 Monroe Dr NE #A106 Atlanta, GA 30308 404-724-0151 MetrofreshAtl.com

The Sun Dial 210 Peachtree St NW Atlanta, GA 30303 404-589-7506 SunDialRestaurant.com

Miller Union 999 Brady Ave NW Atlanta, GA 30318 678-733-8550 MillerUnion.com

Sun in My Belly 2161 College Ave NE Atlanta, GA 30317 404-370-1088 SunInMyBelly.com

Nowak’s 1397 North Highland Ave NE Atlanta, GA 30306 678-705-4231 NowaksRestaurant.com

Terra Terroir 3974 Peachtree Rd Atlanta, GA 30319 404-841-1032 TerraTerroir.com

Ormsby’s 1170 Howell Mill Rd #P20 Atlanta, GA 30318 404-968-2033 OrmsbysAtlanta.com

Twisted Soul Cookhouse & Pours 1133 Huff Rd NW #D Atlanta, GA 30318 404-350-5500 TwistedSoulCookhouseAndPours.com

Park Tavern 500 10th St NE Atlanta, GA 30309 404-249-0001 ParkTavern.com Parker’s on Ponce 116 East Ponce de Leon Ave Decatur, GA 30030

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The Varsity 61 North Ave NW Atlanta, GA 30308 404-881-1706 TheVarsity.com Vickery’s Bar & Grill 933 Garrett St #101-102

Atlanta, GA 30316 404-627-8818 VickerysAtlanta.com Victory Sandwich Bar 913 Bernina Ave NE Atlanta, GA 30307 404-963-1742

340 Church St Decatur, GA 30030 404-377-9300 VicSandwich.com The Vortex 878 Peachtree St NE Atlanta, GA 30309 404-875-1667 438 Moreland Ave NE Atlanta, GA 30307 404-688-1828 TheVortexAtl.com Wahoo Grill 1042 W College Ave Decatur, GA 30030 404-373-3331 WahooGrillDecatur.com Woody’s Cheesesteaks 981 Monroe Dr NE Atlanta, GA 30308 404-835-1415 WoodysCheesesteaks.com Yeah! Burger 1168 Howell Mill Rd #E Atlanta, GA 30318 404-496-4393 YeahBurger.com

OTHER

Fontaine’s Oyster House 1026½ N Highland Ave NE Atlanta, GA 30306 404-872-0869 NightcapFoodAndSpirits.com The Garden Room 88 West Paces Ferry Rd NW Atlanta, GA 30305 404-600-6471 TheGardenRoomAtlanta.com Creative cocktails and small bites.

Herban Fix 565-A Peachtree St NE Atlanta, GA 30308

404-815-8787 HerbanFix.com Plant-based fusion cuisines.

Lazy Betty Atlanta 1530 Dekalb Ave NE Atlanta, GA 30307 404-975-3692 LazyBettyAtl.com Multiple course tasting menu.

Oreatha’s at the Point 2287 Cascade Rd SW #C Atlanta, GA 30311 404-228-4852 OreathasAtThePoint.com Internationally inspired comfort food.

Star Provisions Market & Café 1460 Ellsworth Industrial Blvd NW Atlanta, GA 30318 404-365-0410 StarProvisions.com Steamhouse Lounge 1051 W Peachtree St NW Atlanta, GA 30309 404-233-7980 SteamhouseLounge.com

Casseroles 1393 North Highland Ave NE Atlanta, GA 30306 404-228-3260 CasserolesAtlanta.com Take-away, premade casseroles to heat at home.

Playa Bowls 661 Auburn Ave NE #160 Atlanta, GA 30312 404-963-1746 PlayaBowls.com Acai and smoothie bowls and ahi tuna poke bowls.

DESTINATION TRAVEL GUIDE 81

atlien

nightlife

PARTY LIKE AN

From extravagant drag and fabulous circuit parties to lowkey bars and chill night out, Atlanta’s LGBTQ nightlife offers a little something for everyone.

529 Bar 529 Flat Shoals Ave SE Atlanta, GA 30316 404-228-6769 529Atlanta.com This grungy dive bar-slash-music venue is a favorite among East Atlanta Village’s most alternative crowd. If you’re looking to get into the local Atlanta music scene, 529 is a great place to start.

840ATL 840 Ralph David Abernathy Blvd 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. The Basement 1245 Glenwood Ave SE

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Atlanta, GA 30316 404-622-8686 BasementAtl.com If you wanna dance the night away with a more diverse and artsy — but still gay as hell — crowd, the Basement is a great go-to. They regularly host 90s and 00s dance parties — did someone say Lady Gaga and the Spice Girls?!

BJ Roosters 2043 Cheshire Bridge Rd #1 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 St NE Atlanta, GA 30309 404-464-7715 BlakesOnTheParkAtlanta.com Blake’s is a must for gay male 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 St 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 Dr NE Atlanta, GA 30324 404-464-5924

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nightlife Continued from page 84 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.

The EARL 488 Flat Shoals Ave SE Atlanta, GA 30316 404-522-3950 BadEarl.com Live music and hearty bar food are on the menu at this popular club hosting local and national acts.

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

Fire Maker Brewing Company 975 Chattahoochee Ave NW Atlanta, GA 30318 678-705-8777 FireMakerBeer.com Ranked #2 best new brewery in America by USA Today, Fire Maker has a rotating list of in-house beers, as well as weekly general and themed trivia on Wednesdays and Thursdays, respectively.

Flex 76 4th St NW 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 on Ponce 736 Ponce De Leon Ave NE Atlanta, GA 30306 404-817-3820 FriendsOnPonce.com A no-attitude bar with inexpensive drinks and pool tables popular

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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.

Atlanta. Georgia’s top drag queens perform Vegas-style shows five nights a week, from Wednesday to Sunday.

Stop by on Sunday afternoons for their Dragalicious Brunch.

Future Atlanta 50 Upper Alabama St, 180 SW Atlanta, GA 30303 470-225-1955 Future-Atlanta.com Featuring two levels, this 14,000-square-foot cabaret and dance club is a place to unwind, dance, and celebrate.

Mary’s 1287 Glenwood Ave SE 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.

The Heretic 2069 Cheshire Bridge Rd NE 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 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.

The Hideaway 1544 Piedmont Ave Atlanta, GA 30324 404-874-8247 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.

Joystick 427 Edgewood Ave SE Atlanta, GA 30312 404-525-3002 JoystickGameBar.com If you’re a fan of old school arcade games, Joystick is a must-visit. Grab some quarters, get a beer, and play some pinball, Pac-Man, and Mortal Kombat.

Lips Atlanta 3011 Buford Hwy NE Atlanta, GA 30329 404-315-7711 LipsAtl.com Lips is the ultimate in drag dining in

Mixx Atlanta 1492 Piedmont Ave NE #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 1104 Crescent Ave NE Atlanta, GA 30309 678-705-4585 MySistersRoom.com MSR is the longest-running lesbian bar in Atlanta, with nightly events that cross musical genres and performances. Non-smoking with a sports-themed menu and a fun patio, this legendary spot is 21+ after 8pm.

Oscar’s Martini Bar 1510 Piedmont Ave NE #C Atlanta, GA 30309 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.

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nightlife Continued from page 86 Sister Louisa’s Church of the Living Room & Ping Pong Emporium 586 Edgewood Ave 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.

The S.O.S. Tiki Bar 340 Church St Decatur, GA 30030 404-377-9308 SOSTiki.com This secluded tiki bar with a

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midcentury-modern & Polynesian vibe serves retro drinks and small bites.

The T 465 Boulevard SE #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 Cir NE Atlanta, GA 30324 404-555-1212 This cozy, unassuming bar offers karaoke, darts, free Wi-Fi, and a taco bar on Wednesdays.

Twain’s Brewpub and Billiards 211 E Trinity Pl Decatur, GA 30030 404-373-0063

Twains.net Gastropub with house-brewed tap beers, shuffleboard, pool & darts, plus trivia on Mondays.

Woofs Sports Bar 494 Plasters Ave 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.

DESTINATION TRAVEL GUIDE 89

shopping

retail stores TAKE A TOUR OF ATLANTA’S

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 Ave NE #211 Atlanta, GA 30324 404-876-6790 Ansley-Wine-Merchants. shoplightspeed.com Located in Ansley Mall, this 7-daysa-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 Inc 2165 Cheshire Bridge Rd NE Atlanta, GA 30324 404-235-0739 AtlantaWaterGardens.com Providing “serenity to the city,” Atlanta Water Gardens offers fountains of every size, sculptures, statuaries, garden accessories, and

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amazing gifts. A stroll through the outdoor showroom alone will relax you for the rest of the day.

Atlantic Station 1380 Atlantic Dr NW Atlanta, GA 30363 404-410-4010 AtlanticStation.com 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 Falcons and United Team Store, to name a few — restaurants like HOBNOB Neighborhood Tavern, envegan, and The Pig and the Pearl; a Regal Cinema; bowling; plus the city’s IKEA store.

Barking Leather 1510 Piedmont Ave NE

Atlanta, GA 30324 404-900-5847 BarkingLeather.com 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 Rd Decatur, GA 30033 404-633-1342 BookNookBookstoreDecaturGa.com 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.

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WHERE FUN BEGINS

404.873.2664 1447 PIEDMONT AVE NE

BOYNEXTDOORMENSWEAR.COM

shopping Continued from page 92 Boy Next Door Menswear 1447 Piedmont Ave Atlanta, GA 30309 404-873-2664 BoyNextDoorMenswear.com Boy Next Door is proud to offer an expanding selection of brands for men’s activewear, undergarments, and swimwear, not to mention the perfect outfits for business and date nights.

Brushstrokes Pleasures 1510-D Piedmont Ave NE Atlanta, GA 30324 404-876-6567 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 St Decatur, GA 30030 404-524-0304 CharisBooksandMore.com 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 Clothing Warehouse 420 Moreland Ave NE Atlanta, GA 30307 404-524-5070 TheClothingWarehouse.com If you’re looking for hand-curated retro ‘70s vintage clothes, look no further. While on the pricier side, The Clothing Warehouse is sure to have a one-of-a-kind piece you’ll instantly fall in love with.

The Cook’s Warehouse 1544 Piedmont Ave NE #403-R Atlanta, GA 30324 404-815-4993 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

94 DESTINATION TRAVEL GUIDE

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 Ave NE A Atlanta, GA 30307 404-215-9511 CriminalATL.com 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.

Crystal Blue 1168 Euclid Ave NE Atlanta, GA 30307 404-522-4605 CrystalBlueL5P.com Nestled right in the heart of Little 5 Points, Crystal Blue is a onestop-shop for all things witchy and metaphysical: we’re talking crystals galore, tarot and oracle cards, altar supplies, jewelry, and more.

Eco Denizen 999 Peachtree St NE #180 Atlanta, GA 30309 678-705-9880 EcoDenizen.net This eco-friendly shop offers great gifts like responsibly sourced jewelry, handmade crafts, beautiful candles, stationary and cards, home décor, and more.

ElectroBike Georgia 2484 Briarcliff Rd NE #25 Atlanta, GA 30329 404-400-7132 ElectroBikeGA.com ElectroBike is Atlanta’s first and only full-serve electric bike shop with the largest selection of e-bikes in the Southeast, offering over 30 different models from multiple e-bike brands.

Flora/Fauna 751 Gaskill St SE Atlanta, GA 30316 404-500-2192 FloraFaunaAtl.com

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 2614 Buford Hwy NE Atlanta, GA 30324 404-321-6232 737 Ponce De Leon Ave Atlanta, GA 30306 404-872-1109 GreenBeverages.com Green’s offers two locations and a huge stock of liquors, craft beer, wine, and even kegs. Party responsibly.

Intaglia Home Collection 1544 Piedmont Ave NE #105 Atlanta, GA 30324 404-607-9750 IntagliaHome.com A furniture and home décor store that brings a fresh approach to Atlanta furniture, one that ultimately relies on timeless interior design.

Jonathan Buckhead 715 Miami Cir NE Atlanta, GA 30324 678-471-7861 JonathanBuckhead.com 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 Ave NE Atlanta, GA 30307 404-577-3188 TheJunkmansDaughter.com A Little Five Point’s staple, this store offers something for everyone, from 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 485 Flat Shoals Ave SE #B Atlanta, GA 30316

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shopping Continued from page 94 404-522-3006 KaboodleAtlanta.com Kaboodle Home in East Atlanta Village offers local art, locally made eclectic home furnishings, home décor, candles, gifts, and more.

Kudzu Antiques + Modern 2928 E Ponce de Leon Ave 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 Store 2585 Chantilly Dr NE Atlanta, GA 30324 678-856-7824 Lnfy.org 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.

The Merchant Atlanta 99 Krog St NE Atlanta, GA 30307 404-331-1200 77 West Paces Ferry NW #35C

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Atlanta, GA 30305 404-228-2372 TheMerchantAtl.com 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 Cir NE Atlanta, GA 30324 404-370-1505 MissionMotif.com 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.

Out of the Closet Thrift Store 1858 Cheshire Bridge Rd Atlanta, GA 30324 470-447-6473 OutOfTheCloset.org A nationwide enterprise, Out of the Closet is a multipurpose thrift shop that donates 96 percent 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 Rd NE Atlanta, GA 30305 404-233-8682 OxfordComicsAndGames.com Browse their amazing selection of

new and vintage comics, graphic novels, action figures, DVDs, posters, and more!

Park Pet Supply 479A Flat Shoals Ave #A Atlanta, GA 30316 404-588-0140 ParkPetSupply.com 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 Ave NE Atlanta, GA 30309 404-249-6668 2480 Briarcliff Rd 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.

Phipps Plaza 3500 Peachtree Rd 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 Ave NE Atlanta, GA 30308 404-900-7900 PonceCityMarket.com Ponce City Market is home to a number of retailers, including Citizen Supply, Madewell, Lululemon, Modern Mystic, Nike, Sephora, West Elm, and WilliamsSonoma, as well as a diverse food hall.

Spend a day on The Roof enjoying the views, carnival games, delicious cocktails, and seasonal ice skating!

Psycho Sisters 428 Moreland Ave NE Atlanta, GA 30307 404-523-0100 Psycho-Sisters.com If you’re looking for a one-of-a-kind piece or costume, Psycho Sisters is the place for you.

Rag-O-Rama 1111 Euclid Ave NE Atlanta, GA 30307 404-658-1988 RagORama.com 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.

Tokyo Valentino Erotique 850 Northside Dr NW Atlanta, GA 30318 404-400-6738 1739 Cheshire Bridge Rd NE

Atlanta, GA 30324 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 Ave NE Atlanta, GA 30324 404-881-0902 TowerWineSpirits.com 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.

Trina Turk and Mr. Turk Phipps Plaza 3500 Peachtree Rd NE Atlanta, GA 30326 404-949-1444 TrinaTurk.com / MrTurk.com With a California dapper style, Mr. Turk is designed for men — and Trina Turk for women — who want to make a statement with simple silhouettes in unique patterns, textures, and colors.

Wax ‘N’ Facts 432 Moreland Ave NE Atlanta, GA 30307 404-525-2275 WaxNFacts.com Veteran music shop with new & used vinyl, cassettes & CDs, plus turntables, accessories & T-shirts.

Westside Provisions District 1198 Howell Mill Rd Atlanta, GA 30318 678-974-1940 WestsideProvisions.com 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 Ave NW Atlanta, GA 30318 678-974-8534 TheWorksATL.com 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 117 E Court Sq Decatur, GA 30030 404-370-3979 500 L3 Amsterdam Ave NE Atlanta, GA 30306 404-892-8294 WorthmoreJewelers.com 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.

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hotels & accommodations

lodging LUXURIOUS

Looking for the perfect place to call your home away from home? Atlanta has countless options, ranging from conveniently affordable to indulgently high-end. Whether you prefer a unique boutique or a chain close to all the attractions, there’s something for you.

AC Hotel by Marriott Buckhead at Phipps Plaza 3600 Wieuca Rd 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 Dr NW Atlanta, GA 30308 678-515-0300 Marriott.com

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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 St NW Atlanta, GA 30309 404-876-6100 ArtmoreHotel.com In the heart of Midtown’s arts district, 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 Rd NE Atlanta, GA 30326 404-261-9250 Marriott.com *Pet-friendly Atlanta Marriott Marquis 265 Peachtree Center Ave 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

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hotels & accommodations Continued from page 98 with an 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 St 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 St NW Atlanta, GA 30309 404-685-1677 Hilton.com This 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 Dr SW

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Atlanta, GA 30313 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

The Ellis Hotel 176 Peachtree St NW 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

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. *Pet-friendly

Embassy Suites by Hilton Atlanta at Centennial Olympic Park 267 Marietta St NW Atlanta, GA 30313 404-223-2300 Hilton.com 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.

Crowne Plaza Atlanta - Midtown 590 W Peachtree St 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 onsite bar and restaurant NEXT. Want to splurge? Four unique pool suites have private terrace pools. *Pet-friendly

Four Seasons Hotel Atlanta 75 14th St 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 St NE Atlanta, GA 30308 (844) 650-8052 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 St 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 Rd 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 Downtown 255 Courtland St 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

Hilton Atlanta Airport 1031 Virginia Ave 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 St 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 St NW Atlanta, GA 30313 404-577-2001 Hilton.com This contemporary hotel in a 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 Ave 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 Rd 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 St 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 St 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 St NE Atlanta, GA 30308 404-577-1980 Hyatt.com

Continues on page 102

DESTINATION TRAVEL GUIDE 101

hotels & accommodations Continued from page 101 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 Hyatt Place Atlanta/ Centennial Park 300 Luckie St 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 Rd 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 St 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 CocaCola 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.

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Inn at the Peachtrees, Ascend Hotel Collection 330 W Peachtree St 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.

Omni Atlanta Hotel at CNN Center 100 CNN Ctr 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

InterContinental Buckhead Atlanta, an IHG Hotel 3315 Peachtree Rd 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.

The Peach House 88 Spruce St 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.

JW Marriott Atlanta Buckhead 3300 Lenox Rd 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 1065 Peachtree St NE Atlanta, GA 30309 (404) 745-5000 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 Moxy Hotel Midtown 48 13th St 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 with streaming services. *Pet-friendly

Renaissance Atlanta Midtown Hotel 866 W Peachtree St 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.

Reverb by Hard Rock Downtown 89 Centennial Olympic Park Dr 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 MercedesBenz Stadium. Come for the rooftop bar but stay for the amazing skyline, incredible music, and contemporary atmosphere. *Pet-friendly Ritz-Carlton Atlanta 181 Peachtree St 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 St 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 Bed & Breakfast 923 Piedmont Ave 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 ecofriendly and LGBTQ-friendly.

St. Regis Atlanta 88 West Paces Ferry Rd 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 Ave 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.

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.

and Phipps Plaza.

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

Westin Buckhead 3391 Peachtree Rd NE Atlanta, GA 30326 404-365-0065 Marriott.com This upscale hotel has sweeping skyline views and close proximity upscale shopping. Only a threeminute walk from the Buckhead MARTA train station. *Pet-friendly

W Atlanta Midtown 188 14th St 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

Westin Peachtree Plaza 210 Peachtree St 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

Waldorf Astoria Atlanta Buckhead 3376 Peachtree Rd 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

The Whitley 3434 Peachtree Rd 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

Twelve Downtown, Autograph Collection 400 W Peachtree St 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, Autograph Collection 361 17th St NW Atlanta, HA 30363

DESTINATION TRAVEL GUIDE 103

campgrounds & outdoor groups

the gay outdoors Did you know that Atlanta is not only the LGBTQ mecca of the South, it’s also the city in a forest? Foliage covers almost half of the city’s acreage, making Atlanta a prime destination for outdoorsy folks. From organized groups to weekend getaway spots, you’ll find what you need to take in the natural beauty of our amazing city and state.

Atlanta LGBTQ Hikers If you love to hike and are interested in discovering hidden hiking gems and making new friends, this is the group for you! Atlanta LGBTQ Hikers do not charge to hike; if you ever have to pay anything, it’d be directly to whatever park has fees.

Meetup.com/Atlanta-LGBTQ-Hikers In The Woods Campground Let your wild side out at this “naturist” campground in Northeast Georgia, owned and operated by 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 706-246-0152 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 Hwy 230 Unadilla, GA 31091 478-892-2299 OzCampground.com The River’s Edge The campground bills itself as “100% gay owned-and-operated,” so you’ll

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be with like-minded individuals who love nature as much as you do! This private membership 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 Rd Dewy Rose, GA 30634 706-213-8081 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 Ln Collins, GA 30421 912-225-3900 RoysHideway.com 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 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

TRUE T ATLANTA

@ATLHAWKS | #TRUETOATLANTA | HAWKS.COM | STATEFARMARENA.COM

fitness

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 North Buckhead 4920 Roswell Rd NE Atlanta, GA 30342 404-343-6017 Buckhead 550 Pharr Rd NE Atlanta, GA 30305 404-549-3523 AnytimeFitness.com FitWit 630 East Lake Dr Decatur, GA 30030 888-534-8948 FitWit.com

Atlanta, GA 30363 404-810-9015

Midtown 75 Fifth St NW Ste E Atlanta, GA 30308 404-212-1065 Brookhaven 755 Brookhaven Ave Atlanta, GA 30319 678-280-8844 Lenox/Buckhead 3232 Peachtree Rd NE Ste A Atlanta, GA 30305 404-233-8311

Gravity Fitness 2201 Faulkner Rd NE Atlanta, GA 30324 404-486-0506 GravityFitnessAtl.com

Peachtree Road 3535 Peachtree Rd NE Ste 300 Atlanta, GA 30326 404-389-1143 LaFitness.com

Iron Tribe FitnessWest Midtown 1409 Howell Mill Rd NW Atlanta, GA 30318 678-576-4766 IronTribeMidtown.com

Lion’s Den Fitness 900 Peachtree St NE Ste 105 Atlanta, GA 30309 678-835-8699 LionsDenFitnessAtl.com

LA Fitness Ansley Mall 1544 Piedmont Ave NE Ste 115 Atlanta, GA 30324 404-249-6463 Atlantic Station 261 19th St Ste 1140

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The Training Room ATL 742 Ponce de Leon Pl NE Atlanta, GA 30306 404-333-3677 TheTrainingRoomAtl.com Urban Body Fitness 500 Amsterdam Ave NE Atlanta, GA 30306 404-885-1499 UrbanBodyFitness.com

The Forum Athletic Club Ponce City Market 675 Ponce De Leon Ave NE Ste E179 Atlanta, GA 30308 Lenox Square - Buckhead 3393 Peachtree Rd NE #2010A Atlanta, GA 30326 678-904-1940 TheForumAthleticClub.com

sports

let’s play ball

There are tons of LGBTQ sports leagues 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 all of Atlanta’s LGBTQ athletes.

Local LGBTQ Sports All stripes Atlanta United LGBTQ Supporter Group AllStripesAtl.com

Front Runners Atlanta FrontRunnersAtlanta.org GO Kickball Pride League GoKickball.com/PrideAtlanta

Atlanta Bucks Rugby Club AtlantaBucksRugby.org

Hotlanta Soccer HotlantaSoccer.org

Atlanta Roller Girls atlantarollerderby.com

Hotlanta Softball League HotlantaSoftball.org

Atlanta Rainbow Trout Gay-friendly aquatics club AtlantaRainbowTrout.com Atlanta Team Tennis Association Atta.org

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Hotlanta Volleyball HotlantaVball.leagueapps.com National Flag Football League of Atlanta Nffla.com

Southern Softpaw League LGBTQ softball league SouthernSoftpaw.com

Professional Sports Atlanta Braves MLB.com/Braves Atlanta Dream Dream.WNBA.com Atlanta Falcons AtlantaFalcons.com Atlanta Hawks NBA.com/Hawks Atlanta United AtlUtd.com

UNITY. GOSTRIPERS.COM

lgbtq organizations

connected ATLANTA’S ORGANIZATIONS HELP KEEP YOU

Advocacy/Political ACLU of Georgia Acluga.org

Georgia Equality GeorgiaEquality.org

Georgia Log Cabin Republicans georgialogcabin.org Georgia Stonewall Democrats stonewalldemocrats.us/georgia Georgia Unites Against Discrimination GeorgiaUnites.org GLAAD Atlanta Glaad.org/tags/atlanta Human Rights Campaign Atlanta Steering Committee HRCAtlanta.com Lambda Legal Southern Regional Office LambdaLegal.org/sro

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Stonewall Bar Association of Georgia StonewallBar.org

Business

Metro Atlanta Association of Professionals MaapAtl.org Out Georgia Business Alliance OutGeorgia.org

Culture/Arts

Atlanta Freedom Bands AtlantaFreedomBands.com Atlanta Gay Men’s Chorus & Atlanta Women’s Chorus VoicesOfNote.org Atlanta Philharmonic Orchestra AtlantaPhilharmonic.org Charis Circle CharisCircle.org

In the Life Atlanta InTheLifeAtl.com

OurSong Mixed gay and lesbian chorus OurSongAtlanta.org Out On Film OutOnFilm.org

Family/Youth

CHRIS 180 Provides assistance to homeless LGBTQ youth.

Chris180.org 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

PFLAG Atlanta PFLAGAtlanta.org

Health

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

AIDAtlanta.org AIDS Research Consortium of Atlanta Free HIV and STD testing AVAC.org Galano Club LGBTQ-friendly Alcoholics Anonymous plus other 12-step groups.

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

GradyHealth.org/Locations/Poncede-Leon-Center Emory’s Hope Clinic HopeClinic.Emory.edu Feminist Women’s Health Center FeministCenter.org Jerusalem House Housing for homeless and people living with HIV. JerusalemHouse.org Living Room Housing placement and financial assistance for people living with HIV. LivingRoomAtl.org Project Open Hand Meals for homebound people with HIV and other critical illnesses.

OpenHand.org Pets Are Loving Support Help with pet care for people with HIV. PalsAtlanta.org Positive Impact Health Centers HIV and STD testing

PositiveImpactHealthCenters.org

TouchingUpOurRoots.org

Support/Social/Service

Zami NOBLA For Black lesbians 40 and older ZamiNOBLA.org

American Veterans for Equal Rights aver.us

Asians and Friends Atlanta Meetup.com/Asians-andFriends-Atlanta Atlanta Prime Timers atlanta-prime-timers-inc.square.site Fourth Tuesday Lesbian networking and social events.

Facebook.com/FourthTuesdayAtlanta SAGE Serves LGBTQ seniors.

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

Regional Pride Organizations Athens Pride AthensPride.org Atlanta Black Pride AtlantaBlackPride.org Atlanta Pride AtlantaPride.org Augusta Pride PrideAugusta.org Chattanooga Pride Chattanooga, Tennessee ChattanoogaPride.com Colgay Pride Columbus, Georgia ColgayPride.org Famously Hot South Carolina Pride Columbia, South Carolina SCPride.org Key West Pride Key West, Florida GayKeyWestFl.com Pure Heat Atlanta Black Pride PureHeatCommunityFestival.com River City Pride Jacksonville, Florida RiverCityPride.org Savannah Pride SavannahPride.com South Georgia Pride Valdosta, Georgia SouthGaPride.com Upstate Pride South Carolina Spartanburg, South Carolina UpstatePrideSC.org

DESTINATION TRAVEL GUIDE 113

ALL ARE WELCOME.

“You are made in the image of God exactly how you are. You are fearfully and wonderfully made. Your name is Beloved; not Shameful, not Worthless, not Sinful, not Mistake. Your name is Redeemed. Your name is Friend.”

– BISHOP ROB WRIGHT “God’s love is a life-saving force. It answers despair with belonging.

It breathes scandalous grace into rigidity. It invites every shape and shade of humanity to crowd around Heaven’s table. God’s love is always moving — thank God we were made to move with it.”

– HOLLE TUBBS YOUTH MISSIONER

Beloved is a new series focused on sharing the stories of God’s beloved.

These are stories of love, belonging, and seeing God in the world. It’s testimony of the heart in a broken world.

EPISCOPALATLANTA.ORG/LGBTQ-MINISTRIES

lgbtq-friendly worship

Worship WHERE TO

No matter your faith or how you worship, there’s a safe space and community here for you!

All Saints’ Episcopal Church 634 W Peachtree St NW Atlanta, GA 30308 404-881-0835 AllSaintsAtlanta.org Avondale Pattillo United Methodist Church 3260 Covington Hwy Decatur, GA 30032 404-294-4063 AvondalePattilloUMC.org Cathedral of St. Philip 2744 Peachtree Rd NW Atlanta, GA 30305 404-365-1000 Cathedralatl.org Catholic Shrine of the Immaculate Conception 48 Martin Luther King Jr. Dr SW Atlanta, GA 30303 404-521-1866

116 DESTINATION TRAVEL GUIDE

CatholicShrineAtlanta.org

Central Congregational United Church of Christ 2676 Clairmont Rd NE Atlanta, GA 30329 404-633-4505 Central-UCC.org Central Presbyterian Church 201 Washington St SW Atlanta, GA 30303 404-659-0274 CPCAtlanta.org Church of the Epiphany 2089 Ponce de Leon Ave NE Atlanta, GA 30307 404-373-8338 Epiphany.org City of Light 3125 Presidential Pkwy Atlanta, GA 30340

470-545-2821 cityoflightatlanta.com

Clifton Sanctuary Ministries 369 Connecticut Ave NE Atlanta, GA 30307 404-373-3253 CliftonSanctuary.com Congregation Bet Haverim 2074 Lavista Rd Atlanta, GA 30329 404-315-6446 CongregationBetHaverim.org Drepung Loseling Monastery, Inc. Center for Tibetian Buddhist Studies, Practice & Culture 1781 Dresden Dr Atlanta, GA 30319 404-982-0051 Drepung.org

Continues on page 118

lgbtq-friendly worship Continued from page 116 Druid Hills Presbyterian Church 1026 Ponce de Leon Ave NE Atlanta, GA 30306 404-875-7591 DruidHillsPrebysterian.org First Existentialist Congregation of Atlanta 470 Candler Park Dr NE Atlanta, GA 30307 404-378-5570 FirstExistentialist.org The Gathering Place Worship Center 999 Brady Ave NW Ste 10 Atlanta, GA 30318 404-815-0007 GLBTChurch.com Gentle Spirit Christian Church 601 West Ponce de Leon Ave Decatur, GA 30030 404-604-8124 GentleSpirit.org Inman Park United Methodist Church 1015 Edgewood Ave NE Atlanta, GA 30307 404-522-9322 InmanParkUMC.org Johns Creek Christian Church 10800 Bell Rd Johns Creek, GA 30097 770-418-1101 JohnsCreekChristian.org Kadampa Meditation Center Georgia 741 Edgewood Ave NE Atlanta, GA 30307 678-453-6753 MeditationInGeorgia.org METRON Community Worships at Landmark Midtown Art Cinema 931 Monroe Dr NE Atlanta, GA 30308 404-879-0160 MetronCommunity.Blogspot.com

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New Covenant Church of Atlanta 1600 Eastland Rd Atlanta, GA 30316 404-394-2513 NewCovenantAtlanta.com Oakhurst Baptist Church 222 East Lake Dr Decatur, GA 30030 404-378-3677 OakHurstBaptist.org Ormewood Church 1071 Delaware Ave SE Atlanta, GA 30316 678-962-7828 OmewoodChurch.org

St. John’s Lutheran Church 1410 Ponce de Leon Ave NE Atlanta, GA 30307 404-378-4243 StJohnsAtlanta.org St. Luke’s Episcopal Church 435 Peachtree St NE Atlanta, GA 30308 404-873-7600 StLukesAtlanta.org The Temple 1589 Peachtree St NE Atlanta, GA 30309 404-873-1731 The-Temple.org

Park Avenue Baptist Church 486 Park Avenue SE Atlanta, GA 30312 404-627-2175 ParkAveBaptist.com

Trinity Center for Spiritual Living 1095 Zonolite Rd Ste100 Atlanta, GA 30306 404-296-6064 TrinityCenterAtlanta.org

Saint Mark United Methodist Church 781 Peachtree St NE Atlanta, GA 30308 404-873-2636 StMarkUMC.org

Trinity United Methodist Church 265 Washington St SW Atlanta, GA 30303 404-659-6236 AtlantaTrinity.org

SGI-USA Atlanta Buddhist Center 421 17th St NW Atlanta, GA 30363 404-817-8100 SGI-Atlanta.org

Unitarian Universalist Congregation of Atlanta 1190 West Druid Hills Dr NE Ste 150 Atlanta, GA 30329 404-634-5134 Uuca.org

Shambhala Meditation Center 1447 Church St Decatur, GA 30030 404-370-9650 Atlanta.Shambhala.org

Unity Fellowship Church, Greater Atlanta 601 W Ponce de Leon Ave Decatur, GA 30030 404-599-8243 UnityWideOpen.com

St. Bartholomew’s Episcopal Church 1790 Lavista Road NE Atlanta, GA 30329 404-634-3336 St.BartsAtlanta.org

Virginia-Highland Church 743 Virginia Ave NE Atlanta, GA 30306 404-348-4830 VHChurch.org

St. John’s Episcopal Church 3480 East Main St College Park, GA 30337 404-761-8492 StJohnsCollegePark.org

Vision Church of Atlanta 704 Ormewood Ave SE Atlanta, GA 30312 404-622-9470 TheVisionChurch.org

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