As June marks Pride month and ushers in the summer season, destination marketing organizations (DMOs) often ramp up efforts to appeal to and engage the LGBTQ+ travel market. In today’s travel environment, the purchasing value of the pink dollar is estimated to be worth over $200 billion, affirming its place in the global economy.
When DMOs curate personalized experiences, prioritize inclusivity and diversity, and integrate LGBTQ+ friendly policies, they can offer LGBTQ+ travelers a unique and authentic travel experience that goes beyond mere symbolism. Check out how these DMOs are ensuring safe and inclusive spaces for LGBTQ+ travelers.
Considered one of the most popular vacation choices in the U.S., Greater Miami Convention and Miami Beach is known to be an LGBTQ+ friendly destination all year round. The city boasts a vibrant community and a host of initiatives that support LGBTQ+ travelers and residents alike. From winter festivals and pool parties to sandy beaches and beach pride parades, Miami beams with colorful celebrations and diverse art scenes. During Pride Month, the city comes alive with LGBTQ+ festivities and events that showcase Miami’s inclusive spirit.
Visit Tampa Bay is a DMO that creates authentic travel experiences in the heart of Florida’s Gulf Coast. The city’s LGBTQ+ destination guide magazine, Visit Tampa Gay, offers an insider look into all things pride in the city. Travelers can find everything they need to plan a perfect getaway and experience the best of LGBTQ+ Tampa, including insider tips on the hottest nightlife spots and LGBTQ+-friendly accommodations in the city.
Ranked among America’s top ten queerest cities, Visit Salt Lake is an inclusive urban destination in Utah. Renowned for its natural attractions, outdoor adventures, and culinary delights, Salt Lake City has something for everyone. The city features LGBTQ+-owned businesses and local organizations, which cater specifically to the needs of the LGBTQ+ community. Beyond its artistic scenery, the city offers a wealth of support networks and advocacy groups for travelers of all orientations and identities.
Visit Detroit provides a curated list of activities to help LGBTQ+ travelers make the most of their time in the Motor City. The city hosts the famous Marche du Nain Rouge, a unique festival celebrating LGBTQ+ community spirit and the arrival of spring. Detroit is home to a Motor City Pride parade that draws around 40,000 people each year. In addition, the city offers community centers that provide a safe space for LGBTQ+ travelers and residents to learn, volunteer, and give back to the local community.
Visit New Orleans’ Everyone Is Welcome Here Sticker Program captures the city's ‘strength in diversity’ mantra. This badge represents LGBTQ+ people of color, and signifies a citywide commitment to embracing individuals from all backgrounds and identities. Visit New Orleans invites businesses to participate by taking a pledge to promote an inclusive economic environment. When businesses place the “Everyone Is Welcome Here sticker” on their storefront, they transform the way people experience and perceive the city of New Orleans.
Dayton, Ohio is home to approximately 27,000 LGBTQ+ individuals who reside in the city and Montgomery County. Dubbed as the all-star city for lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender rights, Dayton maintains a perfect score for LGBTQ+ equality measures on nondiscrimination laws in the Human Rights’ Municipal Equality Index. The city hosts a series of events that highlight the vibrancy and diversity of the local community, including an LGBTQ+ history talk and book club, which provides opportunities for education and discussion on LGBTQ+ topics.
For over six decades, Visit Puerto Vallarta has maintained a solid reputation as one of the LGBTQ+ community’s most beloved destinations. Popular for its welcoming and inclusive community, Visit Puerto Vallarta is recognized as an unforgettable LGBTQ+ location to visit in Mexico. The city has an array of resources for LGBTQ+ travelers, including Gay Guide Vallarta, an online guide listing attractions, hotels, and discos; Gay Puerto Vallarta, an online magazine with the latest news, blogs, and events; and Out&About PV, a directory guide highlighting a wide range of LGBTQ+ supportive or owned businesses.
When you think about pride in your marketing, think beyond just attracting LGBTQ+ travelers to your destination. LGBTQ+ travelers seek safe and inclusive travel experiences where they feel welcomed and accepted. You should strive to deliver enjoyable, unique and authentic experiences that make travel more personalized and accessible for these travelers.
Continue your journey towards creating inclusive and diverse travel experiences for LGBTQ+ travelers with these valuable resources.
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