LGBTQ+ OWNED ATLANTA BUSINESSES: 24-HOUR GUIDE ON WHERE TO VISIT

BY SARAH JOHNSON

Atlanta boasts its status as the LGBTQ+ capital of the South, offering a warm welcome to all who visit. One of the most significant events in Atlanta is the Atlanta Pride Celebration, a week-long extravaganza held in October. It stands as the largest event of its kind in the Southeast, encompassing a two-day festival (Oct. 14-15) filled with music, merchandise, art and delectable food. The festivities include a vibrant parade and a week’s worth of enlightening educational and social events.

Whether you’re attending the Atlanta Pride Celebration or simply exploring the city as a local, we’ve crafted a 24-hour itinerary packed with top LGBTQ+-owned restaurants, merchants and venues that you can support during your visit.

Morning

Start your day in East Atlanta with a visit to Hodgepodge for a delicious housemade popover and a craft coffee. Enjoy the eclectic atmosphere of this local café before continuing northeast to Decatur, a city known for its inclusive atmosphere.

In Decatur, make your way to Charis Books and More — the oldest feminist bookstore in the United States — and find something inspiring to read. The diverse selection of books includes LGBTQ+ literature, feminist texts and social justice works. Spend some time walking around the square and exploring the eclectic shops and laid-back vibe before making your way to Grant Park

Afternoon

Head to Grant Park for brunch at Ria’s Bluebird and indulge in locally sourced and lovingly made dishes, such as fluffy buttermilk pancakes or the famous huevos rancheros. Sit on the patio and enjoy the views of historic Oakland Cemetery and the garden oasis.

If you’re in the mood for tavern-style pizza, visit Firepit Pizza, just down the road. Owned by Leslie Cohen, a local

Continued on page 26 chef who gained national attention on Food Network’s Cutthroat Kitchen, this spot offers unique pizzas like the meatball pizza and the signature Unicorn wings.

Head north into Midtown and go for a leisurely bike ride on a scenic trail through Piedmont Park with beautiful views of the Midtown skyline. Near the iconic rainbow crosswalk steps away from the park is Boy Next Door Menswear, featuring stylish clothing and accessories for men offered by LGBTQ+ fashion designer Joseph DeRosa.

Evening

Experience the best of Asian fusion cuisine at JenChan’s. Located in Cabbagetown, this cozy spot offers a menu that combines pizza and Chinese cuisine. Try the sesame street fries or indulge in a glazed miso five-spice doughnut for a unique dining experience.

Combine dinner and nightlife at Noni’s on Edgewood Avenue, offering a blend of authentic homestyle Italian cuisine and a lively dance party. Indulge in delicious comfort food and expertly crafted cocktails until the early hours of the morning. On weekends, you can enjoy a live DJ, stand-up comedy performances or drag shows. Don’t miss the serene backyard patio oasis for a relaxing escape.

For sports enthusiasts, Woofs Atlanta is a gay sports bar where you can cheer on your favorite team, grab a cocktail and bar food and stay for events and themed nights like karaoke, trivia competitions and drag shows. Another option is to dance the night away to the latest rap and hip-hop sounds at Bulldogs in Midtown. It is a popular gay club that has been a favorite among Atlanta’s Black gay culture for more than 40 years. And then there’s My Sister’s Room, a lesbian-owned nightclub that hosts dance parties, live performances and themed events. There is truly no shortage of nightlife in Atlanta. This is just a few of many LGBTQ-owned favorites around town.

For theater enthusiasts, explore the performances at 7 Stages, Horizon Theatre Company, and Out Front Theatre Company. These venues celebrate the spirit of the LGBTQ+ community through thought-provoking plays and inclusive experiences.

Bonus Stop: If you have a sweet tooth, make your way to yAAAs cookies in East Atlanta for a tasty selection of freshlybaked cookies. The shop offers a variety of options including vegan and glutenfree. Treat yourself to some indulgent sweets made with real ingredients and enjoy the delightful flavors.

Explore Atlanta’s gay neighborhoods, and spend more than one day supporting LGBTQ+ businesses throughout Atlanta. From events to bars and nightlife, the LGBTQ+ Atlanta Guide will give you all the details you need to know to enjoy Atlanta’s vibrant gay communities. Just scan this QR code for more ideas.

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