Want to know about queer venues Australia? Visiting beautiful Sydney as a mature gay, Oxford Street is a winner but there are also so many more Australia wide. We’ll start with Sydney though and then move to Australia wide further on in the article.
Queer Venues Australia
Sydney
Predominately the gay community in Sydney is centred on Oxford Street, Darlinghurst, NSW. No longer are the LGBTQI community confined to one geographical location. Gay friendly businesses and venues are popping up everywhere alongside straight venues and clubs.
Other gay friendly suburbs in Sydney include Newtown, Paddington and Kings Cross.
Oxford Street is a major street in Sydney Australia, primarily known for its nightlife and gay atmosphere. Western section of the street directly goes though the suburb of Darlinghurst which is known as Sydney’s gay friendly suburb.
Annual Mardi Gras Gay Pride Celebration is held on Oxford Street once a year in early March. During the weeknights and especially the weekend this busy street is lined with both gay and straight partiers ready to dance the night away. There is never a dull moment on Oxford Street. You may find some of Sydney’s friendliest residents on this street.
City of Sydney club lockout/exclusion rule is no longer enforced which affected venues and clubs along Oxford Street. Sydney has numerous gay bars/hotels which are extremely popular and unique and worth frequenting.
ARQ – Biggest gay venue and club in Sydney
16 Flinders St, Darlinghurst NSW 2010
Phone: (02) 9380 8700
ARQ is busting from its seams during the weekend. It has two dedicated spaces to serving up fun and entertainment. They have the upstairs arena, which has been on the forefront of entertainment for over 16 years. The arena was developed over several years of research into sound and acoustics. Room has been designed to give an impressive aural performance combined with euphoric lighting displays.
Complete with some of the biggest, and hottest performers and acts in the country. The arena is boasting a huge dance floor with an upper floor where one can sit back on leather couches and watch your fellow revellers enjoy the beats. With multiple nights a week hosting some of Sydney’s largest parties and most famous drag shows, this venue has it all.
ARQ also have famous underwear parties.
So you might need to get a new underwear outfit so that you can showcase your best assets at their foam parties, and underwear parties. You can also head downstairs into the vortex which was designed as an intimate performance space. Complete with all the facilities of a performance space including a back stage and dressing rooms.
There are the frequent women’s nights and Sydney bear parties. Also an outdoor smoking area attached to the property. So smokers may enjoy going out for smoke breaks between dancing to great music. It’s open to 7am in the morning on Saturday.
Many mature aged gay men enjoy picking up at this venue and it’s a haven for both young and old alike.
The Colombian
117-125 Oxford St, Darlinghurst NSW 2010
Phone: (02) 9360 2151
The Colombian is a beautifully renovated triangular building with two floors. First floor is more of a versatile lounge where you could sip your drinks away and have a conversation. Before making your way upstairs to the popular dance floor. Pricing is moderate and has a mixed crowd of older, younger, gay/lesbian and straight and gay. The Colombian is well renowned for its exotic flavours. Frequently has guests visiting from all over the world which form an intrinsic part of the clubs clientele.
Stonewall Hotel
75 Oxford St, Darlinghurst NSW 2010
Phone: (02) 9360 1963
This three floor mega-club has nightly entertainment. Plenty of special themed events and activities to make everyone feel included. Hosting some of the most diverse crowd on Oxford Street. This is where you will find an amazing cross section of the scene.
There are plenty of drag shows and live events that will make you want to come back again. Recently, there has been the addition of a wine bar in a more intimate setting. Stonewall Dance Parties specialises in the younger crowd. Though there is always a diverse and amazing mix in the lower levels of the venue.
Palms On Oxford
124 Oxford Street, Darlinghurst NSW 2010
Phone: (02) 9357 4166
This downstairs venue is full of unpretentious fun just waiting to be discovered. Its low key atmosphere is very relaxed and you will find more mature aged men sitting back and enjoying their night out.
There is a large dance floor accompanied with a large projection TV playing the music videos of what song is on the decks. Dance floor is really busy with the weekend night crowds. This mostly men venue is well designed with enough seating to have a conversation until the early hours of the morning.
The Imperial Hotel
35 Erskineville Road Newtown, NSW 2043
Phone: (02)9519 9899
This gay bar is located in Newtown, away from the Oxford Street action. The Imperial has been fully renovated inside while keeping its heritage look on the exterior. One might notice this bar from the opening scenes of the movie “Priscilla, Queen of the Desert”. This venue features three distinct bar types- cabaret, cellar, and Priscilla (main bar). It has plenty of open space designed to let people mix and mingle and socialize as the night goes on. This venue is very popular with all queer people both male and female.
The Oxford Hotel – Underground Bar Formerly: Gilligans
134 Oxford St, Darlinghurst, NSW
Phone: (02) 9331 3467
This famous basement nightclub features notable DJs, drag queens and an eccentric crowd.
Located in the basement of the Oxford Hotel, this intimate venue is great for late night dancing, eating and drinking. The Oxford has a diverse and mixed crowd but commonly features mature men and bears, and the Sydney Bears will often hold functions here. Featuring cheap standard pub fare, this is a great venue to consider for a comfortable, and relaxing date.
It hosts a mixed crowd of gay and straight members of the community. So you never know who you might be talking too. Underground bar is accessible by the Oxford Hotel and has been strongly serving the community for over 30 years.
The Green Park Hotel
360 Victoria St, Darlinghurst NSW 2010
Phone: (02) 9380 5311
This neighbourhood bar located in Darlinghurst is normally a mixed crowd of gay/straight people. But a good time is enjoyed by all. The bar goes gay on Sundays attracting a wide variety of people to have a laid back Sunday (recovery) session. Newest addition to this pub is their Cantinos Mexican pop up bar, which serves Mexican themed drinks such as margaritas, mojitos and Bloody Mary’s.
This pub is a hit with the locals and has plenty of seating. Smokers will rejoice with their indoor/outdoor smoking section located directly inside the pub. This is a great venue to enjoy Sunday drinks at.
Slide Lounge
41 Oxford St, Darlinghurst NSW 2010
Phone: (02) 8915 1899
This camp yet classy venue located right off Oxford Street has a creative bill of drag shows and cabaret shows complete with in-house dining. They don’t make them like this anymore and that’s an absolute shame, because slide is one of the Crown Jewels of Oxford Street.
This up-scale venue offers a unique and exceptional dining experience in the earlier hours of the night. Turns into a busy disco like environment after dark. This venue is a big hit with the international crowd and hosts many themed events. This converted art deco building has become a big hit with both gays and lesbians. Have a great meal and strap on dancing shoes after for a memorable night out on the town.
Beresford Hotel
354 Bourke St, Surry Hills NSW 2010
Phone: (02) 8313 5000
This Surry Hills destination bar is where you can either enjoy a quite drink out or a full blown night out on the town. With multiple bars inside and a bistro in the back, this venue has all your bases covered. Great indoor and outdoor spaces wait, but it tends to get full on Thursday- Sunday nights.
You’ll find that upstairs is a large dance floor that is open weekends and it can get very busy.
Bank Hotel: Velvet Room
324 King St, Newtown NSW 2042
Phone: (02) 8568 1900
This hipster Newtown venue is filled with a mixed straight, gay and lesbian crowd. Expect live music and Djs to help create a good vibe. The front of the venue is a more traditional bar atmosphere, so don’t be put off when you walk in, the action is more in the back. Downstairs there is a Thai restaurant with open courtyard patio.
Beauchamp
267 Oxford St, Sydney NSW 2010
Phone: (02) 9331 2575
Pronounced “Beech’um” This basement bar located in Paddington is a great alternative to the dance bars you will find on Oxford Street. They have an impressive cocktail offering, sure to satisfy the pickiest of drinkers. There are a few different bars inside, with the Velvet cocktail lounge being the drawing attraction for the gay community.
This lounge has plenty of seating, pool tables and a massive upstairs terrace bar. A popular destination for people looking for something different than the dance clubs you find down the road on Oxford Street.
The Bearded Tit
183 Regent Street, REDFERN NSW 2016
A place for rebels and fluro beasts, where hard love and tender freaks rule. The Bearded Tit is a neighbourhood queer bar and creative space in Redfern. A place to come together, and a gallery that gives a platform to emerging artists. We deliver fun times and creative expression for the whole community.
Melbourne Queer Venues
In the vibrant city of Melbourne, you’ll find a diverse range of venues dedicated to the LGBTQ+ community. These spaces offer a welcoming atmosphere where everyone regardless of their sexual orientation or gender identity, can let loose and enjoy.
Here’s a look at the top 10 LGBTQ+ friendly venues in Melbourne.
1. Sircuit/Mollie’s Bar & Diner
Located on Smith Street, Sircuit/Mollie’s Bar & Diner offers two completely different experiences under one roof.
- Mollie’s Bar & Diner. Upstairs is Mollie’s, a safe space for all, offering delicious food with a side of sassy service and fabulous drag entertainment. The venue hosts drag shows from Wednesday to Sunday.
- Sircuit. Downstairs, you’ll find Sircuit, a renowned gay club. With free entry from Thursday to Sunday, Sircuit offers a variety of events, DJs, and performances.
2. Pride of our Footscray Community Bar
A pioneering LGBTQ+ space that is wholly community-owned. This venue offers a range of entertainment including comedy, live music, poetry, adult bingo, and drag shows.
3. Rainbow House Club
A neighborhood bar, Rainbow House Club, offers diverse entertainment five nights a week. From free queer piano bars to rotating live performances and DJs, this club has something for everyone.
4. Poof Doof
One of the most well-known LGBTQ+ spaces in Melbourne, is a gay club that welcomes everyone. The venue has recently undergone an inclusivity makeover, changing its slogan to “A gay club for all”.
5. Evie’s Bar & Diner
Located near the intersection of Smith and Gertrude, Evie’s Bar & Diner is a must-visit. With weekly events hosted by “the hottest queens in town”, Evie’s is a celebration of all things fabulous.
6. ADAM
Located at the Inflation Entertainment Complex, is a classic gay bar and club known for hosting huge Thursday night parties. Venue promotes a safe space for trans and cis, same-sex attracted men.
7. The Laird
A long-standing gay-owned and operated establishment that has been a part of the gay male community since the ’80s. The pub is a meeting place, haven, and party space for both cis and trans same-sex attracted men.
8. The 86
The 86 is a queer cabaret bar on Smith Street that offers a selection of fabulous shows, with a focus on drag performance.
9. DT’s Hotel
Located in Richmond, DT’s Hotel is a friendly queer local offering classic pub fare, lovely locals, karaoke, trivia, and more.
10. The Peel
One of the most renowned gay venues in Melbourne, is a late-night spot that strictly caters to the needs of trans and cis, same-sex attracted men.
Honourable Mention: Sub Club
While not a dedicated LGBTQ+ space, Sub Club is a safe space for the queer community that loves techno. The club fills the void left in the CBD’s nightclub scene.
Each of these venues adds to the vibrant LGBTQ+ scene in Melbourne, providing safe and inclusive spaces where everyone can enjoy. Whether you’re part of the LGBTQ+ community or an ally, these venues offer a welcoming atmosphere and a fantastic night out.
South Australia Queer Venues
South Australia is a vibrant region that radiates a unique charm and a welcoming vibe. It’s a haven for the LGBTQ+ community. Offering a plethora of venues that cater not just to gay individuals, but to the entire spectrum of the LGBTQ+ community.
Let’s take you on a tour of the top 10 gay bars and clubs in South Australia.
1. My Lover Cindy: A Bar for Everyone
Located in Adelaide, My Lover Cindy is a gay bar that prides itself on its inclusivity. It’s a bar that breaks the mold, offering a space that welcomes everyone, regardless of their sexual orientation or physical ability.
“My Lover Cindy is an inclusive bar, and the vibes definitely scream ‘everyone is welcome!’.”
The bar has a casual yet vibrant atmosphere, with Friday nights offering a laid-back vibe with acoustic music. Saturdays ramp up the energy, making it the perfect place for a night out.
Location: Adelaide, South Australia
2. Mary’s Poppin: A Gay Club with an Epic Drag Show
A gay club in Adelaide that is renowned for its energetic drag shows. The club opens at 9pm, with an entry fee of $20.
“Mary’s Poppin is the self-proclaimed jewel in South Australia’s LGBTQ+ crown.”
The club hosts themed nights and special events, promising a night of fun and excitement for its patrons.
Location: Adelaide, South Australia Contact: Mary’s Poppin
3. The Unley: A Gay Pub with a Rich History
A gay pub that used to be a burlesque bar called Boho. Loved by the gay and LGBT+ community in Adelaide, The Unley is a great place for pre-drinks and dinner on Friday or Saturday evenings.
Location: Adelaide, South Australia Contact: The Unley
4. Sugar: A Gay-Friendly Club with International DJs
Sugar is a gay-friendly club in Adelaide that offers a change of scenery for those looking for an 80’s and 90’s disco type of boogie. The club hosts international DJs on Saturday nights and boasts a super welcoming atmosphere.
Location: Adelaide, South Australia Contact: Sugar
5. Mylk Bar: The Go-To Place for Sunday Night Drag Bingo
Best known for its Sunday afternoon Drag Bingo. While it’s not typically frequented by the LGBT+ community during the rest of the week, it comes alive on Sundays, making it an excellent venue for a fun and relaxed afternoon.
Location: Adelaide, South Australia Contact: Mylk Bar
6. Mother Vine: An LGBT+ Friendly Wine Bar
A wine bar that is beloved by the LGBTQ+ community. Known for its super inclusive space, the bar offers a wide selection of South Australian wines and an opportunity for blind wine tasting.
Location: Adelaide, South Australia Contact: Mother Vine
7. Diverse-City: A Queer-Owned and Operated Venue
A cafe, a bar, and an event space all rolled into one. It’s a queer-owned venue that offers a diverse range of community events and a vibrant atmosphere.
Location: Adelaide, South Australia Contact: Diverse-City
8. Feast Festival ANZ Hub: The Centre for Queer Shows and Events
The Feast Festival ANZ Hub is a venue that hosts a range of queer shows and events. It has a relaxed vibe and offers awesome happy hour prices from 5-7pm every night.
Location: Adelaide, South Australia Contact: Feast Festival ANZ Hub
9. Cry Baby Bar: A Fun and Vibrant Venue
Cry Baby Bar is a venue that focuses on fun and dancing to rock and roll music. It’s a place where you can enjoy great cocktails and showcase your dance moves.
Location: Adelaide, South Australia Contact: Cry Baby Bar
10. Club X Adelaide: An Adult Entertainment Venue
Club X Adelaide is an adult entertainment venue that offers a range of adult services. Included in our Out guide gay SOPVs article. Including two blue class cinemas, a male-only RAM lounge, and internet booths with glory holes.
Location: Adelaide, South Australia
These are just a few of the gay bars and clubs in South Australia that offer a welcoming and fun environment for the LGBT+ community. So, whether you’re looking for a casual night out or a place to meet new people, these venues have something to offer for everyone.
Remember, no matter which venue you choose, the most important thing is to have fun and be yourself!
Queensland Queer Venues
Queensland, Australia’s dynamic Sunshine State, is a place of vibrant energy, coastal beauty, and diverse culture. It is also home to a lively LGBTQ+ scene, with an array of venues that cater specifically to this diverse community. Whether you’re looking for a lively dance club, a quiet bar, or an all-inclusive resort, Queensland’s gay venues offer something for everyone.
Let’s explore the 10 Best Gay Venues in Queensland that are the stars of the state’s vibrant and welcoming LGBTQ+ scene.
1. Turtle Cove Beach Resort
The Turtle Cove Beach Resort is more than just a gay-friendly venue. It is a paradise for those seeking a unique beachfront experience. By night, the resort’s SandBar morphs into Cairns’ sole gay and lesbian bar and nightclub.
This venue is a sensory delight with live bands, local DJs, and extraordinary performances from fire twirlers to samba dancers. Turtle Cove Beach Resort truly offers an unmatched nightlife experience in Cairns, ensuring your night out is nothing short of spectacular.
2. Lilo Bar
Stands out in the crowd with its distinctive rooftop pool and bar. Here, you can enjoy breathtaking city views while savoring craft beers and classic cocktails. The venue is perfect for socializing and relaxing, allowing you to take a refreshing swim before partying into the night.
3. Empire Bar
A unique arcade-style bar located in Cairns City. This alternative venue offers a range of themed drinks along with classic arcade machines, pinball machines, foosball, and air hockey. Ensuring a night of pure fun and entertainment.
4. Bar36
Situated in the Reef Hotel Casino, Bar36 is a sophisticated venue with a high-end design and a state-of-the-art lighting and vision system. An ideal spot to chill out with a drink and enjoy live music with friends in a stylish and comfortable setting.
5. The Three Wolves
Discreetly located down a laneway in Cairns City, The Three Wolves provides patrons with a unique and premium bar experience. Known for its specialty whiskey, spirits, cocktails, wine, and beers, all complemented by delectable eats.
6. Flamingos Tiki Bar
A modern interpretation of a Polynesian bar. This tropical oasis is tucked away beneath street level in the city’s bustling center. Once inside, you’ll be surrounded by tropical prints, neon lights, palm trees, bamboo, and hula girls, transporting you to a tropical paradise.
7. Gilligan’s
Renowned for its live music, nightly activities, and events. With two great entertainment areas, it’s a place to dance till you drop! This nightclub is a favorite among Cairns locals and backpackers alike.
8. The Downunder Bar
A fun and rowdy bar known for its lively atmosphere. With several pool tables, pizza on offer, and karaoke on Thursday nights, this spot is a great hangout for those seeking a casual and entertaining night out.
9. The Woolshed
Situated in the heart of the City Place, The Woolshed is an upstairs nightclub space known for table dancing and wild parties! This venue is a must-visit for those looking to have a good time in a lively and energetic environment.
10. Cock & Bull
This iconic Cairns pub offers the atmosphere and charm of a traditional English tavern. With its wood-paneled decor, The Cock & Bull is an excellent place to catch up with friends, enjoy a hearty meal, and savor a refreshing beer.
Whether you’re a local or a tourist, these LGBTQ+ friendly venues in Queensland offer a diverse range of experiences to suit all tastes. So why wait? Plan your visit, and let these fantastic venues provide you with nights to remember!
Further Reading: For more information about Queensland’s vibrant LGBTQ+ scene, check out the following resources:
Northern Territories Queer Friendly Venues
The Northern Territory, encapsulating the heart of Australia’s wilderness, is renowned for its national parks, stunning beachfronts, and vibrant LGBTQIA+ scene. Whether it’s the capital city, Darwin, or the central hub, Alice Springs, the Northern Territory has a plethora of gay-friendly venues that cater to diverse tastes and preferences. In this comprehensive guide, we take you on a journey through the best gay venues in the Northern Territory. Offering you insights into their unique features, contact details, and what makes them a must-visit for LGBTQIA+ travellers.
Gay Venues in Darwin
Darwin: A Snapshot
Capital city of the Northern Territory. A melting pot of cultures and a vibrant destination for LGBTQIA+ travellers. Known for its relaxed atmosphere, stunning natural scenery, and cosmopolitan influences, Darwin offers a variety of experiences catering to all types of travellers.
Throb Nightclub
If you’re looking for a lively party scene, Throb Nightclub is the place to be. As Darwin’s premier gay venue, it stands out for its energetic atmosphere and diverse crowd. Here, you can enjoy a night of dancing to beats from local and international DJs.
Address: 34 Harry Chan Avenue, Darwin City NT 0800, Australia
More Information: Throb Nightclub
Cost: Prices can vary depending on the event, but drinks are usually reasonably priced
The Deck Bar
The Deck Bar, situated in Darwin’s vibrant waterfront precinct, offers a laid-back setting, perfect for casual get-togethers. With a wide range of food and drink options, it’s an ideal spot to unwind after a day of exploration.
Address: 22 Kitchener Drive, Darwin City NT 0800, Australia
Cost: Reasonable prices for food and drinks
Monsoons
A dynamic venue that combines indoor and outdoor spaces to create a unique vibe. Hosting regular events, including drag shows and themed parties, it’s a popular spot among the LGBTQIA+ community for a fun night out.
Address: 46 Mitchell St, Darwin City NT 0800, Australia
More Information: Monsoons
Cost: Moderate
Gay Venues in Alice Springs
Alice Springs: An Overview
Alice Springs, often referred to as the heart of Australia’s Red Centre, is a hub of Aboriginal culture and a gateway to the iconic Ayers Rock/Uluru. Town is also recognized as the Lesbian Capital of Australia, making it a welcoming destination for the LGBTQIA+ community.
Chateau Hornsby Winery
The Chateau Hornsby Winery, the Northern Territory’s first and only winery and vineyard, is a must-visit venue in Alice Springs. You can enjoy a meal at the winery restaurant or experience a unique bush barbecue under the stars.
Address: Details not available
More Information: Contact information not provided
Cost: Prices may vary
Cruising in Northern Territory
For those interested in exploring the local gay scene, cruising can be an exciting option. While cruising can be an adventurous way to meet new people, it is advisable to gather information about the busiest times and locations to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience.
Western Australia
Discover the vibrant LGBTQ+ scene in Western Australia, particularly in Perth, the region’s capital. This guide explores the best gay venues, their unique features, and why they stand out in the lively Australian LGBTQ+ scene. It’s a city where being gay feels normal, especially in the inner town where you’ll hardly get a second glance as a same-sex couple.
Perth: A Gay-Friendly City
Scorchingly hot, yet wonderfully liveable, Perth is a remote city that’s worth the effort it takes to get there. Despite being over 2500 km from any other major metropolis, Perth offers big-city attractions, abundant nature, a laid-back lifestyle, and a surprisingly modern and wild gay scene.
Contrary to popular belief, modern Perth is sophisticated and cosmopolitan, with an energetic nightlife scene filled with gay and mixed venues. Luxurious hotels, trendy cafes, and colourful neighbourhoods are plentiful. And that’s before we even touch on the river and ocean beaches, parklands, bush and Rottnest Island with its delightful quokkas who love to take selfies!
Legal Status of Homosexuality in Perth
In Perth, homosexual activity has been legal since May 1, 1997. Same-sex marriage was legalized on December 9, 2017. LGBT discrimination is illegal in some contexts from December 6, 1986. Legal age of consent was established on September 16, 2016. Discrimination on the basis of sexual orientation, gender identity or expression is strictly prohibited in Perth. Gay travelers should have no issues exploring the wonders of this city.
Popular Gay Venues in Perth
Perth Steam Works
Perth’s only gay sauna, the Perth Steam Works is one of the city’s most popular gay venues. They even offer lunchtime discounts, making it a great spot for a midday relaxation session.
The Court Hotel
One of the biggest and most popular gay venues in Perth, The Court Hotel is a must-visit for any LGBTQ+ traveler. It’s a great place to mingle, dance, and enjoy the local gay scene.
Reviews of Gay Bars in Perth
Here are some reviews from visitors to the gay bars in Perth:
- “One of my favourite places to go and party! Wonderful staff and an amazing atmosphere. Love the fruit tingle and the fact it’s always $10 now it’s even better! I would recommend this bar/pub/club to anyone and everyone!”
- “Fantastic place. (Handsome) guy at reception took his time to show me around – made me feel very welcome. Good ‘variation’ in men – something for everyone – they seem to be coming in all shapes and sizes and preferences. Perfect.”
- “The owner made sexist and misogynistic comments to another guest when she was concerned someone had spiked her drink. A dangerous person.”
Attractions in Perth
Perth offers a range of attractions for tourists, regardless of their sexuality. However, there are a few highlights that may be of particular interest to LGBTQ+ visitors.
ITD Events
Otherwise known as In The Dark Presents, ITD Events is New Zealand and Australia’s leading LGBT event producer. They bring sickening drag race artists and other performers to town for one-off events that are not to be missed!
Loton Park Tennis Club
An all-inclusive space that is friendly, relaxing, and accepting of diversity. Here, you can enjoy a social game of tennis or a glass of champagne on their brand-new deck overlooking the tennis courts.
Swim With Sea Lions
Get up close and personal with Australia’s finest sea lions just off the Turquoise Coast of Western Australia. Swim with the ‘puppy dogs of the sea’ and witness these inquisitive, gentle creatures in their natural habitat.
Rottnest Island
Take a day trip to Rottnest Island, a popular Perth getaway due to its white-sand beaches, secluded bays, scenic bike paths, and vehicle-free atmosphere. The island offers plenty of secluded bays if all you want to do is get your kit off and relax in private.
Gay-Friendly Hotels in Perth
Perth offers several gay-friendly hotels where LGBTQ+ travelers can feel at home. One of the most popular is The Westin Perth, known for its luxurious rooms, great location, and welcoming atmosphere. Here, you can enjoy thoughtfully-designed guest rooms, destination dining options, and a ritzy bar.
Tasmania
Tasmania’s vibrant LGBTQI community has carved out its own unique and lively culture. This article will guide you through the best gay venues in Tasmania. An Australian state that is not only known for its breathtaking beauty but also its inclusive and progressive environment.
Transformation of Tasmania
Tasmania has undergone a significant transformation over the past few decades. The state that was once the last to decriminalize homosexuality in 1997, is now a home to a thriving and visible gay scene, particularly in the cities of Hobart and Launceston. This change has opened up a plethora of options for gay travellers visiting the state.
TasPride: A Beacon of LGBTQI Community
TasPride, established in 1992, has been a pillar of the LGBTQI community in Tasmania. Renamed from a community support group to TasPride in 2009, it has been instrumental in uniting, promoting, and celebrating the local LGBTQI community. The highlight of TasPride’s year is the successful annual TasPride Festival, held every November.
They also host cultural events throughout the year, such as the Queens Ball in June, and promote a variety of activities of LGBTQI organisations in Tasmania.
Flamingos Dance Bar: Hobart’s Premier LGBTQI Venue
Located at 201 Liverpool St, Hobart TAS 7000, Flamingos Dance Bar is Hobart’s only dedicated LGBTQI venue. Frequented by locals and tourists alike, Flamingos goes off on Friday and Saturday nights, making it the perfect spot for a night out. They also produce the TasPride Festival each year and host several other events throughout the year, promoting a wide range of activities produced by the many LGBTQI organisations in Tasmania.
MONA: The Hub of Provocative Modern Art
The Museum of Old and New Art (MONA) in the Berriedale peninsula in Hobart is a must-visit for any culture enthusiast. Housing some of the finest examples of contemporary and provocative art, MONA is a testament to Tasmania’s vibrant arts scene.
Gay-Owned Accommodation: Corinda’s Cottages
Located in the heart of Hobart, Corinda’s Cottages is a charming gay-owned accommodation option. Spend the night in this beautiful sandstone building, taking in the local cafes and galleries at Salamanca Place.
Discover the Beauty of Cygnet
Just outside of Hobart, the town of Cygnet in the Huon Valley is known for its arty and bohemian edge. It’s the perfect place to make your own adventure and explore Tasmania’s unique history and culture.
Lumera Echo Chalet: Queer-Friendly Accommodation
Lumera Echo Chalet offers excellent queer-friendly accommodation and travel advice for the east coast of Tasmania. This region offers breathtaking coastal ambience, especially during the summer months.
Outdoor Adventures in Tasmania
Tasmania offers some of the best hiking and mountain climbing in Australia. The Cradle Mountain-Lake St Clair National Park offers stunning day walks. While the Walls of Jerusalem National Park or the Friendly Beaches in Freycinet National Park are fantastic spots for camping or taking longer hikes into the wilderness.
