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National Geographic
01-07-2025
- Entertainment
- National Geographic
Ready to unwind after Pride? Try these relaxing LGBTQ+-friendly getaways
From the first Pride—a bold blend of protest and celebration held in New York on June 28, 1970, to mark the anniversary of the Stonewall Uprising—to today's vibrant festivities, Pride Month continues to be a powerful time for the LGBTQ+ community. As a gay man, frequent traveler, and co-author of the book Out in the World from National Geographic, I'm always moved by the global expressions of unity, identity, and visibility that define this season. Pride Month is also one of the busiest times of the year. After the parades, marches, drag shows, and community events, many participants are ready for a break. Here are a few LGBTQ+-friendly destinations where you can relax, recharge, and continue celebrating who you are. The Stonewall Inn in Greenwich Village was the site of the 1969 Stonewall riots. Photograph By David 'Dee' Delgado/REUTERS/Redux The Berkshires, Massachusetts An artists' enclave in Western Massachusetts—the first U.S. state to legalize gay marriage—the Berkshires blends charming towns, scenic hills, and a top-tier arts and culture scene. In Lenox, the 524-acre Tanglewood is built for picnics and concerts under the stars. Nearby, bibliophiles and fans of the Gilded Age will love The Mount, Edith Wharton's former summer retreat. An hour north, the Williamstown Theatre Festival presents world premieres and classic revivals, often attracting stars such as Audra McDonald and Mary-Louise Parker. For art lovers, MASS MoCA offers 250,000 square feet of galleries and stages showcasing contemporary art, music, dance, and film. Meanwhile, outdoor enthusiasts will appreciate hiking at Mount Greylock or Monument Mountain, as well as boating on Otis Reservoir. In Stockbridge, the former home of Norman Rockwell, you'll find his namesake museum, a quaint Main Street, and the historical Red Lion Inn, where front porch rocking chairs offer the perfect spot to slow down and watch the world go by. (Add a detour to your next vacation—starting with these classic destinations) Concerts at Tanglewood, exploring Edith Wharton's summer estate, and hiking Mount Greylock make the Berkshires an ideal summer getaway. Photograph By Pat & Chuck Blackley / Alamy Malta Spanning less than 100 square miles, this Mediterranean gem is consistently ranked among Europe's most LGBTQ+-friendly destinations. It's especially welcoming to the trans community, who have been protected under anti-discrimination laws since 2015. More than 30 beaches line the island's coast, from the soft sands and striking views of Golden Bay to the calm, clear waters of the Blue Lagoon. Mellieħa Bay is a hub for watersports, while Wied il-Għasri's cliff-lined inlet attracts snorkelers. On Malta's sister island, Gozo, the Blue Hole—a collapsed limestone sinkhole—entices divers with its underwater arches and marine life, but swimmers and snorkelers are also welcome. (A guide to Valletta, the Maltese capital with an eye for art and entertainment) Beyond the beach, Valletta, the baroque capital and a UNESCO World Heritage site, is home to impressive sites such as St. John's Co-Cathedral, where Caravaggio's The Beheading of St. John the Baptist is on display, Upper Barrakka Gardens, and Casa Rocca Piccola. For a break from the sun, the Ħal Saflieni Hypogeum, located 15 minutes from Valletta, is an underground prehistoric burial site with interconnecting rock chambers. Malta is consistently ranked among Europe's most LGBTQ+-friendly destinations. Photograph By BBA Photography, Shutterstock Fiji With 333 islands in the striking blue waters of the South Pacific Ocean and its warm 'bula' welcome, Fiji will instantly make you feel at ease. On Viti Levu (where most international flights arrive in Nadi), land-based activities include Sri Siva Subramaniya Swami Temple, the largest Hindu temple in the Southern Hemisphere, and the Garden of the Sleeping Giant, featuring over 2,000 varieties of orchids. Also on the island, the Coral Coast offers relaxing beaches and high-octane adventures such as diving with tiger sharks at Beqa Lagoon and hiking at Sigatoka Sand Dunes National Park. From Viti Levu, scenic ferry rides take you to the Mamanuca Islands or Yasawa Islands, which have powder-soft beaches, resorts with overwater bungalows, and great snorkeling, including opportunities to spot reef sharks, manta rays, and tropical fish. The lesser-traveled Taveuni Island, known as the Garden Island, offers a great trek to Tavoro (Bouma) Falls in Bouma National Heritage Park. The island of Kadavu features the Great Astrolabe Reef, one of the world's largest barrier reefs, where you may encounter whales, dolphins, and wrasses. (In Fiji, these hotels put the guests to work—in a good way) A traditional fire dance performance at Shangri-La Yanuca Island, Fiji. Photograph By TOH GOUTTENOIRE/The New York Times/Redux Panama Famed for its canal and the narrow isthmus linking two continents, Panama offers vibrant city life, stunning beaches, and natural wonders all within easy reach. In Panama City, the UNESCO-listed Casco Antiguo invites visitors to stroll winding streets lined with centuries-old architecture and leafy plazas. At Villa Ana 1928, you can dine in a beautifully restored mansion with a no-cellphone policy, while the inclusive Hotel La Compañía, set in a 17th-century Jesuit convent, features curated art, five globally inspired restaurants, and a rooftop pool. The modern cityscape includes the Frank Gehry-designed Biomuseo, exploring Panama's rich biodiversity, and the Miraflores Visitor Center, where you can watch ships traverse the Panama Canal. Beyond the city, the Pearl Islands beckon with turquoise waters and secluded coves. For a cooler retreat, El Valle de Antón—nestled in an extinct volcanic crater—offers thermal springs, mountain hikes, waterfall treks, scenic bike rides, and a laid-back atmosphere. At La Compañía del Valle, a restful and restorative experience includes a saltwater pool and sun deck with mountain views, inventive gastronomy with 'fire and earth' themes, and an upcoming 18,000-square-foot spa. (Why Panama City's appeal goes far beyond its namesake canal) Hotel la Compañia, in Panama City's historic district, is housed in a former convent. Photograph By Toh Gouttenoire/The New York Times/Redux Rapid City, South Dakota Though South Dakota leans conservative, Rapid City stands out for its queer-allied businesses and growing LGBTQ+ presence. The Black Hills Center for Equality offers community support, outreach, and sponsors a Pride festival and other community events. Downtown, explore the haunted history of the Hotel Alex Johnson, browse Mitzi's Books for your next great read, and learn about the region's storied past at the Journey Museum, with exhibits on paleontology, archaeology, Native American culture, and pioneer life. The City of Presidents, featuring life-sized bronze statues of former U.S. presidents, adds a unique historic touch, while iconic Mount Rushmore is just 30 minutes away. Rapid City also serves as a gateway to the Badlands, where hiking, wildlife spotting, and stargazing offer the perfect digital detox, and Custer State Park, where 1,300 free-roaming bison wander across 71,000 acres and scenic drives like Needles Highway reveal granite spires and sweeping views. For food and nightlife, local queer-welcoming favorites include Murphy's Pub, Ugly Graffiti, Bokujo Ramen, Tally's Silver Spoon, Aby's, and the Brass Rail. Rapid City also serves as a gateway to the Badlands, where hiking, wildlife spotting, and stargazing abound. Photograph By Robert Harding Video/Shutterstock


UPI
30-06-2025
- UPI
Man arrested, 51 treated after bear spray used at NYC pride parade
Officials said Monday that Dominic Sabator, of Harlem, unleashed potent pepper spray at New York City's pride event (seen Sunday afternoon along Fifth Avenue) because he believed that he was to be jumped. Photo by Peter Foley/UPI | License Photo June 30 (UPI) -- A 33-year-old man is in New York City police custody after bear repellant sprayed into the crowd during the city's annual Pride Month march injured 51 parade goers. Officials said Monday that Dominic Sabator, of Harlem, unleashed the potent pepper spray Sunday during the event because he believed that he was about to be jumped by unnamed suspects. Video footage from Sunday's pride event incident at Washington Square Park in Manhattan depicted at least two dozen police officers on scene with first responders called at about 7:50 p.m. EDT to 53 Washington Square South, according to FDNY. "An individual deployed bear deterrent. This individual is in custody," NYPD posted Sunday on social media at 8:00 p.m. EDT. Initial reports stated that six people were treated with minor injuries after panic swept the crowd and people were seen fleeing in all directions in the Greenwich Village park as the Fifth Avenue pride parade wrapped up. "We ask the public to remain calm," police stated at the time. But medics ultimately treated 47 victims on scene, with four others transported to local Bellevue and Northwell Greenwich Village Hospitals. No further details have been released on Sabator or other information relating to the attack. The incident took place within hours of a shooting near Stonewall Inn on Christopher Street that saw two 16- and 17-year-old victims injured shortly after 10 p.m. local time about six blocks from the park. One is reported to be in critical and the other in stable condition. Police have not determined if the shooting was connected to the Pride celebrations. New York City's annual pride event is known to draw in up to two million attendees to the Big Apple. Last year's marked the 55th anniversary of New York City's 1969 Stonewall Uprising, which sparked the modern-day gay rights movement in the United States. The bear repellant mix can be up to three times more toxic than the commonly-used pepper spray used to ward off would-be muggers. Meanwhile, Sabator was arrested by NYPD on charges of assault, reckless endangerment and possession of a noxious chemical. It's unclear when he will see an initial court hearing.


USA Today
30-06-2025
- Politics
- USA Today
Teenage girl critical after shooting occurs near New York City's historic Stonewall Inn
Two teenagers were injured in a shooting near New York City's historic Stonewall Inn, shortly after the NYC Pride March on June 29. A 16-year-old girl was shot in the head and taken to the hospital in critical condition, while a 17-year-old girl was shot in the leg and taken to the hospital in stable condition, the New York Police Department said. No arrests have been made so far, and the investigation "remains active and ongoing," police said. 'Devastating,' says NYC Mayor Eric Adams NYC Mayor Eric Adams, in a post on social media, said he was "saddened to learn about the shooting by the Stonewall Inn tonight as Pride celebrations were winding down." "During a time when our city should be rejoicing and celebrating members of our diverse LGBTQ+ community, incidents like this are devastating," Adams said, adding "the NYPD will work quickly and tirelessly to bring the suspects to justice." New York City's Pride march is the largest of its kind in the United States, featuring 75,000 participants and roughly two million spectators, according to organizers. Pride Month commemorates the Stonewall Uprising, which began on June 28, 1969, when the NYPD raided the Stonewall Inn, a prominent gay bar on Christopher Street. In 2016, the Stonewall Inn was designated a national monument under former President Barack Obama, making it the first national park site dedicated to LGBTQ history in the country. Saman Shafiq is a trending news reporter for USA TODAY. Reach her at sshafiq@ and follow her on X and Instagram @saman_shafiq7.

30-06-2025
- Politics
Shooting outside of historic Stonewall Inn after NYC's Pride March: Mayor
An LGBTQ+ Pride parade ended in gunfire near New York City's historic Stonewall Inn on Sunday night, according to Mayor Eric Adams. "Saddened to learn about the shooting by the Stonewall Inn tonight as Pride celebrations were winding down," Adams wrote on X, adding, "During a time when our city should be rejoicing and celebrating members of our diverse LGBTQ+ community, incidents like this are devastating." Two people were injured in a shooting, according to ABC News' New York station WABC. One person was shot in the head and was taken to the hospital in critical condition. Another person was injured in the leg; it is unclear if they were shot, according to WABC. Shots rang out just after 10 p.m. at 3 Sheridan Square, in Manhattan's Greenwich Village neighborhood. A gun was recovered at the scene as the investigation into the incident is ongoing, according to WABC. The Stonewall Inn, gay bar and national historic landmark, became a monument in 2016 under former President Barack Obama, creating the country's first national park site dedicated to LGBTQ+ history. It was the site of the Stonewall Uprising on June 28, 1969, which began in response to routine police raids on the establishment, according to the Library of Congress. The conflict spanned multiple nights and drew national attention as bargoers resisted police.


Hindustan Times
29-06-2025
- Entertainment
- Hindustan Times
New York, San Francisco, Chicago, Seattle host pride parades today: Route, time and more
Several American cities are set to end Pride Month with a bang. New York, San Francisco, Chicago, and Seattle are hosting Pride Parades on Sunday, June 29. The event will be both a celebration and a protest. According to Associated Press, Pride events in major US cities are being held against the backdrop of President Donald Trump's attempts to roll back LGBTQ+ friendly policies. Here's everything you need to know about Pride celebrations in major US cities. Major American cities, including New York, San Francisco, Chicago, and Seattle, are concluding Pride Month with parades on June 29. (Photo by Adam Gray / GETTY IMAGES NORTH AMERICA / Getty Images via AFP)(Getty Images via AFP) Also read: Trump's 'One Big Beautiful Bill' passes key Senate hurdle amid criticism: Key details to know The event kicks off at 11 am ET, according to USA Today. Attendees will cross over 6th Avenue before venturing on Christopher Street. They will walk past the Stonewall National Monument as well. The NYC Pride Parade commemorates the 1969 Stonewall Uprising. The parade will end in Chelsea at 16th Street and 7th Avenue. The theme of the event is 'Rise Up: Pride in Protest.' San Francisco Pride Parade: All you need to know Another major Pride event will be held in San Francisco. The theme is 'Queer Joy is Resistance.' The march starts at 10:30 am local time at the Embarcadero Plaza and ends at the Civic Center. Seattle Pride Parade: Route, timing, theme About 300,000 attendees are expected to be present at Washington's largest and free parade, USA Today reported. The theme is 'Louder.' The march will start at Union Street and 4th Ave at 11 am PDT. The parade will end at 2nd Ave and Denny Way. Minneapolis Twin Cities Pride Festival The two-day festival will conclude on Sunday. The venue is Minneapolis' Loring Park, located at 1382 Willow Street. The Twin Cities Pride Festival will last from 10 am to 6 pm local time. A parade, starting at Third Street and Hennepin Avenue, will be held from 11 am to 2 pm. Chicago Pride Parade The 54th edition of the parade will start at 11 am local time. A total of 150 floats will be used at the event, which follows the theme 'United in Pride.' The march will make its way from Sheridan and Broadway to Diversey and Cannon Drive. FAQs What day is the Pride Parade 2025 in NYC? The parade will be held on Sunday, June 29. Will there still be Pride Parades in 2025? Yes, the London Pride Parade is expected to take place on July 5. Was Pride originally a protest? The first Pride marches were held to commemorate the Stonewall Uprising of 1969.