Where Love, Adventure, and Inclusion Come Together
Traveling as an LGBTQ+ family means seeking not just beauty and fun—but also safety, community, and acceptance. The great news? There are amazing destinations across the globe that embrace diversity and welcome all families with open arms.
Whether you’re a couple with kids, a rainbow co-parenting crew, or chosen family on an adventure, these destinations deliver joy, connection, and memories that last a lifetime.
1. Vancouver, Canada
Why it’s great: Canada is one of the most progressive, LGBTQ+ inclusive countries in the world. Vancouver offers mountains, beaches, parks, and a vibrant queer community.
Top family picks:
- Stanley Park & Vancouver Aquarium
- Capilano Suspension Bridge
- Granville Island Public Market
- LGBTQ+ spot: Davie Village (family-friendly Pride events!)
2. Amsterdam, Netherlands
Why it’s great: LGBTQ+ rights are deeply rooted in Dutch culture, and Amsterdam has long been a beacon of inclusion.
Top family picks:
- Canal boat tours
- NEMO Science Museum
- Vondelpark playgrounds
- LGBTQ+ spot: Homomonument & family events during Pride Amsterdam
3. San Diego, California
Why it’s great: San Diego is known for its inclusive, laid-back vibe, with year-round sunshine and family-friendly attractions.
Top family picks:
- San Diego Zoo
- LEGOLAND California
- La Jolla tide pools
- LGBTQ+ spot: Hillcrest neighborhood, Pride Family Picnic in July
4. Barcelona, Spain
Why it’s great: Warm, welcoming, and full of color, Barcelona has a long history of LGBTQ+ rights and family inclusion.
Top family picks:
- Parc Güell and La Sagrada Familia
- Beach days at Barceloneta
- Magic Fountain light show
- LGBTQ+ spot: Eixample (Gaixample), and family zones during Pride Barcelona
5. Paris, France
Why it’s great: Paris combines cultural richness with progressive values. Many museums and sites cater to kids.
Top family picks:
- Disneyland Paris
- Seine River boat cruise
- Jardin du Luxembourg puppet shows
- LGBTQ+ spot: Marais district—great food, bookshops, and inclusive cafés
6. Costa Rica
Why it’s great: Nature-focused, eco-conscious, and increasingly LGBTQ+ friendly, Costa Rica is a great mix of adventure and relaxation.
Top family picks:
- Ziplining and jungle hikes
- Beach days in Manuel Antonio
- Animal sanctuaries & volcano tours
- LGBTQ+ spot: Manuel Antonio has a friendly queer beach scene and family-friendly eco-lodges
7. New Zealand
Why it’s great: Ranked one of the safest and most LGBTQ+ inclusive countries in the world. Clean air, friendly people, and jaw-dropping landscapes.
Top family picks:
- Hobbiton Movie Set
- Glowworm caves in Waitomo
- Rotorua’s geothermal parks
- LGBTQ+ spot: Wellington and Auckland both have Pride festivals and queer family events
8. Provincetown, Massachusetts
Why it’s great: A historic LGBTQ+ haven that’s surprisingly kid-friendly, especially in summer.
Top family picks:
- Whale watching tours
- Cape Cod National Seashore
- Ice cream and boardwalk strolls
- LGBTQ+ spot: Family Week in July—the world’s largest gathering of LGBTQ+ families
9. Reykjavik, Iceland
Why it’s great: Iceland is incredibly safe, progressive, and visually stunning—perfect for adventurous LGBTQ+ families.
Top family picks:
- Blue Lagoon (with kid-friendly options)
- Puffin watching tours
- Golden Circle geysers and waterfalls
- LGBTQ+ spot: Reykjavik Pride is family-inclusive with dedicated events for kids
10. Lisbon, Portugal
Why it’s great: A warm, affordable, and charming European capital with a growing LGBTQ+ scene and welcoming locals.
Top family picks:
- Tram rides through historic neighborhoods
- Oceanário de Lisboa (Europe’s largest indoor aquarium)
- Fairy-tale castles in nearby Sintra
- LGBTQ+ spot: Bairro Alto and family events during Arraial Lisboa Pride
Tips for LGBTQ+ Families Traveling Abroad:
- Research Local Laws – Know the legal protections and cultural climate. ILGA’s Rainbow Map is a great resource.
- Book Inclusive Stays – Look for LGBTQ+-owned or queer-friendly hotels, like those listed on Purple Roofs or Misterb&b.
- Prepare Travel Documents – If you’re traveling with children, check for specific paperwork for non-biological parents or guardians.
- Check for Family Pride Events – Many cities now have Pride weeks that include storytimes, picnics, and parades specifically for LGBTQ+ families.
Family is love, and adventure is for everyone.
As more destinations embrace diversity, LGBTQ+ families can roam the globe with pride—creating beautiful memories and showing the next generation what freedom and inclusion look like.