Highlights for Pride Season 2026

Supported by Miami’s Pride‑365 approach and a rich, inclusive local scene, these events collectively position the city as a sun-soaked, culturally immersive escape for LGBTQ+ travellers. Whether attending high-energy festivals, engaging with local arts, or enjoying iconic Miami Beach settings, visitors can celebrate Pride in a destination that balances vibrant entertainment with authentic cultural experiences.

Looking for another great reason to explore more of Greater Miami and Miami Beach this spring? The Greater Miami Convention & Visitors Bureau has launched Explore Miami, a limited-time program running April 1 through May 31, 2026, featuring special offers, discounts and experiences at cultural institutions, attractions, outdoor adventures and more across the destination. From museums and wildlife encounters to live performances and historic sites, the program encourages both visitors and locals to discover something new while taking advantage of exclusive deals.

Explore Miami invites invites both locals and visitors to dive into the best of Greater Miami and Miami Beach’s experiences, as there’s something for everyone to enjoy. Along the way, take advantage of exclusive deals, buy one get one specials, and complimentary perks that make exploring even more rewarding. See below for some of the amazing offerings, and explore the full lineup of experiences and participating offers at exploremiami.com.

HIGHLIGHTS OF SPECIAL OFFERS INCLUDE:

Deering Duo Discovery

Step into history and let curiosity run wild at the Deering Estate, where the past and paradise perfectly mingle. Enjoy a Buy One Get One Free deal on Adult General Admission and double the adventure without doubling the price. Breezy bay views and trails that totally leaf visitors wanting more make this 1920s treasure equal parts museum and nature escape.

Gator Bites and Airboat Delights

Snap into adventure at Everglades Alligator Farm with 50% off children’s general admission plus an airboat ride that makes a splash. This wild and wonderfully walkable attraction features more than 2,000 gators, exotic snakes and close up wildlife encounters at every turn. A small, easy to navigate layout pairs perfectly with shady trees, orchids, ponds and waterfalls for a breezy Old Florida vibe. Live alligator shows and feeding time deliver a jaw dropping experience packed with bite.

Smell the Savings in the Air

Sniff out something scent-sational at Tijon Miami with a buy one get one half off deal on perfumes or immersive experiences. This fragrance playground blends science and style, letting creativity take the lead through hundreds of global oils and dreamy notes. Mix, match and make magic in a real perfumer’s lab, then bottle up a signature scent worth bragging about. Double the aromas, double the fun and half the price makes this deal simply unforgettable.

Bayside Bliss

Step into a slice of European elegance at Vizcaya Museum & Gardens where art, history and gardens bloom in perfect harmony. Wander through jaw-dropping architecture and labyrinthine gardens while soaking up sweeping Biscayne Bay views. Seasonal savings make this cultural gem even sweeter with 50% off adult admission. Time to make history, beauty and a little magic part of the Miami daycation.

Four Miles of Adventure, Half the Price

Swing into wild savings at Zoo Miami with 50% off admission for up to six adventurers. Wander four miles of lush trails and meet 2,500-plus creatures from tigers to koalas in sprawling, sun-soaked habitats. Explore the only subtropical zoo in the continental U.S. where the Everglades, Amazon, Africa and Asia come to life under Miami skies. Leaf through a jungle of over 1,000 plant species and let the wild side roam free.

Below is a complete list of attractions and museums participating in Explore Miami:

• Deering Estate
• Everglades Alligator Farm
• Fantasy Theatre Factory at the Sandrell Rivers Theater
• Flamingo Adventures at Everglades National Park
• Freedom Tower Miami
• GableStage at The Biltmore
• Jungle Island
• Miami Marlins
• Museum of Graffiti
• Oleta River State Park
• Pérez Art Museum Miami (PAMM)
• Paradox Museum
• Phillip And Patricia Frost Museum of Science
• Sky Tours Miami
• Tequila Town
• Thriller Miami Speedboat Adventures
• Tijon Miami
• Vizcaya Museum & Gardens
• Wynwood Walls
• Zoo Miami

Pet-Friendly Travel

Miami goes beyond simply welcoming pets — it makes travelling with them effortless and enjoyable. With rooftop cocktails at sunset, oceanside brunches, and curated pet-friendly events, the city blends animals seamlessly into its vibrant dining, hospitality, and cultural scene. 

Pet-Friendly Dining & Drinks 

Pet-Friendly Stays 

Miami is a sun-soaked, pet-friendly escape where style, wellness, and joyful companionship go paw in paw. 

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At the heart of the expansion is YOUYU Noodle Bar Ottawa, a bold new culinary experience inspired by the electric atmosphere of Asia’s night markets. YOUYU serves freshly hand-pulled noodles, slow-simmered broths, and authentic, flavour-forward dishes influenced by the street-food scenes of Hong Kong, Tokyo, and Bangkok.

Phase 2 also unveils a dedicated Baccarat Room, offering an exclusive gaming sanctuary shaped by Asian elegance and sophistication. With luxury finishes, an intimate ambiance, and a focus on cultural authenticity, the space creates a refined environment where tradition meets thrill.

The overall casino experience expands significantly with an enhanced gaming floor, elevating Hard Rock into a true world-class entertainment hub. Guests will enjoy up to 40 live table games, featuring favourites like baccarat, blackjack, roulette, and a range of specialty games, alongside 1,500 slot machines designed for immersive play and big-win excitement.

Rounding out the expansion, Hard Rock’s signature music memorabilia collection grows with new, iconic pieces from some of music’s greatest trailblazers. Each artifact is carefully curated to tell a story, inviting guests to explore, reminisce, and feel that unmistakable Hard Rock spirit in every corner.

Explore more of the property, and book a dining experience or overnight stay via their website.

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“Philadelphia is a city that shows up for everyone. We don’t just welcome diversity—we celebrate it. The Philly Pride Visitor Center is putting that spirit into action,” said Kathryn Ott Lovell, president and CEO of Philadelphia Visitor Center. “We’re building a starting point for tourists, a dedicated space for this community, and a true reflection of what our city stands for. Our hope is that the Philly Pride Visitor Center becomes a place where LGBTQ+ visitors feel like they belong from the moment they arrive.”

Located in the heart of Philadelphia’s historic Gayborhood, the Philly Pride Visitor Center will serve as a vibrant and welcoming gateway to LGBTQ+-friendly experiences across the Philadelphia region and the entire Commonwealth of Pennsylvania. The Center will offer comprehensive visitor services, including itinerary planning, attraction ticketing, and travel information, with a special focus on LGBTQ+-affirming destinations, businesses, and cultural institutions. A curated selection of souvenirs, many from LGBTQ+-owned businesses, will also be available.

“Pennsylvania has always been a place where people come to write the next chapter of their story, and that includes our LGBTQ+ community. By opening the new LGBTQ+ Visitor Center, we are making it clear: you belong here. This space will showcase destinations across our commonwealth where LGBTQ+ travelers will find community, pride, and a warm Pennsylvania welcome,” said Anne Ryan, Deputy Secretary of Tourism, Pennsylvania Department of Community & Economic Development.

Visit Philadelphia supported the opening of the nation’s first LGBTQ+ visitor center within the National Park System, the Stonewall National Monument Visitor Center in New York City, recognizing Philadelphia’s important connection to those historic events. The nation’s first LGBTQ+ sit-in took place in Philadelphia at Dewey’s restaurant in 1965, and the Annual Reminders at Independence Hall were among the earliest public demonstrations for gay rights in the United States. Now, Visit Philadelphia and the Philadelphia Visitor Center bring this concept home with the Philly Pride Visitor Center, continuing the story of LGBTQ+ history where so much of it began.

“The Philly Pride Visitor Center reflects our commitment to inclusive tourism and to making sure every traveler feels seen, welcomed and celebrated,” said Angela Val, president and CEO of Visit Philadelphia. “For more than 20 years, Visit Philadelphia has worked to show LGBTQ+ travelers that they belong here. This new center gives visitors and residents a place to connect with Philadelphia’s LGBTQ+ history, discover affirming businesses and see how this city helped shape a national movement. It is both a resource hub and a testament to Philadelphia’s role in advancing LGBTQ+ rights.”

The new Center will also act as a starting point to learn about the powerful and ongoing story of Philadelphia’s LGBTQ+ community. Based on input from the community, historical content will be curated by Mark Segal, founder of Philadelphia Gay News, to ensure an authentic representation of the city’s LGBTQ+ legacy.

“Philadelphia has always been a trailblazer in LGBTQ+ history, from the first Reminder Day marches in 1965 (four years before Stonewall) to the Dewey’s sit-in, where LGBTQ+ youth stood up to a restaurant’s refusal to serve them, the first statewide anti-discrimination order under Governor Milton Shapp, and the nation’s first LGBTQ+ senior housing,” said Mark Segal, founder and publisher of Philadelphia Gay News. “Our city helped launch the fight for representation in media, shaped national policy, and created safe, visible spaces for our community. Now, with the opening of the Philly Pride Visitor Center, Philadelphia proudly honors that legacy and reaffirms its commitment to those who call this community home.”

The investment in dedicated LGBTQ+ visitor infrastructure reflects both values and data. According to Community Marketing & Insights, 63% of LGBTQ+ travelers already view Philadelphia as a welcoming destination, and the community represents $1.4 trillion in annual purchasing power.

As a legacy project tied to the U.S. Semiquincentennial in 2026, the Philly Pride Visitor Center joins national efforts to commemorate the nation’s founding by honoring the diverse communities that have shaped it. The Center reflects a long-term investment in inclusive tourism infrastructure that will serve visitors far beyond 2026.

Philadelphia expects record visitation in 2026 to celebrate the 250th anniversary of the United States, major sporting events including the FIFA World Cup, MLB All-Star Game, and PGA Championship, and cultural programming like the inaugural city-wide ArtPhilly festival.

For over two decades, Visit Philadelphia has been a national leader in LGBTQ+ tourism marketing, beginning with “Get Your History Straight and Your Nightlife Gay” in 2004 — the country’s first LGBTQ+-specific tourism television commercial. This commitment continues through initiatives including “In Pursuit of a More Perfect Union: Drag Queen Story Time on Independence Mall,” helping Philadelphia Gay News set the 2024 Guinness World Record for the largest drag story time reading, and installing the “In Plain Sight” TQ+ sculpture as a bold celebration of the trans and queer community in Philadelphia.

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“From our origins in Spain to our global destinations, AIRE has always honoured ancient bathing traditions while creating transformative, sensory experiences,” says Amadeo Serra, CEO. “Toronto’s international spirit, creative energy, and vibrant cultural scene make it the perfect home for our Canadian debut.”

Where History Meets Ritual

Set in the heart of Toronto’s Fashion District, AIRE Toronto is located in a restored Edwardian Classical building originally built in 1912 for the Copp Clark Publishing Company. Recognized today as a designated heritage site, the structure retains its original wood beams and soaring pillars, now reimagined as the setting for AIRE’s signature candlelit bathing rituals.

“Honouring the building’s literary and industrial past is at the core of our design approach,” says  Serra. “Vintage books and printing presses echo its publishing history, while its new role celebrates a different kind of art, the art of relaxation.”

Toronto Location Features

Spanning 23,000 square feet, AIRE Toronto will include nine thermal baths and a range of distinctive design elements and amenities:

• The Palestra Outdoor Bath: an open-air bath where guests can immerse in an atmosphere of deep stillness and warmth, unlike anything else in Toronto.
• The Flotarium: a saltwater bath designed for effortless floating.
• The Thousand Jets Bath: an invigorating hydrotherapy experience.
• Tepidarium, Caldarium, and Frigidarium baths: each with its own specific temperature from cold to hot, designed to awaken the senses and restore balance.
• The Wine Bath: a private bath infused with the antioxidant properties of Spanish tempranillo grapes, offering benefits for both skin vitality and relaxation. 

Additional features include a dry sauna, vaporium, 12 massage rooms, and two warm marble beds. 

“In Toronto, guests will discover a space where silence, candlelight, and the hypnotic sound of water create an atmosphere unlike anything else in the city,” adds Serra. “It’s a place to disconnect fully and rediscover balance.”

The Experiences

Guests will be guided through a circuit of thermal baths at varying temperatures, a ritual revered since antiquity for its profound physical and emotional benefits. The journey unfolds by candlelight, AIRE’s signature element that transforms historic spaces into havens of silence and tranquility.

In addition to the Ancient Baths, AIRE Toronto offers an array of massages and rituals designed to help body and mind release the stress of everyday life. Each treatment includes access to the thermal circuit, combining the restorative power of water with therapies that promote peace and renewal. Highlights include:

Signature Wine Experience
Among AIRE’s most distinctive rituals is the Signature Wine Experience. The journey begins with 30 minutes immersed in a private wine bath, followed by a cranial massage with a nourishing hair mask and a 45-minute relaxing full body massage. Guests then continue through the thermal circuit and are offered a tasting of Matarromera wine paired with a curated selection of cheeses. 

Orange Garden                                                                                                                   

Elevate your natural beauty with this tribute to AIRE’s signature fragrance, Orange Garden. This treatment includes a full body massage and a 25-minute face massage with Gua Sha, complemented by a cooling hydrogel face mask and scalp massage. Guests also enjoy access to the thermal baths and a refreshing juice. 

AIRE Toronto is located at 510A Front Street West in Portland Commons. For more information visit beaire.com.

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Boston’s annual Christmas tree, a heartfelt gift from Nova Scotia, symbolizes over a century of friendship and gratitude. Each year, a magnificent white spruce, carefully selected from Nova Scotia’s forests, is sent to Boston to thank the city for its vital emergency aid after the 1917 Halifax Explosion. The 54th tree will be honoured on December 4th on the Boston Common with special ceremonies and strong community engagement on both sides, highlighting the enduring spirit of generosity and friendship. 

Beloved favourites like First Night Boston ring in the New Year, while Snowport in the Seaport and the SoWa Winter Festival showcase the city’s creative spirit. Visitors can explore immersive arts during WINTERACTIVE and honour Black contributions during Black History Month. 

Boston is set to launch its first annual Frostival, a new signature seasonal experience that will feature drone shows over Boston Common, new light installations, culinary events, and winter activations across downtown, the Kennedy Greenway, and Back Bay. Full details will be revealed in the coming weeks—stay tuned for an unforgettable new celebration of food, art, and local spirit. 

Winter in Boston also means sports and spectacle. Cheer on the Bruins, Celtics, or Patriots. This mix of rivalry and camaraderie captures what local fans call Boston’s warm‑hearted winter energy. And of course, 2026 marks the Winter Olympics with many Boston natives heading to Milan to showcase how the city embraces winter sports at the highest level. 

Romantics will find plenty of reasons to linger. Stay in elegant hotels like The Langham, XV Beacon, or The Liberty, many offering igloo dining, fireside bars, and special winter packages. Cozy dinners await at Mistral in the South End and Bistro du Midi in the North End—paired with skyline cocktails at Igloo Bar at the Envoy or the après‑ski ambiance of The Lodge at Publico. And be sure to reserve at one of the restaurants that will be named on the highly anticipated Michelin Guide in Boston

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HALLOWEEN FRIGHTS & FUN 

From scream-worthy haunted houses to family-friendly trick-or-treats trails, the Halloween Vacation Capital will serve up fang-tastic seasonal activities for all ages.

• Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party at Walt Disney World Resort (select nights, until Oct. 31) returns to Magic Kingdom Park with spooky entertainment, including a new dance party with the music and moves from “Zombies 4” and more “Zombies” fan favorites, along with the return of the “Hocus Pocus” Villain Spelltacular! at Cinderella Castle, Disney’s Not-So-Spooky Spectacular, Mickey’s Boo-to-You Halloween Parade, the Trick-or-Treat Trail and more.

• Universal Orlando Resort’s Halloween Horror Nights at Universal Studios Florida (select nights, until Nov. 2) returns for 48 nights with 10 all-new, mind-ripping haunted houses inspired by “Terrifier,” “Five Nights at Freddy’s,” “Friday the 13th,” and more—plus sinister scare zones, outrageous live entertainment and after-hours access to some of Universal Studios’ most thrilling attractions.
• At SeaWorld Orlando, guests can experience two Halloween-themed events:
  • Little ones can dress up in their favorite costumes and meet colourful Halloween characters at the SeaWorld Spooktacular (weekends, until Nov. 2), a family-friendly daytime event included with regular theme park admission. Guests can enjoy an exclusive Sesame Street Halloween Parade, Scarecrow Halloween Dance Party, Trick-or-Treat Trail and other themed activities.
  • Howl-O-Scream (select nights, until Nov. 1) returns for 28 nights of fully immersive fear, featuring spine-tingling scare zones, menacing haunted houses and heart-pounding thrill rides in the dark, plus interactive themed bars, electrifying live shows and more.

• LEGOLAND Florida Resort’s Brick or Treat Presents Monster Party (select dates, until Nov. 2) is a signature Halloween event included with theme park admission where guests can swoop into the spellbinding spirit with ghoul-tastic shows and experiences, tidal waves of candy, wickedly delicious treats and exclusive LEGO character encounters.

FOODIE EVENTS

Orlando heats up with flavour this fall with a variety of food festivals and dining experiences that highlight the city’s vibrant culinary offerings, showcasing local chefs and global cuisines.

• At the EPCOT International Food & Wine Festival presented by CORKCICLE (until Nov. 22), guests can enjoy a global celebration of cuisine, culture and music as they explore a culinary adventure across six different continents around World Showcase. The festival, included with park admission, offers an array of Global Marketplaces serving delectable dishes along with a star-studded concert series featuring artists like The Fray, Smash Mouth, The Beach Boys, Bowling for Soup and more.
• Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex will host an out-of-this-world Taste of Space: Fall Bites! (Oct. 3 – Nov. 9) food event. Plus, on Oct. 3, the Taste of Space: Marstini Shake-Off, the adults-only, after-hours tasting at Gateway: The Deep Space Launch Complex, will offer guests a chance to mingle with astronauts, savour local bites and drinks, and vote for a favourite handcrafted “Marstini.”
• Central Florida Veg Fest ​​Presented by Vegetarians of Central Florida (Oct. 25), a free family-friendly vegan event held at Orlando Festival Park near downtown Orlando, returns for its 20th year. The event will feature a day of educational exhibits and activities from diverse cross sections of vegan cuisines and lifestyles, including new products and ideas from over 200 vendors and 100 contributors, as well as a wide variety of food preparation demos, live music and an artist corner.
• The Walt Disney World Swan and Dolphin Food & Wine Classic (Nov. 14-15) will return for its 16th year, featuring live entertainment, culinary seminars, a fireworks show and unlimited food and drink tastings. Guests can enjoy a wide variety of dishes from the resort’s award-winning chefs paired with fine wines, beers and spirits from around the world.

FALL FESTIVALS & EVENTS

Orlando’s arts and culture flourishes this fall, offering immersive experiences that blend music, visual storytelling and cultural celebration.

• Universal Volcano Bay Nights (Every Friday night, until Oct. 31) returns for an exclusive, limited-capacity, family-friendly event featuring after-dark access to the water theme park and an array of experiences including all-new fun with Scooby-Doo and the Gang, an in-park Beach Bash with live entertainment, specialty menu items and more.
• Southern Hill Farms Fall Festival (Select dates, until Nov. 23) returns for its 10th  annual fall celebration, including fall-themed treats like apple cider donuts, pumpkin picking, s’mores by the fire, a kid zone, wagon rides, live entertainment and more.
• Come Out With Pride Orlando (Oct. 18) marks its 20th anniversary with a high-energy celebration at Lake Eola Park in downtown Orlando. Guests can enjoy a full day of vibrant live entertainment from local talent and celebrity headliners; explore offerings from over 250 diverse vendors; and experience the iconic Most Colorful Parade. The festivities culminate in a show-stopping Fireworks Grand Finale over Lake Eola
• Fall Fiesta in the Park, presented by the City of Orlando and Cox Media Group (Nov. 1-2), one of Central Florida’s longest-running traditions, will return for its 54th year to Lake Eola Park in downtown Orlando. Visitors and locals can celebrate the beauty of the season as hundreds of artist and crafter booths surround the park, along with a variety of food vendors, live entertainment and a kid’s zone.
• The 52nd Annual Winter Park Autumn Art Festival (Oct. 11-12) returns to Winter Park’s Central Park, nestled along historic Park Avenue. This free, family-friendly event showcases exceptional visual art from talented Florida artists alongside lively entertainment for all ages.
• Fiesta Calle Orange (Oct. 26), Central Florida’s largest Latino experiential event, will return for its 27th year, lighting up the streets of downtown Orlando with Latin flavor, rhythm and community pride. The family-friendly event features live performances from musicians and artists, showcasing Hispanic culture and vendors serving authentic food and drink offerings.
• The Electric Daisy Carnival (EDC) (Nov. 7-9) will return to downtown Orlando’s historic Tinker Field History Plaza, featuring three days of more than 100 electronic music artists, immersive art experiences, pyrotechnics and full-size carnival rides for one of the most vibrant and electrifying editions of EDC.
• FusionFest (Nov. 29-30) returns for its 8th year at downtown Orlando’s Seneff Arts Plaza. This free, two-day celebration showcases global cuisine, live performances, an international market, fashion shows, family-friendly crafts, and more—highlighting the diverse cultures of Central Florida.

SPORTING EVENTS

Orlando showcases a collection of high-energy matchups and marquee events this season, highlighting the city’s dynamic presence across professional hockey, basketball and collegiate football.

• Fresh off back-to-back playoff appearances, the NBA’s Orlando Magic will kick off their season with home games at downtown Orlando’s Kia Center this fall. Confirmed matches include facing off against the Miami Heat (Oct. 12) and New Orleans Pelicans (Oct. 16), with regular season matchups to be announced.
• Camping World Stadium will host the Florida Blue Florida Classic (Nov. 22), the nation’s largest football game between two Historically Black College/University (HBCU) schools, featuring the Bethune-Cookman University Wildcats and Florida A&M University Rattlesnakes.

FALL CONCERT LINEUP

Orlando will welcome numerous national tours from every genre this fall that music lovers won’t want to miss.

• Fall concerts at the Kia Center include, Billie Eilish (Oct. 14), the Jonas Brothers (Oct. 26) and more.
• Additional venues for live music, offering a range of performances by big names and local talent, include the Dr. Phillips Center for the Performing Arts in downtown Orlando, including intimate music venue, Judson’s Live; Hard Rock Live at Universal CityWalk and House of Blues at Disney Springs.

Check out Visit Orlando for all your travel planning needs.

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ACV Chill Out Event vacation packages include a 7-night all-inclusive stay at the vibrant 2SLGBTQIA+ friendly Gran Muthu Rainbow resort in Cayo Guillermo, Cuba, where travellers will be treated to an exclusive welcome kit, cocktail reception, and enjoy daily entertainment, including DJ sets, drag performances, beach parties, and a grand farewell gala dinner. Check out the daily calendar of events.

“Air Canada Vacations has always embraced diversity and inclusion, not only within the workplace, but also within our community and through our travel experiences,” said Vice President Nino Montagnese.

“In fact, the last Air Canada Vacations Chill Out event featured a celebratory airport gate activation, much to the delight of passengers. When you consider that many event-goers are returning customers, it’s a testament to just how unforgettable this Pride vacation celebration truly is. You never know what surprises we’ll have in store.”

Travel advisors can book their clients’ 7-night all-inclusive Air Canada Vacations Chill Out package to Cayo Coco, including non-stop flights departing on January 31, 2026, from Montreal starting at $1,399 per person, and from Toronto starting at $1,349 per person.

Guests can also take advantage of event exclusive hotel rates for double or single occupancy in a Junior Suite or higher category. Availability is limited. To book or learn more, click here.

The Gran Muthu Rainbow Cayo Guillermo is an adults-only 4-star resort nestled on Punta Playuelas, Cayo Guillermo. Guests are treated to 5 bars, 6 restaurants, a magnificent pool, and an endless array of included activities. It features 248 stylishly decorated rooms, including junior suites, suites, and swim out suites.

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When in Old Havana be sure to visit some of the famous landmarks, like Plaza de Armas, Plaza de San Francisco de Asís, Plaza Vieja, and Plaza de La Catedral. As well, be sure to include a stop at one of the many cigar and rum factories. Carlos Marx Theatre has an array of entertainment options throughout the year from theatrical performances to music. The Tropicana Nightclub is one of the top tourist attractions, noted for its spectacular stage shows that include dinner and drinks, and even cigars.

A must visit is Fusterlandia, local artist José Fuster’s mosaic themed home and studio that was inspired by his love of both Pablo Picasso and Spanish architect Antoni Gaudí. Fuster began creating his work back in the early 1990s, and has since grown beyond his place to nearby neighbours, creating a must-see experience in the Jaimanitas neighbourhood that’s a collection of mosaics, sculptures and fountains, all just for one USD entrance fee per person.

Other interesting under the radar stops are El Dandy bar/gallery, and Plaza Vieja’s Viaje Fantástico sculpture of a nude woman riding a rooster in heels and brandishing a giant fork. The Callejón de los Peluqueros area is filled with quaint cafés and local art, as is Callejon de Hamel, a magical place that the late Cuban artist Salvador González Escalona created 35 years ago to showcase Afro-Cuban culture. Saturday evenings have everything from live music to drag queens, while Sunday afternoons are well-known for rumba parties. Be sure to also stop by Clandestina, a queer-owned and women-led local fashion company to grab some unique gifts.

There’s no shortage of dining options, with everything from local street food to high-end establishments such as, La Ferminia, Palenque de los Cimarrones, or Las Terrazas de Cojímar restaurants. For a slightly different experience, Doña Alicia has a food-delivering robot that now assists human waiters in the dining room. Guests are greeted with digital menus on screens at their tables, allowing them to browse and order traditional Cuban dishes.

In terms of accommodations, the newly opened and very modern, Selection La Habana, is now the tallest in the city stretching high into the sky with a top level bar offering panoramic views of the city. Other hotels worthy of note include the Melia Habana with a massive outdoor pool and onsite food truck offerings, or the Meliá Cohiba that offers evening entertainment in their Habana Café. Hotel Paseo del Prado has elegant rooms and exquisite dining, while the Hotel Nacional de Cuba offers a more traditional classic Cuban experience. Grand Muthu Rainbow in Cayo Guillermo and the hetero-friendly Telégrafo Axel Hotel La Habana both cater exclusively to the LGBTQ+ traveller.

Starting July 1, 2025, e-visas will be required for visitors entering Cuba. According to the Government of Canada’s Cuba travel advisory page, those travelling directly from Canada have the visa fee included with their air ticket, and the form is available to be filled out within seven days of departure.

Westjet is looking to fulfill a long lost missing link for Canadians looking to travel to Havana this year, by adding non-stop service between Toronto and Havana starting December 18,2025, and continuing until April 23, 2025. There has been no direct service between the two cities for several years now, after both Air Canada and Cubana pulled service during COVID, which never resumed.

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Reykjavik Pride is happening August 5th-10th, 2-25 with the Parade taking place on August 9th. With over 100,000 attendees, a quarter of the Icelandic population, travellers can take part in a variety of events including family festivals, gallery openings, parties and more. Visitors can take photos with the famous rainbow street, hop on a Queer Cruise boat tour to take in Iceland’s beautiful landscapes, and end the night with high-art drag shows and cocktails on a rooftop bar.

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“At a time when some travel brands are stepping back from LGBTQ+ visibility, it’s even more important to recognize those who are stepping up,” said Renato Gagliardi (he/him), IGLTA Vice President – Global Membership. “Being an IGLTA Proud Destination sends a clear message that inclusion matters and LGBTQ+ travelers are.”

“Spain has long been a beacon for LGBTQ+ travelers, offering a rich tapestry of culture, history, and inclusivity,” said Félix Alcaraz (he/him), Consul for Tourism Affairs at the Tourist Office of Spain in Los Angeles. “With 90 % of LGBTQ+ travelers from the U.S. expressing strong interest in visiting Spain in the coming years, it’s our duty and privilege to ensure that Spain is—and remains—a fully welcoming and inclusive destination. Being the first IGLTA Proud Destination reinforces this commitment.”

Participating destinations gain access to specialized guidance from IGLTA, increased global exposure through strategic storytelling, and opportunities to collaborate on education and training to support local businesses in delivering truly inclusive experiences.

The Tourist Office of Spain, Turespaña, is the first official Proud Destination. This announcement comes as Spain prepares to host the 2026 IGLTA Global Convention in Seville, demonstrating the country’s longstanding commitment to LGBTQ+ travelers and inclusive tourism practices.

About IGLTA & the IGLTA Foundation

The International LGBTQ+ Travel Association is the global leader in advancing LGBTQ+ travel and a proud Affiliate Member of UN Tourism. IGLTA’s mission is to enable authentic travel that enriches lives and connects the LGBTQ+ community and tourism industry. IGLTA’s global network includes 13,000+ LGBTQ+ welcoming accommodations, destinations, service providers, travel agents, tour operators, events, and travel media in 80 countries. The philanthropic IGLTA Foundation empowers LGBTQ+ welcoming travel businesses globally through leadership, research, and education. For more information: iglta.org, igltaconvention.org or iglta.org/foundation and follow social media at @IGLTA and @IGLTAFoundation.

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