Weekend: Bend, Oregon

Looking for an LGBTQ-friendly weekend getaway in the Pacific Northwest? Bend, Oregon delivers stunning mountain views, outdoor adventure, and small-town charm with a welcoming vibe. Known for its high desert landscape, this Central Oregon gem offers year-round sunshine, scenic hiking trails, river floats in the summer, skiing at Mt. Bachelor in the winter, and a thriving craft beer scene. Whether you’re escaping from Portland, Seattle, or beyond, Bend is a perfect long weekend destination for LGBTQ travelers.

Out Take: Maui Beaches

Maui is my favorite Hawaiian island for good reason—it offers a perfect mix of adventure, relaxation, and natural beauty. But if there’s one thing that truly sets Maui apart, it’s the beaches. Read on for my take on the best of Maui’s sandy paradise.

Weekend: Chicago

Chicago is one of my favorite cities—especially in summer. From vibrant neighborhoods and lakefront strolls to LGBTQ events and street festivals, there’s always something happening. With friends in the city, I get to experience it like a local and play tourist when I want to.

Quick Take: Catskills

I loved the inclusive charm and nature of the Catskills and Andes, NY. It was a charming and welcoming blend of nature, art and food (and family) for a getaway that was surprisingly LGBTQ-friendly.

Weekend: Honolulu

A weekend in Honolulu offers the perfect mix of culture, beaches, and island buzz (and otherwise rare gay nightlife in Hawaii) before heading off to quieter escapes.

Weekend: Denver

Whether you’re planning a short trip or staying longer, read on for Denver travel tips to help you explore the city’s vibrant culture, nature escapes, architecture, museums, and LGBTQ-friendly nightlife.

Weekend: San Francisco

“I left my heart in San Francisco” isn’t far from the truth. I love to share tips (both obvious and obscure ones) for friends traveling to the city I lived in for a little over a decade, and I try not to miss my own chances to spend a weekend (or longer) in the city I adore.

Out Take: Portland Beer, Rooftops and Happy Hours

There’s a ton of nature to explore and farm-to-table food to savor in Portland, Oregon, but this is not that post. This one’s all about the spots to find local brew, get a deal on a drink, or to imbibe with a view. And in a few cases, maybe two of the three at once! […]

Weekend: Portland, Oregon

Playing tourist in my own city for a weekend in Portland is always a good time—it’s the perfect way to stumble upon new spots or fall back in love with old favorites. Warning: this post has a long list of personal faves!

Quick Take: Orange County (but not Disney)

While Anaheim is best known for Disneyland, I found plenty to enjoy beyond the parks. With sunshine, local flavor, and queer-friendly spots, Orange County surprised me—in good ways. Sometimes, tagging along on a work trip leads to unexpected adventures.