This flourishing queer population is diverse and glowing, with many trans members of the scene and an eccentric cultural flair that takes after its history with John Waters and Miss Divine. It’s not a touristy destination, and that’s the best thing about it. When you’re here, you’re here with the community.  We’ve curated the best of local queer to-dos so you can make the most out of your Pride season.

STAY

Hotel Indigo Baltimore Downtown

24 West Franklin Street | Baltimore, MD | 21201

(410) 625-6200

Located in Mount Vernon, this oh-so-appealing neighborhood brings life, culture, and Baltimore beats to the city. This hotel is five blocks from a Pride block party, so you’re guaranteed a lively stay. Not to mention, their restaurant Poets Modern Cocktails & Eats will have you feeling writerly in the hometown of Edgar Allan Poe.

EAT

Papermoon Diner

227 West 29th Street | Baltimore, MD | 21211

(410) 889-4444

The “eccentric, eclectic, technicolor dining experience” is one that shouldn’t be missed. Papermoon serves comfort food with a Baltimore twist, with a menu that’s suited for any dietary need. Try the vegan nachos. Oh, or the crab quesadillas. Wait, you must get the portobello sandwich.

SEE

Grand Central

1001 N. Charles Street | Baltimore, MD | 21201

(410) 752-7133

Who doesn’t love a comeback? Grand Central is a no-frills local gay hotspot that features lots of drag-ridden programming, including Throwback Thursdays. Dance through the music of the past decades and get your groove on.

GO

Baby's On Fire

1010 Morton Street | Baltimore, MD | 21201

(443) 885-9892

Owners David and Shirlé Koslowski have been involved in Baltimore’s music scene for many years, and their community-forward café/vinyl store features many turntable nights, music documentary screenings, talks, and performances featuring many queer artists. Get a taste of Baltimore culture by stopping in for any given night of programming.

DO

Red Emma's Bookstore Café

30 W. North Ave. | Baltimore, MD | 21201

(443) 602-7585

This storefront of the Baltimore Free School (a nonprofit organization and community-funded learning community) has every kind of feminist book you could ever want. Shop for a cause, and grab a coffee too, at this beautiful, radical, sustainable, cooperative space.

The businesses listed are independent of Hotel Indigo and no endorsement or affiliation is intended or implied.