Gay Washington, D.C.

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The capital city of the United States is often home to a great deal of homophobic debate in the halls of congress.  It might come as quite a surprise, therefore, to learn that Washington is one of the most gay friendly cities in the United States.  It is a great place for a gay vacation for a couple or a single man.

There are far too many opportunities in this magnificent city to explore in a brief destination description.  Indeed, there is too much to see in a brief visit.  I am a frequent visitor, and I always discover new treasures.

The Mall, which is a beautiful expanse of mostly open space, runs from the Capitol building to the Lincoln Memorial.  Other memorials are located on the Mall's sprawling grounds including the adjacent Jefferson Memorial, the Washington Monument (a very popular gay attraction due to the phallic imagery of the obelisk), and war memorials dedicated to World War II, Korea and Viet Nam.  The mall is lined by most of the museums of the grand Smithsonian Institution, all of which are free to tour.  Of course, the White House property abuts the mall as well as Pennsylvania Avenue.

Much of the gay night life of the city can be found in the area around DuPont Circle.  This restaurant and club filled neighborhood is one of the safest for any traveler to the District of Columbia.  In addition to hopping night clubs, you will be able to find quieter neighborhood bars, if that is more to your taste.  Most of the mainstream clubs are also quite welcoming of gay visitors.

Inside the various night spots you will find a mixture of local gay residents, many of whom are federal government employees or political appointees, as well as a number of gay tourists from around the nation and throughout the world.

A must see for any visitor, but especially for a gay visitor to Washington, is the United States Holocaust Memorial.  Clearly its major focus is on the Nazi led genocide of Jews, but, unlike many other memorials, it does not hide the Nazis many other victims of prejudice, including the extermination of thousands of gay men who happened to come to the attention of the Nazi authorities.  It is an extremely moving experience to tour the whole museum, which you'll easily find just off the Mall.

I recommend spending at least a week becoming immersed in Washington, or do as I do: Return often for shorter visits.  You will not be disappointed.

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