An LGBTQ+ friendly trip to Portland, MaineMaine is quickly becoming one of the top LGBTQ destinations in the U.S. We all know Maine for the lobsters, lighthouses, and gorgeous nature. Come spend a long weekend as we explore what makes the city of Portland, Maine, so inclusive- from dining to nightlife to adventure and more!Authorsraviroundtheworld
DestinationsMaineItinerary

Stay

The Francis Hotel
You'll love the details at this historic boutique hotel. With 15 guest rooms, it's an intimate setting that makes you feel truly welcome. Don't overlook the original stained glass and intricate tilework. Each room is one of a kind and the hotel is located within walking distance of amazing restaurants.
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Day 1

Equality Community Center
Welcome to MaineTransNet's gender-affirming thrift store. Safe Combinations, is located inside the Center and is an incredible resource for the community and you'll absolutely love coming in for some thrifting! There are so many unique finds.
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Evo Kitchen + Bar
Hummus, halloumi, and falafel- oh my! Evo Kitchen + Bar brings together Maine ingredients and Mediterranean influence in a space that feels welcoming, inclusive, and alive. Their menu centers on bright, fresh, boldly flavored dishes that are as visually striking as they are satisfying. There are many delicious options for vegetarians and vegans.
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Arcana
Arcana is part metaphysical shop, part community space, and fully leaning into that mystical, witchy energy. Think tarot decks, crystals, candles, incense, and all the tools for spiritual exploration, but presented in a way that feels modern and intentional rather than kitschy. They also host tarot readings, workshops, and events that bring together Portland’s queer and creative community.
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Kindling Collective
Kindling Collective is a queer-centered outdoor gear library and community hub in Portland that’s all about getting more LGBTQ+ people into nature. You can borrow camping, hiking, and outdoor gear instead of buying it, making adventure way more accessible. But it’s bigger than gear, they host group hikes, trips, and workshops designed to create safe, inclusive outdoor experiences for queer and trans folks.
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Geno’s Rock Club
Geno's Rock Club is Portland’s iconic dive bar and live music venue, gritty, loud, and absolutely legendary. Opened in 1983, it’s been a home for punk, metal, indie, drag, burlesque, queer parties, and wild dance nights. Geno’s also, making it one of the most eclectic and inclusive nightlife spots in the city.
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Day 2

EVO Rock + Fitness Portland
Reach new heights (literally) at Evo Rock + Fitness! This is so much more than a gym. Visitors of any level are invited to rock climb, try yoga, or hit the many amenities available. There are even aerial classes for those that want to try something new!
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Cross Insurance Arena
In the evening, we headed to Cross Insurance Arena for Maine Mariners Game Pride Night (versus Norfolk Admirals). Be sure to see what events are happening during your visit. From hockey to concerts and even armored MMA Medieval Cage Fighting (no, really!), there's always something going on at the Arena.
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Blackstones
Blackstones is touted as Portland's oldest LGBTQ+ bar. Here, you'll find stiff drinks at great prices!
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Anoche
Continue your evening at Anoche, a Basque-inspired cider house and bistro. It's a great place to grab light bites after your visit to Cross Insurance Arena.
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The Jewel Box
Head to The Jewel Box to enjoy one of Maine's most inclusive cocktail bars. Owner Nathaniel Meiklejohn started the Jewel Box to create a safe space specifically for the marginalized community
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Portland Head Light
Portland Head Light is Maine’s most iconic lighthouse, perched dramatically on the rocky coast just outside Portland in Fort Williams Park. Commissioned by George Washington in 1791, it’s one of the oldest lighthouses in the U.S.
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Safe Combinations
Safe Combinations is not your average thrift store, it’s a queer- and trans-centered, radically affirming shopping space run by MaineTransNet. Everything is designed to feel safe and judgment-free. Clothes aren’t divided by gender, so you can explore your style without the usual pressure or side-eyes.It’s also super accessible: items are pay-what-you-can (suggested donation pricing), and they even offer free gender-affirming items like binders and garments to support people exploring their identity.
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Forage Market
Start your day at Forage Market where you'll find an assortment of baked goods and coffee. They boast an extensive bagel menu with many vegan and vegetarian-friendly options.
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Day 3

LB Kitchen
LB Kitchen serves up colorful and fresh menu items. The menu boasts a large assortment of vegan and vegetarian options and we love the delicious smoothie concoctions like "purple rain", Maine blueberries, banana, acai, almond butter, house almond milk, and cacao nibs.
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The Holy Donut
The Holy Donut crafts mouthwatering Maine Potato Donuts from scratch. There are 20 options available to choose from daily and you'll love these fun flavors like whoopie pie, maple bacon, and toasted coconut. Potato Donuts are EVERYTHING!
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Mackworth Island
Spend the morning in nature by taking a stroll around Mackworth Island. With more than 100 acres to explore, keep your eyes open for the local wildlife like seagulls, osprey, and shorebirds. You can also spot numerous fairy houses that visitors have built.
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Fore River Sanctuary
Another beautiful outdoor option is a visit to Fore River Sanctuary. This nature sanctuary is the home of Jewell Falls, Portland’s only natural waterfall. The Fore River Sanctuary is also the site of the former Cumberland and Oxford Canal, you can walk along the remains of the towpath and see the repair basin, a man-made pond dug for the canal.
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Washington Baths
Sauna time! Make your way to Washington Baths for a little R&R. These public baths are welcoming to everyone and no reservations are required. Please note silence is observed on Fridays. It's also recommended to bring your own towels and sandals.
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Green Elephant Vegetarian Bistro
Green Elephant Vegetarian Bistro is the go-to spot in Portland for bold, flavorful vegetarian Thai food. Opened in 2007 in the Arts District, it’s built a reputation as one of the best vegan-friendly restaurants in Maine.
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