While the safety and comfort of couples and their guests is of the utmost importance during every wedding, this is especially true when it comes to planning a destination wedding. From countries with different laws and societal norms surrounding same-sex marriage and gender identity to places where it simply isn’t safe to send certain travelers, the unfortunate reality is not every destination is equally inclusive. However, whether couples identify as members of the LGBTQ+ community or are dedicated to prioritizing their guests’ comfort, soon-to-be-wed travelers can rest easy knowing there are plenty of fabulous countries and cities around the globe that welcome everyone with open arms. Here are eight of our favorites.
Curaçao
Flaunting a color palette reminiscent of the rainbow flag, with its brightly painted buildings and striking Dutch architecture, it’s only fitting that Curaçao, an island in the Southern Caribbean just north of Venezuela, is considered one of the best places for LGBTQ+ travelers. While there isn’t necessarily a “gay scene” on the island, visitors of all varieties will find themselves feeling welcomed by the region’s kind and laidback locals who are proud to share the beauty of the charming paradise they call home. With over 44 beaches, it comes as no surprise Curaçao is a perfect destination for couples dreaming of a beach wedding. Luckily, the region’s hotels and resorts make it easy for lovebirds to do just that with expertly curated destination wedding packages designed to check all the boxes.
New York City
With historic LGBTQ+ landmarks like The Stonewall Inn, Christopher Park, Henrietta Hudson, Julius’ Bar, Good Judy and more, in New York City, queerness isn’t just accepted, it’s celebrated. Pair this with the destination’s massive diversity — it’s called the “Melting Pot” of America for a reason — and it’s clear The Big Apple makes for an inclusive escape for all types of travelers. Couples with dreams of tying the knot in an urban setting are spoiled for choice when it comes to wedding venues in NYC. From picture-perfect outdoor venues like Central Park, New York Botanical Garden, the High Line and Queens Zoo to swoon-worthy indoor spaces like New York Public Library, the Plaza Hotel, New-York Historical Society, Oheka Castle and more, there’s no shortage of incredible options to go around.
Iceland
Widely considered one of the most welcoming countries for queer travelers, The Land of Fire and Ice makes for a fabulous backdrop for a memorable destination wedding. In addition to hosting an epic annual Pride parade, Iceland has had an openly gay prime minister and was among the first countries in the world to legalize same-sex marriage and LGBTQ+ adoption rights. As for where to tie the knot, capital city Reykjavik stuns with its cozy spaces, colorful buildings and seaside scenery while more rural locations like Vik, the Snaefellsnes Peninsula and Hornafjordur Fjord wow with their otherworldly scenery, icy glacier lagoons and geologic wonders.
Palm Springs
Home to the Trixie Motel — the pretty-in-pink accommodation helmed by “Ru Paul’s Drag Race” starlet, Trixie Mattel —, Greater Palm Springs LGBTQ+ Pride and no shortage of opportunities to attend a drag brunch, dance alongside go-go dancers or go all out at karaoke night, Palm Springs is a mecca for LGBTQ+ travelers from around the globe. Once dubbed “The Gayest Town in America” by Contiki, this Californian resort town has all the makings for an unforgettable destination wedding with its towering palm trees, mountainous landscape and endless supply of poolside parties and cocktails. In addition to welcoming travelers from all backgrounds, couples love Palm Springs for its gorgeous wedding venues, many of which are found at local properties with Korakia Pensione, Ace Hotel & Swim Club, Omni Rancho Las Palmas Resort & Spa and Desert Island being among the most popular.
Spain
As “one of the most culturally liberal and welcoming countries for LGBTQ+ travelers,” according to The International LGBTQ+ Travel Association, Spain, specifically cities like Madrid, Barcelona, Granada, Seville and San Sebastian are top contenders among couples looking for a destination wedding location that will welcome their guests with open arms. Lively and romantic, it’s not hard to imagine Spain — with its varying landscapes, sought-after vino, daring dance moves and kind locals — as the epicenter of an unforgettable ceremony or reception. Regarding venues, wedding sites like The Wed and The Knot name Hotel Corazón, Castell de Sant Marsal, The Madrid EDITION, Gran Villa Rosa, The St. Regis Mardavall Mallorca Resort and Mandarin Oriental as some of their top choices for a hosting Spanish celebration.
San Francisco
According to the San Francisco Travel Association’s website, “In San Francisco, all are welcome and differences are celebrated.” This, combined with the city’s status as the “LGBTQ+ Capital of the World,” makes it clear the U.S. destination is a safe place for everyone, no matter who they love or how they look. All this considered, the Bay Area makes for a great backdrop for a domestic destination wedding, wowing with its historic buildings, immaculately landscaped gardens, waterfront venues and more. The Asian Art Museum, San Francisco Botanical Gardens, Argonaut Hotel, California Academy of Sciences and San Francisco City Hall are all ranked highly among wedding photographers, while The Knot named City Cruises - San Francisco, Fort Mason Center for Arts & Culture, Officer’s Club at the Presidio and The Terrace Room At Lake Merritt as some of its favorites.
Buenos Aires
Known for its thrilling nightlife, vibrant arts scene and rich cultural heritage, Argentina’s bustling capital city Buenos Aires doubles as one of the most LGBTQ+-friendly destinations in South America. A place with seemingly endless delicious eateries, fabulous hotels and resorts and no shortage of wild bars to explore, travelers love this exciting city for its lively gay scene and charming European ambiance. Weddings in Buenos Aires tout a cosmopolitan vibe, and the city’s many lavish properties make for stunning wedding venues. A few favorites among couples include Alvear Palace Hotel, Palacio Duhau - Park Hyatt Buenos Aires, The Brick Hotel and Four Seasons Hotel Buenos Aires.
Las Vegas
Perfect for fun-loving couples, in Las Vegas, anything goes, and the excitement never quits. Whether they take advantage of one of the city’s iconic wedding chapels or go something truly unique — think atop the Eiffel Tower at Paris Las Vegas, under the sea at Mandalay Bay Resort & Casino or alongside the dancing fountains at the Bellagio — there’s a venue fit for every occasion. Regarding inclusivity, Las Vegas is famously welcoming to LGBTQ+ travelers with its variety of queer nightclubs, amazing drag brunches, rowdy piano bars and more. In fact, while writing this article, we learned about the Fruit Loop, a collection of restaurants and bars that proudly fly the pride flag 365 days a year, acting as a beacon to LGBTQ+ travelers.
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