Gay Bed and Breakfast: Top 16 Most Unique Spots

Is Connecticut safe for LGBTQ+ people?

You’d be surprised, at this point, how often this writer still gets this question. Especially from New York City citizens making their first foray into the state.

But fun fact: Connecticut legalized gay marriage well before New York State. In fact, it was the third in the country to legalize it after Massachusetts and California. And CT has the second-longest history, after Proposition 8 removed the statute from California’s books. There are great gay bed and breakfasts across Connecticut.

Actually, our gay friendly bed and breakfast in Greenwich, Connecticut was one of the first to host a gay wedding after legalization.

A small point of pride for us!

Greenwich had the highest number of same-sex marriages in Connecticut shortly after legalization. Greenwich hosted one out of every five gay weddings that year, despite having only 2% of the population.

And yet the entire state offers a welcoming environment for LGBTQ+ travelers. It’s perfect for a cozy gay bed and breakfast experience. From charming inns to luxurious resorts, there’s no shortage of options to explore the local LGBTQ+ community and enjoy a comfortable stay. Let’s dive into the world of gay-friendly B&Bs in Connecticut and discover the perfect accommodations for your next getaway.

Plus, gay bars, gay events, and more.

Quick hits for Gay Bed and Breakfasts in CT:

Gay B&Bs in CT offer inclusive amenities & features, and many are LGBTQ-owned & operated.
Explore local communities or enjoy romantic escapes for couples!
Discover historic attractions, gay bars, Pride events and more!

Inclusive Amenities and Features at Gay B&Bs in CT

At gay B&Bs in Connecticut, you can expect to find a friendly and intimate atmosphere, complete with romantic old-world elegance and open arms.

These establishments offer an array of amenities and features to make your stay truly memorable, including:

Wood-burning fireplaces
Antique furniture
Seasonal outdoor pools
Whirlpool baths
Flat-screen TVs
On-site chefs serving five-course meals with fresh ingredients from local markets or the inn’s garden
On-site massages
Workshops and retreats
A hot tub or two
Gyms

With such a variety of offerings, you’ll feel right at home while indulging in a relaxing getaway. Gay bed and breakfast rooms provide all the ingredients for a perfect vacation in a cozy sitting room.

Gay-Owned and Operated Bed and Breakfasts in Connecticut

Connecticut has a history of supporting gays, lesbians, and the wider community. It was one of the first U.S. states to pass progressive laws, such as:

Repealing the sodomy law in 1971
And legalizing same-sex marriage in 2008

This progressive atmosphere extends to gay-owned and operated bed and breakfasts. They and gay friendly bed and breakfasts offer unique, personalized experiences for LGBTQ+ visits.

Scranton Seahorse Inn

One such example is the Scranton Seahorse Inn, a luxurious home away from home. It’s just minutes away from beautiful beaches, delicious restaurants, and chic boutiques. And the property has stunning perennial gardens for guests to enjoy.

Stanton House Inn

Another option of CT shoreline bed and breakfasts is Stanton House Inn (us). We also style ourselves as a home away from home, within walking distance of the shops, restaurants, and art galleries of Greenwich Avenue. And our:

Are within easy reach of anywhere in Fairfield County.

LGBTQ-owned and operated B&Bs are perfect to immerse yourself in the local LGBTQ+ community.

Exploring Local LGBTQ+ Communities across Connecticut

Beyond cozy accommodations, Connecticut offers a vibrant and supportive atmosphere for LGBTQ+ visitors.

Connecticut boasts many LGBTQ+ friendly towns, such as:

There’s a wealth of resources and connections across the state:

Triangle Community Center in Norwalk
PFLAG chapters in Hartford, Norwalk, Southeastern Connecticut, and Waterbury

Hartford, CT has even been named one of the best cities for LGBTQ+ couples. So, no matter where you stay in Connecticut, you can be sure to find a welcoming and supportive environment to explore and enjoy.

Top LGBTQ+ Friendly Bed and Breakfast Destinations in CT

It doesn’t matter if you’re looking for a romantic escape, a solo adventure, or a trip focused on LGBTQ+ history. Connecticut has accommodations to cater to your travel preferences.

Whether you’re looking for a cozy bed and breakfast or a luxury hotel, we have you covered!

Romantic Escapes for Couples in Connecticut

Couples searching for romantic getaways in Connecticut have an plenty of options from which to choose. Because, let’s face it, not being friendly to LGBTQ+ visitors would be inhospitable. Some of the top destinations as far as romantic inns in CT include:

Stanton House Inn
Mayflower Inn & Spa, Auberge Resorts Collection
The Inn at Woodstock Hill
Saybrook Point Resort and Marina
The Old Lyme Inn
The Griswold Inn
Litchfield Inn

Imagine:

Relaxing by a crackling fireplace
Enjoying a candlelit dinner
Or strolling hand-in-hand through picturesque gardens

All while feeling welcomed and embraced by the LGBTQ+ friendly atmosphere.

Solo Traveler Experiences across Connecticut

Connecticut provides a wealth of opportunities to explore for solo LGBTQ+ travelers. Here are some recommendations.

Visit public art museums across Connecticut

Take a peaceful stroll through Mystic, CT

Hike to the top of Kent Falls to take in the breathtaking views of the waterfall and visit charming Kent, CT

Explore cultural attractions such as the State Capitol, Mark Twain’s House and Museum, or the towns that inspired the Gilmore Girls show

Connecticut also provides an opportunity for solo travelers to connect with other gays, lesbians, bisexuals, and transgender members. Join local gatherings, attend events, and make new friends as you immerse yourself in the state’s vibrant queer culture.

Be sure to read our guide to the most unique attractions in Connecticut, and download the CT Travel Guide.

LGBTQ+ Historic Attractions Nearby in Connecticut

Connecticut is home to several historic attractions celebrating contributions of the LGBTQ+ community.

Some noteworthy LGBTQ+ historic attractions nearby in Connecticut include:

The Philip Johnson Glass House in the town of New Canaan, CT

The Palmer-Warner House in East Haddam

Bloodroot, one of the most historic restaurants in Bridgeport for its foundational feminist-lesbian ideology

Each of these sites offers a unique perspective on the history and contributions of the LGBTQ+ community. They’re must-visit destinations for history buffs and LGBTQ+ travelers alike.

Gay friendly hotels in Connecticut

For a more traditional hotel experience, Connecticut offers a variety of gay-friendly hotels from which to choose.

Delamar Greenwich Harbor

This luxurious waterfront hotel in Greenwich offers stunning views of the harbor. The Delamar Greenwich Harbor has elegant rooms, a spa, and a restaurant on-site.

J House Greenwich

A high-tech luxury hotel in the Riverside neighborhood of Greenwich, CT, J House Greenwich is welcoming to all.

The Study at Yale

This boutique hotel in New Haven is conveniently located near Yale University. The hotel has a library lounge and a farm-to-table restaurant, and the rooms are stylishly designed.

The Goodwin

This boutique hotel in Hartford combines modern design with historic charm. The rooms are tastefully decorated, and the hotel has a rooftop lounge as well as an on-site restaurant.

Delamar Southport

This sophisticated Southport hotel in Fairfield provides elegant accommodations and upscale amenities. Enjoy spa treatments, fine dining, and exploring the charming village and scenic coastline.

Middletown Inn

This historic inn in downtown Middletown offers comfortable rooms, a cozy tavern. Plus, its location provides easy access to Wesleyan University, local shops, and restaurants.

Best Pride Events Across Connecticut

Pride events are an essential part of the LGBTQ+ community, celebrating love, acceptance, and unity. Connecticut is no exception, with Pride celebrations throughout the state each year. These events showcase the state’s vibrant LGBTQ+ community through:

Parades
Festivals
And cultural events

They’re a fantastic atmosphere of inclusivity and support.

Connecticut Pride Festival

The Hartford Pride Festival is a major annual event that honors the state’s LGBTQ+ community. It usually takes place in September. Just a few of the parts of the parade include:

A colorful parade
Live entertainment
Music performances
Drag shows
Food vendors
Community booths
And family-friendly activities

It serves as a platform for advocacy, inclusivity, and diversity celebration.

New Haven Pride

As a city known for its cultural diversity, New Haven hosts its own Pride celebration. The New Haven Pride Festival celebrates the LGBTQ+ community and its allies in the city. A day-long celebration featuring:

Live music
Dance performances
Art exhibitions
Guest speakers
And a variety of vendors selling food, beverages, and LGBTQ+-themed merchandise

Follows a parade through downtown New Haven.

Out Film CT

A non-profit organization organizes this Connecticut LGBTQ+ Film Festival. This annual event features a wide range of films centered on LGBTQ+ themes and issues. The festival lasts several days and features feature-length and short films from all over the world. It allows you to explore and appreciate queer cinema in a safe and welcoming environment.

Middletown PrideFest

This happens in early June and includes a Pride March down Main Street. Events in past years included:

Drag Artist Story Hour
Pride Rally
Concerts
A tea dance on Main Street

PrideFest is a one-day event on the South Green that includes exhibits, entertainers, food, and activities for people of all ages. The entire day’s events is interpreted in ASL.

Pride in the Park

The Triangle Community Center hosts the annual Pride in the Park Festival in Norwalk. Throughout the day, you’ll find food trucks, vendors, and activities.

Hotspots and Gay Bars in Connecticut

In the modern era, gay bars in Connecticut have been closing. Thanks to social media and being in a state more welcoming to the LGBTQ+ scene, younger generations don’t seem to need their own defined spaces.

Which is great for the community, bad for gay bars.

One of the oldest gay bars in the country, Cedar Brook Cafe, closed its doors in Westport in 2010.

That said, the state does still offer a handful of hotspots and gay bars for visitors to enjoy. They all offer a lively atmosphere for LGBTQ+ travelers to socialize, connect with locals, and enjoy entertainment.

Troupe429

Bar & Performance Space is a neighborhood bar in Norwalk, CT. Troupe429 welcomes all people. And that’s regardless of identities, sexual orientations, genders, races/ethnicities, and religious beliefs. A charming and welcoming space in a historic brick building, it’s full of smiles and good cheer and a colorful and diverse crowd.

Trevi Lounge

Trevi Lounge is a thriving gay bar and nightclub in Fairfield. The interior is chic and modern, with a large dance floor, energetic DJs, and live entertainment. The establishment hosts theme nights, special events, and drag shows.

Partners Café

Partners Café has been a gay bar and nightclub in New Haven for many years. It has a vibrant atmosphere with drag shows, dancing, and a large outdoor patio. The bar is well-known for its friendly staff and welcoming atmosphere.

168 York Street Café

168 York Street Café is a gay-friendly establishment in New Haven that combines a restaurant, bar, and live music venue. It serves a diverse menu of American and international cuisines and hosts live music performances on a regular basis.

Tisane Euro-Asian Café

Tisane is a trendy café and bar in Hartford with a diverse LGBTQ+ clientele. The venue offers a diverse menu of specialty teas, delectable food, and a welcoming lounge area. It frequently hosts live music events and drag shows.

Chez Est

Chez Est is a popular gay bar in Hartford that is known for its welcoming atmosphere and friendly staff. It provides a laid-back atmosphere with karaoke nights, theme parties, and regular drag shows. There is also a large outdoor patio for socializing at the bar.

More Places to Find the Perfect Gay Bed and Breakfast

Of course, Connecticut isn’t high on people’s lists for LGBTQ+ friendly travel.

So if you’re looking for something more conventional, San Francisco, Santa Fe, the best places in New York to stay, and other spots in New England are still waiting for you.

New England’s Cozy Getaways

Famous for quaint charm and lovely landscapes, New England offers plenty of LGBTQ+ friendly places to stay.

Whether you’re seeking:

A quiet retreat surrounded by nature
Or a luxurious resort with all the amenities

New England’s cozy getaways provide a welcoming atmosphere. Explore the region’s rich history, natural beauty, and vibrant communities as you discover the perfect home away from home in New England.

Some of the more famous vacation destinations across New England for members of the LGBTQ+ community are:

Provincetown, Massachusetts
Boston, Massachusetts
Portland, Maine
Portsmouth, New Hampshire
Providence, Rhode Island
Burlington, Vermont

San Francisco’s Charming B&Bs

San Francisco is well-known for its LGBTQ+ friendly atmosphere and vibrant community. The city’s charming B&Bs, such as:

Offer a unique blend of historic charm and modern amenities right in the center of the city’s LGBTQ+ community.

San Francisco’s charming B&Bs are situated near authentic restaurants, cafés, and gelaterias. It doesn’t matter if you’re exploring the iconic Castro District or simply strolling through the city streets. San Francisco’s B&Bs provide a welcoming home base for your stay.

Santa Fe’s Enchanting Retreats

For a unique Southwestern experience, visit LGBTQ+ friendly retreats in Santa Fe, New Mexico. Some establishments that offer a warm and inviting atmosphere for LGBTQ+ travelers include:

These enchanting retreats provide a range of amenities and features. Some highlights include spa services, outdoor activities, and LGBTQ+ friendly events.

Frequently Asked Questions

And now, random facts that didn’t make the final edit of the above article:

Is Mystic CT LGBTQ friendly?

Mystic is LGBTQ friendly. Various gay-friendly accommodations from close to downtown to secluded hotels offer plush amenities.

What is the oldest gay bar in CT?

The oldest gay bar in Connecticut is 168 York Street Cafe, a proudly LGBTQ+ owned and operated bar/restaurant. They welcome all members of the community and their allies with open arms.

Is Greenwich CT gay friendly?

Absolutely. Like most cute Connecticut towns, it has a small yet very visible LGBTQ+ community.

Is Stamford CT gay friendly?

The city of Stamford, Connecticut, as a whole is very welcoming. Unlike some cities, which have a distinct “gayborhood,” the LGBTQ community in Stamford is dispersed throughout the city. So there are many neighborhoods that would make excellent places to visit or live.