Toledo, Ohio might not be the first place that comes to mind when planning an LGBTQ+ getaway—but this welcoming Midwest city is home to a growing queer community, inclusive spaces, and a deep appreciation for art, culture, and self-expression. Whether you’re here for the lively drag shows, the locally owned queer-friendly businesses, or just looking for a place where you can show up as your full self, Toledo offers more than you’d expect—with a genuine, come-as-you-are vibe that makes it easy to feel at home.
Written by: Kendahl Plank
5/27/2025
Welcoming Neighborhoods
The heart of the city’s LGBTQ+ scene beats along the Adams Street corridor in the Uptown neighborhood, where you’ll find everything from lively drag shows and queer-owned bars to inclusive events that bring people together all year long. Just a few blocks away, the historic Old West End offers an eclectic, artsy vibe with bold architecture, progressive energy, and front-porch charm. Adjacent is the world-renowned Toledo Museum of Art—free to the public and home to a stunning collection that rivals big-city institutions. Whether you’re here to celebrate, explore, or simply be yourself, Toledo makes space for you—with authenticity, creativity, and a quiet kind of pride that speaks volumes.
Upcoming Pride Events
Pride at TMA
Celebrate love, identity, and creative expression at the Toledo Museum of Art’s Pride celebration. On Saturday, June 28, the Green Building will come alive with art-making, conversation, movement, and joy; created with and for Toledo’s LGBTQIA+ community.
Dining and Nightlife
Toledo’s dining and nightlife scenes offer a warm welcome to LGBTQIA+ locals and visitors alike, with a mix of queer-owned spaces and strong ally establishments where inclusivity is part of the culture—not just a sticker on the door. Whether you’re in the mood for cocktails and conversation or dancing and drag, there’s something for everyone.
Hamburger Mary’s Toledo | N Huron St.
Hamburger Mary’s is best known for their delicious gourmet burgers served in an overall flamboyant dining experience, where every meal is served with a complimentary side-of-Sass! They offer fabulous nightly drag shows, drag brunch, charity bingo events and other dazzling entertainment.
Georgjz 419 | Adams Street
A true staple of Toledo’s LGBTQ+ nightlife, George’s is a no-frills, all-fun neighborhood bar with decades of history and a loyal following. Expect themed nights, karaoke, drag and more.
Ottawa Tavern | Adams Street
This laid-back dive is known for its eclectic live music, strong drinks, and welcoming crowd. It’s a go-to spot for queer creatives, musicians, and allies alike.
The Attic on Adams | Upstairs at Manos
With its funky décor, craft beer, and diverse crowd, The Attic is proudly inclusive and frequently supports LGBTQIA+ events and fundraisers.
Wesley’s Bar & Grill | Adams Street
Just steps from many of the city’s queer hubs, Wesley’s has long been a welcoming space for all. Its large back patio is a summertime favorite, and the rotating beer list is one of the best in town.
Manhattan’s Pub ‘n Cheer | Adams Street
Known for live music, hearty food, and community support, Manhattan’s is a comfortable and inclusive place to grab a bite or enjoy a night out. Plus, they have an amazing Sunday brunch buffet you won’t want to miss.
Casey’s Bar & Grill | 5534 Secor Rd
A longstanding LGBTQ+ owned bar, Casey’s is known for its welcoming atmosphere and community-focused events. Patrons enjoy activities like trivia, karaoke, and pool tournaments in a space that prides itself on being authentic and accepting.
Toledo Spirits Company
Toledo Spirits Company is a local distillery known for its craft spirits and welcoming atmosphere. Their on-site cocktail bar, Bellwether, offers a range of expertly mixed drinks in a stylish setting, making it a great spot for an evening out.
Registry Bistro | Warehouse District
For a more upscale experience, Registry offers artful plates in a sleek, modern space that regularly partners with local arts and advocacy groups, including those supporting the LGBTQ+ community.
THINGS TO DO
Explore in Toledo’s 19 Metroparks
Toledo’s award-winning Metroparks are a shared treasure—a place where all visitors can feel safe and welcome. With more than a dozen parks throughout the region, including the stunning Glass City Metropark on the riverfront, they offer trails, kayaking, biking, and outdoor events that naturally bring the community together.
Shop Local at Handmade Toledo
Located in the heart of the Adams Street corridor, Handmade Toledo is more than a shop—it’s a vibrant maker space that showcases locally made goods, art, and gifts with a focus on inclusivity and creativity. It’s also the home of Maker’s Mart, a popular indie craft fair celebrating all things handcrafted and queer-affirming.
Shop Local at Jupmode
Jūpmode is a full service screen printing company and retail brand. Looking for bold rainbow gear or the perfect Pride shirt to wear to the festivities? Jupmode has all that, plus they are an affirming place to find a souvenir or a piece of Toledo to take with you! They will even print your design in rainbow colors on a shirt or piece of apparel.
Thift at House of Dow
As a Transgender Non-Binary owned business, House of Dow is always looking for ways to create more visibility in for the community. Their products are unearthed from the depths of attics, abandoned warehouses, and estate sales and given new life.
Dig into Vinyl at Culture Clash Records
Culture Clash Records is more than a record store—it’s a community hub. Known for its inclusive atmosphere, the shop offers a diverse selection of new and used vinyl spanning genres from indie rock to jazz. Culture Clash has hosted live music events and in-store performances, fostering a welcoming space for all music lovers.
Grab a Cup at Grindhrs Co.
This queer-owned coffee bar on Adams Street is a staple for community connection. With great drinks, local art, and events that bring people together, Grindhrs is a hub for LGBTQ+ creatives, students, and allies alike. In addition, BREW Coffee Bar and Dragon’s Roost Coffee & Games are both affirming spaces to gather and enjoy a cup of coffee, get some work done, or play a board game with friends.
Visit the Toledo Museum of Art
Adjacent to the Old West End, the world-renowned Toledo Museum of Art offers a welcoming space for all identities, with free admission and a diverse collection that highlights global voices and inclusive programming.
Browse at People Called Women
Located in nearby Sylvania, this feminist bookstore is proudly queer-inclusive and offers titles from LGBTQIA+ authors, as well as workshops and events centered around social justice and empowerment.
Catch a Show at the Valentine Theatre or Toledo Rep
Local performing arts venues frequently showcase diverse talent and inclusive productions.
Year-Round LGBTQ+ Special Events
Toledo offers a vibrant calendar of LGBTQIA+ events throughout the year, fostering community, celebration, and inclusivity. Three standout events—Toledo Pride, Flaunt, and Love Fest—highlight the city’s commitment to embracing and uplifting its LGBTQ+ residents and visitors.
Toledo Pride
As Northwest Ohio’s largest LGBTQIA+ celebration, Toledo Pride spans three days of festivities each August. The event kicks off with live music, drag performances, and a nighttime 5K run at Promenade Park. The following day features a vibrant parade along Adams Street, showcasing over 50 local organizations and businesses. The weekend concludes with the Big Rainbow Crawl, where participants enjoy themed drinks and dishes at various downtown establishments.
Flaunt
Organized by Equality Toledo, Flaunt is an annual fashion fundraiser that combines runway glamour with community activism. Held at the Erie Street Market, the event features performances from local arts organizations like Toledo Opera and Toledo Ballet, alongside designs from regional fashion talents. Each year, Flaunt adopts a unique theme, such as “A Night at the Moulin Rouge,” creating an immersive experience that celebrates LGBTQ+ culture and creativity.
Love Fest
Also presented by Equality Toledo, Love Fest is a summer celebration of love, diversity, and unity. Taking place at the iconic Love Wall on Adams Street, the event offers live music, drag performances, food trucks, and interactive activities. Scheduled for July 12, 2025, Love Fest invites attendees to embrace positivity and community spirit in a family-friendly atmosphere.
UNIQUE Accommodations
Toledo offers a variety of welcoming accommodations that cater to LGBTQ+ travelers, blending historic charm with modern amenities. Here are some standout options:
The Kings Throne Inn & Guest House
Situated in Toledo’s historic Old West End, The Kings Throne Inn offers a regal experience in a century-old mansion. Guests can choose from uniquely themed rooms, such as the Excalibur Suite, and enjoy amenities like a sunlit parlor, garden, and shared kitchen. Its proximity to the Toledo Museum of Art and the vibrant Adams Street corridor makes it an ideal base for exploring the city’s cultural scene.
Hotel Royal
Located in South Toledo, Hotel Royal is a revitalized boutique hotel that pays homage to its railroad-hotel origins. The property offers cozy rooms with modern finishes while retaining its historic character. Its location at the city’s transportation crossroads provides easy access to downtown attractions and beyond.
The Federal Inn
Nestled in historic Uptown Maumee, just outside Toledo, The Federal Inn is a boutique bed and breakfast that combines vintage charm with contemporary comfort. Housed in a building dating back to 1830, the inn features themed rooms, inviting common areas, and a calendar of events that foster community and connection.
LGBTQ+ Community RESOURCES
Toledo offers a robust network of resources dedicated to supporting and uplifting its LGBTQ+ community. At the forefront is Equality Toledo, a nonprofit organization committed to eliminating discrimination based on sexual orientation, gender identity, and gender expression. They provide a range of services, including advocacy, educational programs, and community events, like Love Fest. Equality Toledo also operates a community no barriers pantry offering food assistance, hygiene kits, and more.
For healthcare needs, Equitas Health offers LGBTQ+-affirming services, including HIV prevention, primary care, and mental health support. Their Toledo office is a vital resource for comprehensive and inclusive healthcare. The Center for Greater Healing, is a queer owned trauma therapy practice, dedicated to providing LGBTQIA+ affirming care to all of their clients.
Mental health support is also available through organizations like NAMI Greater Toledo, which collaborates with Equality Toledo to address the unique mental health challenges faced by the LGBTQ+ community, particularly youth and transgender individuals
The University of Toledo provides resources for LGBTQ+ students, including gender-inclusive housing options, a mentoring program called SUCCEED, and various educational initiatives aimed at fostering an inclusive campus environment .
Additionally, The COLLECTIVE focuses on uniting and empowering Toledo’s Black LGBTQ+ community through volunteerism and social networking, providing a space for connection and support.
This guide is a work in progress and will continue to grow as we highlight more inclusive and welcoming experiences. If you know of other LGBTQ+ friendly businesses or have helpful information to share, we’d love to hear from you—please email us at [email protected].
