2SLGBTQI+ travel guide

Explore a diverse array of inclusive tourism experiences, attractions, accommodations, events and communities that warmly welcome Two-Spirit, lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer, intersex and all who identify in sexual and gender diverse communities (2SLGBTQI+) in Ontario.

Welcoming destinations

Ontario is a place of diversity and welcomes 2SLGBTQI+ visitors to experience it all.

Visit Toronto’s trendy city strips and Ottawa’s national treasures, soak in scenic vineyard views in Niagara-on-the-Lake and Prince Edward County and witness expansive wilderness in Algonquin Provincial Park.

Countless wineries, breweries, cideries, distilleries, taste trails and local treats like butter tarts, chocolate and cheese creations are sure to tempt foodies and liquorists. There’s also a growing list of MICHELIN-starred restaurants. And, of course, maple-infused everything—from beer to bacon to doughnuts.

Discover the top 2SLGBTQI+ places in Ontario.

Toronto

Experience the vibrant energy of Toronto, where you can sip cocktails on a patio, savour a MICHELIN-starred meal, catch a drag show or dance until the early morning hours at 2SLGBTQI+ bars and clubs.

At the heart of it all is the Church-Wellesley Village, the center of Toronto’s largest gay community, buzzing day and night with shopping, theatre, attractions, internationally inspired cuisine and a lively nightlife.

For a hip, queer-friendly vibe, Queen Street West offers trendy bars, cozy cafes, and unique shops.

Find out what’s going on in DailyXtra online, IN Magazine and on Pride Radio Canada.

Ottawa

With welcoming galleries, theatres, museums and landmarks of historic and political significance, Ottawa, the nation’s capital, offers 2SLGBTQI+ spaces to explore.

Bank Street in Centretown is at the centre of the city’s growing gay village and features well-established and newly blossoming 2SLGBTQI+ friendly businesses like bars, restaurants and accommodations.

Niagara Region

Witness the wonder of the Niagara Falls, tour Ontario’s most established wine region, enjoy world-class theatre and sample farm-to-table cuisine in the Niagara area.

Join a local event hosted by Pride Niagara to celebrate and connect with the vibrant 2SLGBTQI+ community in this welcoming and inclusive destination.

Southwestern Ontario

West of Toronto, Southwestern Ontario is a picturesque region with freshwater beaches, biodiverse forests and communities brimming with personality. Find a map of Rainbow Registered attractions, accommodations, restaurants, breweries and other experiences in towns like London, Windsor and Sarnia.

Prince Edward County

East of Toronto, Prince Edward County is a trendy rural chic destination with a thriving 2SLGBTQI+ welcoming wine, culinary, arts and boutique hotel scene.

Kingston

From fascinating historic attractions to a flourishing live music and culinary scene, the vibrant city of Kingston strikes the perfect balance between hip and heritage. It’s home to several Rainbow Registered businesses and hosts festivals, events and workshops throughout the year, including Kingston Pride.

Thunder Bay

Thunder Bay sits on the north shore of the mighty Lake Superior and is considered a gateway city to some of Ontario’s most spectacular wilderness. However, you won’t want to overlook the city itself. It is cultivating an exciting culinary scene and is home to a supportive 2SLGBTQI+ community.

Places to stay

Stay in cozy bed-and-breakfasts, unwind in luxurious hotels, and experience the inclusive campsites and resorts. Find your perfect home away from home.

Urban getaways

Ontario is home to 2SLGBTQI+ IGLTA-approved and Rainbow Registered accommodations. Search for inclusive hotels, bed and breakfasts and more in your destination.

The great outdoors

Get back to nature at one of Ontario’s gay and lesbian campgrounds, inclusive resorts and beaches. Highlights include:

• Cedars Campground, Milgrove: Gay and lesbian tent and trailer resort near Hamilton.
• Rainbow Ridge Resort & Campground, Grand Valley: An adult 2SLGBTQI+ resort and campground near Orangeville.
• Clearview Cottage Resort, Young’s Point: LGBTQI+ friendly, welcoming summer cottage resort for all families in the Kawarthas, situated by the gorgeous Stoney Lake.
• The Point Tent & Trailer Resort, Vittoria: Just minutes from Turkey Point on Ontario’s South Coast, this charming resort is for gay men.
• Northridge Inn, Lake Bernard: An upscale, queer-welcoming resort with private chalets, glamping tents and luxury lakeside rooms near Algonquin Provincial Park.

Events and festivals

Ontario hosts an ever-growing movement of Pride festivals and events, as well as gay and lesbian film festivals. Plan to join these queer-positive celebrations that support 2SLGBTQI+ communities, raise awareness and promote activism.

Pride celebrations

Ontario’s 2SLGBTQI+ communities show their pride each summer to celebrate diversity and love in all its forms and to honour the tremendous achievements made to expand inclusivity and equality for 2SLGBTQI+ people.

Find out more about Pride festivals in Ontario.

Film, music and entertainment

Experience moving and meaningful storytelling in queer cinema and music. Annual highlights include:

• Rainbow Reels Queer Film Festival, Kitchener Waterloo: Various events through the year
• ReelOut Queer Film Festival, Kingston: January/February
• Toronto Queer Film Festival, Toronto: March/April
• London Lesbian Film Festival, London: April/May
• Inside Out, Toronto: May/June
• Lavender Wild Music Festival, Toronto: June

Safety tips

Ontario defends strict human rights laws that prohibit discrimination based on sexual orientation, gender identity and gender expression.

Find accommodations, restaurants, attractions, shops, services and more with the Rainbow Registered Guide, Canada’s directory of 2SLGBTQI+ owned and supported businesses.

Every business listed on the site is accredited as an inclusive, welcoming space. A Rainbow Registered business can also be identified by the logo decal featured on the front door or window. 2SLGBTQI+ friendly businesses will often display Pride flags as well.

In an emergency, dial 911 for immediate assistance. Local queer organizations that offer visitor support include The 519 in Toronto, Capital Pride in Ottawa and OUTLoud in North Bay. Finally, check that your travel insurance covers all your healthcare needs.

Additional resources

Travelling as a 2SLGBTQI+ individual comes with unique needs, and these resources are here to help. Whether you're seeking affirming healthcare, queer-friendly businesses, safe accommodations, or inclusive facilities, these organizations and tools ensure a welcoming and supportive experience throughout Ontario.

• Rainbow Health Ontario: Access 2SLGBTQI+ affirming healthcare providers and search for local healthcare resources throughout the province.
• Canada’s 2SLGBTQI+ Chamber of Commerce: Offers support for queer travellers and connects visitors with 2SLGBTQI+ community leaders and entrepreneurs.
• International 2SLGBTQI+ Travel Association: A global network providing verified queer-friendly accommodations and activities for 2SLGBTQI+ tourists.
• Refuge Restrooms: A crowdsourced database of safe restrooms for the 2SLGBTQI+ community, including ONroute highway locations.

Ontario offers a vibrant and inclusive experience for 2SLGBTQI+ travellers, with welcoming destinations, diverse events and supportive resources that celebrate the community.

From iconic landmarks and world-class cuisine to queer-friendly accommodations and Pride celebrations, the province provides a safe and inspiring environment for every visitor to explore and enjoy.