Fort Lauderdale
Fort Lauderdale at a Glance
Blue waters, sandy beaches, amazing shopping, gourmet restaurants – sounds like an exotic island location, doesn’t it? Guess again. This world-class destination is nestled in the US pan-handle – Fort Lauderdale baby!
With atmosphere and culture so diverse and inclusive, you’d think Fort Lauderdale had a split-personality. Here casual meets sophisticated and relaxed comfort meets hip and happening – sounds like a case study in oxymorons (and you thought that English class was useless!) Home to 100+ gay-owned businesses, gay culture in Fort Lauderdale is so integrated that locals care less about who you’re with than what you do while you’re here.
But if you had to define a gay-berhood, it’s Wilton Manors – a hub of gay community, bars, restaurants, and boutiques. Stroll through and find everything from chic to thrift, antiquing to modern designs, and the infamous “Pride Factory” – your specialty gay outlet store … just let your imagination run! Top the afternoon off with a trip to Las Olas (the Rodeo Drive of Fort Lauderdale); lined with upscale boutiques, galleries and some of the finest restaurants in SoFlo.
But don’t let those calming day-time hours fool you – when the sun goes down, the parties start up. Less flashy than Miami, Fort Lauderdale is home to neighborhood hot spots of every persuasion – Butch/Levi/Leather, friendly bingo/karaoke, Western dance clubs, T-Dances … the list goes on! But no worries, you’ll still find great lounges and even pounding dance beats and hot go-gos.
With all you can do, you’ll forget that Fort Lauderdale itself is an attraction! Truly a city of shoreline, Greater Fort L. is known as “The American Venice,” boasting over 300 miles of navigable inland canals. Take a tour of the city by kayak, gondola, cruise or water taxi and flow past everything from centuries old mangroves to multi-million dollar mansions.
Kind, welcoming and non-intimidating, Fort Lauderdale is all about a having fun and living your life the way you want. The moment you set foot here, you’ll feel a sense of freedom to play, explore, and above all else – relax.
Where to Stay
TAG Approved� Hotels are rated by the Travel Alternatives Group, an organization whose mission it is to rate the world’s gay-friendliest hotels, resorts, and inns. When you see a TAG Approved� property, rest assured that everything is pre-screened already for you, so you’ll feel welcome worldwide, from Key West to Barcelona.
The newly renovated Renaissance Fort Lauderdale Hotel captures a sumptuous and inspired tropical departure presenting distinctive Caribbean-Colonial decor… more
TAG Approved� Hotels are rated by the Travel Alternatives Group, an organization whose mission it is to rate the world’s gay-friendliest hotels, resorts, and inns. When you see a TAG Approved� property, rest assured that everything is pre-screened already for you, so you’ll feel welcome worldwide, from Key West to Barcelona.
Escape to this Fort Lauderdale hotel for an ideal vacation experience. The Best Western Oakland Park Inn is situated in the heart of Fort Lauderdale offering… more
TAG Approved� Hotels are rated by the Travel Alternatives Group, an organization whose mission it is to rate the world’s gay-friendliest hotels, resorts, and inns. When you see a TAG Approved� property, rest assured that everything is pre-screened already for you, so you’ll feel welcome worldwide, from Key West to Barcelona.
Immaculate lush surroundings await you at this all male clothing optional gay oasis located steps away from the beach…. more
TAG Approved� Hotels are rated by the Travel Alternatives Group, an organization whose mission it is to rate the world’s gay-friendliest hotels, resorts, and inns. When you see a TAG Approved� property, rest assured that everything is pre-screened already for you, so you’ll feel welcome worldwide, from Key West to Barcelona.
Immerse yourself in the blue waves of our world class beach and the sophisticated energy of the city all while staying at the Courtyard Fort Lauderdale… more
TAG Approved� Hotels are rated by the Travel Alternatives Group, an organization whose mission it is to rate the world’s gay-friendliest hotels, resorts, and inns. When you see a TAG Approved� property, rest assured that everything is pre-screened already for you, so you’ll feel welcome worldwide, from Key West to Barcelona.
Welcome to our Fort Lauderdale Florida hotel near the Fort Lauderdale Cruise Port. Our GREEN Lodging Certified Embassy Suites Fort Lauderdale – 17th Street… more
TAG Approved� Hotels are rated by the Travel Alternatives Group, an organization whose mission it is to rate the world’s gay-friendliest hotels, resorts, and inns. When you see a TAG Approved� property, rest assured that everything is pre-screened already for you, so you’ll feel welcome worldwide, from Key West to Barcelona.
Perfectly situated on the main Intracoastal Waterway Gallery ONE – A Doubletree Guest Suites Hotel is the city*s premier boutique hotel that exemplifies… more
TAG Approved� Hotels are rated by the Travel Alternatives Group, an organization whose mission it is to rate the world’s gay-friendliest hotels, resorts, and inns. When you see a TAG Approved� property, rest assured that everything is pre-screened already for you, so you’ll feel welcome worldwide, from Key West to Barcelona.
This Newly Developed Luxury All-Suite Resort Has an Excellent Locatation in the Heart of Fort Lauderdales Beach Area. This Brand New Property Offers a… more
TAG Approved� Hotels are rated by the Travel Alternatives Group, an organization whose mission it is to rate the world’s gay-friendliest hotels, resorts, and inns. When you see a TAG Approved� property, rest assured that everything is pre-screened already for you, so you’ll feel welcome worldwide, from Key West to Barcelona.
Located just two miles from the Ft. Lauderdale Airport this hotel brings style and innovation together…. more
TAG Approved� Hotels are rated by the Travel Alternatives Group, an organization whose mission it is to rate the world’s gay-friendliest hotels, resorts, and inns. When you see a TAG Approved� property, rest assured that everything is pre-screened already for you, so you’ll feel welcome worldwide, from Key West to Barcelona.
The Hotel Has a Total of 380 Rooms Spread Over 2 Buildings. Guests Are Offered a Lobby With a Lift a Cloakroom a Safe a Currency Exchange Desk and 24-Hour… more
TAG Approved� Hotels are rated by the Travel Alternatives Group, an organization whose mission it is to rate the world’s gay-friendliest hotels, resorts, and inns. When you see a TAG Approved� property, rest assured that everything is pre-screened already for you, so you’ll feel welcome worldwide, from Key West to Barcelona.
The only gay and lesbian bed and breakfast in Fort Lauderdale this beautifully landscaped spanish style resort is recomended by Frommers Lonely Planet… more
TAG Approved� Hotels are rated by the Travel Alternatives Group, an organization whose mission it is to rate the world’s gay-friendliest hotels, resorts, and inns. When you see a TAG Approved� property, rest assured that everything is pre-screened already for you, so you’ll feel welcome worldwide, from Key West to Barcelona.
Reflect and reconnect during a seaside getaway at this Fort Lauderdale beach resort. Highlighted by a pristine oceanfront location and close proximity… more
TAG Approved� Hotels are rated by the Travel Alternatives Group, an organization whose mission it is to rate the world’s gay-friendliest hotels, resorts, and inns. When you see a TAG Approved� property, rest assured that everything is pre-screened already for you, so you’ll feel welcome worldwide, from Key West to Barcelona.
A new boutique resort featuring four unique Key West-style structures each separated by tropical gardens…. more
TAG Approved� Hotels are rated by the Travel Alternatives Group, an organization whose mission it is to rate the world’s gay-friendliest hotels, resorts, and inns. When you see a TAG Approved� property, rest assured that everything is pre-screened already for you, so you’ll feel welcome worldwide, from Key West to Barcelona.
An intimate gay bed-and-breakfast property situated in Victoria Park and six miles from the Ft. Lauderdale Airport…. more
Renovated in 2005 This Hotel Comprises a Total of 501 Rooms. The Air-Conditioned Hotel Has a Lobby With a 24-Hour Reception a Hotel Safe and a Cloakroom…. more
Opened in 2004 the Hotel Comprises 111 Rooms Set Over 15 Floors. There is an Air-Conditioned Lobby With a 24-Hour Reception Desk a Hotel Safe a Currency… more
TAG Approved� Hotels are rated by the Travel Alternatives Group, an organization whose mission it is to rate the world’s gay-friendliest hotels, resorts, and inns. When you see a TAG Approved� property, rest assured that everything is pre-screened already for you, so you’ll feel welcome worldwide, from Key West to Barcelona.
The Cabanas Guesthouse is a gay clothing optional resort located eight miles from Ft. Lauderdale Airport. The Cabanas Guesthouse and Spa is well known… more
TAG Approved� Hotels are rated by the Travel Alternatives Group, an organization whose mission it is to rate the world’s gay-friendliest hotels, resorts, and inns. When you see a TAG Approved� property, rest assured that everything is pre-screened already for you, so you’ll feel welcome worldwide, from Key West to Barcelona.
A fine gay man’s resort hotel located just steps from the beach and close to all of the attractions and nightlife…. more
TAG Approved� Hotels are rated by the Travel Alternatives Group, an organization whose mission it is to rate the world’s gay-friendliest hotels, resorts, and inns. When you see a TAG Approved� property, rest assured that everything is pre-screened already for you, so you’ll feel welcome worldwide, from Key West to Barcelona.
The Ritz-Carlton sets the standard in elegance for business and leisure travelers worldwide. We’ve been perfecting the art of hospitality and have developed… more
TAG Approved� Hotels are rated by the Travel Alternatives Group, an organization whose mission it is to rate the world’s gay-friendliest hotels, resorts, and inns. When you see a TAG Approved� property, rest assured that everything is pre-screened already for you, so you’ll feel welcome worldwide, from Key West to Barcelona.
The Royal Palm Resort is a luxurious gay resort with superb amenities. Only two and a half blocks from the sandy beach this beautiful resort is a secluded… more
Guests can experience the golden sands and blue waters of Fort Lauderdale’s 23 miles of sun-kissed beaches just a few steps away from the Westin Beach… more
The Westin Fort Lauderdale is refreshed and rejuvenated and awaiting your discovery. Enjoy the afternoon in the warm Fort Lauderdale/Pompano Beach sun… more
The Hotel Offers the Following Services and Amentities: the World Famous Whatever/Whenever� Service a 24-H Concierge Service Dry-Cleaning and Laundry… more
Where to Play
Fort Lauderdale’s year-round climate entices all its visitors to let loose, relax and go out for some fun. Year-round there’s always a party going on or a bar with a view of the beach and a gentle breeze.
Get Your Groove On
Boom
2236 Wilton Dr.
Wilton Manors, FL 33305
954-630-3556
Boom is a two-level club with three bars and a massive dance floor with a 50,000-watt sound system. Boom has specials all week long with 2 for 1 happy hour drinks. The Boom dancers serve up some excellent eye candy.
Purgatory
1000 W. State Road 84
Fort Lauderdale, FL
954-357-4700
Get a taste of heaven at night, sexy and sweet seduction at Purgatory. The cathedral-inspired club offers fun, but asks that patrons have an “open mind.” Let the lights of the disco wash away your sins while you make up new ones.
Torpedo
2829 West Broward Blvd
Fort Lauderdale, FL 33312
954-587-2500
Torpedo caters to a younger set who want to hear a mix of hip-hop, rock, and ’80s. Kick it at the king of after hour parties. The club gets going late and runs into the wee hours of the morning.
Neighborhood Gem
Scandals
3073 N.E. Sixth Ave.
Wilton Manors, FL 33334
954-567-2432
Scandals Saloon prides itself on being South Florida’s Home of Country for the gay community. The bar offers a great selection of Country Western music in a comfortable, low key setting complete with three bars, a dance floor, pool tables and an outdoor patio. So saddle up cowboy!
Georgie’s Alibi
2266 Wilton Drive
Wilton Manors, FL 33305
954-565-2526
Georgie’s Alibi is a popular hangout for locals and visitors. Georgie’s also serves food that’s pretty darn good for both lunch and dinner. Once you’ve had your fill of the food, slide on up to the bar, where you can enjoy a wide range of specialty drinks Georgie’s style.
Smarty Pants
3038 N. Federal Hwy
Fort Lauderdale, Fl 33306
954-561-1724
Smarty Pants is just as naughty as its name sounds. There are some gay bars in the area that are a bit too frisky for the average partygoer, but Smarty Pants keeps it a bit lighter with drag shows, live music, free hot dogs and even a bowling night. Not exactly a family-friendly place, but fun can be had by all.
Bills Filling Station
2209 Wilton Drive
Wilton Manors, FL
954-567-5978
Bill’s Filling Station is your neighborhood gay bar. They host a number of events throughout the week, like free pool until 8 p.m. and karaoke nights. According to the owners, if Cheers was a gay bar, it would be Bill’s.
Levis and Leather
Ramrod
1508 NE 4th Ave.
Fort Lauderdale, FL 33304
www.ramrodbar.com
With a name like that one, how can you go wrong? Hardcore leather, Levis, uniforms and fetishes.
Cubby Hole
823 North Federal Highway
Fort Lauderdale, FL 33304
www.thecubbyhole.com
The Cubby Hole touts itself as the ”Butch Bar for Men.” It is a unique and popular neighborhood bar for men. The Cubby Hole is a retreat for BEARS and their admirers.
Down and Dirty
Johnny’s
1116 W. Broward Blvd.
Fort Lauderdale, FL 33312
www.johnnysbarfl.com
Six o’clock is always a happy time at Johnny’s, as dancers take the stage every evening to entertain the masses. Johnny’s features over 60 dancers from around the world willing to give you a “private” dance.
Bath and Body
Fort Lauderdale doesn’t have a proper bath house or sex club but that doesn’t stop any of the sun drenched action from taking place at one of the many guest houses. If you did not book a room at a guest house most offer day passes for a small fee.
To take advantage of all the privileges associated with an on site room at a guest house contact Get Gay Travel. One of our travel concierges will assist you in making a reservation and determining which property will meet your specific needs.
Chow Down
LIPS
1421 E. Oakland Park Blvd.
Oakland Park Blvd, FL 33334
954-567-0987
Lips is a fanciful world of dining, drag and nightlife. Neither overshadowing the next. Each aspect of Lips is astounding, from the neon velour banquettes to the high-heel chandeliers and the juicy coconut shrimp delights. The food is good all day, but the performances get people moving and shaking after 9 p.m.
Rosie’s Bar & Grill
2449 Wilton Drive
Wilton Manors, FL
954-563-0123
If a great burger and a tasty drink is what you’re after, visit Rosie’s Bar & Grill! Make sure you fill up before a night on the town.
What to See
Coming Soon!
What’s the Scoop?
Coming soon!
Lowdown on Gay Rights
Statewide Relationship Recognition
NO Licenses marriages for same-sex couples
NO Honors marriages of same-sex couples from other jurisdictions
NO Relationship recognition for same-sex couples
Florida law states: “No county court judge or clerk of the circuit court in this state shall issue a license for the marriage of any person … unless one party is a male and the other party is a female.” On Nov. 4, 2008, voters amended the state constitution to provide that “Inasmuch as a marriage is the legal union of only one man and one woman as husband and wife, no other legal union that is treated as marriage or the substantial equivalent thereof shall be valid or recognized.”
Florida law states: “Marriages between persons of the same sex entered into in any jurisdiction, whether within or outside of the state of Florida, the United States, or any other jurisdiction, either domestic or foreign, or any other place or location, or relationships between persons of the same sex which are treated as marriages in any jurisdiction, either domestic or foreign, or any other place or location, are not recognized for any purpose in this state. The state, its agencies, and its political subdivisions may not give effect to any public act, record, or judicial proceeding of any state, territory, possession, or tribe of the United States or of any jurisdiction, either domestic or foreign, or any other place or location respecting either a marriage or relationship not recognized under subsection (1) or a claim arising from such a marriage or relationship. For purposes of interpreting any state statute or rule, the term ‘marriage’ means only a legal union between one man and one woman as husband and wife, and the term ‘spouse’ applies only to a member of such a union.” Also, please note the amendment to the state constitution, discussed above.
Statewide Hate Crimes Laws:
YES Protection based on Sexual Orientation
NO Protection based on Gender Identity
Statewide Sodomy Laws
Florida’s sodomy law was struck down by the U.S. Supreme Court on June 26, 2003.
Statewide Non-Discrimination Laws
NO Sexual Orientation Protection
There is no statewide non-discrimination law that includes protections based on sexual orientation.
NO Gender Identity Protection
No provision of Florida law explicitly addresses discrimination based on gender identity. However, a Florida court has ruled that an individual with gender dysphoria is within the disability coverage of the Florida Human Rights Act, as well as the portions of the act that prohibit discrimination based on perceived disability.
Statewide Healthcare
A same-sex partner may make health care decisions for an incapacitated partner as a "close friend" under Florida law. However their authority to do so is only considered after contact has been attempted with several others (spouse, adult children, parents, siblings, etc.). § 765.401.
An adult may execute an advance directive designating who should have the authority to make medical decisions in the event they become incapacitated. The directive must be a written document signed by the principal in the presence of two subscribing adult witnesses. § 765.202
Statewide Employment Protections
NO Private employment protections based on sexual orientation.
NO Private employment protections based on gender identity.
NO Public (state) employment protections based on sexual orientation.
NO Public (state) employment protections based on gender identity.
Statewide Parenting Laws
Who May Adopt: No “homosexual” may adopt. Fla. Stat. § 63.042(3)
Same Sex Couples: N/A
Notes: Florida law explicitly states that "homosexuals" are not eligible to adopt. FLA. STAT. § 63.042(3). This law was upheld by the 11th Circuit Court of Appeals in 2004. See Lofton v. Sect. of the Dept. of Children and Family Services, 358 F.3d 804 (11th Cir. 2004).
The legal information provided on this page is provided as a courtesy to Get Gay Travel clients. It is not designed to serve as legal advice. Get Gay Travel would like to thank the Human Rights Campaign and Lambda Legal for the reference materials. Due to the ever-changing nature of legal matters some of the information may not be current or comprehensive.
