Fort Lauderdale

The heart of the scene beats in Wilton Manors, an independent town just north of the centre. With one of the highest proportions of queer residents in the entire USA, the place has a clear profile, and along Wilton Drive bars, cafés, boutiques and eateries are lined up close together. During the day it is pleasantly leisurely, in the evening the terraces fill up. If you are specifically looking for the community in Fort Lauderdale, this is the place for you.

Wilton Drive is where the nightlife is concentrated, where practically every mood is represented, from the quiet cocktail bar to the full club. Because the restaurants are close to each other on such a short distance, you can get through the evening without having to travel long distances. Unlike in many US cities, the action is not spread over the entire city, but is concentrated in this district. Even during the week, there is usually enough going on to make the journey worthwhile.

The wide, kilometre-long sandy beach with its promenade is one of the main reasons why many come here in the first place. Over the years, the section near Sebastian Street Beach has established itself as an unofficial queer meeting place. Along the coast, numerous boutique resorts cater specifically to gay travelers and are often located just minutes from the water. Because of the many waterways, Fort Lauderdale also bears the nickname Venice of America, and a boat tour through the canals is a worthwhile part of the program.

Between November and April is the most pleasant time. Then the humidity is bearable, the temperatures are mild, and the hurricane season is over. It remains warm and sunny all year round, but in midsummer the combination of heat and humidity becomes unpleasant for many. Accordingly, the winter months are the peak season, with higher prices and more activity.

With Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport, the city has its own airport, which is close to the center and the beaches. Depending on the season, there are direct connections from Germany, otherwise you can travel comfortably via Miami or a US hub. A practical alternative is Miami Airport, easily accessible by rental car or the Brightline train. A car is helpful on site, but for Wilton Manors and the beach, short distances and driving services are often sufficient.

Fort Lauderdale and especially Wilton Manors are among the most open places in the USA for queer travelers; Holding hands and a visible appearance are part of everyday life here. Same-sex marriages are recognized nationwide, and local infrastructure is strongly community-focused. In recent years, however, Florida has passed several laws restricting LGBT issues in public spaces and schools, which remains politically controversial. This has hardly any effect on the everyday tourist life of Fort Lauderdale, but an awareness of the political climate of the state does not hurt.