Why Ann Arbor Is a Top LGBTQ-Friendly Destination in 2026
- Joey Amato
- 9 hours ago
- 2 min read
Ann Arbor is a queer-friendly destination welcoming LGBTQ travelers to visit and explore at their own pace. Voted the #1 college town in the state, this Midwest city also earns a perfect score on the Human Rights Campaign’s Municipal Equality Index.
With new hotels, queer-focused events, friendly restaurants and exciting ways to explore, visit these new hotspots in Ann Arbor in 2026!
Where to Stay
The Vanguard – Autograph Collection: Ann Arbor’s newest 4-star hotel complete with a French brasserie. For travelers seeking a touch of luxury, make this your top choice!
Dining & Drinks
Uplift A2: LGBTQ bar in downtown Ann Arbor aimed at capturing the charm of a neighborhood bar during the week and lively club on the weekends.
Little Kim: Vegetarian Korean street food bringing bold flavors and fast-casual service, brought to you by the team behind Miss Kim Restaurant.
Echelon Kitchen & Bar: Wood-fired, chef-driven, vegetable-forward cuisine in a stylish Main Street downtown setting.
Major Events
64th Ann Arbor Film Festival: Experimental film fest hosting its 25th anniversary of Out Night, programming dedicated to LGBTQ representation of queer voices and cinematic styles. March 24-29, 2026
FoolMoon & FestiFools: Two festivals, one epic weekend! Join Ann Arbor’s annual art tradition and magical parade. Expect glowing art, creative experiences, and foolish fun. April 10 & 12, 2026
Ann Arbor Summer Festival: Multi-day festival full of outdoor concerts, films under the moonlight, and whimsical performances. June 12-28, 2026
Ready to discover more? See what else is new in Ann Arbor, Michigan: What's New in Ann Arbor: Restaurants, Hotels and More to Explore
This article was contributed by Destination Ann Arbor, in partnership with Pride Journeys.
