Gay bars burlington vt

A “young 20-something queer person” in the late ’90s may have gone to Red Square or Metronome for the night, but “you always passed through Pearls” at some point, Bensel said.

When Toms bought the bar, it not only catered to the gay community, but also held “women’s nights” for lesbians and other LGBTQ+ women to congregate and dance.

“I just remember playing pool with a couple of older lesbians,” Bensel said.

And, I mean, that was backtracking six months of bills,” he said. 

The bar was on the market for three years before Toms gave up on selling the business and just sold the building. Their most loyal regulars bought gift cards and were understanding of their decision, Daniel-McCarter said.

Babes is slowly restarting its live events, like its queer dance nights, with plans to begin live music and catering parties.

Daniel-McCarter said they were planning a Pride weekend at the end of June, with a movie day, a drag show, and “queer and sober” meeting.

Keep an eye on social media for the location!

Best Time to Visit Vermont for LGBTQ+ Travelers

So, you’re thinking about visiting Vermont? Pride Vermont:  This annual event, typically held in September, is a week-long celebration of the lgbtq+Q+ community. Only an hour and half drive from Montreal and three hours from Boston, getting here is not only simple, but breathtakingly beautiful!

Named the “The Perfect Small City” by National Geographic Traveler, Burlington has something to offer every gay traveler.
Located on Lake Champlain (America’s sixth Great Lake) Burlington is old and new, funky and chic, cultured and hip and is the epicenter of gay activity.

If you love winter sports and a good party, this is your event.

When is the Montpelier Pride Fest and Parade?

Mark your calendar for May 31, 2024.

Vermont may not have a ton of gay-specific resorts, but the ones they do have are fabulous. Because gay people can go to Olive Garden and hold hands. It proudly flies the rainbow flag and calls itself a “queer bar.”

Most Gay-Friendly Restaurants in Vermont

Vermont is known for its inclusive vibes, but while you won’t find many places advertising as “gay-friendly,” there are several spots where everyone feels welcome.

Burlington Area

• Honey Road: Mediterranean-inspired eats with a warm, welcoming atmosphere right in downtown Burlington.

• Leunig’s Bistro & Café: A French-inspired spot that’s popular with the LGBTQ+ community, located on Church Street Marketplace.

• The Skinny Pancake: A laid-back crêperie with locations in Burlington and Montpelier, known for its inclusive environment.

Stowe Area

• Plate: New American cuisine in Stowe, owned by a gay couple, and a favorite among LGBTQ+ visitors.

• Hen of the Wood: Farm-to-table dining with locations in Waterbury and Burlington, where local produce and a welcoming atmosphere take center stage.

Other Notable Mentions

• Elixir Restaurant (White River Junction): Enjoy New American cuisine, craft cocktails, and a welcoming vibe.

Gay-Specific Events or Retreats in Vermont

Vermont offers some fantastic gay events and retreats throughout the year:

Gay Men’s Retreats

• Willow Vermont Retreat Center hosts several gatherings, centered on gay men’s retreats:

  • Summercamp – Gay and Bi-Men’s Gathering: A 3-night retreat featuring yoga, hiking, and visits to gay hangouts.

  • Strawberry Moon – Gay and Bi Men’s Gathering: Another 3-night getaway with similar activities.

  • Ecstatic Self Summer Retreat: A 6-day retreat focusing on personal discovery and spiritual growth, open to all but tailored for queer men.

Pride Events

Vermont’s Pride events are the real deal.

• Montpelier Pride Fest and Parade (May)

• Rutland County Pride Festival (June)

• Barre Pride Fest (June)

• St.

  Both venues’ owners are trying to revive the tradition of such spaces in Vermont — but they’re also rethinking what it means to be an LGBTQ+ bar in the first place.

  “Dedicated spaces that you’ll go and find other people in your community and be safe and welcome and prioritized are really challenging to find, or at least I found them really challenging to find,” Fox Market co-owner Liv Dunton said.

  The rainbow flag was also torn down in a separate incident.

  “We got really nervous about how we were going to deal with” potentially dangerous situations, Cain said. 

  But Dunton said the two have not experienced anything like that since then. It’s a great way to connect with the local community and celebrate in style.

Winter (December to February)

• Skiing and Snowboarding: If you’re into winter sports, Vermont is your playground.

  Cars whiz along the thoroughfare between Montpelier and the Northeast Kingdom.

  Upon entering the building, patrons have the option to turn right into the market, which features a wall of wines, a selection of cheeses and a few daily deli specials. Large bar area, high top tables, and booths.

  

  (He noted Fox Market may be the first “gay grocery store” he’s heard of.)

  Toms said that, as he ages, he longs for an LGBTQ+ space that isn’t a bar or nightlife-centered business. 

  “I’m 53 years old. LGBTQ+ people, especially young adults, are at higher risk of anxiety, depression and substance use. The space can be partitioned for smaller groups, events can occur while the bar is open to the public or the entire bar can be rented.