It’s no secret Ann Arbor is a top LGBTQ+ friendly and welcoming destination in the Midwest. In fact, Ann Arbor has many firsts when it comes to advocating for gay rights. Did you know Ann Arbor held one of the first designated Gay Pride weeks in the country?
A ‘Thank You’ to our Past
The 1970s were a pivotal time for gay rights activism, and Ann Arbor organizers and trailblazers led the way. The city passed a groundbreaking anti-discrimination ordinance, and the first campus center in the United States opened for LGBT issues at University of Michigan.
During this time, Jim Toy had part in opening the U-M Spectrum Center, organizing the Gay Liberation Front in Michigan, and is the namesake for the Jim Toy Community Center. Cultural anthropologist and author, Gayle Rubin, helped co-found the Ann Arbor Radical Lesbians. Kelly Kozachenko was the first openly gay person elected to political office in the United States, and joined Ann Arbor City Council, to name a few.
Former businesses also helped shape Ann Arbor into the vibrant, queer friendly destination we know today. From pioneering gay bar, The Flame, to long-time favorites in the ‘gayborhood’ at Braun Court in Kerrytown, Ann Arbor has welcomed the LGBTQ+ community for over 50 years.
A Look Ahead
Ann Arbor is proud of perfect scores on the Human Rights Campaign's Municipal Equality index, and many organizations and businesses are dedicated to continuing the work. See how you can enjoy, support, and advocate for our LGBTQ+ friends and family:
Inclusive Literature: Your Next Read
Nationally recognized Literati Bookstore provides a large collection and designated space for LGBTQ+ literature. Pick up Destination Pride, offering colorful recommendations and practical tips to inspire your next travel adventure.
Dawn Treader Book Shop is a book lover’s paradise and features a selection of used and rare LGBTQ+ books and treasures. Vault of Midnight also carries inclusive comics, books, pride dice, and gaming merchandise. Browse more Ann Arbor area shopping here.
Longest-Running Pride Night
Necto PRIDE is Michigan’s longest-running, premier LGBTQ Friday club night. DJs spin on the main floor and in the Red Room. Catch special acts and guest performers, including stars from RuPaul’s Drag Race. Keep the momentum going at LIVE Pride Bar, a bi-weekly Thursday night party with rotating performers and hosts. 
More entertainment options include live theatre from dedicated safe, creative spaces like Theatre Nova, and concerts organized by Out Loud Chorus, the area's original mixed chorus for LGBTQ+ members. View more Ann Arbor area nightlife ideas here.
Ann Arbor Pride & Ypsi Pride
Ann Arbor Pride celebrates LGBTQ+ identities, community, and allyship. This annual event will take place in August this year featuring entertainment, vendors, family fun, and a lot of love. Ypsi Pride offers a unique pride, prioritizing reflection and celebration and popular annual event in Ypsilanti. View more LGBTQ+ events happening here.
Dine Out Safely
Restaurants like vegan favorite, Detroit Street Filling Station, embrace freedom, fun, social justice, and community, and donates to historically marginalized group organizations. The North Star Lounge next door hosts LGBTQ nights with music, trivia, and fun activities. Later, relax with after-dinner drinks at Bill’s Beer Garden, a queer friendly and community-oriented outdoor hotspot. View more Ann Arbor area restaurants here
Nearby in Ypsilanti, spend time with Boylesque Drag hosting shows across the city. Proceeds often benefit local organizations. In downtown Ypsi, enjoy patio dining at Bobcat Bonnie’s and basement bar Keystone Bar & Arcade for queer-friendly environment and themed events..
Additional Resources & Support
America’s first campus center for gay and lesbian issues opened at the University of Michigan. The U-M Spectrum Center is a collaborative space providing students and guests resources and services.
Visit the Jim Toy Community Center online for support groups, programs, knowledge, and helpful information plus upcoming meetings and events.
Non-profits like Ozone House offer support for LGBTQ+ youth and youth caretakers. Attend PrideZone support groups and game nights. Neutral Zone is another youth-driven space accepting of all and providing support.
Eastern Michigan University has been recognized as one of the nation’s most inclusive campuses for LGBTQ students. Check out the LGBT Resource Center for additional information.
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