A Traveler’s LGBTQ Guide to Midtown Atlanta

By Lindsey Ford

Published August 25, 2021
Last Updated September 1, 2021

Midtown is known as Atlanta’s “Heart of the Arts” and is the core of LGBTQ+ life in the city, making it a perfect starting place for meeting attendees to discover how diverse Atlanta’s community is. Conveniently accessible with MARTA, Midtown boasts Atlanta’s central urban oasis and gives visitors a taste of the city in the forest.

From LGBTQ+ owned businesses to local spots you don’t want to miss, check out these locations to have the perfect day in the heart of Atlanta’s queerest neighborhood.

Morning

Breakfast at MetroFresh

Mitchell Anderson’s fast-casual cafe has focused on providing the freshest locally sourced food for breakfast, lunch and dinner for more than 16 years.

Walk the Rainbow Crosswalk

Located at the intersection of Piedmont Avenue and 10th Street, the multicolored crosswalk celebrates Atlanta’s diverse community.

Enjoy a stroll in Piedmont Park

Truly experience the city in the forest with a walk or bike ride through Piedmont Park, home to Lake Clara Meer.

Afternoon

Atlanta Botanical Garden

Explore more than 30 acres of breathtaking botanical bliss at the Atlanta Botanical Garden, located adjacent to Piedmont Park.

Grab Lunch at Politan Row at Colony Square

Atlanta’s newest food hall recently opened featuring 11 food and beverage talent-driven concepts, a central bar, event space and a secret, hidden bar.

High Museum of Art

The High Museum of Art boasts a celebrated collection of art ranging from classic to contemporary, as well as architecture by Richard Meier and Renzo Piano. 

Evening

Dinner & Cocktails at Joe’s on Juniper

Start your evening with cocktails and dinner on this famous Midtown patio.

My Sister’s Room

My Sister’s Room holds the title for Atlanta’s longest-running lesbian bar for more than 20 years. My Sister’s Room is a staple for the LGBTQ+ community with its burlesque shows, comedy nights and karaoke showdowns.

Bulldogs

Midtown Atlanta’s popular male gay club, better known as Bulldogs, has come alive in the nighttime for more than 40 years. Bulldogs is a favorite for Atlanta’s Black community with DJs spinning the latest hip-hop sounds, bringing patrons to the dance floor. 

EXTRA:

Take a quick ride to West Midtown and visit the trendy, walkable Westside Provisions District filled will restaurants, boutiques and unique bars.

Enjoy mimosas and brunch at West Egg Café, grab dinner at JCT. Kitchen & Bar, pick out some locally made goods at Crafted Westside or get your mini golf game on at the tech-infused Puttshack.