Queer travel expert Jack Kenworthy turns 250+ city adventures into your guide for safe, vibrant, and inclusively fabulous global journeys.
Despite its size, Wilton Manors is home to a sizeable gay population in its little city of just over 11,000 people. Here you will find all manner of gay bars, pubs, clubs and a growing cruising scene, making it a quiet little queer getaway outside Miami in Florida.
Due to this nature, it has been labeled the second gayest city in America, and the queerest in Florida, all the more reason it holds a special place in local’s hearts and attracts many queer tourists to her streets every year.
Outside Wilton Manor’s gay scene, you can find incredible attractions, making it unique to all who visit regardless of who they are. Plus, with a rich history that goes back thousands of years, Native American tribes from the Seminole tribe occupied southern Florida until settlers arrived around 1925 when the settlement sprung up to a land developer by the same name.
However, this city is young. It has a lot of history and culture to share! It is home to many queer folks and an area with much queer history to explore, such as the memorials for the Stonewall Riots of 1969.
All that comes here can delve into the endless history or take adventures into the local wildlands of the many parks in the area; there is also a train that goes to the coast and Miami or Fort Lauderdale if people want a day trip. There are all these incredible things and more to be found on a trip to Wilton Manors.
In this article we will cover...
Attractions in Wilton Manors, USA
As a new visitor to Gay Wilton Manors, there are plenty of things to see and do, regardless of your sexual orientation. One of the best ways to experience any new city is to visit some of its most iconic landmarks and attractions, including historical monuments, museums, and art galleries.
We also love gazing at architecture up close, exploring parks and gardens, sampling the local cuisine, visiting local markets, and attending cultural events such as festivals, concerts and shows.
Even as the out-and-proud queer we are, we still love to explore the city and its culture in the same way as everyone else. Doing so allows us to learn more about the city and its people and gain a deeper understanding of the local culture. As such, these are our favorite must-see attractions in Wilton Manors.
Fort Lauderdale Private Kayak Tour and Island Adventure
Just east of Wilton Manors is the much larger Port Lauderdale, with impressive things to do if you want to check out more of the area. You may go on the fort’s Private Kayak Tour and Island Adventure, which guarantees fun water adventures!
You will start in Fort Lauderdale and soon find yourself boating through the waters of Wilton Manors in one of their natural and secluded areas. This is off the beaten track of the usual tourist adventures, and you even have a guide to make it more special, so amongst the mangroves, you will have a stellar time!
Richardson Historic Park & Nature Preserve
For a park with a little bit of history and charm, many choose the Richardson Historic Park and Nature Preserve because it is close to the city with a river running alongside its southern side. You can walk along the riverside boardwalk, check out the numerous nature trails, or get acquainted with the history at the manor and carriage house.
Eucalyptus Gardens
One of the many brilliant things to do in Wilton Manors is the Eucalyptus Gardens which, despite its name, is better known for its weekend markets and Mexican restaurant. Here you can get a small-town feel with a slice of tropical fun.
You can find all manner of stalls here, from food and nibbles to crafts and clothes and perfect things to take back as gifts for friends back home! Many describe this as a 70s Bohemian Woodstock feel with many outdoor sitting areas as you enjoy your great tacos.
Museum of Discovery and Science
Just south of Wilton Manors in Fort Lauderdale is the Museum of Discovery and Science which is fun for the whole family.
Here you will be treated to a modern museum specializing in getting people excited about science through their many exhibits. For example, you can experience Prehistoric Florida, Everglades Airboat Adventure, and the Florida Water Story.
Island City Stage
For a little more of the lively gay scene, Island City Stage holds just the place for those wanting to support a queer theatre in Wilton Manors. You can see some small productions and feel a little closer to the community even if you are not a local, but either way, you will feel right at home. In addition, their stories often cater to queer perspectives and help promote more gay voices being heard.
Colohatchee Park and Dog Park
Even if you do not have a dog, Colohatchee Park and Dog Park is a place for everyone, with great trails and natural attractions to see when you take a break from the city. You can get lost for hours wondering through the mangroves and wetlands,
Out of the Closet – Wilton Manors
Wilton Manors is home to the brilliant Out of the Closet charity shop, which has more than cheap stock. It also ensures all profits go back to funding the research and aid for those suffering from HIV and providing social assistance to the queer community.
Pride Corner Art & Frame
You can visit many great queer spaces in Wilton Manors, but Pride Corner Art & Frame is one of the best for a small city gallery. They offer spaces for emerging artists and locals in a small yet well-curated gallery, and you may find a piece you can’t say no to!
Lauderdale Beach
Being so close to the coast, it would be a shame to miss seeing the nearby sandy sights. Lauderdale Beach is one of the many exceptional options to add a little summer splash to the Atlantic Ocean. You will find many resorts, water sports, and even a cozy afternoon lounge as you use their fine summers.
World AIDS Museum and Educational Centre
A queer must-see attraction, the World AIDS Museum and Educational Centre, is where you can learn about the history of the AIDS endemic and how steps have been made to make those suffering from the illness live longer and happier lives. Visiting will allow you to give back to the cause and help fund their education programs and research.
Ah-Tah-Thi-Ki Museum
Suppose you would like a unique day trip out into the island of Florida west of Wilton Manors. In that case, a must-see is the Native American Ah-Tah-Thi-Ki Museum which celebrates the history and culture of the local Seminole tribe.
You can see how they used to live traditionally and how far back their history in this region goes, go for a walk through their reservation, see rich artifacts and meet some of the members who keep their culture alive today.
Stonewall Museum
Just east of Wilton Manors is the Stonewall Museum and the site of a significant historical event for queer history in America. Stonewall Museum stands as a celebration of queer history and the Stonewall Riots of 1969, when members of the gay community revolted against police trying to suppress their social freedoms.
What followed was a social change in attitudes towards gay people; very slowly, they got more freedom. The museum and archives promote queer acceptance and the study of gay history so that their people may never feel the need to hide again.
Gay-Friendly & Gay Hotels in Wilton Manors, USA
Being gay-friendly accommodation means that the establishment is welcoming and inclusive to guests who identify as LGBTQ+. This can include, but is not limited to, having policies and practices that demonstrate a commitment to creating a safe and inclusive environment for LGBTQ+ guests, such as non-discrimination policies and providing support and resources for LGBTQ+ travelers.
Some gay-friendly accommodations may also provide amenities specifically catering to the LGBTQ+ community, such as rainbow flags or literature about local LGBTQ+ events or resources. Furthermore, gay-friendly accommodations may be located in an area known for being LGBTQ+ friendly.
While Wilton Manors does not have any specifically gay hotels or resorts, these are the most fabulous and pro-actively gay-friendly hotels in Wilton Manors. Needless to say, there are also hundreds more hotel and hostel options in Wilton Manors if none suit your desired budget, facilities or area – but these are the best hotels according to other gay travelers and us.
Whatever your needs are, Wilton Manors has you covered.
The Ritz-Carlton, Fort Lauderdale ☆☆☆☆☆
The Five Star Ritz-Carlton may be a short drive south into Fort Lauderdale, but it is one of just a few high-class hotels in the area, which is worth the extra time to visit Wilton Manors. To begin with, you can easily find a place to park as they have spaces on site and plenty more to keep busy.
Firstly, the views from your rooms will be out of this world, regardless of if facing toward the city or out of the ocean, and rooms even come with bright blue decor and private balconies. Even more brilliant is the shared faculties from the pool with its terrace sidebar and loungers, the spa, its complete services, and of course, the coffee shop and restaurant.
However, if that isn’t all, they have spaces for children and family-friendly rooms, as much as they also offer quiet rooms for professionals needing that place to work on a holiday. Then if that was not all, they also have a gym and hot pool to relax in after work. All these things are just the iceberg’s peak, and there is so much more to love about this place.
Located in the very heart of Wilton Manors is the four-star Inn on the Drive LLC, which is a top way to see the gay capital of Florida without having to need wheels. You can be at several key tourist attractions within minutes, but they also have a few secrets, making it a special place to stay.
You will be treated to an enclosed garden with an outside pool, lounging area, housekeeping, room service, and even a heated pool. The standout of this place is the private quarters with cozy double beds, balconies, private ensuites, and some with doors straight out onto the pool terrace.
It is quaint, comfortable, and necessary for those who want to avoid a noisy and busy place to stay while still being inside the city.
Victoria Park Regency is a brilliant four-star hotel just outside Wilton Manors to the south, with many beautiful things to make your stay exceptional. Not only do you have an outdoor lounging area and family-friendly facilities, but the hotel has an accessible beach for those who want to get to the coast quickly.
If this was not great, they also have cozy rooms and business services for working tourists. You will find fully equipped kitchens and spacious lounging and sleeping spaces in your rooms, but some of the best hotel basics are found in high-end hotels. This brilliant all-rounder hotel is excellent for everyone.
Not far south from Wilton Manors is the delightful three-star Link Hotel, where you will be treated to complimentary breakfast, tea, and coffee, with brilliant options for lunch and dinner at their Sunrise Bar & Grille restaurant.
But that is only part of it, as they have a pool, gym, and business centers for the traveling worker. You will also be impressed by their private rooms, which have cozy beds and affluent storage with a bathroom. So why ask for anything else?
The Cabanas Guesthouse & Spa – Gay Men’s Resort ☆☆☆☆
Despite being a little while south in Fort Lauderdale, the exceptional Gay Resort can be found and is most certainly worth a look if you want an utterly gay space to spend your time here. You can be yourself and meet fellow gay people in the shared facilities, which include a tiki bar, men’s sauna, clothing-optional spaces and pool.
The private rooms are also brilliant for taking a break and forgetting to know a special someone. Plus, this resort has day passes, so you do not need to stay here to enjoy its brilliant resources.
Gay Nightlife in Wilton Manors, USA
Regardless of the gay night out you wish to have, Wilton Manors provides an experience like no other small city in Florida can, with a host of different gay clubs and bars. They even have a small cruising scene which some significant cities will envy, so why wait? Remember, this list is incomplete, with many more exceptional gay bars and clubs to keep you entertained for weeks.
Exploring the gay and gay-friendly nightlife in a new city can be one of the most exciting and rewarding experiences while traveling – and Gay Wilton Manors is no exception. Not only will you have the opportunity to meet new people and make friends, but you’ll also get a taste of the local culture and learn more about the city’s LGBTQ+ community.
Going out and experiencing the queer and queer-friendly nightlife in a new city can also be a great way to break out of your comfort zone and try new things. Whether dancing the night away at a gay club or mingling with locals at a gay-friendly bar, you’ll have the chance to make memories and create lasting connections.
So, don’t be afraid to step out of your comfort zone and explore the gay and gay-friendly nightlife in Wilton Manors. You’ll be glad you did!
Gay Bars in Wilton Manors, Florida
Georgie’s Alibi Monkey Bar Ultimate Gay Bar
In the heart of Wilton Manors is Georgie’s Alibi Monkey Bar, the confessed ‘ultimate gay bar’ made evident by the gay privately and rainbow party every night. It is also the oldest gay bar in Florida, with over 26 years under her belt and many more years ahead!
You can expect a range of entertainment from drag to laid-back piano, and in four different bars, this place has so much to be seen and explored. They offer the Main Bar, Times Square Bar, Monkey Bar, and The Patio. You will experience something different at each of these, so you need an empty night and several hours to see them all.
Drinks is a modern cocktail bar and lounge which boasts a sizeable gay patronage in an experience, unlike anything in Wilton Manors. They have a large outdoor terrace where many enjoy drinks under the shade or the raw starry sky on clear nights. There is also the warm and inviting atmosphere of their bar with cozy seats to make yourself resigned to a quiet drink in the early evening.
Self-identified as Americana’s gayest sports bar, GYM Sports Bar, is a popular queer place to enjoy a drink and catch a game with more sporty sorts of the community. You will be welcomed regardless of who you are but expect to see a more fit and older crowd here as it is more laid back than elsewhere. They do great drinks and even better live sports events.
In Fort Lauderdale, just south of Wilton Manors, is Johnsons Fort Lauderdale gay bar which is notable for being the Forts only and first speakeasy with sexy male burlesque most nights. You can expect the service, drinks, and entertainment here to be exceptional and the gay scene thriving, so it is a must-see on the bar crawl around FL.
One of the best gay community bars in Wilton Manors is the Pub on The Drive which boats cheap drinks, friendly staff, and great entertainment. It is a famous gay hang-out sport for many reasons, playing host to small social events right up to fully packed drag shows and theatre.
For those gay cowboys outs there, Wilton Manors is home to the traditional yet fun Scandals Saloon is the place to be! You have great drinks, brilliant tunes, and an enjoyable way to spend an evening.
Those after a gay leather bar with exceptional drinks and fun-filled events cannot miss Hunters Wilton Manors. Here you can find yourself thrown into a fun leather jock-strap night or a weekly bingo game or pool; it is all there waiting for you. This mixture of gaming, parties and trying your luck makes it one of the gays must see in Wilton Manors.
Gay Parties & Gay Clubs in Wilton Manors, Florida
Gay Men’s Chorus of South Florida
For something a little musical, you can connect with the Gay Men’s Chorus of South Florida, and they may have shown on in or near Wilton Manors at the time of your visit to check them out for a one-of-a-kind night out.
Pride Centre at Equality Park of South Florida
The Pride Centre is an excellent resource for connecting with the local queer community, so if you want a local’s perspective of gay life in Wilton Manors, this is a perfect place to start.
To get well acquainted with South Florida gay news, this is the place to be! They give you the latest insight into queer goings in the region and can offer you the most up-to-date news in Wilton Manors, which is essential when finding the best gay places to visit when on holiday.
Every year Wilton Manors hosts the Stonewall Pride parade, one of the most significant gay events, which brings thousands of visitors to their city. It is easily one of America’s most notable pride events, so if you want to experience something unlike anywhere else, this is the time to visit!
Cruising & Gay Saunas in Wilton Manors, USA
The gay cruising scene at Wilton Manors is thriving, with several places you can stay to have a little fun. However, there is also the option to use dating apps to get your complete night experience if you want to meet others outside the organized venues to have fun. But just as well, they have cruising bars and saunas for those that still prefer to find joy in the old-school ways!
When traveling to a new city, it can be exciting to head out for more than just a stiff drink. One aspect of the Gay Wilton Manors scene that many queer men enjoy is visiting gay saunas and cruising clubs.
Sure, the sauna culture in Wilton Manors is not as hedonistic as in Amsterdam, Barcelona or Berlin, but these venues still offer a chance to meet new people, socialize, and engage in sexual activity – without resorting to gay hookup apps.
However, it’s important to remember that these venues can vary greatly in terms of atmosphere, clientele, and rules, so it’s a good idea to prepare yourself before visiting. If you are apprehensive, we advise studying our guide to visiting a gay bathhouse for the first time, which should help set your mind at ease and always practice safe sex.
Additionally, it’s important to be aware of and respect local laws and customs regarding gay venues and sexual activity. With a little bit of planning and an open mind, visiting gay saunas and cruising clubs can be a fun and exciting part of your gay Wilton Manors travel itinerary.
Gay Cruising Bars in Wilton Manors, Florida
For one of the best leather bars and down, The Eagle Wilton Manors does not disappoint as they have a host of events and services suited not just to the gay of the cruise.
You can dress up in your tightest leather or stop by during their underwear-only evenings, and at whatever the action, you will be fellow gay people that may be up for a bit of fun elsewhere. Being in operation since 2018, it may be a teen compared to other venues, but it still packs a punch.
Ramrod is an excellent leather bar outside of Wilton Manor, well-known for its muscular men and tight shorts. You can have some real fun getting to know the staff and patronage of the bar, where gay men were frequent; expect to find great beer and food during the day and, come sundown, fun leather parties that go well into the night.
This is also a famous cruising zone for gay men to meet and have fun off-site, so make sure your hotel room is clean before you bring someone back!
Gay Saunas in Wilton Manors, Florida
Fort Lauderdale Gay Resort Cabanas Guesthouse and Spa
Fort is also home to the incredible gay resort, which is not just a private gay oasis for those staying in their rooms, but for those that want a day trip to a gay-friendly spa and social scene. Here you can meet fellow gay people and gay men and dip in the hot spa and pool, with clothes optional!
Gay Map Of Wilton Manor
Finding it hard to envisage where everything is in Wilton Manor? Hopefully, this queer-centric map helps where we have marked all the bars, clubs, parties, hotels, saunas, massages, and more will help you stay in the spot best suited to you!