10. FEEL THE PRIDE IN SAVANNAH by Matt Kirouac Immediately upon arrival in Savannah, it’s clear this is a place of inclusion. The friendly greeting starts at the airport, modeled after a charming town square with rocking chairs for sittin’ awhile, and the sentiment is woven throughout this LGBTQIA+ friendly city. While Savannah Pride brings musical performances, carnival games, costumes and parties—including the “Masqueerade”—to Ellis Square and nearby venues in late October, LGBTQIA+ visitors find comfort in welcoming businesses, restaurants and activities year-round. Morning, noon and late night, Savannah’s diverse, artsy atmosphere (including the famed Savannah College of Art and Design , home to more than 13,000 students from all walks of life) runs the gamut from Perc Coffee , a rustic-chic cafe where the staff is as diverse as its farm-fresh coffee list, to lowcountry brunch at downtown’s B. Matthew’s Eatery , a fried-green-tomato-slinging restaurant that’s a self-described safe space for the trans community. Come lunch, feast at Mrs. Wilkes Dining Room , a pretty-in-pink boardinghouse-turned-restaurant—and a popular stopover for politicians and LGBTQIA+ celebrities—known for gracious hospitality and cozy comforts like fried chicken, sweet-potato soufflé and meatloaf. Later, dance the night away at Club One , a massive, multilevel gay bar with billiards, drag shows, karaoke and music into the wee hours. Or explore another side of the city’s LGBTQIA+ scene on a Yes, Queen! Drag Pub Crawl , a lively and hilarious walking tour led by eccentric queens like Marie Con and J. Deveraux. After a night of revelry, relax your eyes at the Brice Hotel , a chic downtown boutique from Kimpton, one of the country’s most LGBTQIA+ friendly brands, complete with an outdoor pool, a serene garden and free bike rentals. 18 #EXPLOREGEORGIA STARLAND YARD, SAVANNAH/CALEB JONES
Official State Travel Guide 2023 Georgia Official State Travel Guide: Page 18
