Our Gay Florida Road Trip: Fort Lauderdale

WHERE TO STAY

When some people think of a “gay resort,” they assume it’s basically a seedy bathhouse. Some resorts in Fort Lauderdale live up to that stereotype – The Grand Resort and Spa is not one of them. This preconceived notion of mine was quickly checked at the front gate when I checked-in for an extended stay. Just steps away from the beach, this luxurious home away from home is the best place to stay while visiting the “Venice of America.”

WHERE EAT

For a quick bite on the go or a late night eat to soak up all the booze, you can’t go wrong at New York Grilled Cheese where creative grilled cheeses are melted to your heart’s content.

Just south of Wilton Manors, Warsaw Coffee has become a staple amongst coffee lovers in the area. This 3,800 square foot industrial-style shop features a scratch-pastry kitchen, walk-up bar with pour-overs and espresso, and a drive-through. Soon to be serving Counter Culture Coffee, Warsaw’s pastries are baked in house each day.

For dinner, steps away from The Grand and overlooking Sebastian Beach, The Ritz Carlton’s restaurant Burlock Coast Seafare and Spirits has lots of good eats. Trust us and order the fish and chips with one of their craft cocktails to wash it down.

For Sunday brunch, choose between quintessential Rosie’s Bar and Grill and Thirteen Restaurant and Bar that are some of The Drive’s most coveted restaurants jewels. Thirteen is a tad more laid back, where as Rosie’s is usually jammed packed by 10:30 am and the spot to see and be seen.

WHERE TO PARTY

There are lots of options to get your gay drink and dance on in Fort Lauderdale and Wilton Manors.

Start your night on The Drive low key at the Village Pub, or head over to Rumors for bar food and good conversation. On Thursdays, you can’t go wrong with the drink special at Georgie’s Alibi.

For riskier temptations, stop into Boardwalk or Le Boy. A short Uber drive away, both of these spots feature hot male dancers that will literally tickle your fancy. Or stop down into the dark and dirty corners of the Ramrod, where anything goes in the dark and dirty corners of this

Every Friday or Saturday has to end at The Manor, the regions largest gay dance club that is packed with trade until the wee hours of morning.

For Sunday Funday, take in some sports over at Gym Bar or dance the day away at Hunters’ very popular Tea Dance.

WHERE TO PLAY

Located near the gay resorts, Sebastian Street Beach is a popular destination for locals and tourists alike (mostly men). It’s a diverse “Who’s Who” of otters, cubs, and bears that still has that wonderfully low-key Lauderdale vibe.

Between cocktails and sunbathing, take advantage of the fabulous spa The Grand Resort and Spa offers – with everything from haircuts to manzillian waxes. You can’t have pleasure without a bit of pain, right? They also offer relaxing massages and invigorating facials that are fit for a king – or a queen.

Do some shopping at one of the many local gay owned and operated stores. Leatherworks has everything your kinky heart may desire.