This City Has The Second-Largest Pride Celebration In The Midwest

Ohio is known for being home to the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame and the largest theme park in the Midwest. However, some travelers might be surprised to learn that Ohio has a significant LGBTQ+ population, and several of the state's cities, including Columbus, are LGBTQ+-friendly destinations. Columbus has advocated for LGBTQ+ rights since 1974, when the city passed a housing ordinance to protect LGBTQ+ individuals. This was shortly after the 1969 Stonewall Riots in New York City jumpstarted the Gay Liberation Movement in the country. 

In 1981, Stonewall Columbus, a nonprofit, was established as a center for the local LGBTQ+ community. That same year, Stonewall Columbus held its first Pride celebration. Columbus' Pride, which also gathers funds for the organization, has since become a highly anticipated event. In fact, according to U.S. News Travel, the city has the second-largest Pride celebration in the Midwest.

The publication states that Chicago, one of the most populated cities in the country, hosted the largest in the region. For reference, NBC4 Columbus reported that more than 700,000 individuals attended Columbus' Pride celebrations in 2023. And for 2024, the Columbus Pride event has an itinerary many won't want to miss. 

Columbus Pride has several events lined up for 2024, including a Pride Brunch on June 2. It will be held at the Columbus Athenaeum from 11:00 a.m. to 1 p.m. Prices for the fundraiser range from $25 to $100. Local drag queen Anisa Love will host the brunch. Tickets can be purchased online. In addition, there is also a virtual 5k. Essentially, this is a DIY activity that can be done alone or with others in June. You can sign up online for $25 to $35, depending on the month. The price includes a shirt, bib, and medal. 

But of course, the most anticipated event for Pride is arguably the Pride Festival. It's scheduled for June 14 from 4:00 p.m. to 10:00 p.m. and June 15 from 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. at the historic Goodale Park. And, according to reviews on Yelp, the event truly feels like a safe space. "Thank you to the Columbus Division of Police for the support and incredible presence during these scary times," one reviewer said about the 2023 Pride event. "They did a wonderful job and we ALL felt as safe as possible."

Note that there is a march on Columbus' Broad and High Streets on June 15 at 10:30 a.m. If you want to participate, you can register online. Beyond this, you can anticipate the festival will have music and dancing. Likewise, food and drinks are available for purchase. Performers and hosts for the festivities are bound to bring the entertainment — actor and icon George Takei and "RuPaul's Drag Race" star Nina West have been guests in the past.

Although Pride Month is only for a limited time, visitors will be happy to learn that Columbus is home to several LGBTQ+-owned businesses. In the Short North Arts District, one of Columbus' famed LGBTQ+ neighborhoods, visitors will find Union Cafe. The eatery and bar serve sandwiches, salads, pasta, and more. Of course, there is an extensive drink selection. The Union Cafe also holds events like drag brunches and "RuPaul's Drag Race" viewing parties. They are open daily from 11:00 a.m. to 2:00 a.m.

Slammers is a pizzeria and a highly-rated Lesbian bar. They are open daily, but hours vary. Love greenery? Then check out the plant gays, which sells planters, indoor plants, and other garden items. The establishment also offers plant design consultations as well as repotting and watering services.

For those who need a sweet treat, head to the beloved (and 5-star reviewed) Bake Me Happy. The gluten-free bakery offers cookies, scones, and muffins. Undoubtedly, Columbus is the LGBTQ+ place to visit in the Midwest. If you're interested in more travel destinations in the region, check out the best wine towns in the Midwest.