Planning a getaway shouldn’t feel like preparing for battle. But for transgender individuals and families with trans loved ones, spring travel in 2025 requires more than just checking the weather and packing a swimsuit. With a wave of new legislation and executive orders under the Trump administration, the landscape for LGBTQ+ travel—especially in red states—has shifted drastically. This guide is here to help you navigate it safely, confidently, and joyfully.
The Political Forecast: What’s Changed Since Spring 2024?
Let’s start with the unpleasant truth: travel for transgender individuals in the U.S. has become more legally complex and emotionally risky. Since Donald Trump returned to the White House in January 2025, a series of executive orders and state-level laws have rapidly reshaped access to public accommodations, healthcare, and free movement.
Executive Orders at the Federal Level
- Revoked protections for gender identity in federal facilities, including airports and federal buildings.
- Directed federal agencies to comply with “biological sex” definitions for public accommodations—impacting everything from national parks to transportation hubs.
- Threatened funding for cities that “refuse to enforce gender-affirming legislation”, which has pressured some previously trans-friendly municipalities into compliance.
State-Level Escalations
As of April 2025, more than 20 red states have passed or expanded laws that:
- Ban transgender people from using restrooms that align with their gender identity in public spaces.
- Criminalize certain forms of gender-affirming clothing in “family spaces” or schools.
- Prohibit discussions of gender identity in public schools and libraries—potentially impacting what families see on community boards or children’s programming.
Unfortunately, some of these laws carry civil penalties (like fines), but others come with criminal charges—often vague enough to be selectively enforced.
Planning Ahead: 5 Questions Every Trans Traveler Should Ask
Before choosing a destination for a spring weekend escape, consider these five critical safety and comfort questions:
- What are the public accommodation laws in that state or city?
- Use resources like the ACLU’s “LGBTQ+ Rights by State” tracker.
- Check for bathroom bans, dress code laws, or permit requirements for public gatherings.
- Does the destination have a known reputation for LGBTQ+ inclusivity?
- Cities with Pride Centers, LGBTQ+ protections in hiring, and queer-owned businesses tend to offer safer and more affirming environments.
- Will I need to fly or go through federal facilities?
- If yes, prepare for TSA encounters. Know your rights and consider carrying documentation if you’re worried about misgendering or ID mismatches.
- Is there a local trans or LGBTQ+ resource center?
- Having a contact point in case of emergency—legal, medical, or emotional—can make a huge difference.
- Is this trip meant to be restful or rebellious?
- There’s nothing wrong with choosing joy and escape. But be honest about whether you’re seeking peace or making a statement. Your safety and well-being come first.
7 Trans-Friendly Weekend Getaways for Spring 2025
We’ve vetted this list based on legal safety, local inclusivity, community support, and—of course—the potential for a fantastic weekend away. All of these cities are in states that, as of April 2025, still offer some level of legal protection or practical safety for transgender people.
Asheville, North Carolina
Why go: Nestled in the Blue Ridge Mountains, Asheville is known for its art scene, queer-owned coffee shops, and inclusive spirituality.
What to love: Trans-owned businesses like PennyCup Coffee and LGBTQ+ community events at Firestorm Books. Nature lovers will find solace in trails like Craggy Gardens and the Blue Ridge Parkway.
Legal note: North Carolina still has concerning statewide legislation, but Asheville has declared itself a sanctuary city for trans rights and refuses to enforce bathroom bans.
Chicago, Illinois
Why go: Despite political unrest nationally, Chicago remains a Midwest safe haven for LGBTQ+ travelers.
What to love: The Center on Halsted is one of the nation’s largest LGBTQ+ community centers, and Lake Michigan’s spring breeze makes Millennium Park and the Art Institute perfect day stops.
Legal note: Illinois upholds strong state-level non-discrimination laws, including for public accommodations and healthcare.
Santa Fe, New Mexico
Why go: Santa Fe offers stunning desert views, queer art communities, and a calm vibe perfect for introspection or connection.
What to love: LGBTQ+-owned inns like El Farolito offer affirming hospitality. Don’t miss the healing vibes of Ten Thousand Waves spa or a walk through Canyon Road galleries.
Legal note: New Mexico maintains robust trans protections, and the state government has issued statements rejecting federal guidance that conflicts with gender-affirming rights.
Portland, Maine
Why go: Portland has emerged as a progressive stronghold in New England—and a haven for trans folks in the Northeast.
What to love: Spring in Maine brings ocean views, soft breezes, and affirming cafes like Tandem Coffee. Explore Old Port or kayak the Casco Bay.
Legal note: The state has reaffirmed protections for transgender individuals, even as it fights a federal funding freeze over its refusal to ban trans athletes.
San Francisco, California
Why go: Still the heart of LGBTQ+ history and community, San Francisco offers unmatched visibility and infrastructure for trans visitors.
What to love: The Castro, Dolores Park, the Transgender District, and resources like LYRIC Youth Center and Trans Thrive.
Legal note: California continues to expand trans protections in response to federal rollbacks. Sanctuary policies apply statewide.
Denver, Colorado
Why go: Urban energy meets mountain serenity, with a strong LGBTQ+ community and scenic day trips to Estes Park and Red Rocks.
What to love: Local support groups, trans-friendly hiking meetups, and art districts like RiNo with gender-inclusive spaces.
Legal note: Colorado has reaffirmed statewide protections, including explicit bans on bathroom discrimination.
Madison, Wisconsin
Why go: A vibrant university town with progressive values and a growing trans community.
What to love: Spring blooms on the Capitol Square, drag brunch at The Tipsy Cow, and trans-led events at OutReach LGBTQ+ Community Center.
Legal note: Wisconsin has mixed politics, but Madison has consistently funded LGBTQ+ community initiatives and resisted enforcement of federal bathroom guidance.
Travel Tips for Spring 2025: Navigating the New Normal
Even in relatively safe areas, it’s smart to travel prepared—especially this year.
Bring a Travel Safety Kit
- Copies of IDs and medical documents (digital and hard copy)
- Contact info for legal support (Transgender Law Center, Lambda Legal)
- Gender-affirming gear, medication, or supplies in carry-on luggage
- A note from your doctor (if on HRT or carrying injectables)
Restroom Readiness
- Research bathroom laws in advance: use the “Refuse to Be Silent” travel app or Equality Maps.
- Identify safe spaces using the Refuge Restrooms app.
- If possible, stop at affirming locations (like Starbucks or Target) rather than unfamiliar gas stations.
Know What to Say—Or Not
You’re never obligated to out yourself to hotel staff, restaurant hosts, or strangers. But having a few lines ready can ease uncomfortable moments. Some travelers find it helpful to:
- Book with LGBTQ+-friendly hosts via services like Misterb&b or Hipcamp.
- Request gender-neutral rooms or facilities in advance.
- Politely disengage from conversations that feel invasive or unsafe.
For Families Traveling with Trans Youth
If you’re a parent or caregiver of a transgender child or teen, your role on the road is more vital than ever.
What to Prioritize
- Choose destinations that won’t force your child to hide who they are.
- Avoid states where recent laws target gender-affirming care or criminalize parents supporting transition.
- Pack affirming clothing, names, and pronouns—and use them consistently in all public spaces.
Bonus tip: Consider writing a brief “letter of affirmation” to your child before the trip begins. Travel can be disorienting. A physical reminder of your love and support is a powerful grounding tool when new environments feel uncertain.
Online & Virtual Alternatives to Physical Travel
Not everyone is able—or ready—to hit the road this year. Whether you’re in a hostile state or simply need rest, don’t underestimate the value of digital escapes.
Try These:
- Join a virtual retreat hosted by Transgender Wellness Summit or Gender Spectrum.
- Book a virtual art class with LGBTQ+ instructors via Skillshare or Airbnb Experiences.
- Take a virtual museum tour with your chosen family and turn it into a shared screenshare picnic night.
Remember: Your body and your spirit both deserve joy. There’s no shame in seeking safety through screens while the world catches up.
The Bottom Line
Spring is the season of renewal—and in 2025, perhaps more than ever, we deserve it.
Whether you’re planning a serene weekend surrounded by queer joy or carefully crafting an escape route through unfamiliar terrain, know this: you are not alone. Every step you take in your truth is a revolution. And every moment of rest, connection, or laughter is an act of defiance against a world that often tries to steal them from us.
So book the trip, pack the journal, and bring your trans flag scarf. Wherever you go this spring, make it yours.
Need Help or Legal Support While Traveling?
