June 6, 2024 – The United States is home to many significant LGBTQ+ landmarks that have played crucial roles in the fight for equality and rights. These historic sites offer a glimpse into the rich and vibrant history of the LGBTQ+ movement. From the site of the Stonewall Riots in New York City to Harvey Milk Plaza in San Francisco, here are some must-visit historic LGBTQ+ places across the U.S.

The Stonewall Inn, New York City

The Stonewall Inn, located in the Greenwich Village neighborhood of Manhattan, is perhaps the most iconic LGBTQ+ landmark in the U.S. On June 28, 1969, a police raid at this gay bar sparked the Stonewall Riots, a series of spontaneous protests by members of the LGBTQ+ community. These riots are widely considered the catalyst for the modern LGBTQ+ rights movement. Today, the Stonewall Inn is a National Historic Landmark and a vibrant bar and community space.

Highlights:

• National Historic Landmark

• Birthplace of the modern LGBTQ+ rights movement

• Regular events and drag shows

Castro District, San Francisco

San Francisco's Castro District is one of the first openly gay neighborhoods in the U.S and remains a symbol of LGBTQ+ culture and activism. The district is home to Harvey Milk Plaza, named after the first openly gay elected official in California, who was tragically assassinated in 1978. Visitors can also explore the GLBT Historical Society Museum, which showcases the rich history of the LGBTQ+ community in San Francisco and beyond.

Highlights:

• Harvey Milk Plaza

• GLBT Historical Society Museum

• Iconic LGBTQ+ bars and businesses

The Henry Gerber House, Chicago

The Henry Gerber House, located in Chicago, is a National Historic Landmark that served as the headquarters of the Society for Human Rights, the first gay rights organization in the United States, founded in 1924. Henry Gerber’s pioneering work laid the groundwork for future LGBTQ+ advocacy. The house remains a symbol of early LGBTQ+ activism and courage. After a visit to the house, head up to Northalsted/ Boystown to experience the city’s iconic LGBTQ+ neighborhood.

Highlights:

• National Historic Landmark

• Birthplace of the first gay rights organization in the U.S.

• Symbol of early LGBTQ+ activism

The Furies Collective House, Washington, D.C.

The Furies Collective House in Washington, D.C. was the headquarters of the Furies Collective, a lesbian feminist group that was active in the early 1970s. The group published "The Furies," a newspaper that discussed issues of lesbianism, feminism, and radical politics. The house is recognized as a National Historic Landmark and represents a pivotal moment in lesbian feminist history.

Highlights:

• National Historic Landmark

• Headquarters of an influential lesbian feminist group

• Publication site of "The Furies" newspaper

Mattachine Steps, Los Angeles

The Mattachine Steps, located in the Silver Lake neighborhood of Los Angeles, are named after the Mattachine Society, one of the earliest LGBTQ+ rights organizations in the United States. Founded by Harry Hay in 1950, the society played a crucial role in the early LGBTQ+ rights movement. The steps lead up to a house where some of the society’s first meetings were held and serve as a reminder of the organization's significant contributions.

Highlights:

• Named after the Mattachine Society

• Early LGBTQ+ rights movement site

• Historic neighborhood with LGBTQ+ significance

Exploring these historic LGBTQ+ landmarks offers a powerful journey through the struggles, triumphs, and ongoing efforts for equality in the U.S. Each site tells a unique story of resilience, activism, and community, making them essential destinations for anyone interested in the rich history of the LGBTQ+ movement, while providing a meaningful and educational experience.