As someone who’s been living in Asheville for a while, I can confidently say that this city is a welcoming and vibrant community for everyone, including those in the LGBTQ+ community.
If you’re considering relocating to Asheville and want to get a sense of what it’s like for LGBTQ+ folks, I’ve compiled a list of some of the best resources you can explore online before making your move.
From social clubs to healthcare and nightlife, Asheville has a lot to offer.
1. Blue Ridge Pride
One of the first places I recommend checking out is Blue Ridge Pride. They do amazing work supporting our local LGBTQ+ community. Their annual Pride Festival is a highlight for many, but they’re active all year long, offering resources, events, and ways to connect with LGBTQ+-friendly businesses and services. The Blue Ridge Pride Centeralso has an online directory that can help you get plugged into the local scene before you even arrive.
2. Find Your Tribe on Meetup
If you’re like me, you’ll want to make some connections right away, and Meetup is a great way to do that. There are some fantastic LGBTQ+ groups here in Asheville that regularly meet up for everything from hiking to coffee chats. One of my favorites is the Asheville LGBTQIA+ Meetup Group where you can find everything from social events to outdoor adventures. You can explore more about this group here.
3. Welcoming Spiritual Communities
Asheville is home to some incredibly open and affirming spiritual communities. If faith or spiritual practice is important to you, there are several places to check out. The Unitarian Universalist Congregation of Asheville is known for being inclusive and welcoming. First Congregational United Church of Christ is also a great place, and they’re open and affirming as well.
4. Asheville’s LGBTQ+ Nightlife
If you’re like me and love to unwind with a drink or enjoy a good drag show, Asheville’s got a lively nightlife scene that’s very LGBTQ+ friendly. O.Henry’s is the oldest gay bar in North Carolina, and they’re still going strong with themed nights and karaoke. For dancing, you’ll want to check out Scandals Nightclub, which is known for its epic drag shows. Asheville’s bar scene is super inclusive too—places like Banks Ave. Bar welcome everyone with open arms.
5. Healthcare Tailored to the LGBTQ+ Community
Access to inclusive healthcare is important when you’re moving somewhere new. In Asheville, we’ve got some fantastic providers who are attuned to the needs of the LGBTQ+ community. WNC Community Health Services is a great place to start for general healthcare, including LGBTQ+ specific needs. If you’re looking for additional advocacy or health-related resources, check out the Campaign for Southern Equality. And for reproductive health or gender-affirming care, Planned Parenthood Asheville has been a strong advocate and provider for the LGBTQ+ community.
6. Keeping Up With Local LGBTQ+ News
To stay informed about what’s happening in Asheville, I recommend following a few local publications that frequently cover LGBTQ+ topics. QNotes is a leading source of LGBTQ+ news in the Carolinas. For more Asheville-specific updates, Mountain Xpress is the go-to. They regularly publish features on the LGBTQ+ community, upcoming events, and local issues that might impact you.
7. Support LGBTQ+ Businesses
If supporting local and LGBTQ+-owned businesses is important to you (as it is to me), Asheville has plenty of them. East Fork Pottery is one of my favorite places to shop for beautifully crafted pottery, and it’s LGBTQ+ owned. Trade and Lore Coffee is another wonderful spot to grab a cup of coffee and get a feel for Asheville’s inclusive atmosphere.
8. Outdoor Fun with LGBTQ+ Groups
If the outdoors are calling your name (and they will in Asheville), the local LGBTQ+ hiking and adventure scene is strong. The LGBT Outdoors Asheville Chapter organizes hikes and outdoor activities regularly. You’ll find like-minded people to hit the trails with, and Asheville’s outdoor culture is super inclusive.
9. Don’t Miss Our LGBTQ+ Festivals
Finally, no guide would be complete without mentioning our annual LGBTQ+ events. The Blue Ridge Pride Festival is hands down one of the most exciting days of the year here. You can expect live music, vendors, and plenty of love and support. Beyond Pride, groups like Asheville Queer Girls host regular events for queer women, and Asheville Drag Brunch is a monthly favorite that raises money for local charities while serving up an unforgettable show.
As you can see, Asheville has so much to offer the LGBTQ+ community. I hope this guide helps you feel more confident as you plan your move. Whether you’re here for the thriving social scene, inclusive healthcare, or just to enjoy the mountains with like-minded people, Asheville is a great place to call home.