Gay Local Tips in Medellín

Dance into Medellín like Madonna

Diego is a formidable host from Medellín. He invites you to discover this major city which he knows so well, and which is experiencing a recent boom in popularity. The weather in Medell í n is what dreams are made of, giving it the rather poetic nickname of ‘The City of Eternal Spring’. With temperatures averaging 22°C, and daily highs of over 30°C, Medell í n’s climate is about as good as it gets. Thanks to Diego's experience with misterb&b, he is making friends and memories that he is thrilled to share with us. Explore Medellín. Experience your pride.

How gay-friendly is your city? What’s gay life like there?

Even though Medellín is a very conservative city, gay life has been growing over the past few years. We have slowly been recognizing LGBTQ characters in movies, TV series and local ads. Younger generations are daring to hold hands in shopping malls and streets, and gay night life is getting stronger. However, there are still some places where you cannot feel at ease showing affection to your partner.

What are the best gay events that take place in your city each year?

Gay Pride is held every year at the end of June. Easter in spring is also great. Vacations in January and June are good times to come and visit the city too. The Flowers Fair is a local event that attracts a lot of people to town, including LGBTQ travelers.

We only have 48 hours in your city. What can’t we miss?

Medellín is a hot vibrant city, with an art and design wave continuing to grow every day. Known as the fashion capital of Colombia, you will find art, clothes and designer shops in Poblado. This is also the best place to stay as you will find bars, restaurants and lot of people to mix and mingle with.

If you are an art lover, you will find some interesting local museums such as the Museum of Modern Art of Medellín (MAMM) and Museo de Antioquia/Plaza Botero (which showcases Fernando Botero's work and many Colombian artists as well).

There is a local Graffiti Tour at Comuna 13, which is something not to be missed. You will learn how the positive change began in Medellín a few years ago, as you walk through a neighborhood that witnessed the most violent era of the city in the past, and became a focal point of art and culture today.

And for party lovers, you will find a small kitsch bar, called Chiquita, which is ideal for having some drinks. Then move on to Oráculo, a small disco bar with gogo dancers and drag shows.

What’s your favorite gay place to grab a bite for lunch? A nice dinner?

I'm a food lover, so having to pick only one or two restaurants is a crime. However, my first choice would be Alambique, which is a dark, hidden-treasure restaurant, where eating with your hands and sharing your food is the rule. Otherwise Bao Bei would be my second option, which is filled with all the flavor of the Philippines. Finally, meat lovers will rejoice at Brutal.

A nice gay place for brunch on weekends?

A french-inspired café/restaurant that is ideal for brunch is Ganso & Castor. They serve delicious mimosas, salads and sandwiches, and have three different locations across the city.

What is the best gay place and day for a cheap beer or happy hour?

Chiquita offers good cocktails, and on Thursdays you can watch Drag Race with Happy Hour - a winning combo.

We’re ready to party! What are the best gay clubs?

Oráculo, in Poblado, is a small, kitsch disco bar, that is kind of inspired by Lady Gaga's Artpop era. It is a place mostly for young guys, but I personally enjoy the pop music played there.

Purple, in Laureles, is a bigger place, with two different music spaces to choose from. Downstairs you will find a small local music room, while the rest of the place is more diverse, switching between pop and reggaeton music back and forth.

What are the best alternative gay bars and clubs where you live?

As gay culture is beginning to grow, drag culture is being known as alternative for us, so completely drag-inspired Querida Bar would be my pick.

Are there any places related to LGBTQ history?

No not at this stage, however there are some collectives in development which are starting to reconstruct and retrace LGBTQ history.

Can you share a secret or little-known place to visit in your city?

A very good spot to have a local breakfast is the Farmers Market at La Presidenta Park, however it is only on Sundays. This is a hot spot if you want to catch a little sun, buy some traditional food, sip a coffee, and meet some local people.

Any beaches, parks or best other places to chill out?

Nature lovers will appreciate Arvi Park, which is the perfect spot for hiking, having a picnic, or just experiencing the local wildlife.

Where can we get the best view of Medellín?

As we have built a city all over the valley, including the mountains, a top spot would be at El Tesoro - one of the most exclusive shopping malls in town.

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Thinking of visiting Medellín? Check out our Accommodations for this great gay city!

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