Mexico City

Mexico City is one of the most underrated gay destinations in the world. With a thriving LGBTQ+ scene, incredible food, rich culture, and prices that won't destroy your wallet, CDMX deserves a spot at the top of your travel list.

The Gay Scene

Zona Rosa is the historic gay neighborhood and still has plenty of bars and clubs, though it's gotten a bit rough around the edges. The real action has shifted to Roma and Condesa — trendy neighborhoods full of cute cafes, mezcal bars, and a younger, more mixed crowd. For pure gay nightlife, check out Marrakech Salón, Tom's Leather Bar, or the legendary club La Purísima.

The Guys

Mexican guys are warm, flirty, and incredibly good-looking. The apps are active — Grindr and Scruff both have tons of users. Expect a mix of locals looking to hang out and fellow travelers. Mexicans tend to be more relationship-oriented than hookup-focused, so be ready for actual conversation and maybe a dinner date.

Safety

CDMX is generally safe in tourist areas, but it's still a massive metropolis with the usual big-city concerns. Stick to Roma, Condesa, Polanco, and Centro Histórico during the day. Use Uber instead of street taxis. Be aware of your surroundings at night, especially after drinking. Mexico City is very gay-friendly — same-sex marriage has been legal here since 2010, before most of the US.

What to Do

Beyond the nightlife, CDMX has world-class museums (the Anthropology Museum is a must), stunning architecture, and some of the best food on the planet. Take a day trip to the Teotihuacan pyramids, explore the canals of Xochimilco on a trajinera boat with friends and beers, or just wander through Roma Norte eating tacos and drinking mezcal. The city rewards exploration.

The Bottom Line

Mexico City offers an unbeatable combination of culture, nightlife, food, and value. You can live like a king here for a fraction of what you'd spend in other major cities. The gay scene is vibrant and welcoming, the guys are gorgeous, and there's always something new to discover. Just pack your stretchy pants — you're going to eat a lot.