Anti-LGBTQ+ Laws Reshape U.S. Tourism: Growing Concerns for Queer and Transgender Travelers

Recent months have witnessed a surge in legislative and policy actions across the United States that restrict rights and legal protections for queer people, with a particular focus on transgender individuals. These measures have had direct and measurable effects on tourism, as both domestic and international travelers reassess their itineraries in light of safety and inclusivity concerns. Travel advisors, advocacy groups, and research institutes have documented a marked shift in travel patterns, cancellations, and the perception of the U.S. as a destination for queer visitors .

Over the past year, state legislatures have introduced and, in many cases, passed dozens of laws restricting queer rights. According to the American Civil Liberties Union’s 2025 legislative tracking, these bills often target transgender people’s ability to update gender markers on identity documents, ban gender-affirming care for youth, and restrict public expression, such as drag performances .

For travelers, these restrictions have immediate practical consequences. In states where updating a driver’s license or birth certificate is now prohibited or heavily restricted, transgender people may be forced to travel with identification that does not match their gender presentation, increasing the risk of harassment, discrimination, or even violence at airports, hotels, and other public venues. Advocacy organizations stress that, for many, the fear of being “outed” or denied services is enough to cancel or avoid travel altogether .

A May 2025 study by the Williams Institute at UCLA found that 30% of transgender respondents reported traveling less frequently since the 2024 U.S. election, and 70% said they were less likely to vacation in states perceived as less trans-affirming . The study further reveals that nearly one in six respondents had canceled or considered canceling travel plans to states they viewed as hostile to transgender rights.

This trend is confirmed by travel industry professionals. Dean Nelson, a travel advisor and LGBTQ+ tourism consultant based in Vancouver, notes that clients are rescheduling or canceling cruises that begin or end in Florida or other states with anti-queer laws, opting instead for European or Canadian itineraries . Jaike Rowe, a sales and product manager at Out of Office, reports that while some clients avoid the U.S. entirely, others choose to focus travel on cities with strong reputations for inclusivity, such as San Francisco or New York .

The impact on transgender travelers is especially acute. The controversial passport and ID policies introduced during and after the Trump administration have resulted in frequent invasive questioning at airports and border crossings for transgender people . Duncan Greenfield-Turk, chief travel designer with Global Travel Moments, underscores the risks, stating, “The U.S. is not considered a safe place for transgender people,” and highlights the absence of legal guidance or government assurances for trans travelers .

According to the Williams Institute, 65% of transgender respondents are less likely to travel even within their own states if local policies are perceived as hostile. This internal migration away from less inclusive regions has economic consequences, impacting tourism revenues in states with restrictive laws .

The tourism industry has responded with caution and in some cases, activism. The International LGBTQ+ Travel Association emphasizes safety and inclusivity as top priorities and urges destinations to maintain strong legal protections and visible queer communities to attract travelers. Many travel agencies now actively track local laws and advise clients on which destinations are safest and most welcoming .

Riskline’s 2025 LGBTQ Risk Map categorizes the U.S. as a “Normal Concern” destination overall, but notes growing anxiety among transgender travelers due to regional disparities and political polarization . Travel guides and advocacy groups alike now recommend consulting up-to-date local information before planning U.S. travel, especially for transgender, nonbinary, and gender-diverse individuals.

The repercussions extend beyond individual travelers. The decline in queer tourism has financial impacts on states and cities, especially those that have previously marketed themselves as queer-friendly destinations. Loss of business from canceled conventions, pride festivals, and leisure travelers is compounded by the reputational damage caused by restrictive laws.

Some cities and regions, aware of the potential economic fallout, have doubled down on their commitment to inclusivity—publicly reaffirming support for queer rights and culture. These efforts are reflected in targeted marketing campaigns, visible pride celebrations, and expanded legal protections, all aimed at attracting travelers who might otherwise avoid the U.S. or specific states .

Given the evolving legal landscape, experts recommend the following for queer travelers considering U.S. destinations:

- Research local and state laws before booking travel, particularly regarding identity documents and public expression .

- Seek out destinations with strong reputations for LGBTQ+ inclusivity and visible communities.

- Consult travel advisors and advocacy organizations for up-to-date safety information and legal guidance.

- Prioritize personal safety and comfort, and be prepared to alter plans if local laws or conditions change.

While most major U.S. cities remain welcoming and vibrant for queer visitors, the current climate requires vigilance and informed decision-making, especially for transgender and gender-diverse travelers .