When you think of the southern United States, finding a super LGBTQ+ friendly experience seems like an oxymoron. The bluegrass state of Kentucky that borders my home state of Ohio is considered The South by Kentuckians. Honestly, I wasnât sure what to think when I was asked to visit. It turns out that Covington KY is an in the South. This is a place that is not just inclusive, they truly celebrate the LGBTQ+ community proudly.
Where to Stay
This was felt immediately even when checking into our hotel. is situated right downtown within walking distance of many local attractions. A luxurious oasis in the heart of Covington, Hotel Covington is not only a topnotch stay, but its commitment to the LGBTQ+ community runs deep.
Upon checking in, we were told that during Pride, Hotel Covington played host to many of the celebrants and events. A couple had complained about the Pride festivities and Hotel Covingtonâs response was, âperhaps we are not the hotel for you.â
Staying in a place that so boldly advocates for the LGBTQ+ community made our stay even more comfortable know that they had our backs. Not to forget that the hotel is insanely comfortable. Luxe faux furs, plush furniture, great views, and a house bar right on the B Line, what more could you want in a stay?
LGBTQ+ Businesses to Support
Not just the stays in Covington are inclusive, thereâs a wealth of LGBTQ+ owned businesses to explore. If youâre looking to start off your morning right, check out
Lilâs is a lesbian owned bagel shop. Julia, the owner, is originally from New York, so you know the bagels are going to be good. Check out a southern staple and order Dollyâs Caviar, you wonât regret it!
Looking to get your creative juices flowing? Head over to CHAD, Creative House of Art and Design, founded by, yes you guessed it, Chad! Chad founded Creative House of Art and Design as a hub for youth and adults alike to gather and create. They host classes as well as adult only events with their surprisingly spacious back patio and bar. CHAD focuses on make LGBTQ+ joy accessible in an unlikely place.
Where to Shop
There are so many excellent local makers to check out in Covington. Wanting to feel fabulous? Head over to Donna Salyers is renowned for creating the most luxurious faux fur coats, wraps, blankets, vests, and more! They are the go-to for Hollywood costuming and are a featured bedding item at Hotel Covington.
The coolest part about Fabulous Furs is their size inclusivity! All the styles are available in plus and straight sizes.
Need a little more magic in your life? Check out . A bespoke arcana and magical goods shop, itâll have you feeling like you just stepped into Diagon Alley. They have a wide selection of books, crystals, herbs, and effects.
When you visit, spend some time chatting with owners Augur and Coil. The shop is so unique, just like the owners.
Other shops to check out while in Covington are Grainwell for wood goods, Kentucky Botanical Co for refillable and sustainable goods as well as CBD, and Hello Handzy for locally-made boutique items and unique clothing. Covington KY is a city that makes very easy to do!
A trip to Covington is not complete without a stop at . Their selection of inclusive children’s books is top notch and each room seems to have its own personality. Chocolate lovers should snag a “Newsprint” latte which combines dark and white chocolate.
Where To Eat
Being a southern state, you know Kentucky has the grub. Covington is no exception. We enjoyed so many good bites while in Covington. A stand out favorite was .
Libbyâs Southern Comfort is a true welcome to the South. Hush puppies, Cheerwine, goetta, fried chicken, all the dishes you associate with the South, but with a modern twist is the fare youâll find. Absolutely everything we tried was amazing. Highly recommend the goetta, a meat and grain sausage.
You wouldnât expect to find good Mexican cuisine in Kentucky, but youâd be pleasantly surprised at . Served with a twist, this hip latin eatery serves up creative tacos, like macaroni and cheese, hot dog, and even kangaroo.
Looking for something a little more upscale? fits the bill. This little Italian eatery serves pillowy soft, decadently divine pastas. Seriously some of the best gnocchi Iâve had in the states.
We also stopped at for drinks and appetizers. The Standard excels at elevated bar food but it was the decor of this old mechanicâs garage turned trendy restaurant that really stood out! It seemed like there was something funky around each corner to discover.
Where to Go Out
Covington is on . If you arenât familiar with The B-Line, thatâs the Northern Kentucky Bourbon Trail. In order to earn a spot on The B-Line, restaurants must maintain a stock of at least 50 different bourbons on their menus.
We were fortunate enough to get to get several stamps on our B-Line passports from Libbyâs Southern Comfort, Richâs Proper, Coppins, Second Sight Distillery, and New Riff Distillery.
Being in bourbon country, taking a distillery tour is a must. The process of distilling is absolutely fascinating. From grain, to the mash, to the barrels, to the tasting room, you can experience it all from field to flask.
An award-winning anchor of the Kentucky Bourbon Trail Craft Tour, in Newport has been distilling and creating a new riff on bourbon since 2014. Their design-inspired distillery will lift your spirits and give you new insight to the art and science of bourbon making.
On the flip side, check out This quirky distillery packs a lot of heart into their brews. Originally from the Vegas show circuit, the owners transition into distilling spirits and are the only people in possession of a turbaned distillery tank. It is a must see.
Covington truly has all the Southern charm and all the Northern inclusivity. It is a surprising oasis in the south, providing all you could want in terms of lifestyle, food, and sip. So kick back, grab some sweet tea, and mosey on down to Covington.