Five Things to Do in Boston That Aren’t the Straight Pride Parade

Boston is the birthplace of American democracy, home of the Red Sox, and a mecca for American history, but it's also allegedly the future home of the first straight pride parade, an eye roll-inducing happening for North Eastern mouthbreathers that may or may not take place later this summer. According to Happy Fun America, the group behind the parade, their application for the event has been approved and will celebrate "the diverse history, culture, and contributions of the straight community" on August 31. Just this week, the three organizers of the parade each had an envelope of mysterious white powder delivered to their homes, and Boston's mayor isn't supportive of the event, although he has said that "permits to host a public event are granted based on operational feasibility, not based on values or endorsements of belief." So will the straight pride parade actually happen? Unclear.

But if it does, there are plenty of ways to experience Boston that don't include willful ignorance of the fact that straight people don't need a pride parade because they aren't oppressed. Boston is a city brimming with food, culture, and history, and here are just a few ways to experience the city without supporting homophobia. Gay rights!

Stay at Hyatt Centric Faneuil Hall Boston

Located feet from the beginning of the Freedom Trail, which highlights historical spots in downtown Boston, Hyatt's newly-opened boutique hotel is a perfect lodging for travelers hoping to experience everything the city has to offer and enjoy some relaxing downtime. Outfitted with a hip restaurant, state-of-the-art gym, luxurious guest rooms, and decor inspired by the city (mirrors around the hotel boast slogans you have to read with a Boston accent to understand), the Centric is an ideal accommodation for the cultured traveler.

Explore the Rose Fitzgerald Kennedy Greenway

Running through Downtown Boston, this linear park is home to rich gardens, food stalls, fountains, vendors selling everything from jewelry to dog treats, and a carousel.

Eat at Row 34

Nestled in Boston's newly updated Seaport District in a renovated industrial space, Row 34 is a seafood lover's paradise. Named for the specific row their highest recommended oysters are picked from, Row 34 obviously specializes in raw treats, but they are perhaps best known for their lobster rolls, which are served either warm and buttered or cold and creamy. Working your way through a few dozen oysters, several glasses of sparkling rose, and a lobster roll is a great way to distract yourself from the thought of cisgender white straight men claiming they're an oppressed minority!

Shop at the Boston Public Market

This market is the only year-round public market in the US selling only locally-sourced (within New England) food and goods. The stalls include everything from apple cider donuts to ramen, handmade soaps, freshly-caught fish, flowers, and bagels. Several of booths are queer-run, and the apple cider donuts are to die for.

Drink at nathalie

Located near Fenway Park, this femme wine bar focuses on small-batch, natural wines made entirely by women -- yes, every wine on the menu was produced by women. The decor is similarly female-centric, and guests will spot several queer femmes represented in art around the bar. Supporting a female-run local business and drinking wine made by women and women only is a great way to fight toxic masculinity -- or at least forget about it for a few hours.