If you’re looking to meet transgender individuals in Phoenix, you’ll find a range of options.
From support groups to bars, clubs, and even dedicated LGBT neighborhoods – the possibilities are endless.
In this article, we’ll explore these inclusive spaces to help you connect with the trans community.
And at the end, I’ll also share my personal experience of how Portland treats trans individuals and answer some common questions.
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List of TG Friendly Venues in Phoenix
Phoenix is one of the most trans-friendly cities in Arizona. There’s even a Pride Festival hosted every year in Steele Indian School Park.
Aside from that there are multiple other ways to connect with the community. From online dating sites to different venues, you’ll almost never run out of options.
So we’ll dive into the details to help you find an approach that works best for you.
1. Bars and Clubs
Generally, the majority of the venues in Phoenix welcome trans folks.
But there are certain areas like The Melrose District which is also referred to as the “Gayberhood”.
As the name suggests, the area is incredibly popular among the LGBT crowd. It has plenty of bars and clubs that attract trans men and women.
Let’s go over some of the best ones.
Cruisin’7th – This bar features drag shows and it’s particularly popular among trans individuals. Just avoid visiting on Saturday afternoons because you’ll only find gay men.
Kobalt – Although Kobalt is primarily a gay bar, it’s very trans-friendly and has traditional drag queens that are known to host the best drag shows in Phoenix.
Stacy’s at Melrose – Stacy’s is a gay & lesbian friendly nightclub so naturally, you’ll find both trans men and women here. It features a more gothic theme and most visitors are looking for something casual.
Charlie’s Phoenix – This used to be one of the most popular LGBT bars in the city, but now, there are frequent complaints about its rude bartenders. Nonetheless, it’s a worthy mention because the place is still a hotspot among TGs and crossdressers.
2. LGBT Centers
Phoenix has a couple of LGBT-friendly centers that are also great places to socialize with transsexuals.
One of them is One n Ten which is essentially a community center to provide support to the youth to learn more about their gender identity.
Of course, you’ll also find trans adults at the venue to further learn about inclusive spaces.
Another place is the Southwest Center. Note that it isn’t a community center but a place for STD testing, however, it has an LGBT staff that can point you in the right direction.
3. Trans Dating Sites
If you want to talk the online dating route then there are plenty of trans dating sites you can start from.
Platforms like Taimi and Transgender Date are actually quite popular but don’t limit your search to Phoenix alone.
You’ll find many profiles all across Arizona, but if you’re looking for something serious, first ask them if they’re willing to relocate.
That’s because connecting for casual relationships through these sites is very easy, but finding a serious relationship is hard.
4. Support Groups
It should not be surprising that you’ll find a ton of LGBT support groups in Phoenix.
But if you’re searching for an option that is more trans and queer-specific then Trans Spectrum of Arizona is worth checking out.
It’s an organization that provides both in-person and virtual support to trans individuals by hosting various events. They update the event calendar on their website every month.
5. Communities and Forums
There are also multiple LGBT-friendly communities and forums where you can potentially connect with trans folks.
We’ll start with this Facebook group called Fierce Friends of Phoenix. It is a public group that isn’t too active but if you scroll down, you’ll find many resources and event info shared by its users.
Aside from that, you can join this Discord Group which isn’t trans-specific but has a channel dedicated to LGBT and the people are quite friendly.
What It’s Like to Be Transgender in Phoenix
Phoenix has a thriving LGBTQ community, with a wide range of organizations, social groups, bars, and events.
The city is known for its inclusivity and acceptance. And it’s a safe place even for trans individuals who are in between their transitions.
Recent political developments, such as the election of Katie Hobbs as the Democratic Governor, have made things even better.
Hobbs is a strong ally of the LGBT+ community and is committed to turning down any anti-trans legislation.
Her term will end in 2026, so hopefully she doesn’t get replaced by a Republican who ends up passing draconian bills for transgender people.
Though for now, Phoenix is a chill place for TGs and the majority of the people are kind and respectful.
Common Questions From The Trans Community
What areas should TGs avoid in Phoenix?
Phoenix is generally a safe city for TGs but they sometimes might face discrimination in suburban areas like Scottsdale, or Paradise Valley.
But you still don’t have to worry about physical safety. It’s more about some people using insensitive words like “tranny” and “shemale” while addressing trans folks.
What is the fastest way to meet trans women in Phoenix?
The best way to meet trans women in Phoenix is by visiting Cruisin’7th. Other than Saturday afternoons (which are mostly gay men), you’ll find MtF transgender at this place throughout the week.
When is the Phoenix Pride Parade hosted?
The Phoenix Pride Parade is hosted annually at the Steele Indian School Park though the specific dates can vary. In 2023, it’s planned to be hosted on October 22, 10 am.
