Pride Journeys Dallas/Palestine, TX

Joey Amato is the founder and publisher of Pride Journeys, an LGBTQ travel website and syndicated column. For more LGBTQ travel ideas, please visit www.pridejourneys.com.

- Joey Amato

I had a trip to Texas planned prior to the introduction transgender of the antibills in state Congress. I considered cancelling the trip completely, however I realized that there are thousands of LGBTQ people living in the state who would be negatively affected by boycotts and travel cancellations, so I decided to forge ahead. Texas is a red state with multiple blue dots including Austin, Houston, Dallas, and others.

I started my road trip in Dallas, a place I have visited multiple times before for business. Dallas is a fun city with a thriving LGBTQ culture. The city's nightlife is centered around the Oak Lawn neighborhood and its main thoroughfare Cedar Springs Road. Dozens of LGBTQ-owned shops, restaurants, salons, and bars line the street giving locals and tourists a va ety of options to choose from.

Don't party too hard because we are about to hit the road and venture to Palestine, Texas, a town located about 2-hours away. Upon arrival, it doesn't seem like much but as you explore the East Texas town you begin to notice its charm and appeal. Many coupled LGBTQ families are relocating from Dallas - or buying second homes here - because of its proximity to lakes and natural wonders.