Apr 25, 2008  |  By: ZACK ROSEN  | COMMENTS     

If Key West seems passé and you’ve been to San Francisco umpteen times, perhaps you’re ready to explore some new and unexpected destinations that boast gay-friendly scenes. We’ve chosen 10 spots that could become your next favorite getaway. If you’re still working your way through the country’s top 21 gay travel destinations (as determined by Harris Interactive, the Travel Industry Association and Witeck-Combs Communications), we’ve included those on the adjacent page.

Albuquerque, N.M.

The American South-west’s desert landscapes make it a favorite destination for couples and Albuquerque is no exception. One of the city’s most notable gay attributes is Exhale, the only lesbian bar between Dallas and Phoenix — otherwise, most of the other gay clubs reside in the Nob Hill area of town. Also try hiking among dormant volcanoes, biking in the mountains or enjoying the town’s cultural offerings.

Check it out: Albuquerque Pride, June 13-14, www.abqpride.com; Exhale Bar and Grill, www.exhalebq.com.

Asheville, N.C.

A small, artsy community nestled in the mountains, it’s no surprise that Asheville counts gay travelers among its many visitors. According to web site Romantic Asheville, the lesbian-owned Malaprops bookstore has been voted “Best Independent Bookstore in the Southeast.” Three local gay clubs provide more social outlets, and a multitude of galleries, antique shops and coffee houses round out the Asheville experience.

Check it out: Asheville Pride, Oct. 11, www.ashevillepride.org; Malaprops Bookstore, www.malaprops.com.

Ashland, Ore.

While Portland is Oregon’s best-known city, it’s certainly not the only spot in the state where visitors can enjoy a wealth of cultural opportunities. Ashland is well known for its annual Shakespeare festival, but also has a number of live music events. Though there’s no big gay nightlife scene here, the Arden Forest Inn is gay-owned lodging and The Vinyl Club features gay-friendly Fridays.

Check it out: Arden Forest Inn, www.afinn.com; The Vinyl Club, www.thetownmenu.com/ashland/vinylclub.html.

Atlantic City, N.J.

A love of all things glam is hardly a new appeal for gay tourists, and Atlantic City has glitter by the bucketfuls. A combination of casinos, high-end nightclubs and legal civil unions make this the perfect place to enjoy a Vegas-style getaway without leaving the East Coast. Déjà vu Nightclub is just one gay-friendly nightspot.

Check it out: Déjà vu, www.dejavunightlub.com; Studio Six, www.clubtru.com.

Austin, Texas

Texas’ answer to San Francisco offers satisfying proof that the Lone Star state does indeed boast some liberal enclaves. In addition to being the live music capital of the country, Austin has a vibrant gay community, including a Metropolitan Community Church, the Texas Gay Rodeo Association and its own bear group. Bars with names like “Dicks” and “Rainbow Cattle Co.” provide an interesting nightlife, too.

Check it out: Austin Pride, June 14, www.austinprideparade.org; Rainbow Cattle Co., www.rainbowcattleco.com.

Dallas/Fort Worth, Texas

Dallas boasts the sixth largest gay population in the country and the city has a wealth of cultural options, as well. Its smaller neighbor, Fort Worth, is also a great place to be gay. In addition to its gay bars, the city has its own gay rodeo and gay and lesbian film festival. If that isn’t enough, the National Cowgirl Hall of Fame could be a very interesting attraction for ladies who like things rugged.

Check it out: 25th Annual Dallas Pride Parade, Sept. 21, www.dallasprideparade.com; Q Cinema Gay Film Festival, May 25-June 7, www.qcinema.org.

Ogunquit, Maine

Often overlooked by gay travelers headed to Provincetown, Ogunquit is a four square-mile town on the southern coast of Maine. Divided into two sections — The Village and Perkins Cove — most of the gay attractions are located in The Village. Ogunquit has its own unofficial gay beach, and events like the Main Street Video Bar’s monthly women’s tea dance and the annual Mr. Ogunquit Contest mean that there are interesting events off the sand as well.

Check it out: Club InsideOUT, www.clubinsideout.com; www.gayogunquit.com.

Pittsburgh, Pa.

Though overshadowed by Philadelphia, Pittsburgh has a gay scene all its own. The city boasts a considerable bar scene (though not as racy ...