Utah is a conservative state, and most residents don't approve of homosexuality; in fact, many residents believe that it's a sin. However, Utahns also have a firm belief in personal freedom, and will generally grant gay and lesbian travelers the same treatment as any other travelers.
Kanab, a tourist hub in southwestern Utah, threw itself into the national spotlight early in 2006 when the city council unanimously passed a nonbinding resolution that endorses what it calls a "natural family," defines marriage between a man and woman as "ordained of God," and sees homes as "open to a full quiver of children." Critics say the resolution is anti-gay and critical of single people and even married couples who choose to not have children, while proponents say the purpose of the resolution is to affirm marriage and family and show that Kanab is a good, wholesome place to live. Arthur Frommer called for a boycott of Kanab, calling the resolution "homophobic."
The Utah Pride Center, 361 N. 300 West, in Salt Lake City (tel. 801/539-8800; www.glccu.com), is home to a community center, coffeehouse, and information center for gays and lesbians.
The International Gay and Lesbian Travel Association (IGLTA; tel. 954/776-2626; www.iglta.org) is the trade association for the gay and lesbian travel industry, and offers an online directory of gay- and lesbian-friendly travel businesses and tour operators.
Note: This information was accurate when it was published, but can change without notice. Please be sure to confirm all rates and details directly with the companies in question before planning your trip.
