Pride Month isn’t just about parades and glitter (though we love both). It’s about community. Resistance. Joy. And building a future where queer folks can live fully, loudly, and safely—all year long. One of the most tangible ways to show up for that future?
Supporting queer-owned businesses. Not just during Pride, but always.
These are the people creating space, crafting beauty, feeding our communities, and making Austin a more vibrant, inclusive place to live.
Below, we’ve rounded up a handful of our favorite queer-owned spots across the city. Whether you’re looking for affirming wellness spaces, joyful self-expression, or your next caffeine fix, this list is full of businesses that deserve your dollars—and your love.
Wellness and Self-Care
Pride celebrations can be a blast, but they can also be exhausting. That’s why we love businesses that make it easier to take a breath, drop your shoulders, and come home to yourself. These spots help make rest and care feel accessible, affirming, and, honestly, kind of luxurious.
You won’t find any of these businesses performatively celebrating Pride, either—they meaningfully support the LGBTQ+ community throughout the entire year.
OutWellness
OutWellness is a queer-owned health and wellness center in South Austin, and we’re the kind of place that gets it. With personal training, physical therapy, massage therapy, and community classes, we’re building a space where LGBTQ+ folks can feel strong, safe, and seen. Bonus: we offer sliding-scale and free services because real care should be accessible.
Blackbird Fitness & Nutrition
Founded by Coach Courtney, Blackbird Fitness & Nutrition is where fitness meets body neutrality and real inclusivity. Their private studio takes the pressure off, and their approach focuses on joyful movement and sustainable habits, not before-and-after photos.
Cute Nail Studio
More than just a nail salon, Cute Nail Studio is a queer wonderland where self-expression reigns. Whether you want sparkles, anime art, or a tooth gem, they’ve got you. It’s colorful, affirming, and filled with joy—a true Austin original.
Food and Beverage
Food is a connection. It’s comfort. It’s culture. And these queer-owned Austin spots are serving up all three in every bite, sip, and shared table.
Come hungry. Leave full and inspired.
la Barbecue
Barbecue in Texas is sacred, and at la Barbecue, it’s also queer. Co-owned by LeAnn Mueller, this iconic East Austin spot serves up smoked brisket, sausage, and all the classics with a side of unapologetic queerness.
Lick Honest Ice Creams
Founded by a gay couple, Lick Honest Ice Creams is known for creative flavors and local ingredients. But the real magic? Ice cream made with integrity and a whole lot of love. (Try the Goat Cheese, Thyme & Honey. Trust.)
Mary’s Cafe
Sweet and cozy, Mary’s Cafe is the kind of place where you can post up with a waffle and a latte and feel totally at home. Their coffee is great, but their community vibe is even better.
Fashion and Accessories
Style is about more than clothes. It’s how we say, “This is me.” These queer-owned shops aren’t just about looking good—they’re about feeling seen.
Package Menswear
From bold swim briefs to everyday basics, this South Congress staple, Package Menswear, is queer-owned, body-positive, and here to help you find your fit. They carry everything from cheeky underwear to stylish loungewear, with a side of confidence.
The Little Gay Shop
Part gallery, part boutique, part cultural hub, The Little Gay Shop is the go-to for queer art, books, gifts, and pride gear. Come for the zines, stay for the vibes.
Home and Lifestyle
Making your space feel like home? That’s queer joy. These Austin makers and shops bring comfort, creativity, and culture into your everyday life.
Las Ofrendas
Run by artist and educator Stephanie Montes, Las Ofrendas creates handmade accessories, home goods, and wearable art rooted in culture, identity, and color. Every piece feels like a celebration.
Looking for a space that feels like it was made with you in mind? At OutWellness, we offer inclusive care that puts your comfort and goals first. Talk to us about finding the right services for you.
Books and Media
Queer stories matter. And these local bookstores and media spaces are making sure they get told—loudly, proudly, and often.
BookWoman
One of the longest-running feminist bookstores in the country, BookWoman has been holding space for queer and trans readers since the ’70s. Their shelves are stacked with radical joy, resistance, and the stories we need.
Reverie Books
This indie bookstore in South Austin is cozy, eclectic, and proudly queer-owned. Reverie Books curates titles that center marginalized voices, and they’re always down for a good community event or book club.
Community and Advocacy
Pride started as a protest. These organizations and spaces carry that legacy forward—by making change, building networks, and showing up for the community, even when the glitter settles.
Lil’ America
An ever-growing collective of queer and BIPOC-owned food trucks and makers, Lil’ America is part food park, part community hub. It’s one of the best ways to support multiple businesses in one joyful stop.
Equality Texas
For decades, Equality Texas has been doing the deep, necessary work of advocating for LGBTQ+ rights across the state. If you’re looking to donate, volunteer, or just stay informed, they’re a rock-solid place to start.
ACLU of Texas
The ACLU of Texas has been a legal lifeline for LGBTQ+ Texans, showing up in courtrooms, legislatures, and communities to defend civil liberties and fight discrimination. Whether it’s protecting drag performers, challenging anti-trans legislation, or advocating for free speech, the ACLU backs it up with action, not just lip service.
TENT (Transgender Education Network of Texas)
TENT is one of the leading organizations advocating for trans rights in Texas. From legislative advocacy to community education and leadership development, they’re doing the on-the-ground work to make Texas safer and more affirming for trans and nonbinary people. If you want to support trans Texans directly, start here.
Supporting Queer-Owned Businesses Year-Round
Pride isn’t a one-time thing. It’s something we live. These Austin businesses aren’t just “doing it for the month.” They’re creating space, building joy, and showing up for the community 365 days a year.
So show up with them. Shop, share, donate, attend their events, tell your friends. Because supporting queer folks doesn’t just look like waving a flag. Sometimes, it looks like buying a book. Or a glittery pair of earrings. Or a really, really good taco.
However you do it—do it with love. Happy Pride, Austin.
Ready to find a wellness space that celebrates all of who you are? OutWellness is queer-owned, community-centered, and here for the long haul. Reach out—we’d love to connect.
