In red states like Missouri, finding meaningful relationships with other folks in the LGBTQ+ demographic can be difficult. But it can be especially hard for transwomen who are wanting to curate relationships with others.
Looking to Meet Trans Women in Missouri?
Discover meaningful connections in a safe, inclusive space – and it’s totally FREE!
Join now to chat, connect, and build real relationships with amazing trans women near you. No hidden fees, no pressure – just honest, respectful connections.
Start your journey today!
Even though Missouri is a red state and holds a relatively conservative social climate, there are still many ways that a trans person can safely navigate the dating world as their authentic selves in the area where they live. Although it can be difficult to do so, the trans community still manages to flourish in Missouri through the use of safe spaces that are created offline, as well as the use of online apps that are made to bring a much-needed welcoming environment for folks who wish to enter genuine relationships. Whether they be platonic or romantic. You will learn how to understand and explore your relationships, respect boundaries, and, of course, make genuine connections with others. We will also teach you how you can utilize certain places to help you meet others such as;
- Community Centers with LGBTQ+ centric programs – These spaces are almost always created by more folks who are well-established and well-entrenched in the local LGBTQ+ contingent or by well meaning allies who wish to help other queer folks by creating a safe space for them to find one another.
- Gatherings and Festivals During Pride – Celebrations that are made to bring LGBTQ+ individuals together.
- Digital Platforms – Online platforms such as Taimi that are designed for people who identify as LGBTQ+.
- Support Groups – Ways for folks who are queer the means to share their experiences with others who may have had similar experiences in a safe and judgement free environment.
- Trans friendly venues – Locations and venues that feature a welcoming atmosphere towards transgender people
- Networks among folks you know – A way to help you curate relationships and build relationships with friends, relatives, and acquaintances.
When it comes to meeting trans women in Missouri, the key thing to know is that one must always show respect, as well as a desire to make real connections with others when entering these spaces. Whether you wish for your relationships to be platonic, romantic, or somewhere in between. Missouri hosts a myriad of different opportunities where people like yourself can build safe and supportive connections with others who identify as trans, queer, or gender-diverse.
1. Community Centers
People who are transgender can forge relationships with each other as well as find the support that they need through programs held at local centers and other organizations. From being able to socialize with one another, to dating programs made to help queer folks find romantic relationships in a safe local environment. Most major cities such as St. Louis, and Springfield, have at least one center, club, or organization that gives LGBTQ+ individuals a safe space to connect and find resources.
The GLO Center (Springfield, MO)
The Glo Center, is an LGBTQ+ centric organization that serves queer folks of the Ozarks. They are a non profit organization that hopes to help queer individuals in rural areas in Southwest MO connect with one another, as well as give support, resources, education, and lessons in advocacy for folks in the community. The Glo Center also offers a number of programs and events that are made to help queer individuals connect with one another. These include groups that offer support such as refuge for those who are transgender, art programs for children, teens, and adults, and a community garden among many others.
They run through a membership program that is divided into different tiers, each one giving supporters different benefits as they help support the Glo Center and the programs that they provide. This is open for allies and those seeking services. The prices of these tiers range from a $1 a month supporter level to a $100 a month champion level. However, those who want to join to access services or attend social events are always welcome to do so at no charge. Those who choose to join the Glo Center can get access to;
- Support Groups
- Mental Health Services
- Peer Support
- Art Programs
- Youth Programs
- Community Involvement
and so much more! Community centers, like the Glo Center are an excellent resource for members of the LGBTQ community who wish to connect with local members of the community.
SQSH (St. Louis Queer Support and Healing)
This queer based community center was founded with the belief that all members of the LGBTQIA community has the right to be treated with dignity and compassion. This center features a numbers of programs in order to help support members of the community including;
- Peer support and community building programs without hierarchy
- Identity affirming resources
- Safe and Healing Spaces
- Analysis of oppressive systems in the community
- Education and Advocacy programs to help lift and promote the LGBTQ community of STL
2. LGBTQIA+ Events
Missouri, like many other states, offer a number of gatherings and celebrations that give many trans people the opportunity they need to socialize, access resources, and just have fun with other people in their community.
Major Pride Events in Missouri
- Pride St. Louis: A long standing pride month celebration that takes place in the heart of STL. Features events such as a parade, shopping, local food vendors, and more.
- Mid MO Pridefest: A pride event that takes place in Columbia MO, Features live performances, vendors, activities for children, food, as well as a rich historic presentation about the LGBTQ community among many other things.
- Ozarks Pridefest: A Pride celebration held in Springfield MO. This event features live performances, local vendors, activities and much more and is sponsored by the Glo Center of Springfield MO.
- Tower Grove Pride Festival: A small progressive Pride festival in a very queer-friendly neighborhood
- Charles Pride Festival: Just west of St. Louis – this Pride fest is becoming a must-attend Midwest event
These events offer many members of the community a chance to meet with others like them. They are not just a way for them to have fun. But it is a way for those who are interested in trans dating to engage with others in the community in an environment free of pressure. Where they can indulge in the culture of the LGBTQ community, educate themselves, and of course have fun.
Local LGBTQ+ Events
- SIUE Safe Zone Trivia Night on Manchester in STL County
- Drag Bingo – Mainstreet Music in Waterloo in the Metro East
- 17th Annual World Naked Bike Ride in The Grove
- Drag Brunch at The Prism in STL
- Big Gay Spring Extravaganza in Kansas City
- Missouri Gay Rodeo Association All Inclusive Rodeo in Kansas City
- Queer Artists Showcase at the GLO center in Springfield
- Queer Joy Dance Party at The Blue Note in Columbia
Event Safety Tips
Safety is important when it comes to any public event, including pride events. Here are some ways you can ensure that pride is safe for you and everyone around you.
- Ask about pronouns, preferred names, and offer the same to others
- Learn about the boundaries others have and respect them
- Always ask before taking any pictures
- Show support by buying from local vendors
- Do not let others instigate or encourage you to act in ways that are harmful to the community
- Report any potential safety issues to security or volunteers of the event.
Despite being a red state, Missouri offers many different queer based events throughout the year. Not just during pride, so please be sure to check things out in your local area. Certain cities or regions in Missouri and elsewhere in the Midwest have gay districts that have bars and nightclubs for queer and genderqueer folks. These are also home to regular events such as live music, drag brunches, fashion shows, and more!
3. Online Platforms
Dating has always been a challenge for those who are part of the LGBTQ community. Especially for those who are transgender. In fact, transphobia tends to run so rampant that even approaching someone and showing interest can put them at a risk for physical and emotional harm. However, dating apps such as Taimi have made dating for transgender people much easier and safer. Especially in red states like Missouri. Taimi is a dating platform designed for all members of the LGBTQIA community, and not just for specific niches like many other queer dating apps are. This makes it fully inclusive, and the best part it has many tools and resources that are free to use.
Taimi Offers a Set of Unique Features Made Exclusively With the Trans Community in Mind
Taimi is one of the most highly rated dating apps on the market. One of the reasons for this high rating is for the features offered that are useful for trans individuals.
- Chat: Allows users to connect with others before meeting in person
- Gender Identity: Offers a wide spectrum of gender identity choices
- Orientation: Offers a choice between 15 different options for sexual orientation.
- Wiki: Offers a wide range of informational pages and resources about different identities, orientations, and more.
- Verified Profiles
- The Ability to Report or Block other users for harassment and abuse
- Anonymous Mode: The ability to browse incognito
User Testimonials – The Creation of a Space for Trans Dating That is Safe and Welcoming
A user from the St. Louis area describes his feelings about joining Taimi as being happy. He has stated that “Taimi has helped me connect with other folks who are trans. Every day I get excited to log into the app, chat with my favorite people, and like profiles. Everyone on the app has been nothing if not respectful and affirming. I appreciate that I can specify that I am a transgender man, and that I can set my specific preferences for my partner.”
Free Taimi: Dating For Transgender Folks
Even if the premium version is out of your price range, the free version of Taimi offers many benefits to users who visit consistently. These features include
- Smart recommendation engine
- Messaging functions
- Profile customization
- Taimi cards
Feedback From Users: How Taimi Addresses Inappropriate Behavior
Members of Taimi are happy to know that if they ever come across users who are displaying harmful behaviors on the app. Whether it be through chat, their feed, and other areas. They can always get the help they may need. Elaine, a trans girl from the Ozarks says, “Creeps and chasers are unfortunately part of the world of online dating. No matter what your gender identity or sexuality may be. I appreciate that on Taimi the customer support team is always there to lend you a hand and do something about it.”
Search Based on Location: Get Together with Local Queer Folks
When it comes to dating apps, nearly every person who logs in has a goal to meet up with the people they connect with in person. Taimi offers a built in engine that helps users find people they are compatible with right in their area.
3. Support groups
In a red state like MO, members of the LGBTQIA+ community need to have safe places where they can meet up with other trans folks in order to provide support for the group as a whole, or to certain groups within the community. Many gender affirming organizations offer support groups across the state including Kansas City.
Key Benefits of Trans Support Groups
- The are a perfect place to share stories and seek advice from other trans folks
- Access to recommendations and referrals to helpful resources like gender affirming care
- Options that include peer and therapist led groups
- A chance to build healthy relationships
- A place to share concerns and experiences relating to transition
There are organizations like PFLAG, Metro Trans Umbrella Group, and Promo MO in St. Louis that offer support to gender-diverse individuals. In Kansas city, trans folks can receive free services including support groups via the transgender institute or through therapist led groups including several run by Dr. Colleen Fagan of Gladstone, MO. The GLO center in Springfield is also home to many groups for individuals who are seeking friendship and meaningful relationships.
Finding Support Groups in Missouri
- Contact your local PFLAG chapter
- Ask your therapist or Dr. for recommendations
- Inquire at your queer-friendly center
- Get recommendations from healthcare providers who are allies
- Universities often gender-diverse organizations that may be open to non-students
- Progressive churches, synagogues, and other religious institutions may have meetings for gender diverse individuals
These groups want people to attend to get the resources, friendship, and connections they need to live healthy lives. An affirming group can be the best place to build a solid foundation of good mental health and gain coping skills needed to thrive. At the same time, privacy and safety is a key concern. You may be asked to schedule an appointment as a way of ensuring only gender diverse folks are allowed into these meetings. Also, be sure to research before you join to ensure that the facilitator is genuinely trans affirming. Feel free to ask questions. For example, “Is the person overseeing the meetings a PhD?” or “Do I need an appointment, or can I just show up?”
5. Bars And Other Social Gathering Spots
Most larger cities have at least a few social spots that are either dedicated to or at least welcoming to folks who are LGBTQ+. The city of St. Louis has ‘The Grove’ which is a neighborhood adorned with trans and queer flags as well as plenty of bars, nightclubs, and restaurants with a mission to show queer folks a good time. There are also queer-friendly spots in the Loop, Soulard, Central West-End, and beyond. Singles and couples can also find places to hang in the Metro East, St. Louis, St. Charles County, and beyond. Not to be outdone, Kansas City offers queer folks the hookup in great nightspots like John’s Big Deck, Hamburger Mary’s, and Fountain Haus in Westport. Even rural areas like Springfield MO now have bars and clubs with drag shows and other events. College towns like Rolla and Columnbia continue offering LGBTQ+ singles and couples places to hang.
Here are some great spots for folks to find their chosen family, friendship, and romance. These include a few that offer up friendship, dating, and social opportunities for trans folks who don’t drink:
- Missie B’s – Kansas City
- Rehab – Grove Neighborhood in St. Louis
- Grey Fox – Spring Ave. in St. Louis
- Bastille – Soulard in St. Louis
- Sidestreet Bar – Kansas City
- Sweet Boy’s Neighborhood Bar – Springfield
- Mix Ultralounge – Spgfd
- Tater Patch – Rolla
- Cafe Berlin – Columbia
- Shortwave – Columbia
- Mokabe’s Coffee Shop – St. Louis
- Left Bank Books – St. Louis
- Slip Roasters – Kansas City
- Bubby and Sissy’s – Alton Il in the Metro East
Because there is a stronger trans customer base in larger cities like Kansas City, STL, and their surrounding areas, it may be easier to find trans-friendly gathering spots in those regions. Owners and management know they benefit from creating a safe and respectful atmosphere. In areas that are more rural and conservative, it can be difficult to find sites that are welcoming. However, be assured that trans folks live in rural MO as well. You may need to use your social media account and folks you know to find the perfect place to join up with other queer and gender diverse folks.
Pro Tip: Use Reddit and other platforms that appeal to younger folks to find the hottest spots. Also follow venues on social media to get in the know about events and even buy tickets for drag shows etc.
6. Networking Through Friends or Family
If you are new to Kansas City, STL, or another community in the Show-Me state, your friends and family may have advice and insights to improve your chances of connecting with others. Whether you are interested in casual dating or looking for a match that will lead to the love of your life.
Building Connections Through Your Mutuals Leads To:
- More easygoing situations to meet gender diverse folks
- Authentic interactions based on shared interests
- Increased trust thanks to mutual social contacts
Try These Approaches:
- Join friends in small group activities they arrange
- Take part in clubs or organizations based on shared hobbies and interests
- Attend gatherings like cocktail hours and house parties
Friends And Family Can:
- Introduce you to folks
- Tell you the best places for queer folks to hang out
- Vouch for your reputation and trustworthiness
- Help you avoid mistakes and missteps by educating you on local trans culture
- Assist you in finding an affirming Dr. or therapist
It’s okay to get help in finding friendship or even a match for dating purposes. Just be sure that you aren’t commodifying your relationships. Always be a good friend, and honor the help you get by being a trustworthy individual.
Be sure to ask about:
- Online social media groups
- Best nightspots for fun and casual dating
- Local events you can attend
- Places to avoid
- Ways to change your approach if you are struggling to find folks
If you have been affected by loneliness finding social opportunities provides benefits that go beyond dating.
Conclusion
Whether you are in STL, Kansas City or out-state, you can find gender diverse folks who are open to friendship, casual dating, hookups, or long-term relationships. If you have been waiting to meet folks who are compatible with you, try some of the suggestions here. Folks who are sincere, trustworthy, and have a genuine interest in others may find that MO is one of the best places to live.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is it Easier to Meet Trans Folks in Kansas City And STL?
Yes, in larger metropolitan areas like STL or Kansas City, there are more resources available as well as businesses that are more likely to welcome folks who are gender diverse. You may even find a stronger culture of acceptance overall when it comes to folks who are trans or LGBTQ+.
That side, it’s important to not be discouraged. No matter where you are, there are others like you. Folks are finding the value in gathering together, sharing resources, and working towards change where they live. You may have to do some research, but there are individuals just like you waiting to meet.
I Can’t Find LGBTQ+ Centers or Even Bars or Nightclubs? Where Can I Go?
Even if a place is not explicitly for folks who are queer, it may still be queer-friendly. Look for rainbow flags. It’s a small thing, but at least provides a sign that a place is welcoming. You can also check a venue’s internet site and social media. Do they celebrate Pride? Have other queer folks liked them or shared their posts?
Some spots tend to be more queer-friendly than others. For one, colleges and universities are generally welcoming to diverse and marginalized groups. Clubs and organizations on campus may be welcoming to men, women, and nonbinary folks who want to meet others. The same is true for nightspots that are near campus. You can also check out bookstores, libraries, cultural centers, local theaters, and art museums. Try volunteering at a queer-friendly community organization. Just know you may need to set an appointment so they know you are coming.
Is it Okay For Cisgender Men to Meet Trans Women?
That is a complex question that does not have a simple or singular answer. There are certainly cis men who date and have very loving and respectful relationships with women who are trans. The key is to examine your own motives. Are you fixated on the process of transition or the anatomy of transgender women? Do you see trans individuals as exotic or objects of sexual fantasy, or as fully-realized individuals with personalities, interests, and other traits that you find to be attractive too.
Before you try to hookup with anyone because of their gender identity, reevaluate. Too many gender diverse folks have faced fetishization and other bad behaviors on dating sites and in bars.
Why Have Apps And Websites Become so Popular?
Gender diverse folks often feel afraid when it comes to finding dates and friendship. Many have been targeted for abuse and exploitation. Or, just get frustrated waiting for the right one to come along. That’s why apps and internet sites designed for folks like them are such a useful utility. They give them an opportunity to verify who they match with and get to know them before hanging out in person. They are also able to change their preferences, identity markers, and goals.
