Listen to WRMX Radio Network Here on GayTucson.com Click the Play Button Below Now
WRMX Radio Network DJ’s
WRMX is Tucson-based LGBT internet radio station that streams 24-hours-a-day and 7-days-a-week. You can listen on your computer live from our web player right here! Or you can download their smartphone app so you can tune in anytime, anywhere.
** Pro Tip: Go Click our player above right now and check them out while you read the rest of our post.
Why internet based?
WRMX creators chose the station to be internet-based so it could be an international platform. Currently, listeners tune in from all around the globe from London, Japan, Tokyo, Nigeria, Mexico, Dubai and of course right here in the United States.
Since WRMX was founded with a mission to promote and elevate underground artists in the local community, then what better way, to promote that by making the station have an international reach?
You could say having it be internet-based is a nice loop hole to avoid sticky federal regulations limiting language and content, and the WRMX crew won’t deny it. The appeal of non-regulated airplay goes deeper than wanting to drop the occasional F-bomb. It’s about being able to freely share authenticity.
What Will You Hear?
On WRMXRadio.net you can hear the tracks you love, the hits you forgot that you love, and the new hits to get your day moving. You can expect entertainment, live mix shows, podcasts, and other special events from local Tucsonans and beyond.
If you are a singer, rapper, band or a DJ, submit your best work to WRMX.
Call (304)GO2-WRMX to request a song, or give a shout out during live shows, for booking information, or event details.
A Local Hub for Art, Espresso, and LGBTQ Expression in Tucson
Located in the heart of Main Gate Square, just steps from the University of Arizona, Espresso Art Cafe stands out as a vibrant, inclusive space that celebrates creativity, connection, and community. As a proud part of downtown Tucson’s growing network of LGBTQ-friendly businesses, this eclectic coffeehouse and bar invites locals and visitors alike to enjoy everything from expertly crafted espresso drinks to late-night drag shows and live music.
Whether you’re stopping in for a morning latte, catching a jazz set after class, or dancing the night away at a drag fashion show, Espresso Art Cafe offers something for everyone—especially those looking for an LGBTQ-friendly environment that welcomes all with open arms.
🌈 LGBTQ-Friendly & Community-Driven
Espresso Art Cafe is proud to be a safe space for Tucson’s LGBTQ+ community, actively hosting events like drag performances, open mic nights, and Pride fundraisers. Their latest collaboration with the Southern Arizona AIDS Foundation (SAAF)—a Pride Fashion Show Fundraiser—is just one example of how they use their platform to uplift and support queer voices.
Looking for live music, unique drinks, or a chill hookah lounge? Espresso Art Cafe has you covered:
🎷 Staircase Session Jazz Nights
🎤 Open Mic Nights (no comedians)
👑 Drag Shows & Pride Events
🎶 Live DJs & Special Guest Bands
🎯 Trivia & Karaoke Nights
🎨 Rotating Local Art Exhibits
Pair your experience with one of their light bites, house-made cocktails, or flavored hookahs for a full sensory experience.
A lively afternoon at Espresso Art Cafe, where Tucson’s LGBTQ community comes together for coffee, connection, and chess.
☕ Coffee, Cocktails & Creativity
Their drink menu features everything from bold espresso drinks to expertly crafted cocktails, making this the perfect spot whether you’re looking to study by day or sip by night. Try one of their specialty blends, or stay for happy hour and enjoy drink specials in their cozy, art-filled atmosphere.
At GayTucson.com, we spotlight spaces that support our community, fuel creativity, and celebrate queer joy. Espresso Art Cafe checks all the boxes, making it one of the top LGBTQ-friendly spots in Tucson.
Whether you’re looking to perform, connect, or just vibe with a great cup of coffee, this is the place to be.
Antigone Books was founded in 1973 as a predominantly lesbian-owned feminist bookstore. This was at a time when there were more than fifty independent bookstores in Tucson. In the decades since the number of indie bookstores in the city has dwindled. Still Antigone Books has remained a pillar of the local book-loving community, expanding our mission to be a community bookstore with feminist roots. Although ownership has changed hands a couple of times since we originally opened in the 70s, we’ve remained women-run from the start. The current owners and long-time Antigone Books employees Kate, Melissa, and Morgan took over in 2018. They have expanded the store’s selection of books, gifts, and cards while remaining true to the store’s original focus on the recently-published boundary-pushing literature.
The Store
We keep a circulating stock of Pride supplies on hand throughout the year. From flags representing all identities across the LGBTQIA+ spectrum to dog- and cat-themed rainbow stickers. We also maintain a thriving queer literature section (see photos!), where we keep classic gay, trans, lesbian, and ace titles in stock. Readers can find everything on our shelves from LGBTQIA+ children’s books and YA fiction to queer graphic novels and LGBTQIA+ non-fiction. We also get regular issues of Sinister Wisdom and RFD as well as the latest lesbian romances from Bella and Bold Stroke Books. Whatever we don’t have in stock we’re happy to order for our customers at no extra charge! You can place orders in our store, over the phone, or online and we can get most titles in within a week.
Though our events program is on hold indefinitely due to COVID-19, pre-pandemic we were home to seven local book clubs and we featured regular book signings, author readings, and we had just begun to host Drag Queen Story Hours. We look forward to supporting our community with these and more exciting options in the near future; keep an eye on our website for updates! We also run a local authors consignment program for Tucson writers whose books are self-published or not available through major book distributors. We’re always looking for new voices, so definitely reach out if you’re interested after checking out the “Consignment” page on our website. In addition, we proudly carry local free periodicals of the Tucson queer community such as the 55+ LGBT newsletter Senior Forum and the Tucson Pride guide. Whether you’re new to town or a regular search for that perfect book, we’re excited to welcome you!
REVIEW:
“LOVE Antigone Books! This is generally my first stop if I’m looking for gifts or a physical book. Love their selection of adult coloring books, blank journals, cookbooks, and local authors. Their feminist and LGBTQ+ selection is also pretty impressive. And, they host a few book discussion groups. The staff is always friendly, and I like the sense of community.”
Arte Bella on 4th Ave.
340 N. 4th Avenue
Tucson, AZ 85705
520-526-2588
www.artebellaon4th.com
Art, Entertainment, and Inclusivity at Arte Bella on 4th + Bella’s on 4th
Arte Bella on 4th began as an inclusive art space for Tucsonans. It has blossomed into a one-of-a-kind bar, restaurant, live music venue, painting studio, and 420-friendly haven. That’s right, Arte Bella on 4th is not your mother’s paint and sip! It’s the only venue in the country that rounds up live music, art-inspired cocktails, painting classes, drop-in-and-paint options in a 420-friendly atmosphere. Enter the Arte Bella on 4th door and walk through the art gallery back to the event space, or come in through the Bella’s on 4th restaurant after ordering a bite to eat. Arte Bella on 4th has somehow encapsulated all that is awesome about Tucson’s 4th Avenue and put it under one roof!
Offerings
Arte Bella on 4th aims to be a safe gathering place for all 21+ patrons. As allies and members of the LGBTQ+ community, Arte Bella on 4th is truly a “come as you are” establishment, and a “choose your own adventure” experience. Schedule a fun, guided art class or drop-in to freestyle a canvas or decorate a wine glass— whether your skill level is Van Gogh or color-by-numbers. Popular classes include Puff + Paint Date Night, Blacklight Puff + Paint, and Acrylic Pour. Those who don’t have time to paint can stop by for a puff on the patio or a drink from the bar and enjoy live music. Arte Bella on 4th hosts local musicians throughout the week and is always adding special events to their calendar. Bella’s on 4th will serve up an array of munchies, including delicious vegan options. Puff, paint, party time!
Customers keen to partake in legally purchased cannabis products can smoke on the patio
Customers keen to partake in legally purchased cannabis products can smoke on the patio while vaping and dabbing are allowed inside. Ordering a cocktail at Arte Bella on 4th is an art show in itself! Bella’s bartenders’ craft signature cocktails inspired by art pieces and artist bios. The result is delightful drinks that are sure to color you impressed. Try the spicy Frida Rita made with mango jalapeño tequila or the Starry Night vodka cocktail that *shimmers* with edible glitter! You’ll also find an extensive list of wine, craft beers, ciders, meads, and seltzers as well as non-alcoholic CBD seltzers and mocktails.
Arte Bellas Colorful Backstory
Artist, Air Force veteran, LGBTQ advocate, and cannabis activist Jen Christiansen opened the 4th Avenue location in April 2021. Jen saw an opportunity to fuse some of her favorite worlds together when Prop 207 passed. Further nudging her mission to go mainstream with her ‘Puff and Paint’ concept. Jen shakes her fist at the cannabis stigma. She opens her doors to all 21+ customers with the liberating reminder that “Moms smoke weed, too!”
Arte Bella on 4th Ave (21 + 420 friendly bar, live music venue, puff and paint art
studio) &
Bella’s on 4th Ave (new restaurant expected to open within a few weeks)
I am a “returner.” Born and raised in New York City, I moved to Tucson in the early 90s. I left to be closer to the family for support after a divorce. When I lived here, I owned a communications firm, Veritas Communications, and was very involved in the small business community. 19 years later, I am back (with my wife) and delighted to be home! Tucson is a city that feels like a personal treasure that only a few can appreciate. Every day I am more inspired by the miracle of this land.
Blank Page Consulting
Kim Green of Blank Page Consulting
I am a credentialed life coach and love working with people who are ready for transformation in their lives. As an author, ghostwriter, award-winning copywriter, and blogger, I realized that my true passion is supporting people in making their dreams come true. My company is Blank Page Consulting. My coaching programs are rigorous, often emotional, and extremely effective. I, too, have had my share of loss, grief, and disappointments and out of it came unthinkable growth.
My work supports people in their growth, whether it is learning to speak their truth, learning how to navigate a challenging world as well as finding joy when it seems scarce.
For writers, I have designed an experience that is nurturing, supportive, and gets the results that writers desire…to get to The End. For Life Coaching clients, we will identify buried truths and help you to find your inner strength to conquer that which hinders your action and joy. Established weekly meetings and assignments ensure that all clients stay on track. For writers, group coaching is also available with a new group starting January 10th for 10 weeks. (5 places left)
Call for a 30-minute free consultation and get ready to be transformed.
Reviews
“Kim pushed me to explore my own identity, my identity as a writer, and the stories I believed most needed to be told. She inspired a passion in me for writing that I didn’t think was possible. I highly recommend that writers – new and seasoned – partner up with Kim to benefit from the treasure trove of resources she has to offer.” – S. Kumar
“Kim Green has been a savior, a north star, and a friend through the process of writing my very first book. Meeting with Kim every single week has given me structure, helped me to see new perspectives, and support me in finding my voice. She encourages me when I feel like I can’t go any further. She’s there to remind me that what I’m doing is important to the world and she’s been someone to rely on as I do this important life work. I will be eternally grateful to Kim for her patience, her humor, and her mind.” – A. Arthur
Business Information
Company Name: Blank Page Consulting
Office Address: 8987 E Tanque Verde Rd, Suite 309-186, Tucson, AZ 85749
Contact Name (s) Kim Green
Phone 678-938-2777
Services: Life coaching, Coaching for writers, Manuscript critique, and Editing
Pricing: Varies, discount applies when you mention GayTucson
Website: www.blankpageconsult.comOffice hours: Monday – Thursday 9:00 am – 6 pm, Friday 9 am-12 pm
MoreDRAC founder Tierney
Desert Rat Art Collective is a local Tucson community of artists that specialize in the strange and beautiful, inspired by our lives in the desert. They see the charm of the dirt and mountains and know that no matter where life takes them, they’ll basically always be desert rats at heart. DRAC is queer-owned and operated, and was founded by artist Tierney after their group of friends got together every Friday for about 2 years to make art together. Those little gatherings still go on, and now they have a website to support art sales now that they’ve run out of wall space to show everything off.
Desert Rat Art Collective
DRAC specializes in selling original canvas art pieces online, but also offers prints, merchandise, and also accepts mural requests around town! Their art is usually cheeky, with wildly different styles between the current members. E/ze, the anonymous artist featured exclusively on their website, creates heavily textured pieces inspired by street art. You can feel the deep emotion in every piece. Ry Arvin is an expert in all things text and font. They’re wildly creative with mandalas, text, and also reimagines the margin-doodles of our teenage years. Tierney, the founder, and manager of Desert Rat Art Collective creates a wide variety of prints and patterns. Using the same techniques in their digital art as their physical canvas work, creating strong lines and measured shading.
Tucson and the Sonoran Desert will always hold a special place in Desert Rat’s little heart. Moreover, they want to honor and give back to the community. They’ve got big dreams of being able to provide free art supplies to underfunded schools throughout Tucson. Sharing the love of art to everyone they can. The website itself takes only 3% commission which is far less than physical gallery spaces. Any DRAC money leftover after the minimal website maintenance costs goes right back to supporting local Tucson small businesses and art ventures.
Company Name: Desert Rat Art Collective
Office Address: Online
Contact Name (s): Tierney
Website: Desertratac.com
Socials: @DesertRatArtC
Client Review
“The original piece by JackofAllArt is the highlight of our kitchen. The meticulous care given to every detail and the bold use of color make this an outstanding creation. We love it!” – Windy Lynn, owner of Sushi Flood by JackofAllArt
Hotel Tucson City Center 475 N Granada Ave, Tucson, AZ 85701 (520) 622-3000
Enjoy a one-of-a-kind stay at the Hotel Tucson City Center. Located in the heart of Downtown Tucson’s El Presidio Historic District, our boutique hotel is within walking distance of the Old Town Artisans shopping plaza, El Presidio Park, and several bars and restaurants. Local family-owned and operated, our staff offers exceptional service with a smile.
The amenities offered at Hotel Tucson City Center provide a relaxing retreat. Go for a swim in our Olympic-size outdoor heated pool, relax in the hot tub, work out in our fitness center or grab a refreshing cocktail and bite to eat in our full-service restaurant and bar. Guests can also enjoy free parking, free WiFi, and free airport shuttle service.
Tucson’s Rising Phoenix Self-Defense & Fitness is a unique, queer-friendly martial arts and self-defense gym open to all ages, skill levels, and fitness levels. Rising Phoenix has named this branch of their program The Rainbow Connection.
Our Approach
Founded in 2014, Rising Phoenix takes a different approach to self-defense training by using therapeutic martial arts instruction to promote healthy human connection, emotional control, and the importance of consent.
Each class focuses on street-smart self-defense skills and concepts designed to be immediately applicable to real-world situations. The self-defense we teach is based on Israeli Krav Maga, specifically intended to be practical, functional, and quick to learn.
In 2021, the Israeli Martial Arts Hall of Fame named Rising Phoenix the Best Krav Maga School in Tucson.
The Rainbow Connection
Rising Phoenix provides a welcoming environment for people in the LGBTQIA+ community to be themselves, gain confidence, and learn valuable skills. Rainbow Connection is our weekly donations-based self-defense class for the LGBTQIA+ community and allies.
Rainbow Connection was established as part of Rising Phoenix in 2016. The program was created by former gym member James Cook, who saw the need for self-defense training among his fellow members of the LGBTQIA+ community.
Our Rainbow Connection classes provide training specifically designed to address concerns in the queer community. We practice trauma-aware instruction, focused on helping students take ownership of their minds and bodies to challenge their comfort zones and discover what they’re capable of.
Rainbow Connection is a safe place. Its dedication is to helping participants effectively learn and use assertiveness and self-defense skills in uncomfortable, intimidating, and scary situations. Our instructors and students use their strengths to help, support, and encourage each other to succeed.
Our Classes
Tucson’s Rising Phoenix offers a variety of self-defense, martial arts, and fitness classes, ranging from Krav Maga, Yoga, and Group Fitness, to Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, Judo, Weapons Tactics, and more!
We have two donations-based classes that are open to the public: Our Rainbow Connection LGBTQIA+ self-defense classes every Saturday from noon – 1:00 p.m., and our women’s self-defense classes every Friday from 6:00 p.m. –7:30 p.m. and every Saturday from 3:00 p.m. – 4:30 p.m.
One-on-one private lessons, small-group private lessons, customized group workshops, and corporate training sessions are also available.
Our Owner
The founder and owner of Rising Phoenix, Jesse James Tucker, has been teaching self-defense and Krav Maga for over 15 years. He holds black belts in four different Krav Maga systems. He is also a certified Krav Maga instructor with the Federation of Israeli Martial Arts (FIMA).
Jesse has been inducted into both the USA Martial Arts Hall of Fame and the Israeli Martial Arts Hall of Fame. He was named Defense Master Instructor of the Year in 2021 by the USA Martial Arts Hall of Fame.
Reviews
Matt S.
“Stepping into a martial arts gym can be really scary, especially when you’re not a “Tough Guy,” but summoning my courage and walking through the doors at Rising Phoenix is the best thing I’ve done since relocating to Tucson three years ago. Jesse and his fellow instructors go out of their way to make people of every age, body type, culture, and orientation feel welcome and empowered with the best in modern martial arts training.
Rising Phoenix’s Krav Maga isn’t static: It’s constantly evolving and incorporating techniques from kickboxing, jiu-jitsu, and catch wrestling, alongside the tried and true martial education in Israeli Krav Maga you’d expect. Rising Phoenix also offers more stuff than Krav Maga, too: specialized instruction in Judo, BJJ, and Muay Thai, weapons, and you can take as much as you want for one price. I look back at the years I’ve spent training here and see a totally changed me. I’m tougher physically and psychologically, and my day-to-day life is better for it. Thanks, Jesse!”
Kristina S.
“I can honestly say training at Rising Phoenix is one of the best decisions I have EVER made. Whether you are at a beginner or advanced level in Krav Maga, BJJ, etc, this place makes you feel right at home. I have never met any instructors who are as passionate about teaching self-defense. Jesse, Chance, and Alicia are three of the most amazing people I have met in Tucson. I can ask endless questions, pose endless scenarios, and someone is ALWAYS ready to help and answer my questions.
Instructors will stay after class with you for more than an hour to discuss your personal training plan, answer any questions you might have, or just to talk about your experiences and what brought you to Rising Phoenix. They care about your personal experience and want to help you get what kind of training you’re looking for.… I have learned so much from Rising Phoenix, and I cannot wait to continue my training. I have gone to other gyms in Tucson, but there is no place better to train than Rising Phoenix. The atmosphere and the instructors are unbeatable.”
Jeremiah Thomas
“The people here are amazing. The instructors are professional, helpful, willing to show techniques that meet your fitness level, and very supportive. The training here is awesome. From real-life situations to multiple scenarios per technique, the instructors here are on top of their game. The group fitness class is great. It will work you into fighting shape pretty effectively. If you come, just say hi to anyone, and you will find a friend at this gym. I have been coming here for a couple of years now. Every new person is immediately treated as someone you’ve known for a lifetime. It really does make this such an inviting place to learn how to defend yourself and others.”
Company Name: Tucson’s Rising Phoenix Fitness & Defense
Office Address: 4500 E Speedway Blvd, Suite 4, Tucson, AZ 85712
Contact Name (s): Jesse James Tucker
Phone (s): (520) 838-1592
Email: tucsonrisingphoenix@gmail.com
Pricing: sliding scale
Website:https://tucsonselfdefenseandfitness.com/Office hours: (Please check our website for class times)
Feast Restaurant 3719 E. Speedway Tucson, AZ 85712 (520) 326-9363 Feast Website
Feast Restaurant Diners
Locally owned and very gay friendly, this hip little restaurant packs a lot of punch. I recommend you schedule yourself to dine in at least once a month. You’ll love the food, atmosphere and the staff.
One of the great things about Feast is that it seems like there is always something different. That’s because the chef /owner changes the menu each month. And not to worry, there are a few items that stay the same for those creatures of habit.
Not in the mood to dine in? How about a nice candle light dinner for you and that special someone at home? Tasteful takeout is Feast’s motto.
They also cater! I have been at an event catered by Feast. Definitely a crowd pleaser. If you have special dietary needs, certain social expectations, a specific culinary palette in mind, talk to Cassandra and she will help you create the perfect menu at the right price.
Here’s some more punch. Feast restaurant has won best caterer from Best of Tucson, four times. The food at Feast has also earned accolades from the New York Times and Zagat Guide.
Okay, so go have a great lunch or dinner at Feast. Let them know you found them on GayTucson.com.
