Launched at a time when mainstream directories erased queer spaces, Fun Maps offered more than directions. Each edition was a lifeline, guiding readers to businesses, cultural spots, and communities that openly welcomed them.
At its height, Fun Maps reached dozens of cities across the United States and Canada. From New York to San Francisco, Toronto to Fort Lauderdale, the maps became indispensable companions for travelers eager to know not only where to go — but where they were safe.
Beck’s Tenacity
Building Fun Maps required relentless determination. Alan Beck worked tirelessly with business owners, organizers, community leaders, and advertisers to keep each map current and widely distributed. He faced stigma, financial hurdles, and logistical challenges, yet never wavered in his belief that LGBTQ people deserved the freedom to travel with confidence.
As the internet reshaped publishing, Beck adapted. Fun Maps expanded into digital platforms while keeping the same mission: to inspire travel, highlight safe spaces, and celebrate LGBTQ culture.
“Alan Beck doesn’t just publish maps — he maps out belonging. Alan has been my media mentor for nearly 20 years. I owe a great deal of my career in LGBTQ+ media to Alan. His words of encouragement and advice were always spot on and continue to inspire me to this day,” - Bobby Blair.
A Compassionate Friend
Those who know Beck, who just recently turned 87 years young, is best often described less as a publisher and more as a friend. Compassionate, loyal, and empathetic, he is the kind of person who encourages others’ dreams and offers steady support in difficult times. His personal warmth mirrored the very essence of Fun Maps: creating connections, affirming identities, and building community.
Legacy of Pride
Though print maps have largely given way to digital platforms, the influence of Fun Maps endures. The guides are still being published and distributed. Beck’s work has carved a visible and permanent place for LGBTQ travelers in the global tourism landscape.
Beck’s story is more than one of publishing success — it is the story of a pioneer whose passion for travel and community left a lasting imprint. Through his maps, he gave generations of LGBTQ people the confidence to explore the world, knowing their community was out there waiting.
In His Own Words
“I took over a company called the David James Press, started in 1983 by David Carpenter, succeeded by Michael Gravoir and Jeff Goodman as publishers for three years each. I met Jeff in 1989, and bought the company three years later. Fun Maps has been published since 1992 and has evolved in many ways over the years — always with the goal to serve the LGBTQ+ community, with up-to-date information on where to go to experience the many aspects of travel: accommodations, attractions, bars and clubs, dining, events, resources, shopping, services, and transportation.”
Bobby Blair is an LGBTQ media pioneer and leader known for his philanthropic work on behalf of the LGBTQ+ community. A Florida native, he lives in Fort Lauderdale with his longtime partner, Brian Neal. Blair was inducted into the GLBT Hall of Fame in 2015.
