Casa 1

Casa 1 is an LGBTQ+ shelter and cultural centre in Bela Vista that began by taking in young people thrown out of home for their sexuality or gender identity and grew into one of São Paulo's best-known queer institutions. Alongside the residence it runs a cultural house with a library, courses, a low-cost psychology clinic and a steady calendar of talks, exhibitions and parties open to the public — a good first stop for visitors who want to connect with the community rather than just the nightlife.