Bjørnebrønden (The Bear Fountain), Nykøbing Falster
Granite bear, flowing water and royal history converge in this compact fountain that anchors Nykøbing Falster’s main square and its stories.
Bjørnebrønden, the Bear Fountain, anchors the main square of Nykøbing Falster with a striking granite bear poised above a circular well. Created by sculptor Mogens Bøggild and architect Kaare Klint, the 1939 fountain commemorates both the town’s 400th anniversary as a market town and Tsar Peter the Great’s visit in 1716. Encircled by benches and framed by the historic facades of Torvet, it serves as a compact open-air monument where local history, Danish design and everyday town life meet.
A brief summary to Bjørnebrønden
- Torvet 11, Nykøbing Falster, 4800, DK
- Duration: 0.5 to 1 hours
- Free
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 5 out of 5
Local tips
- Visit in the early morning or late afternoon for softer light on the granite bear and fewer people in the square for photos.
- Combine a stop at Bjørnebrønden with a visit to nearby Czarens Hus to connect the fountain’s story to the Tsar’s 1716 visit.
- Bring a takeaway coffee or snack from one of the surrounding cafés and use the benches or steps as a casual viewing spot.
- In cooler months, dress warmly; the open square can feel windier than the surrounding side streets.
- If you enjoy sculpture, take time to walk around the entire basin to appreciate how the bear’s pose shifts from different angles.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Seating Areas
- Trash Bins
- Information Boards
- Food Options
- Drink Options
- Restrooms
Getting There
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Train and short walk from Nykøbing Falster Station
From Nykøbing Falster Station, it is around 1 to 1.5 km to Torvet, where Bjørnebrønden stands at the main square. The walk typically takes 15–20 minutes on mostly flat, paved streets suitable for most visitors, including those with strollers. If you prefer not to walk, local town buses and taxis operate from the station area; a short taxi ride within the town usually costs in the range of 60–120 DKK depending on time and traffic.
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Regional bus into central Nykøbing Falster
Several regional buses serving Lolland-Falster stop in central Nykøbing Falster within a few minutes’ walk of Torvet. Travel time from nearby towns on the islands is often 20–45 minutes, depending on distance and route. A single adult ticket on regional buses in this part of Denmark is commonly in the range of 25–60 DKK, with services generally more frequent on weekdays than late evenings and weekends.
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Car access to Nykøbing Falster centre
Drivers can follow main roads leading to Nykøbing Falster and then continue toward the town centre, which is signposted locally. Public parking areas are located within walking distance of Torvet; many offer time-limited free parking or paid zones, with typical fees around 10–20 DKK per hour in central streets. At busy times, such as market days or events on the square, spaces closest to Torvet may be full, so allow extra time to find a spot.
Bjørnebrønden location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Clear Skies
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Mild Temperatures
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Cold Weather
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Rain / Wet Weather
Discover more about Bjørnebrønden
A granite bear at the heart of the market town
Bjørnebrønden sits almost exactly where Nykøbing Falster’s daily life converges: the main square, Torvet. Here, a powerful granite bear rises above a low, circular basin, its body rendered with the characteristic realism of Danish sculptor Mogens Bøggild. Carved from stone quarried on Bornholm, the sculpture has a quiet solidity that suits the often breezy square, while the constant ripple of water softens its muscular pose. The fountain was installed in 1939 to mark 400 years since Nykøbing Falster received its market town charter. The commission brought together two major Danish figures: Bøggild as sculptor and Kaare Klint as architect for the setting. Their collaboration created not just a piece of sculpture, but a small, coherent urban space with carefully considered paving, steps and seating around the basin.A tribute to a royal visitor from the east
The bear carries a story that predates the fountain itself by more than two centuries. In 1716, Tsar Peter the Great of Russia visited Nykøbing Falster and dined at a local inn, a timber-and-brick house from the late 1500s now known as Czarens Hus. The fountain was intended as a symbolic nod to that visit, drawing on the bear as a widely recognised emblem of Russia and its ruler. By choosing the bear, the designers linked the town’s central square directly to the Tsar’s House a short distance away. The fountain thus functions as a stone reminder of an episode when this small market town briefly stood in the orbit of great power politics, at a time when fleets and armies moved through the Baltic region.Designing a square around a sculpture
From the outset, Bjørnebrønden was conceived as the focal point of a redesigned civic space. Klint argued for surroundings that would give the fountain “a work of art of rank” the setting it deserved. The final layout used gentle circular steps, low walls and round benches to draw the eye inwards and invite people to sit, talk and watch the life of the square unfold. A later renovation in the early 2000s restored these elements in oak and stone, replanting the trees and carefully respecting the original drawings. The ensemble of bear, basin, paving and benches has become part of the town’s cultural fabric, even as the square has seen further changes and debates about how best to adapt the space for modern events and uses.A meeting place between history and everyday life
Today, the fountain is less a grand monument and more a familiar companion to daily routines. Market stalls, seasonal events and small concerts animate the square, while the bear stands in the middle as an unhurried observer. Children often gravitate towards the edge of the basin, and the steps around it offer an impromptu amphitheatre for people-watching or a quick pause with a coffee. Look up from the sculpture and you are surrounded by the architecture of a Danish market town: gabled facades, shopfronts, cafés and the subtle slope of the square. In this setting, Bjørnebrønden operates almost like a compass point, a fixed reference as you orient yourself among the streets radiating away from Torvet.Reading layers of Nykøbing Falster’s story
Spending a little time at Bjørnebrønden reveals how a single artwork can hold multiple narratives. It marks the legal milestone that shaped Nykøbing Falster’s growth as a trading town. It recalls an early 18th-century visit by a foreign ruler whose presence is still traceable in the nearby Czarens Hus. It also showcases a 20th-century moment when Danish modern design engaged with public space, insisting that even modest provincial squares deserved thoughtful, well-crafted art. For visitors, this compact fountain offers a convenient starting point for exploring the rest of the town: the remains of the old castle by the water, the museum collections, or simply the side streets of shops and houses. Yet even without moving on, lingering by the bear is enough to sense how centuries of local and international history have quietly passed through this small corner of Torvet.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Bjørnebrønden
0.0 km
Granite bear, flowing water and royal history converge in this compact fountain that anchors Nykøbing Falster’s main square and its stories.
Touristinformation
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Explore the charm and rich culture of Nykøbing Falster, a delightful coastal town perfect for your next Danish adventure.
Vandtårnet I Nykøbing F
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Mindbjergs
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Falster Provsti
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Explore the tranquil beauty and historical significance of Falster Provsti, a stunning church in Nykøbing Falster, Denmark.
Diocese of Lolland–Falster
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Experience the serene beauty and rich history of the Diocese of Lolland–Falster in Nykøbing Falster, a captivating church and cultural landmark.
Hotel Falster
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Experience Danish hospitality at Hotel Falster in Nykøbing Falster, offering comfortable accommodations, on-site dining, and easy access to local attractions and the South Sea Islands.
Fuglsang Herregaard - Hotel + Events + Conference
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Experience Danish history and culture at Fuglsang Herregaard, a beautifully restored manor offering tranquil stays, gourmet dining, and access to art and nature in Lolland-Falster.
Bellinge House- Bed & Breakfast. Wellness.
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Discover tranquility and wellness at Bellinge House, a charming bed & breakfast in Nykøbing Falster, Denmark, offering holistic treatments and serene accommodations.
Café Delias
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Experience authentic Italian cuisine in the heart of Marielyst at Café Delias, where traditional stone-oven pizzas and a vibrant atmosphere create a memorable dining experience.
Larsens Plads
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Experience the enchanting flavors of Væggerløse at Larsens Plads, where fresh ingredients meet breathtaking coastal views.
Holiday Lolland - Old farm
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Experience the charm of rural Denmark at Holiday Lolland - Old Farm, a serene bed and breakfast near Nysted offering cozy accommodations, local cuisine, and a gateway to Lolland's beauty.
Pomle Nakke Traktørsted
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Experience Danish coastal charm at Pomle Nakke Traktørsted, where stunning Baltic Sea views meet locally sourced cuisine for an unforgettable dining experience on Falster.
Skelsnæs-pavillionen
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A 19th-century forest pavilion overlooking Denmark's most island-dotted lakes and richest birdlife.
Relic of the Castle Revshale
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Explore the ancient ruins of Castle Revshale on Borgø Island in Maribo, Denmark, and discover a captivating blend of medieval history and serene natural beauty within the Maribo Lakes Nature Park.
Unmissable attractions to see
Falsters Minder
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A creaking 17th‑century house where Falster’s local history, a nostalgic grocer’s shop and the fantastical Museum Obscurum blur the line between memory, myth and curiosity.
Nykøbing Castle
0.4 km
Bandholm Strand on Lolland’s north coast offers inviting sandy beaches, tranquil parkland, and a harbour steeped in Danish maritime history, perfect for relaxed coastal escapes.
Nykøbing F. Firemuseum
0.6 km
A compact former fire station packed with classic red engines, rescue gear and three quirky sister museums, offering a vivid glimpse of everyday history in Nykøbing Falster.
Ejegod Windmill
1.3 km
A beautifully preserved 1816 smock mill on a low hill in Nykøbing Falster, where sails, barn and miller’s house keep Denmark’s rural milling heritage alive.
Guldborgsund Zoo & Botanisk Have
1.5 km
Formerly a compact zoo and botanical garden in Nykøbing Falster, Guldborgsund Zoo & Botanisk Have blended animals, greenery and play in one relaxed urban green pocket.
Lergravens Sailing and Fishing Club
1.7 km
Small, authentic harbour on Guldborgsund where local sailing life, relaxed angling and easy access to Nykøbing Falster’s town centre meet in one quiet quay.
The Medieval Center
1.9 km
Experience 15th-century Denmark through living history, trebuchets, tournaments, and authentic medieval crafts.
Falster City Camping
1.9 km
Leafy, old-school camping on the edge of Nykøbing Falster, with cabins, family facilities and easy access to town, coast, forest and nearby tropical water fun.
Fuglsang Musikforening
1.9 km
Intimate classical concerts in a modern hall beside historic Fuglsang Herregård, where carefully curated programs meet open landscapes on the Lolland–Falster coast.
Loppeworld
2.2 km
Atmospheric Bronze Age barrow offering sweeping countryside views and a direct link to Denmark’s prehistoric past in the rural heart of Lolland-Falster.
Trebuchet
2.6 km
Iconic red-brick lighthouse at Denmark’s southernmost tip, renowned for sweeping Baltic views, rich birdlife, and a unique natural and scientific heritage.
Zipline Systofte
4.3 km
Seasonal lakeside adventure park near Nykøbing Falster with a 400 m twin zipline, floating aquapark and high-jump airbag for families and thrill-seekers.
Hvide Mær
4.9 km
A pale glacial boulder in the shallow waters of Guldborgsund, Den Hvide Mær quietly links ice-age geology, seamark history and tranquil coastal scenery.
Labyrint Lolland-Falster
5.7 km
Navigate enchanting forest mazes and discover multiple pathways through Denmark's woodland countryside.
Skejten
6.3 km
Wind, water and centuries‑old oaks shape this quiet, untouched coastal meadow where Lolland’s cultural heart meets raw Danish nature.
Essential places to dine
Cafe Zelo
0.0 km
Laid-back café dining on Nykøbing Falster’s main square, serving generous brunches, burgers and salads with local ingredients, indoor cosiness and outdoor square-side seating.
The Burger
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Central Nykøbing Falster burger joint serving hefty grill‑seared stacks, wedges and sauces in a relaxed, family‑friendly setting with veggie and gluten‑free options.
Dhaba Nykøbing
0.1 km
Colourful Indian street food, warm spices and shared plates bring a lively slice of modern India to the heart of Nykøbing Falster’s main square.
Ritz Cafe & Cocktail Bar
0.1 km
Nykøbing Falster's vibrant social hub serving Danish brasserie fare and craft cocktails on the main square.
Pinto thai take away
0.1 km
Compact Thai kitchen in central Nykøbing Falster serving fragrant curries, noodles and stir-fries for easy, flavourful takeaway evenings.
Restaurant Vinkælderen
0.1 km
Seasonal Danish-French fusion in an intimate wine cellar, temporarily closed but returning spring 2025.
Konya Pizza & Cafe
0.2 km
Hearty pizzas and Turkish‑inspired grill plates in a laid‑back, central Nykøbing Falster café that doubles as both local hangout and reliable takeaway stop.
Hua Xin
0.3 km
Big-hearted Chinese buffet with sushi and Mongolian barbecue on Nykøbing Falster’s main street, ideal for relaxed group dinners, families and easygoing takeaway.
Restaurant Asia
0.4 km
Large, family-oriented Asian buffet in central Nykøbing Falster, serving sushi, wok and classic Chinese dishes with a playful dessert bar and casual atmosphere.
Panino
0.4 km
Authentic Italian pizzas and fresh-baked bread in a warm, welcoming Nykøbing Falster setting.
Restaurant Gonzalez Feilberg MARE
0.5 km
Contemporary Nordic seafood and an impressive wine bar meet marina views at this intimate, evening-only restaurant on Nykøbing Falster’s Slotsbryggen waterfront.
Duomo Ristorante
0.6 km
Lively Italian-inspired restaurant and pizzeria in central Nykøbing Falster, serving generous pizzas, pasta, burgers and grill dishes in an easygoing, family-friendly setting.
Rosmarino
0.6 km
Waterfront Italian dining where Mediterranean tradition meets Nordic ingredients and Danish coastal charm.
3kanten
0.6 km
Waterfront dining with modern European cuisine and sunset views over Guldborgsund.
Brovejens Grill
0.6 km
Budget-friendly Danish grill serving hearty burgers, grilled chicken, and pizzas in central Nykøbing Falster.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Afthonia Store
0.1 km
Compact Asian grocery on Nykøbing Falster’s Slotsgade, stocking noodles, rice, sauces, snacks and frozen specialties for curious home cooks and everyday shopping.
Blog and Shop
0.1 km
A cozy women’s fashion boutique on Østergågade in Nykøbing Falster, offering curated everyday style, warm atmosphere and down‑to‑earth Danish prices.
Normal
0.2 km
Compact, budget-friendly variety store on Nykøbing Falster’s main pedestrian street, ideal for everyday essentials, beauty bargains and spontaneous small finds.
Unik
0.2 km
Curated footwear boutique in the heart of Nykøbing Falster's vibrant shopping district
Danish Agro Shop - Nykøbing
0.2 km
A harborside country store where pet lovers, gardeners and smallholders stock up side by side, offering a grounded glimpse of everyday rural life in Nykøbing Falster.
Flying Tiger Copenhagen
0.3 km
Colorful Scandinavian variety store in Nykøbing Falster’s main pedestrian street, filled with playful gifts, creative essentials and affordable everyday surprises.
Kb-Smørrebrød
0.4 km
Authentic Danish smørrebrød crafted fresh daily in the heart of Nykøbing Falster's shopping district.
H&M
0.4 km
Central Nykøbing Falster fashion stop offering affordable clothing and accessories for all ages in a bright, modern high-street store on Jernbanegade.
MillaMe
0.4 km
Welcoming plus-size fashion boutique in central Nykøbing Falster, offering handpicked womenswear in extended sizes with personal, relaxed styling help.
Kvickly Nykøbing F
0.6 km
Central Nykøbing Falster’s all-in-one Kvickly supermarket, bakery and home goods store, ideal for stocking up on Danish staples, snacks and practical everyday essentials.
føtex
1.3 km
A busy hypermarket anchor in Guldborgsundcentret, blending fresh Danish groceries, everyday essentials and practical services in the heart of Nykøbing Falster.
Kirppu Nykøbing Falster
1.5 km
Bright, weatherproof flea “supermarket” in Guldborgsundcentret, where ever-changing private stands turn everyday browsing into a relaxed hunt for vintage and second-hand treasures.
Meny
1.6 km
Full-service Danish supermarket in Nykøbing Falster with fresh produce, in-house butcher and deli, strong wine selection and long daily opening hours.
Furnish
2.0 km
Spacious Scandinavian furniture and bed showroom in Nykøbing Falster, blending modern Danish design, styled room inspiration and relaxed, practical home shopping.
Mertz Jagt & Fritid
2.2 km
Specialist hunting and outdoor outfitter in Nykøbing Falster, combining a large gear shop with an authorised gunsmith workshop for serious time outdoors.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Slottet Værtshus
0.2 km
Unpretentious Danish bodega on Slotsgade where locals, regulars and curious visitors share cold beers, billiards games and late‑night jukebox tunes.
Cafe Slotsgården V/Brian Fog Ipsen
0.2 km
Experience Danish hospitality at Cafe Slotsgården, Nykøbing Falster's cozy beer hall with a rustic charm and diverse beer selection.
Kontoret V/sonja Madsen
0.2 km
Intimate wine bar in central Nykøbing Falster, blending cozy Danish hygge with relaxed drinks and conversation-friendly ambience on charming Langgade.
Fortuna
0.2 km
Cosy, no-frills Danish bodega in central Nykøbing Falster, where cold beer, warm conversation and unhurried evenings capture the spirit of local nightlife.
Billie Jean Bar
0.2 km
Authentic Danish smørrebrød and cocktails in the heart of Nykøbing Falster
Marinestuen
0.2 km
Characterful sailor-style bar in central Nykøbing Falster, serving inexpensive drinks in a cozy, maritime setting filled with ships, memorabilia and local charm.
Den Sorte Engel
0.3 km
Moody brick walls, close-up live music and unpretentious Danish pub vibes make Den Sorte Engel the beating heart of Nykøbing Falster’s nightlife.
falster falster
0.3 km
Small, social neighborhood bar on Skolegade in Nykøbing Falster, serving cold beers and simple drinks in an unpretentious, intimate Danish pub atmosphere.
Vinoteque Marittima
0.4 km
Floating wine and coffee bar on Nykøbing Falster’s harbor, blending intimate maritime charm with carefully chosen drinks, small plates and sunset-ready deck seating.
FUND BAR
0.5 km
Waterfront cocktails, Nordic design and a smoke-free, sociable atmosphere on Nykøbing Falster’s marina-facing Slotsbryggen promenade.
Cafe Nutiden V/ Brian Ipsen
0.5 km
A classic Danish bodega-style bar in central Nykøbing Falster, serving simple drinks and plenty of local atmosphere from midday through the late evening.
Jernbanecafeen Nykoebing Falster - Denmark
0.6 km
Unpretentious railway-side bar-café in Nykøbing Falster, where locals gather for relaxed evening drinks, conversations and classic, no-fuss Danish hospitality.
Riverside Jazz Club
0.6 km
Intimate riverside jazz nights in Nykøbing Falster, where volunteer spirit, close-up performances and a cosy bar atmosphere bring live Danish jazz to life.
Slap A'
0.7 km
Unpretentious local bar in Nykøbing Falster with pool tables, inexpensive drinks and a relaxed neighborhood vibe from daytime quiet to late-night chatter.
jazz på tværs
0.9 km
Volunteer‑run jazz room bringing serious live music to a small Danish town, with intimate concerts, close‑up sound and a focus on listening over nightlife.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
Første sted
0.0 km
Compact, music-driven nightclub on central Slotsgade, offering an intimate, local slice of Nykøbing Falster’s late-night dancing and drinks scene.
N.Y.K. Event
0.6 km
Compact late-night bar and nightclub in central Nykøbing Falster, mixing strong drinks, loud beats and a sociable dance floor that runs into the early morning.
Billy Booze
0.6 km
Compact late-night disco in Nykøbing Falster with inexpensive drinks, loud hits and a casual dance floor vibe from Thursday to Saturday.
Loke MC - Helheim
14.9 km
Rural Danish biker clubhouse with Norse-mythology flair, offering intimate late-night gatherings, loud rock playlists and a no-frills bar far from mainstream nightlife.
Pier To Heaven
43.5 km
Experience maritime charm and exquisite drinks at Pier To Heaven in Klintholm Havn.
CLUB ZANZI
47.7 km
High‑energy waterfront nightclub bringing big‑city beats, flashing lights and late‑night dancing to the heart of coastal Nakskov.
Step Inn I / S
51.9 km
Step Inn I / S is a centrally located Næstved bar offering a relaxed setting for drinks, socializing, and local nightlife with a distinctly Danish twist.
Bar z
51.9 km
Næstved's welcoming nightclub for Thursday-to-Saturday evening gatherings and social entertainment.
Crazy Daisy Næstved
51.9 km
High‑energy weekend nightclub in central Næstved, packing loud beats, flashing lights and a late‑night local crowd into a compact, classic Danish town‑club setting.
Avenue Næstved
51.9 km
Lively nightspot and flexible event hall in central Næstved, mixing dancefloor energy, festive dinners, stand-up comedy and themed parties under one roof.
The Old Irish Pub
52.0 km
A vibrant Irish-themed pub in the heart of Næstved, offering live music, sports, draught beer, and a lively atmosphere for both locals and visitors.
The Beach
52.0 km
The Beach is Næstved’s top karaoke bar, renowned for its vibrant ambiance, creative drinks, and a lineup of crowd-pleasing singalong nights in the city center.
Sct. Jørgens Jazzklub
52.0 km
Experience live jazz in the heart of Næstved at Sct. Jørgens Jazzklub, where music and history harmonize.
Disco Da Capo
66.9 km
Discover the electrifying nightlife at Disco Da Capo in Rostock - a vibrant disco club with unforgettable music and lively atmosphere.
Nachtclub Bienenstock
67.2 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife of Rostock at Nachtclub Bienenstock, a lively girl bar and night club offering unforgettable entertainment.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Scenic
- Unique
- Casual
- Fun-filled
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Modern Designs
- Rustic Designs
For the architecture buff
- Landmarks
- Art & Design
- Heritage Neighborhoods
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Sunset Spots
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Selfie Spots
- Architectural Shots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Low Impact
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Locally Managed
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
- Adventure Photo Shoot
- Day Trip
- Roadtrip Stop
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Female Friendly
- LGBT Friendly