I grew up in Bolton Hill, and it is definitely a very gay friendly neighborhood, with a particularly large contingent of gay men who are 50+ (I would say about half of the neighbors on my block growing up). Doesn’t have everything you’re looking for in terms of restaurants and shopping, but it’s walkable to Mt Vernon, much more relaxed, and easier to park. Also has the symphony, MICA and station north arts district a short walk away, and then the Walters art museum, BMA, Center Stage, and Everyman Theater all within a 5-7 minute drive. That said, the homes are pretty expensive, large Victorians, although there are definitely some that are broken into apartments.