Denver: The gay soul of Colorado

Karl and Weston host in Denver, Colorado. When this recently-married couple aren't traveling, they're busy brewing beer and enjoying all the best food, fun and outdoor beauty the so-called Mile-High City has to offer. Here are their top tips to enjoy Denver like a gay local.   

What makes Denver a top gay destination? 

Denver has a vibrant LGBTQ community. It's very open and accepting, with lots to do. In addition to the great bars and clubs, you'll find the gay folks along the bike trails in town, or up on a mountainside! There's a variety of fun, gay-oriented events, and the LGBT crowd is well represented at the bigger city events (Broncos and Rockies games, concerts, etc.).  

So, just how gay-friendly is Denver?

Denver is very gay-friendly. We feel comfortable holding hands in public, and many straight/cis people are openly LGBTQ-affirmative. Denver is getting gayer and gayer. Everywhere we go we encounter other gay guys, and because the community is so large, people are able to link in with gay-oriented sports, arts, and activity groups throughout the city. 

What's the best gay event that takes place in Denver?

Denver PrideFest is the third largest pride festival in the USA. It's a really exciting week of events throughout the city - we love it every year! 

And what's your fave gay place to grab a bite?

Racine's is gay-owned and a great place for lunch, dinner, and brunch. Steuben's and Avenue Grill are also very popular. However, you'll find the foodie gays in the hundreds of incredible restaurants scattered around Denver!

Best gay bar for a cheap beer?

Denver Wrangler, for the Beer Bust on Sundays, 16:00-20:00pm. 

Beautiful Denver sunsets

And the best gay bar for a refreshing cocktail?

Trade! We love their infused liquors, and their bar staff are super friendly as well! If you're feeling up for it, check out the underwear night on Thursdays. 

Any popular LGBT personalities from your city?

Yes, Nina Flowers (from Ru Paul's Drag Race season one)! She hosts a top-notch drag extravaganza every fourth Friday at Tracks club called Drag Nation. Love her. 

We're ready to go dancing... what's the best gay dance club?

Charlie's is hands down the best gay dancing time in Denver right now. It's always packed and always a good time. That said, Wrangler has a great floor as well!

And which gay bar offers the best happy hour?

X Bar has a happy hour, 15:00-20:00pm Monday, Thursday and Saturday! 

Where to start a gay tour in your home city?

Our place, duh! But otherwise, it's fun to have a drink at Trade on First Friday and then walk up Santa Fe Drive for the monthly Art Walk. 

© flickr/Karina

A gay place for brunch on weekends?

There's always Hamburger Mary's Drag Queen Brunch! Snooze is one of the more iconic brunch locales in Denver, and you'll spot plenty of gays there, too!

And the best place to socialize with the local gay community?

In any of the bars, you'll find friendly folks. Bars tend to be easier to meet people and talk compared to the clubs. That didn't stop us, however, since we met in a club! Denver also has one of the largest gay flag football leagues in the country, and you'll find them playing at Cranmer Park on any given Sunday in the spring and fall. ●

Fancy taking in Denver? Check out our City Guide for a virtual tour of Colorado's capital! 

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