mile high

These are the best gay bars in Denver

Lights are strung across Larimer Street in Denver
Lights are strung across Larimer Street in Denver

Nicknamed Mile High City ( a double entendre referencing both its prominent elevation and its prominent cannabis community), Denver has much to offer queer snowboarders and stoners alike. And after an afternoon of crushing powder across the Rockies, you’ve earned yourself a stiff drink (among other things.) So put down your boards and bongs and head to the city’s gayborhood of Cap Hill and hit up one of our favorite Mile High gay bars to mingle with the local snow bunnies and marijuana mo’s.

Blu is the Warmest Color

Blush & Blu

A distinct drinkery 1526 E Colfax Ave · Denver, CO 80218
(303) 484-8548
Website

This ‘Best of Gaycities 2023’ nominee is notable as one of the last surviving lesbian bars in the nation. Ladies can expect pop art decor, a welcoming atmosphere, and a variety of live shows ranging from poetry readings to burlesque, to belly-dancing.

Boyz 2 Men

Boyztown

Where boyz will be boyz 117 Broadway · Denver, CO 80203
(303) 722-7373
Website

Described as “Denver’s Hottest All Male Revue,” Boyztown offers patrons a voyeuristic night starring some of the hottest male strippers the Mile High City has to offer. Be sure to bring dollar bills for tipping.

Nutty Buddies

Buddies Denver

“Let’s be buddies” 504 E Colfax Ave · Denver, CO 80203
(720) 769-4485
Website

Winner of ‘Best of Gaycities 2023 New Kid on the Block’ award, Colfax Ave’s newest homo hot spot has quickly carved a niche within the city’s queer community. When the weather is feeling generous, be sure to hit up their outdoor patio for brunch, happy hour, or a night cap.

Living la vida loca

El Potrero Night Club

Party the Latin way 4501 E Virginia Ave · Glendale, CO 80246
(303) 388-8889
Website

Arguably the hub of the Mile High City’s LGBTQ+ Latin community, El Potrero features a tight dance floor perfect for effortlessly grinding up again sweaty, shirtless local boys.

Justice is served

Lady Justice Brewing Company

Great Beer for a better world 9735 E Colfax Ave · Aurora, CO 80010
(303) 856-3809
Website

Owned by the sapphic power couple of Betsy Lay and Alison Wisneski, Lady Justice is more than just a brewery. It dedicates funding and resources to non-profits supporting women and members of the non-binary community. So don’t worry about those empty calories, just remember you’re chugging beer for a good cause.

Rock out with your clock out

Lannie’s Clocktower Cabaret

Music dance and comedy in a vintage setting 1601 Arapahoe St · Denver, CO 80202
(303) 293-0075
Website

For queer tourists specifically looking for live entertainment, head downtown to the iconic Daniels & Fisher Clock Tower building. Located beneath is the Clock Tower Cabaret, which offers a jam-packed calendar of burlesque, comedy, live music, and drag shows.

The right side of the tracks

Tracks

So much more than just a nightclub 3500 Walnut St · Denver, CO 80205
(303) 863-7326
Website

Boasting itself as “Denver’s Premiere LGBTQ+ Nightclub” Track’s currently serves as the home of RPDR alum Nina Flowers. You can expect weekends full of drink specials, dance parties, and over-the-top drag shows.

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