Travel Blue: Colorado
Colorado, with its stunning mountain landscapes, vibrant cities, and progressive culture, is a welcoming haven for LGBTQ+ travelers. From inclusive destinations with must-see sights to lively Pride celebrations, the Centennial State offers unforgettable experiences for everyone. Here’s your guide to the best LGBTQ+-friendly spots and events in Colorado.
Top LGBTQ+ Friendly Destinations and Sights in Colorado
Denver: The Mile-High LGBTQ+ Hub
Denver is a dynamic city with a thriving LGBTQ+ scene. Known for its inclusivity and vibrant nightlife, it’s a must-visit for LGBTQ+ travelers.
Sights to See:
Capitol Hill: Historically the LGBTQ+ epicenter, this neighborhood offers eclectic coffee shops, boutiques, and historic homes.
RiNo Art District: A haven for art lovers, with galleries, street art, and LGBTQ+-friendly breweries like Ratio Beerworks.
Denver Botanic Gardens: A serene space to explore nature’s beauty.
Nightlife:
Tracks is Denver’s premier LGBTQ+ nightclub, featuring top-notch sound, light, and video entertainment technology. With rotating theme nights and music on multiple floors, Tracks offers a vibrant and inclusive dance party experience.
Trade Bar in Denver is a popular gay bar known for its edgy atmosphere, themed nights, and welcoming community. It’s a great place to meet people, dance the night away, and enjoy a variety of drinks.
Tight End Sports Bar is Denver’s only gay sports bar, offering a welcoming space for sports fans to gather, watch games on multiple TVs, and enjoy a lively atmosphere. It’s a great place to cheer on your favorite teams with fellow sports enthusiasts.
R & R Bar is one of Denver’s oldest gay bars, offering a classic dive bar experience with cheap drinks, friendly bartenders, and a relaxed atmosphere. It’s a popular spot for locals and visitors alike to unwind and socialize.
LGBTQ+ Friendly Hotels and Resorts in Denver
The Curtis Denver : a 4-star hotel with a nightly price of $136. A fun and quirky hotel known for its bold and colorful decor, offering a unique, retro-inspired vibe with a modern twist. Located in downtown Denver, it’s just steps away from major attractions, making it a great spot for LGBTQ travelers looking for a lively, inclusive stay.
The Kimpton Monaco Denver: a 4-star boutique hotel with an average nightly price of $156. The Kimpton Hotels are known for their LGBTQ+-inclusive policies and participation in Pride events. The Hotel Monaco is no exception, offering stylish accommodations and excellent service.
The Catbird Hotel in Denver: a chic hotel with a rooftop restaurant/bar with an average nightly price of $112. With proximity to inclusive neighborhoods like Capitol Hill, ensuring a welcoming and convenient base for exploration and it is less than ⅓ of a mile from Tracks.
Aspen: Luxe and LGBTQ+ Inclusive
Aspen combines outdoor adventure with high-end sophistication and is home to one of the most renowned LGBTQ+ events in the country.
Sights to See:
Ski Resorts: Aspen Snowmass and Buttermilk offer world-class skiing opportunities.
Maroon Bells: A must-see natural wonder, perfect for a romantic hike.
Aspen Art Museum: Discover contemporary art in a stunning setting.
LGBTQ+ Friendly Hotels and Resorts in Aspen
The Limelight Hotel: Located in Aspen is a stylish and modern boutique hotel with an average nightly price of $399. It offers a relaxed atmosphere, comfortable rooms, and a variety of amenities, including a rooftop pool, hot tubs, and a lively lounge. Host Hotel for Apsen Gay Ski Week; it is sure to show some pride even outside of the event.
The Hoffman Hotel: Located in Basalt, near Aspen, is a modern and stylish boutique hotel with an average nightly price of $210. It offers comfortable rooms, a fitness center, and a restaurant, making it a great option for travelers seeking a convenient and affordable stay near Aspen.
The W Aspen: a stylish and modern hotel with an average nightly price of $490. It offers luxurious accommodations, a rooftop pool, a trendy restaurant, and a vibrant nightlife scene, making it a popular choice for young and trendy travelers.
Telluride: A Gay Ski Haven
Telluride is a welcoming mountain town that embraces the LGBTQ+ community. Known for its stunning scenery, world-class skiing, and vibrant culture, Telluride offers a unique experience for LGBTQ+ travelers.
Sights to See:
Mountain Views: The town is surrounded by breathtaking mountain peaks, offering endless opportunities for hiking, biking, and skiing.
Historic District: Explore the charming historic district with its Victorian-era buildings, art galleries, and boutique shops.
Telluride Film Festival: This prestigious film festival attracts filmmakers and movie lovers from around the world.
LGBTQ+ Friendly Hotels and Resorts in Telluride
The Peaks Resort & Spa: a luxurious mountain resort in Telluride with an average nightly price of $323. It offers stunning mountain views, world-class amenities, including a spa, restaurants, and a ski-in/ski-out location.
The Mountain Lodge Telluride: offers spacious apartments with ski-in/ski-out access and upscale amenities. With an average nightly price of $235, it’s a luxurious option for a mountain getaway in Telluride.
To find an LGBTQ+-friendly vacation rental in Telluride, consider using platforms like Misterbnb. This platform specializes in connecting LGBTQ+ travelers with welcoming hosts. While specific nightly costs can vary based on season, location, and amenities, expect to pay an average of $200 to $1000 per night for a comfortable rental depending on your party size and needs.
LGBTQ+ Pride and Events in Colorado
Denver PrideFest (June): One of the largest Pride celebrations in the nation, Denver PrideFest takes over Civic Center Park with a dazzling parade, live music, drag shows, and a bustling marketplace. The event emphasizes inclusivity and community spirit.
The Denver Film Festival LGBTQ+ Film Series(August): showcases a diverse selection of films that celebrate queer stories and experiences. It features documentaries, narrative films, and shorts from both established and emerging filmmakers.
https://www.denverfilm.org/cinemaq-festival/
Aspen Gay Ski Week (January): Aspen transforms into an LGBTQ+ winter wonderland during this weeklong event. Enjoy skiing, après-ski parties, drag shows, and gala dinners at this internationally acclaimed gathering.
Boulder Pride (September): This celebration focuses on community and inclusion, with a festival, live performances, and family-friendly activities. It’s a wonderful way to experience Boulder’s charm and progressive culture.
https://www.rmequality.org/pride
Colorado Springs PrideFest (July): Held at America the Beautiful Park, this vibrant event features a parade, local vendors, and live entertainment, showcasing the city’s growing LGBTQ+ support.
https://www.pikespeakpride.org/ 
Telluride Gay Ski Week (February): Telluride offers a more intimate ski week experience with thrilling slopes, cozy gatherings, and LGBTQ+-focused events in a picturesque mountain setting.
https://www.telluridegayski.com/
Colorado is more than a destination; it’s a celebration of diversity, love, and adventure. From the bustling streets of Denver to the peaceful trails of Boulder and the snowy slopes of Aspen, there’s something for every LGBTQ+ traveler to explore and enjoy. Pack your bags, embrace the journey, and discover why Colorado is a top LGBTQ+ destination. 🌈
