Denver's Vibrant Gay Bar Scene: Your Ultimate Guide to Downtown Hotspots
Denver's reputation for inclusivity and vibrant nightlife extends to its thriving gay bar scene. Whether you're a local looking for a new favorite watering hole or a visitor eager to experience the city's welcoming atmosphere, this guide will help you navigate the best bars downtown.
Get ready to discover lively events, diverse crowds, and the perfect place to celebrate community and individuality.
Trade: Where Leather, Fetish, and Fun Collide
Located just off Santa Fe Drive, near the art district, Trade is a long-standing staple in the Denver gay bar landscape.
This bar is known for its decadent events and sprawling floor plan. Step inside to find a dimly lit interior with ample open space and comfortable seating, perfect for mingling and meeting new people. However, the real magic happens on the extended patio, which often features its own dedicated bar during events and on weekends.
Trade's event calendar is packed with exciting options, from show tunes on Wednesdays to gear nights where everyone is welcome to express themselves.
While they don't have a kitchen, you're in luck - a stellar black metal pizzeria sits across the street, and a popular taco truck provides delicious late-night sustenance on weekends. You'll never go hungry or bored at Trade!
Vybe: A Local Favorite with a Family Vibe
For those seeking a local favorite with a family-run atmosphere, look no further than Vybe on Broadway.
This bar, celebrating its fifth anniversary, has cultivated a devoted following in the community. The interior features a spacious layout with a lengthy bar running the entire length of the room. You'll find plenty of smaller tables and seating, perfect for enjoying Vybe's diverse weekly events and shows.
Owned and operated by Joey and his mother, Sylvia, Vybe welcomes guests every day from 10 am to 2 am, ensuring there's always a spot to unwind and enjoy the company of others.
With a consistent and well-varied event schedule, this spot welcomes all to be themselves and have fun. Stop by for strip poker, pool and darts competitions, and more!
Bad Habits: A Fresh Face on the Scene
Adding a new dimension to the downtown scene is Bad Habits, a two-story venue with ambitious goals and a delicious menu.
Situated on Broadway near Alameda, this casual lounge offers a relaxed and intimate atmosphere with a sizable bar and plenty of tables and chairs.
You can also head out to the patio, which has a fire pit and doubles the available space.
With a special mocktail menu and a reversed happy hour from midnight to 2 am, Bad Habits is a welcoming spot for an evening of socializing and fun. Keep an eye out for updates on their grand opening and the release of their delicious menu!
Denver Sweet: A Community Hub with a Heart
Stepping into the shoes of the beloved Wrangler, Denver Sweet has quickly become a popular spot, using its two stories well to offer a range of events.
Advertised as a bear club, this bar hosts numerous events throughout the week, often featuring food and drink specials, such as Taco Tuesday and Wing Wednesday. With a full kitchen offering a hearty menu, there's plenty to enjoy.
The large interior offers ample seating, but the upstairs patio is the real gem.
They keep it insulated and warm in the winter, so you can stay cozy while enjoying the Denver scenery.
Pearl Divers: A Welcoming Space for All
Aspiring to be a community hub, Pearl Divers aims to fill the void left by the closing of other spots.
Promising extended Happy Hours and a welcoming space for everyone, it is the spot to visit. It is located near 17th and Park. The employees are the owners. They are known for their huge parties and guest performers and DJs.
Champagne Tiger: A Vibrant Hotspot
Nestled in the heart of Denver, Champagne Tiger is celebrated for its eclectic charm and lively events, attracting a diverse clientele.
With an amazing bar and food menu and many one-off events, Champagne Tiger is a true favorite.
Boyztown: Denver's Oldest Queer Cabaret Club
For a unique entertainment experience, head to Boyztown, the oldest queer cabaret club in Denver, located off Broadway.
Featuring an all-male cast that performs nightly at 10 pm, this club offers an immersive experience. With mirrored walls, raised platforms, and a full-service bar, Boyztown provides ample seating for both close-up and more relaxed viewing.
Every Wednesday night is amateur night, where anyone can compete.
If that's not your thing, dancers perform all weekend long starting at 10 pm, ensuring a lively atmosphere.
Buddies: A New Institution with Old-School Connections
Buddies is a newer spot with old-school connections. The employees are the owners.
Fast service, easy location, definitely worth a trip.
A huge plus of this bar is that they are open until 4 in the morning, making it a great after-party location. No food is offered here but the vibe is always glamorous and energetic even into the wee hours of the morning.
X Bar: High Energy and Themed Parties
If you crave high-energy and themed parties, X Bar on Colfax is the place to be.
This club is known for its exciting theme nights and the impressive cage that graces the main dance floor. The spacious patio is constantly evolving, with upgrades to seating, flooring, and fire pits.
X Bar is open daily from 3 pm to 2 am, making it a reliable option for late-night fun.
With a history of inclusivity, this bar is a great place to make memories.
More to Explore: Beyond the Dance Floor
Denver's gay bar scene offers a diverse range of experiences beyond the dance floor. From cozy, intimate lounges to lively sports bars, there's something for everyone.
Consider checking out:
- Tracks Denver: A longtime staple with fun-themed nights, great music, and drag shows.
- Charlie's Denver: Known for inclusivity and a welcoming atmosphere.
- Tight End Sports Bar: Great spot to watch a game.
Tips for Exploring Denver's Gay Bar Scene
To make the most of your visit, here are a few tips:
- Check Event Schedules: Many bars have weekly events, drag shows, themed nights, and special promotions.
Check their websites or social media pages for the latest happenings.
- Consider Transportation: Utilize ride-sharing services, taxis, or public transportation to ensure safe and convenient travel, especially if you plan on enjoying alcoholic beverages.
- Be Open to Exploring: Venture outside your comfort zone and try different bars to experience the variety and unique atmospheres each offers.
- Respect the Community: Denver's gay bar scene is built on inclusivity and acceptance.
Be mindful of your behavior and treat everyone with respect.
Embrace the Denver Vibe
Denver's gay bars are more than just places to grab a drink; they're vibrant hubs of community, celebration, and self-expression. So, whether you're a long-time resident or a first-time visitor, take the time to explore these welcoming establishments and discover the unique energy and charm that make Denver's LGBTQ+ scene so special.
Raise your glass, make new friends, and enjoy the experience!