Five Great Ways To Enjoy The Adventures Of Denver Pride

Sometimes it seems everything about the Mile High City is an adventure. From the spectacular views of the  surrounding Rocky mountains to the eclectic neighborhoods to the heady air of the high altitude, the city has a certain wild west feel that nearby urban areas mostly lack. And that certainly extends to the Denver Pride Fest, which has become one of the most popular for a city of its size in the nation. Thus it seemed only fitting that GayCities should put together a guide to help you make the most out of your Denver adventure this year.

Stay

With its art deco brown stone exterior, vaulted ceilings and ornate lobby, The Brown Palace Hotel is a Denver classic. Perfectly situated downtown, the hotel’s central location makes it a convenient starting point convenient to explore Denver’s hotspots. Another can’t miss is the Monaco Denver. This funky, comfortable Kimpton features themed rooms like “The Grace Slick” and “The Miles Davis” suite. Did we mention the free wine happy hour every night? If you’re yearning for the extra amenities provided by a mainstream hotel, check out the Hyatt Regency. You get 24-hour fitness room, spa, swimming pool — all that with views of the magnificent Rockies.

Eat

Guys and gals can pretty much guarantee having a campy fun time at the Denver version of Hamburger Mary’s. Located in the Capitol Hill ‘hood, Hamburger Mary’s is the place to meet friends for cocktails and dinner before a night out or a place to come to nurse a heavy hangover with the patented bloody mary’s and an oversized burger.

Racines is another popular dining alternative. From comfort foods to crafty cocktails, this downtown joint offers an outdoor patio that’s perfect for summer pride dining. Since Denver is just miles away from the Rio Grande, authentic Mexican food abounds. Tamayo serves traditional Mexican fare with creative touches by chef Richard Sandoval in a festive environment.

Drink

If you have the Wild West on your mind, try starting your night at The Brown Palace Hotel bar, whether or not you are staying there. You will imagine yourself having a drink in a saloon, chatting up a strange cowboy in skin tight Wranglers. Speaking of denim, Denver Wrangler is also a great watering hole for tough guys and their admirers. A different happy hour theme each night keeps the men coming back. Gay nightclub staple Tracks Denver is also a sure thing, especially on Saturday night when the resident drag queens come out to play.

Celebrate

Denver’s Civic Center Park will be a flurry of color when streamers, balloons and outrageous costumes take over PrideFest. The two-day event starts on Saturday, June 16, and ends with a parade down Colfax Street the next day.

See

Fashionistas, even of the cowboy sort, can’t miss the YSL retrospective happening at the Denver Art Museum through July 8. The exhibit featuring over 200 haute couture outfits from the designer’s illustrious 40 year career. Several hotels in Denver are even offering special packages with VIP YSL treatment, so make sure to call and confirm.

Those looking for an experience that is a little more rough around the edges should check out Denver’s own gay rodeo–happening July 13 through July 15, just one month after the Pride Fest. Holler at the cute cowboys and cheer on your favorite queen in the annual drag race happening at the Jefferson Country Fairgrounds.

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