Colorado Springs LGBTQIA

Colorado Springs, Colorado. Once a notorious red spot in an otherwise blue state, is slowly becoming more liberal and accepting. Don’t get me wrong, there is still a heavy religious and military presence in the area, but that just means Grindr is never quiet.

So, you are in the Springs and you want to connect with all of the LGBTQIA’s community hot spots but don’t know where to begin? Here is a beginner guide to the best local spots and groups in the springs to get connected.

Hot Mess Sports – This is my go-to group for getting connected with the local community especially if you have just moved to the area. Hot Mess Sports is an inclusive LGBTQIA sports league that offers several kinds of sports throughout the year. You don’t have to be good at sports to join, I know I am usually there to gossip and play badly, but even if you are super competitive Hot Mess has something for everyone. From the more casual Bowling, Dodgeball and Corn Hole to the way more competitive Kickball and Volleyball you will find something to suit your sporting abilities. Hot Mess will also organize after game hang outs, community activities, fundraisers, and more.

La Burla Bee Cabaret – Want a good night out in a safe and inclusive space? Hit La Burla Bee Cabaret, Restaurant, and Nightclub. This is a place that is constantly involved in the local LGBTQIA community and always hosting new and more interesting shows and events. A great place for drag shows, cocktails, and good food.

Cocktails After Dusk – Looking for someplace to try out your trivia skills and hang out with the local LGBTQIA community? Hit up Cocktails After Dusk a unique bar situated inside the restaurant Salad or Bust. They hold weekly Wednesday night trivia, serve food from Salad or Bust or Orsetto’s Wood Fire Pizza, and make a mean cocktail.

Out Loud Colorado Springs Men’s Chorus – Enjoy singing? Or maybe you want a nice date night out during the December Holiday Season? Colorado Springs had an LGBTQIA Men’s Chorus. Out Loud is also a member of the Gay and Lesbian Association of Choruses (GALA) and perform with them every four years. This is a safe space to sing and be heard for men within the community.

Prism Community Collective – Prism is a unique space here in the Springs as an LGBTQIA community center to find support, community, or local resources. They offer peer groups, movie nights, workshops, and community resources like a directory for LGBTQIA friendly therapists. Join a book club, volunteer, or reach out if you just need space to talk. Prism is a wonderful resource for connection.

Inside Out Youth Services – Are you between the ages of 13 to 24 and need a place to connect to the local community? Try out Inside Out Youth Services. This is a center focused on giving LGBTQIA youth the tools and opportunities needed to succeed. They offer advocacy workshops for adults, discussion groups, outings, counseling, food, and clothing support for those between the ages of 13 to 24. Over that age range? Consider volunteering and helping the local youth in your community.

Pikes Peak Pride – The Yearly Pride Festival and Parade held every June here in the Springs. Get ready for a several day event of vendors, entertainment, parades, and more. Every year the festival gets bigger and the community gets brighter. Come enjoy the best Colorado Springs had to offer in terms of community and acceptance.

ICONS – A Gay Piano Bar with singing bartenders, does it get any gayer? ICONS recently reopened as a very proud LGBTQIA piano and cocktail bar. They do not shy away or pretend to be anything but part of our community and all the better for it. Head to ICONS if you want good food, entertainment, and a different kind of night out from your typical club scene.

Yes, you are likely to find a bigger LGBTQIA scene an hour away in Denver, but Colorado Springs is nothing to scoff at. It is a smaller and more intimate vibe than you’ll get in other big cities. This community here is truly one of the best and I encourage you to go out and discover its greatness for yourself.