LGBTQ+ Boulder

If you identify as an LGBTQ+ traveler, you might be wondering what it's like to visit Boulder. You’ll find an LGBTQ-friendly community of allies that have supported gay rights for decades, along with ways to enjoy Boulder’s queer culture year-round.

Nation's First Same-Sex Marriage License

First, a tidbit of history to set the scene. In 1975, Clela Rorex, the Boulder County Clerk and Recorder at the time, was asked by a gay couple for a marriage license. After consulting with the Boulder County District Attorney, Rorex granted the men’s request. She continued issuing marriage licenses to same-sex couples — six in total — before the Colorado Attorney General ordered her to stop. She is recognized as the first government official to issue a same-sex marriage license in the U.S. (A clerk in Arizona issued one in the same year, but it was quickly revoked. None of Rorex's six licenses were ever revoked or invalidated.)

View a National Historic Site of LGBTQ+ Rights 

In 2019, the Boulder County Courthouse was added to the National Park Service’s National Register of Historic Places for its role in LGBTQ+ history. Colorado Governor Jared Polis, who is from Boulder and is the first openly gay man to serve as a state governor, celebrated the honor saying, “It’s so exciting to acknowledge Boulder County’s role in the history of the equality movement.” 
 

Boulder County Pride Week

Each June, Boulder erupts in exuberant parades, a festival, drag storytimes, mixers, trivia nights, parties and more. Keep an eye on Out Boulder County's Pride page for the latest details.

Out Boulder County

Out Boulder County is a very active and dynamic organization that provides advocacy, education, research and programs to support LGBTQ+ people in Boulder. In their state-of-the-art facility, they hold ongoing events and services for people of all ages.