Eugene, Ore.– Advocate magazine named Eugene the 7th gayest city in America for 2013. It is no surprise that the town was chosen, for it is known for its romantic covered bridges, colorful murals and the Pacific Northwest natural beauty. Eugene is home to The University of Oregon, an institution The Advocate College Guide for LGBT Students placed among the top 20; the city has a well-deserved progressive reputation.

The publication determined this ranking on a diverse set of criteria, attributing each city specific points for having LGBT elected officials, specific shopping centers (like Whole Foods or Pottery Barn), transgender protections, gay rugby teams, bisexual resource groups, roller derby and lastly marriage equality.

Eugene is not the only city from the Northwest gaining attention from the magazine- Tacoma, Spokane and Salem were also recognized in the top fifteen for the nation’s gayest cities.

Check out the video at Gay Reader.

Kelcie