Gay Night Out: Our Favorite Haunts in Seattle

By Shalini Gujavarty

Seattle boasts a lively LGBT nightlife that caters to any mood. There are Top 40 dance parties and hipster dive bars, watering holes for bears and drag performances that will blow your mind. To say there's a little something for everyone would be an understatement. We recommend hitting two or three (or four) spots in one night, making sure you stop at Julia's for late-night eats and a drag show.

Neighbours

This is the most mainstream of gay dance clubs. You're as likely to see Zumba-inspired moves on the dance floor as you are go go boys.

Wildrose

Seattle's original lesbian bar was founded over 31 years ago and remains a women-loving women favorite. On weeknights, they have trivia and poetry nights.

Photo of DJs courtesy of Re-Bar

Re-Bar

This is an old school alternative LGBTQ bar. Known mainly for its drag shows and cabaret (you might spy Dina Martina if she's in town).

Purr

A stand-and-pose cocktail lounge with popular karaoke nights that draw aspiring singers and shower-belters. Also known for its stiff drinks, catchy dance tunes, and no cover charge.

Pony

Vintage porn adorns the walls, and this is a magnet for hipster, milennial gays. The outside patio is a popular feature even in the winter, since it has fire pits.

Photo of Robbie Turner courtesy of R Place

R Place

R Place is multi-level gay entertainment hub. You can come here for just about anything: dancing, bars, and pool, but also cabaret and karaoke. Weekly parties boast a diverse crowd and music selection, from Thirsty Thursdays to Therapy Saturdays. 

C.C. Attle's

Head to C.C. Attle’s for a bear-friendly vibe with plenty of beer and flannel floating around. The bar serves solid pub food and cocktails, and also has a fabulous outdoor patio. A second location rocks a cabin aesthetic with a front porch perfect for people-watching.

Julia's

Mainly a restaurant offering classic American fare, Julia's also has weekend drag shows that draw an eclectic mix of people. It's the perfect spot to start or end your night out in Seattle.