There's a first time for everything, right? I've partied in every type of Gay bar you can imagine, from high-glam drag clubs to grungy dive bars where the bathrooms are more questionable than the men. But until now, I had never set foot in Seattle's one and only Lesbian bar: the Wildrose.
So I decided to throw caution (and my preconceived notions) to the wind and venture into this bastion of Sapphic celebration.

First impressions: The atmosphere
Walking into the Wildrose, I was immediately struck by how different the vibe was compared to the bars I usually frequent. No shirtless go-go boys gyrating to a thumping techno beat here - this place had a distinctly chill, almost nostalgic feel. The lighting was dim but inviting, with strings of fairy lights casting a warm glow over the cozy space. The decor screamed, "We've been around since the '80s, and we're proud of it!" Think faded concert posters, old-school arcade games, and a jukebox that probably still takes quarters.
The crowd was a mix of the expected and the unexpected. Yes, there were plenty of flannel-clad women, but there were also couples on date night, solo drinkers, and even a few straight folks who had clearly been let in on the secret that the Wildrose isn't just for Lesbians - it's for anyone who wants to have a good time without judgment.

The drinks: Strong and cheap - just how I like 'em
Let's talk about the drinks because, let's be honest, that's why most of us go to bars in the first place. The Wildrose is not one of those trendy spots where you'll find artisanal cocktails with ingredients you can't pronounce. No, this place keeps it simple: strong pours of classic drinks at prices that won't make you regret your life choices the next morning.
As a tequila and grapefruit drink lover, I was pleasantly surprised by how the bartenders nailed my go-to. The mix was just right: tart with a kick, and exactly what I needed to get into the groove.
The bartenders were friendly and efficient, and I appreciated that they weren't trying to upsell me on some fancy concoction. The vibe was very much "here's your drink, now go enjoy yourself." And enjoy I did.

The entertainment: A night with the resident DJs
Now, let's get to the heart of the matter: the music. I made my Wildrose debut on a Saturday night, a prime time to experience what the bar has to offer. The resident DJ was spinning an eclectic mix that ranged from throwback hits to modern pop anthems, and the dance floor was alive with energy. You know that feeling when the right song comes on, and you can't help but move? That's what Friday and Saturday nights at the Wildrose are all about.
The crowd was a joyful mix: people who clearly knew each other well and newcomers like me who were welcomed into the fold. The best part? No pretension. Just pure, unfiltered fun.

The people: Friendly faces and good vibes
One of the best things about the Wildrose is the people. As a Gay man in a Lesbian bar, I wasn't sure what kind of reception I'd get. Would I be seen as an interloper, a curiosity, or just another guy trying to be "woke"? I'm happy to report that none of those fears were realized. The patrons were some of the friendliest people I've encountered in the Seattle bar scene.
I struck up conversations with a few regulars, and they were more than happy to share their love for the place. One woman told me she'd been coming for over a decade and had met some of her closest friends there. Another shared how important it was to have a safe space where she could be herself without any pretense. It was clear that the Wildrose isn't just a bar - it's a community.

Why you should go: Celebrating 40 years of history and heart
So, why should you go to the Wildrose? Because it's a place that's more than the sum of its parts. It's not just about the drinks, the entertainment, or the ambiance - it's about the sense of belonging you feel when you walk through the door. In a city where Gay bars seem to come and go with the seasons, the Wildrose has stood the test of time, and for good reason.
Having opened its doors in 1984, it's one of the oldest Lesbian bars in the country. That's four decades of being a safe haven, a meeting place, and a home away from home for countless people. For all that time, it's been a vital part of Seattle's LGBTQ+ history, and it continues to be a cornerstone of the community.

Conclusion: My takeaway
So, there you have it. I went to the Wildrose so you don't have to. But honestly? You really should. Whether you're a Lesbian, Gay, Bi, Trans, straight, or somewhere in between, it's a place where everyone is welcome. It's a bar with heart, history, and a heck of a lot of character.
Plus, where else in Seattle are you going to find a place that's been rocking out since the '80s and still knows how to show you a good time?

September nights: Your guide to Capitol Hill's hottest Gay bars and events
Capitol Hill is the beating heart of Seattle's LGBTQ+ scene, and this September, it's the place to be. Whether you go for drag, dancing, or just a chill night with friends, it has something for everyone this September. Don't miss out!
Here's your ultimate guide to the must-attend events at the neighborhood's top Gay bars: