18 reasons why Capitol Hill is the epicenter of Seattle gay life

Doghouse Leathers – give a dog a bone

Rachael A. Jones / GayCities

Remember that early 2000s song about letting the dogs out? Well, this is where they go in Seattle. Workers wear puppy masks and leather gear all while helping patrons shop for fun fetishes. Leather not your thing? Take a few paces down the street to Babeland, an unstuffy adult store offering a section for LITERALLY everyone.

Gaslight Inn –  cutest little B&B

Rachael A. Jones / GayCities

Hands-down, the most gorgeous, LGBTQ-friendly bed & breakfast is Gaslight Inn. Owner Stephen Bennett designed the Victorian-inspired abode as a place for queer travelers to call home for a night or two. In addition, the b&b has Seattle landmark status and is walking distance from Capitol Hill’s finest restaurants, bars, and shops.

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Saint John’s Bar & Eatery – dinosaur-obsessed dining

Rachael A. Jones / GayCities

Some call it the gayest gastropub in Capitol Hill, others simply love a good Jurassic Park-themed date night. Drop-in for a bite, breakfast, lunch, or dinner, and expect T-Rex murals, delicious grub, and rainbow flags.

Big Little News – a very queer neighborhood bodega

Rachael A. Jones / GayCities

Founded by LGBTQ nightlife entrepreneurs Joey Burgess and Tracy Taylor, this little Capitol Hill shop offers a big selection of specialty magazines, beer, wine, champagne, gifts, and snacks. Perfect for a pit stop between bar hopping.

Cone & Steiner – gay-owned corner store

Rachael A. Jones / GayCities

Inspired by her great-grandfather’s drive and need for community, this is queer owner Dani Cone’s concept of the corner store. The exterior is welcoming with fresh flowers and ripe produce. Step inside and plan to spend 30-minutes or more looking around at the local selections of beer, ice cream, and curated foods.

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