LGBTQ+ Safe Spaces Across the D.C. Metro Area

From Washington, D.C. to Arlington, Alexandria, and Maryland, discover bars, restaurants, and venues proudly creating welcoming, affirming spaces for the LGBTQ+ community — places where you can gather, celebrate, and belong.

Building adorned with rainbow flags and decorations, featuring a 555 address sign and pink flamingos on the roof.

Freddie’s Beach Bar

555 23rd St S, Arlington, VA 22202

(703) 685-0555 freddiesbeachbar.com

Northern Virginia's only LGBTQ+, straight-friendly restaurant and bar, offering drag shows, karaoke, and a welcoming environment.

Why It’s Safe: For over 20 years, Freddie’s has been an openly LGBTQ+ space where queer folks and allies gather without judgment. Staff and regulars actively foster a warm, welcoming environment, and it’s now the first official Rainbows in Revolt Certified Safe Partner.

Exterior of a building with "PITCHERS DC BAR" sign and rainbow flags on top.

Pitchers & A League of Her Own

2317 18th St NW, Washington, DC 20009

(202) 733-2568 pitchersbardc.com

Pitchers is a multi-level gay sports bar; ALOHO is one of the few dedicated lesbian/queer women’s bars in the U.S. Together, they anchor D.C.’s queer nightlife scene.

Why It’s Safe: Both venues prioritize LGBTQ+ inclusion, from staff hiring to event programming. ALOHO especially offers a rare, affirming space for queer women.

A two-story white building with a sign that reads "BE YOU B.R.G." The exterior features a patio with rainbow-colored decorations and umbrellas. People are seated outside, and the scene includes a blue sky with clouds.

As You Are

500 8th St SE, Washington, DC 2000

(202) 849-3123 asyouaredc.com

A café by day, bar and dance lounge by night, hosting queer events, drag shows, and open mics.

Why It’s Safe: As You Are operates with a consent-centered, enthusiastic-safety model. Staff are trained to support a respectful, body-positive, and affirming environment for all gender identities and expressions.

Night view of a brick building with a "number nine" sign and round logo, featuring a black and yellow design.

Number Nine

1435 P St NW, Washington, DC 20005

(202) 986-0999 numberninedc.com

A sleek two-level gay bar known for craft cocktails, dancing, and a lively happy hour crowd.

Why It’s Safe: Long considered a staple in the gay community, Number Nine maintains a zero-tolerance stance on harassment, and its regulars help foster a watchful, affirming environment.

Crowded bar scene with colorful lights, patrons gathered around a well-stocked bar, bartender serving drinks, and festive atmosphere.

Trade

1410 14th St NW, Washington, DC 2000

(202) 986-1094 tradebardc.com

A fun, no-frills gay bar offering XL drinks, casual meetups, and pulsing dance nights.

Why It’s Safe: Trade’s reputation for an unpretentious, all-are-welcome vibe draws a diverse LGBTQ+ crowd, with staff who actively step in if guests feel uncomfortable.

Nighttime alley scene with a person standing under the "Green Lantern" bar sign, next to a building with barred windows and illuminated office windows in the background.

Green Lantern

1335 Green Ct NW, Washington, DC 20005

(202) 347-45330555 greenlanterndc.com

A hidden alley bar known for theme nights (like underwear parties) and neighborhood loyalty.

Why It’s Safe: Green Lantern’s regulars help maintain a strong community feel, and the staff cultivate a judgment-free, body-positive space.

Colorful storefront with rainbow stripes and diverse flags, including the Pride flag, displayed on the façade. Business name 'The Dirty Goose' above the entrance, with supportive signage for diversity and inclusivity visible.

The Dirty Goose

913 U St NW, Washington, DC 20001

(202) 629-3786 thedirtygoosedc.com

A polished cocktail bar with two levels and a rooftop, blending chic New York energy with laid-back Southern charm.

A polished cocktail bar with two levels and a rooftop, blending chic New York energy with laid-back Southern charm.

Nighttime street view with storefronts and neon signage.

Thurst Lounge

2204 14th St NW, Washington, DC 2000

(202) 478-6717

D.C.’s only Black-owned LGBTQ+ lounge, offering themed events, cocktails, and dancing in a stylish space.

Why It’s Safe: Specifically focused on the Black LGBTQ+ community, Thurst creates an intentionally affirming, culturally safe space for queer people of color.

Building with a colorful mural of a British phone booth and floral patterns, painted on the corner of a black-brick building facade.

The Little Gay Pub

1100 P St NW, Washington, DC 20005

(202) 547-1100

An intimate, cozy queer bar ideal for quiet drinks, conversation, and community connections.

Why It’s Safe: Offers a homey, low-key refuge from the high-energy club scene, known for being inclusive and neighborly.

People standing outside a bar with graffiti on the walls and a neon sign above the entrance at night.

Kiki

915 U St NW, Washington, DC 20001

(202) 506-2455

A two-story LGBTQ+ dance club in Shaw with bold nightlife energy, themed parties, and guest DJs.

Why It’s Safe: Kiki prioritizes LGBTQ+ inclusivity in its programming and staff training, with strong community ties ensuring guests can enjoy themselves safely.

Corner building decorated with lights at dusk

Nellie’s Sports Bar

900 U St NW, Washington, DC 20001

(202) 332-6355

A beloved LGBTQ+ landmark on U Street, Nellie’s is a high-energy sports bar known for its rooftop, brunches, drag bingo, and watch parties for everything from sports games to RuPaul’s Drag Race. It’s long been a staple gathering place for the DC queer community, blending the worlds of sports, drag, and nightlife under one welcoming roof.

Why It’s Safe: Nellie’s has served as a social anchor for DC’s LGBTQ+ crowd for years, offering an openly queer space where diverse identities can gather and celebrate. From drag events to queer watch parties, the bar fosters an environment where guests can feel seen, affirmed, and safe. Staff are trained to maintain an inclusive atmosphere, and the space regularly draws a loyal LGBTQ+ following.