A visit to the U.S. capital offers a lesson in history and patriotism, infused with a constant stream of political discourse. But for gays and lesbians looking for an extra kick to a visit to Washington D.C., the city's bars offer another view of the capital. From intimate watering holes to bass-thumping clubs, the nation's capital -- long known as offering one of the country's best gay and lesbian scenes -- offers something for everyone.
Massive lesbian clubs with hot dance music and even hotter dance floors abound in the nation's capital. One of the most popular is Apex, in the Dupont Circle neighborhood, itself known for catering to a diverse, gay-friendly crowd. Billing itself as "Washington's Premiere Gay Dance Venue," the Apex caters to a lesbian clientele on certain nights of the week.
Apex Night Club
1415 22nd St. NW
Washington, D.C. 20037
202-296-0505
apex-dc.com
If you're a lesbian looking for a neighborhood-style watering hole -- away from the pulse of some of the city's megaclubs -- Washington also offers something for you. Phase One is an off-the-beaten path lesbian bar open since 1970, billing itself as the oldest exclusively lesbian bar in the United States. The bar sports "reasonable" drink prices and offers a variety of theme nights, from "drag king" performances to indie rock night.
Phase 1 Lesbian Bar
525 8th St. SE
Washington, D.C. 20003
202-544-6831
phase1dc.com
When a loud, large club doesn't fit your idea of the ideal night, and when you're looking for something a little more upscale than the neighborhood beer hall, Washington, D.C., also offers lesbians sophisticated lounges--for a night that oozes sophistication and charm. Also in the popular Dupont Circle neighborhood, the Fireplace features -- yes -- a real fireplace, complete with old-world charm and top-of-the-line drink specials.
The Fireplace
2161 P. St.
Washington, D.C. 20037
202-293-1293
