They don’t call it the second-gayest city in America for no reason

With 200 cloudy days a year and the gloomy weather, Seattle might not sound like a fun travel destination, but the bohemian vibe, the thriving arts, the sophisticated urban setting, and the pristine wilderness might change your mind. Adding to the experience, Seattle has one of the highest concentrations of LGBT residents in the United States. In terms of percent, according to the Census Bureau, 2.6 percent of Seattle’s households were gay couples.

Capitol Hill is the center of gay community in Seattle, where you will find a plethora of gay and gay-friendly businesses, bar, restaurants, clubs, shops, and more.

Before the cultural shifts in the 1970s, when homosexuality was taboo, most of Seattle’s gay scene was centered in Pioneer Square, also known as “Skid Road”. Although Capitol Hill is now the epicenter of gay life, you can still find some gay venues in Pioneer Square, including The Casino, which opened in 1934 and is one of the oldest continuously operating gay bars in the country.

For hikers and nature lovers, Seattle is the place to be. From kayaking, skiing, and snowboarding to hiking and climbing, Seattle offers countless alternatives to those who don’t want to resume their holiday to nightclubs and cafes. During the day, you can relax on Madison Park Beach, Seattle’s unofficial gay beach.

Despite the dreary weather, Seattle is a bustling city with plenty of things to do and see. Here are some of the must-visit gay hotspots in Seattle.