Travel Out Seattle

02/08/2023

Did you know that Seattle has been chosen at the host city for National Gay Flag Football Leagues (NGFFL) Gay Bowl XXIII to be held this October? They'll be at The Comeback this weekend for a fun Superbowl event if you're looking for a cool place to watch the big game! Find out more about Gay Bowl XXIII, here:

On April 18, 2022 the National Gay Flag Football League (NGFFL) announced Seattle as the site for its annual tournament, Gay Bowl XXIII, to be hosted by the Cascade Flag Football Association in 2023.

12/07/2022

Holiday Memories Start Under Bainbridge Island’s Starry Nights

Cozy up next to a lodge fire, take an illuminated solstice walk through towering evergreens and find that perfect something for everyone along Winslow’s historic downtown. From shopping, eating, ice skating, art walks, concerts, and so much more, make your way to Bainbridge Island for some winter holiday cheer. Find out more and a complete calendar of events at http://ow.ly/C4gh50LT7PU.

The downtown association also host Holiday Lights – Festive Nights with free festive music or holiday movies and a hot cider station along Madrone Lane. Shop late as merchants will be open till 8 p.m.

12/06/2022

GSBA President & CEO penned an op-ed for The Spokesman-Review out of Spokane, Wa. In this article, she outlines the challenges ahead for small businesses and how the GSBA Ready for Business grants are helping relieve some of those challenges.

Small businesses are the backbone of any local economy and are the clearest indicator of neighborhood health and vitality.

11/29/2022

If you're looking for the perfect day trip from Seattle - look no further. Make your way to Bainbridge Island for the Winter Night Market on December 2nd and 3rd!

Each night you will find the plaza filled with lights, music, food, and an array of local vendors. Just in time for the holidays, this is a time to come hang out and gather in the dark of winter. There will be activities for all ages across the plaza and throughout the museum.

Winter Night Market 2022 Join BIMA for its first Winter Night Market. Each night you will find the plaza filled with lights, music, food, and an array of local vendors. Just in time for the holidays, this is a time to come hang out and gather in the dark of winter. There will be activities for all a...

11/23/2022

Getting to and from some of the most popular travel destinations in the Pacific Northwest just became a better experience for everyone!

Seattle’s new ferry terminal at Colman Dock opens with upgrades -

Construction on the portal to Bremerton and Bainbridge Island began in 2017. In 2019, one-third of the building opened.

11/22/2022

A message from the GSBA President & CEO about the Club Q shooting in Colorado Springs.

GSBA statement on the Club Q shooting in Colorado Springs   A Message from the President & CEO Dear GSBA members and community, On a night when many of Seattle's LGBTQ+ community gathered to cultivat

11/05/2022

Tourism in Seattle was in full swing this summer with the return of cruise ships to the Seattle Piers. Check out this story from the Puget Sound Business Journal about the end of the cruise ship season in Seattle.

The numbers bolstered what was a better-than-expected summer for tourism and hospitality in Seattle, led by a resurgence of recreational travel.

09/24/2022

"Put on some makeup..." and "pull the wig down from the shelf" and make your way to Bainbridge Performing Arts! Don't miss the iconic hair, the show-stopping music, and the extraordinary comedy in this limited run of Hedwig and the Angry Inch!

http://ow.ly/wjtS50KOFZl

BPA is bringing the wig out of the box with Hedwig and The Angry Inch this October 13th through the 23rd. Tickets on sale now, but don't wait, this show's two-week run will sell out fast. https://bainbridgeperformingarts.org/hedwig
ABOUT THE SHOW: Hedwig and the Angry Inch tells the story of "internationally ignored song stylist" Hedwig Schmidt, a fourth-wall smashing East German rock 'n' roll goddess who also happens to be the victim of a botched sex-change operation, and is left with just "an angry inch." This outrageous and unexpectedly hilarious story is dazzlingly performed by Hedwig in the form of a rock gig/stand-up comedy routine backed by Yitzhak and the hard-rock band "The Angry Inch." It's a rocking ride, funny, touching, and ultimately inspiring to anyone who has felt life gave them an inch when they deserved a mile.

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09/17/2022

Are you looking for something to do in Seattle this weekend? Look no further!

One of the things that makes The 5th Avenue Theatre such a special place, is the creation of new works! The Griswolds’ Broadway Vacation is a super-fun and hysterical production, and you get to see it first! PLUS - GSBA members get a 25% discount! To book directly through their website visit www.5thavenue.org/gsba or through other links, use promo code: GSBA to purchase your tickets.

Enjoy the show!

09/16/2022

GSBA enters a new chapter of leadership and new era of support for LGBTQ+ and allied businesses and community organizations both locally and across Washington state with appointment of new President & CEO, Ilona Lohrey.

Joining GSBA in 2015, and recently serving as interim leader of the organization, Lohrey was selected as the ideal candidate to grow and further develop GSBA’s mission to bring communities together through business while advocating for civil rights by supporting small businesses, promoting LGBTQ+ tourism, and investing in the next generation of leaders.

“Ilona will lead GSBA into the future,” said Jay Peterson, former GSBA Board Chair. “Her tremendous efforts on issues facing the LGBTQ+ community and small businesses has been demonstrated time and again during her years of service to the organization. She is equally committed to the Scholarship Fund and will ensure our next generation of leaders has the support they need to be successful.”

Read the complete announcement on our website at https://thegsba.org/about-us/news/news-article-page/2022/09/12/gsba-appoints-ilona-y.-lohrey-to-president-ceo

09/04/2022

WE'RE HIRING!
To apply, read more at https://www.thegsba.org/business-resources/job-postings/gsba-director-of-communications2022. Help us spread the word about this incredible high-impact job opportunity at GSBA! Share this post within your network.

The Director of Marketing & Communications serves as a content creator, flexible and persuasive writer, frontline copyeditor, and proofreader for several communications channels. This is a rewarding and fast-paced job for a creative, energetic, and dynamic person who wants to use their skills and passion for small business, civil rights, and education to benefit the LGBTQ+ community.

08/31/2022

As summer is winding down, Seattle remains beautiful both day and night. An essential MUST HAVE experience this time of year in the Emerald City is to enjoy a meal outdoors. Check out the link below for a list of LGBTQ friendly restaurants in the Seattle area, many of them have outdoor dining options. With so many restaurants to choose from, representing cuisine from around the world, you will have no trouble finding outdoor dining that suits your mood.

Search for restaurants at https://thegsba.org/business-resources/guide-search?name=restaurant and spend your money where it matters!

08/27/2022

Today is a wonderful day to explore the region and visit GSBA member wineries. Whether you're looking for a taste, a sip, a glass, or a flight - GSBA member wineries have what you want. The good news is, you can find them located as close as the Seattle's LGBTQ neighborhood of Capitol Hill, inside the city, neighboring towns, or across Washington state!

Check out the listings online and raise a glass for GSBA. http://ow.ly/S5NG50Khu0v

08/19/2022

State of Washington Tourism (SWT) introduces two new grant programs for tourism development. Local government entities, tribes, and nonprofit organizations may apply for these grants to support infrastructure projects, economic impact studies, new festivals and events, diversity and inclusion initiatives, and other activities that drive tourism and help destination communities in the State of Washington. Grants applications can be up to $10k - $30k depending on criteria.

For more information or to register for the free webinar explaining applications and eligibility visit https://industry.stateofwatourism.com/swt-grant-programs/

08/13/2022

Don't waste another minute of this gorgeous PNW summer without visiting a GSBA member winery (or two... or THREE) and sip on some of the best wines found anywhere in the world.

Search our online directory for a winery near you!
http://ow.ly/TFLf50Khu0w

08/12/2022

"GSBA is proud of its 41 years of service to the LGBTQ+ business community. As the interim President & CEO, I am committed to leading this organization that works tirelessly towards achieving economic and educational equity.

In this year's Guide to GSBA you will find stories of some of our incredible members across Washington State, as well as the myriad ways GSBA helps support our community, grow small businesses, and fight for LGBTQ+ rights."

Read more from Interim GSBA President & CEO Ilona Lohrey and the stories of other GSBA members and community at https://chambervu.com/gsba22/.

08/09/2022

Today is National Book Lovers Day, and what better way celebrate than to visit a Capitol Hill book store!

Elliott Bay Book Company - https://www.elliottbaybook.com/
COME FOR THE BOOKS, STAY FOR THE EXPERIENCE
Located in the heart of Seattle's Capitol Hill neighborhood, The Elliott Bay Book Company is a full service bookstore, home to over 150,000 titles, set on cedar shelves in a multi-level, inviting unique atmosphere. We offer one of the region's best selection of new books, as well as a large collection of bargain editions. Elliott Bay presents an unparalleled schedule of author readings and events throughout the year.

08/04/2022

The Seattle Seahawks are offering a BOGO deal for Pride Night! Access this limited time offer to their first home game against the Chicago Bears on August 18th– use code SEAPRIDE. When you go to purchase your tickets, the promo code is entered once you click on Unlock in the upper right corner of the Ticketmaster event page. Buy your tickets now and get one free. (https://bit.ly/3QfxhVi)

07/21/2022

Elliott Bay Book Company is one of the most iconic Capitol Hill businesses, but have you checked out its little sibling at Big Little News yet? This "little shop with a big selection" has fantastic international and domestic magazines, beer, wine, champagne, and other gifts. Get your park reads and beverages ready! (photo by Jake Pack)

07/18/2022

Fred Hutch's Obliteride is one of summer's top events - and all are welcome! On Sunday, August 13 in Seattle there will be multiple events for you to cycle, walk, run, or volunteer at! Dance the night away with food, music, and more. All of this united with a global community to take action against cancer.

Obliteride is a global community united to cure cancer faster. Join us in Seattle for our in-person bike ride and 5K Walk/Run — or virtually from wherever you are!

07/17/2022

Yellowhawk Resort is resort and sparkling winery in Walla Walla. This 84-acre hilltop retreat in the heart of wine country inspires with expansive views of rolling wheat fields, lush vineyards and farmland, and the sun shining atop the Blue Mountains.

Whether staying for an afternoon or an extended visit, enjoy the chance to slow down and feel a connection with others and the land. Join them for wine tasting, farm-to-table dining, a special event, a poolside cabana or reserve a stay in the estate house.

07/14/2022

It's no secret that there are a ton of great beers and ciders in the Northwest. Visit The Woods Tasting room in S**O and you can get the best of both with Two Beers Brewing Co. and Seattle Cider Company.

07/11/2022

If you've found that there is more to do on Visit Bainbridge Island than you can fit in one day... why not stay the night? Kiana Lodge, Clearwater Casino Resort, The Eagle Harbor Inn, The Marshall Suites, and the Manor House at Pleasant Beach Village are all excellent places to rest your head and show you even more of what makes Bainbridge Island so special.

07/10/2022

One of the most classic excursions in the Puget Sound region is taking the ferry to Visit Bainbridge Island. Take in the excellent views and then enjoy the amazing things that Bainbridge has to offer! Take in the arts and performances at Millstream Bainbridge, Bainbridge Island Museum of Art, and Bainbridge Performing Arts. Grab a drink at Highside Distilling or Eleven Winery. Rent a kayak at Exotic Aquatics Scuba and Kayaking! Explore the beautiful Bloedel Reserve. There is so much waiting for you on Bainbridge Island.. and don't worry, there is always the next boat!

07/08/2022

Just 20 minutes from downtown Seattle and 30 minutes from SEA Airport, Visit Issaquah has outdoor recreation, historic charm, marquee events, and natural wonder. Get to know some of the smaller towns in our region like Issaquah!

Just east of Seattle, where the Puget Sound meets the Cascade Mountains, awaits a destination like no other. Learn more about visiting Issaquah...

07/07/2022

Mx. Pucks A'Plenty is bringing What the Funk?! back to the The Triple Door August 18-20! This three-day, all-BIPOC burlesque tribute to funk music is not to be missed!

The only all BIPOC Burlesque Festival in the Pacific Northwest! Featuring BIPOC Burlesque Talent from around the world in Seattle, Washington!

06/14/2022

NEW EXHIBITION PARTY ALERT! MoPOP is thrilled for the upcoming exhibition, Ruth E. Carter: Afrofuturism in Costume Design. An Academy-Award winning costume designer, Carter’s career has defined generations through her work in film and TV. See the exhibition, hear from Ruth Carter herself, participate in interactive costuming workshops, and — of course — dance!

Friday, June 17 | 7:00pm at MoPOP. Get your tickets before it sells out! https://www.mopop.org/ruth-e-carter

04/21/2022

Seattle Center is one of the cultural hearts of our region, and is celebrating its 60th birthday! the complex was created as part of the Century 21 Exhibition, also known as the Seattle World's Fair. We have celebrated many Prides there, seen so many amazing performances, and cheered on our incredible teams like the Storm and the Kraken. Parts of Seattle Center also celebrating their 60th anniversary are Seattle Center Monorail, Space Needle, Pacific Science Center, the International Foundation, and the landmark roof of Climate Pledge Arena .

03/23/2022

Seattle's neighborhoods are full of unique independent retailers for you to find that special something to bring home with you. Some of our favorites include CONE & STEINER, Elliott Bay Book Company, and Two Big Blondes Plus Size Consignment.

From midcentury furniture to timeless menswear to the oldest comic book store around, these are the local shops everyone should know about.

01/25/2022

Did you know that up to 29% of paid time off was left unused by the average American worker last year? Today is , so don't let those vacation days go to waste.

Plan your trip to the Pacific Northwest with LGBTQ+ friendly vendors: http://www.traveloutseattle.com/