Painting the Rainbow LGBTQ History Walking Tour

Discover the legends, the landmarks, and the love that made Emerald City a beacon of pride. Book your tour today and strut through Seattle’s most iconic queer moments.

Join the Painting the Rainbow LGBTQ History Walking Tour today and experience the magic of Capitol Hill’s colorful past and present. See where history was made, love won, and Seattle’s LGBTQ+ community found its heart.

5 Star Ratings (based on 63,219 reviews) Read Reviews

Book Your Painting the Rainbow LGBTQ History Walking Tour Tonight

A tour guide holding a flagA group looking at a mural

Painting the Rainbow LGBTQ History Walking Tour

Come learn about the pioneers who paved the way for equality and discover the hidden stories that shaped Seattle’s LGBTQ+ community. Follow us through the glittering heart of Capitol Hill’s queer culture and celebrate the spirit of defiant love, inclusivity, and unapologetic pride. Walk past iconic bars where drag queens and revolutionaries once made history and uncover the untold stories behind the rainbow crosswalks that made Seattle’s street a canvas of pride. Be a part of the people who make history come alive, and let Seattle’s rainbow-colored past inspire your journey. Book your Painting the Rainbow LGBTQ History Walking Tour today and immerse yourself in the city’s ongoing legacy of love, diversity, and acceptance.

Meeting Location: Trendy Wendy, at 211 Broadway E in Seattle

Starting Time: 4PM

Pet Policy Pets are welcomed!

Alcohol Policy: No Drinking Permitted

Adults Only No

Book Now

Where to Meet, Park, and Directions

Meet: Trendy Wendy, at 211 Broadway E in Seattle.
Park: Visit parkopedia.com for the most up-to-date parking info.

The location is beside Mirch Masala, with large street-facing windows and bright blue paint that lines the outside of the building.

Sirius USA Today Huffington Post Country Living INC Travel Featured on KAYAK! Guides Inside Edition CBS MTV Fox Business New York Post Smithsonian Wall Street Journal Yahoo Boston Globe
Sirius USA Today Huffington Post Country Living INC Travel Featured on KAYAK! Guides Inside Edition CBS MTV Fox Business New York Post Smithsonian Wall Street Journal Yahoo Boston Globe

Priscilla King-Soto

Five Stars

I have live in Seattle for 39 years and had no idea of our ghostly city! Like the photo who knew?

12.29.24

Natalie Parker

Five Stars

Christine is so great! As a local I found this tour immensely interesting and full of valuable insight. It’s spooky and worth your time.

11.30.24

Ren n.

Five Stars

I had the most amazing time. my group was a lot of fun (just another couple) but our tour guid, Dakota, was excellent!! We got off topic and diverted...

11.26.24

Read All Reviews

Tour Gallery Tour Gallery

Where You'll Go

Trendy Wendy Boutique

Step into the Trendy Wendy Boutique in Seattle and prepare to be dazzled by a kaleidoscope of colors and styles. Explore an eclectic collection of festival wear, club outfits, and Pride gear that celebrates diversity and inclusivity—perfect for making a statement or simply soaking up the vibe that keeps Seattle’s queer scene fabulous.

Unicorn

Taste the magic of Unicorn and revel in the whimsical carnival vibes that make Seattle a true gem for LGBTQ+ fun. Embark on a journey through Capitol Hill’s queer history with us and see the iconic spot where glittery cabinet and carnival treats blend into an unforgettable celebration of pride.

Wildrose

Wildrose is the heart and soul of Seattle’s queer queer female scene. Experience the city’s LGBTQ+ history as you learn how this iconic spot served and continues to serve as a safe haven for love, laughter, and legendary nights out.

What is the Painting the Rainbow LGBTQ History Walking Tour About?

Walk in the shoes of the trailblazers who fought for the freedom to be their unapologetic selves and venture into Seattle’s vibrant LGBTQ+ history. The Painting the Rainbow LGBTQ History Walking Tour reveals the stories of courage and celebration that shaped Capitol Hill. Each stop on our tour sheds more light on Seattle’s transformation from a hidden gem into a proud parade of inclusivity and pride.

Experience the magic of Capitol Hill’s queer history as we guide you through the spaces that became beacons of pride and inclusivity. Learn more about the now-defunct Double Header bar in Seattle, where those seeking love, acceptance, and a true sense of community could be themselves without fear at a time when LGBTQ+ spaces were few and far between.

Be ready to hear the fascinating story of SugarPill and discover how a passionate community member turned a temporary visit to Emerald City into a lasting impact. Hear how SugarPill’s founder embraced Seattle and made a mark with her unique blend of care and community spirit. See the historic charm of The Cuff Complex and get a front-row seat to where the Pacific Northwest’s LGBTQ+ nightlife took root and evolved into a thriving scene.

Revel in tales of legendary parties that never went out of style, see how Seattle became a beacon of LGBTQ+ activism, and let us show you why Capitol Hill remains the queer capital of the Pacific Northwest. Book your place today to unearth these riveting stories and celebrate the pride that makes Seattle shine.

Reasons to Take the Painting the Rainbow LGBTQ History Walking Tour

Icon
You Want to Embrace Seattle’s Trailblazing LGBTQ+ Activism

Discover the gritty backstory of the grassroots movements that turned Capitol Hill into a queer paradise. From the daring pro ... tests to the celebrations, our tour guides will share the tales of how fierce activists and pioneers made history with every rainbow flag they waved. Learn more about the unsung heroes who stood against adversity and the spaces that became their sanctuaries. Book a tour today to walk the grounds where the legends of the people who fought for freedom, equality, and love once walked and be inspired by their relentless spirit.

Icon
You Want to Explore the Most Popular LGBTQ+ Community and Spaces in the Pacific Northwest

Capitol Hill isn’t just a neighborhood—it’s the beating heart of Seattle’s LGBTQ+ scene, and our Painting the Rainbow ... LGBTQ History Walking Tour is your golden ticket to its most extraordinary spots. From SugarPill, we’ll take you on a journey where every stop is a story, and every story is a celebration. From SugarPill’s herbal wonders to The Cuff Complex’s legendary dance floor, you’ll explore the landmarks that highlight the struggles of Seattle’s queer community and get an insider’s look into the vibrant spaces that have become pillars of pride.

Icon
You Want to Experience the Intersection of Seattle’s Rich Queer Heritage and Local History

Step back in time and get up close and personal with the people who made Capitol Hill a beacon of resistance and acceptance. ... Our tour is a mash-up of epic moments and hidden gems that show how LGBTQ+ culture has shaped Seattle’s evolution. We’ll connect the dots between historic milestones and modern celebrations, revealing how past struggles fuel today’s triumphs.

Icon
You’re Looking For an Iconic Place to Celebrate Pride and Inclusivity

Yes! Emerald City sure knows how to throw a pride party, and the historic Capitol Hill is the ultimate backdrop for the festi ... vities. If you’re hunting for the ultimate Pride experience, we’ll show you where the party started and where it’s still going strong. Join us today to explore the heart of Seattle’s pride scene and soak up the atmosphere that makes this neighborhood the crown jewel of inclusivity.

Icon
You Want to Enjoy a Unique Perspective on Seattle’s Social History

For anyone looking to dive deep into Seattle’s social evolution, our tour sheds more light on how Seattle’s commitment to ... diversity and inclusivity paved the way for progress. When you book a tour with us, you’ll gain a unique perspective on how LGBTQ+ issues have influenced broader societal changes and how Seattle has evolved as a city.

Check out our blog

Seattle's Most Haunted Hotels

Seattle's Most Haunted Hotels

Seattle is rife with haunted activity lurking just beneath its historic streets. Founded in 1851, the city may not seem old at first glance... Read More

12.22.24

Hotel room door with ghost mist

Cadillac Hotel Hauntings

The old adage that it takes one match to burn a thousand trees could very well have found its origins in Seattle, especially at the Cadilla... Read More

11.23.24

Pike Place Market

The Hauntings of Pike Place Market

When you visit Seattle, there are a few must-see attractions on your list: the Space Needle, the Chihuly Garden and Glass, and — perhaps ... Read More

11.21.24

Chat