Phase One

Phase One, on 8th Street Southeast, isn't just a bar; it's practically a historical landmark. Since 1970, it's been a cornerstone of Washington's LGBTQ+ community, making it one of the country's oldest and longest-running lesbian bars. It’s a women-first space, no question, and its staying power comes from that. You come here to relax, to talk, to connect. The drinks are standard, but that’s not really the point. The point is the room itself, the feeling of ease. While Washington’s gay scene spreads out, with different bars in Capitol Hill, Dupont Circle, and Logan Circle, Phase One has held its ground. That alone says something about its significance. For what’s happening now, check phase1capitolhill.com.