A Guide To My Favorite Queer-Owned & Affirming Places
While I celebrate pride all year round, I felt like it would be a good time to highlight some of my favorite places and things to do in Tacoma!
As a lesbian Realtor and the founder of QueerOwnedWA.com, I spend a lot of time exploring Tacoma and connecting with the incredible people who make this city feel like home.
One of the things I love most about Tacoma is that the queer community isn't confined to just one specific neighborhood. It's everywhere.
Community is in the coffee shops where friends gather, the small businesses creating welcoming spaces, the artists sharing their work, and the community organizations working every day to make Tacoma a more inclusive place.
Listen, this isn't a list of the "best" queer places in Tacoma (they're all amazing). It's simply a guide to some of my favorite queer-owned and affirming places that help make Tacoma feel like home.
Starting the Day Out Right
If you've spent any amount of time with me, you probably won't be surprised to learn that my ideal Tacoma day starts with good coffee and a great breakfast. Luckily, Tacoma has no shortage of incredible local spots and two of my favorites happen to be queer-owned.
Naomi Joe Coffee
If coffee is your love language, Naomi Joe Coffee should absolutely be on your Tacoma list.
Located inside the communal space at 7 Seas Brewing, Naomi Joe Coffee is a queer-owned roastery and café that has quickly become a favorite gathering place for Tacoma's queer community and allies. What I love most is that they make specialty coffee feel approachable. Whether you're someone who orders the same latte every morning or you're excited to try an experimental co-fermented roast, there's something for everyone.
You can read more about them HERE!
Side Piece Kitchen
If brunch is more your style, Side Piece Kitchen is one to check out!
Since opening in 2022, Side Piece Kitchen has built a loyal following thanks to its bold, scratch-made comfort food, house-made biscuits, incredible cheesecake, and elevated takes on classic brunch favorites. Every dish is thoughtfully prepared using high-quality ingredients and refined culinary techniques.
Learn more about them HERE!
Fill Your Day
After you've fueled up, Tacoma has plenty more to offer. Coffee and brunch are just the beginning. From herbal wellness and Pilates to tattoos, art, and self-care, these are a few of the places I love recommending to friends.
Earthshine Apothecary and Botanica
If you love herbal wellness, spirituality, and beautifully curated spaces, Earthshine Apothecary and Botanica is worth a visit. Located in downtown Tacoma, this cozy apothecary offers handcrafted herbal products, botanical skincare, ritual tools, and thoughtful gifts that encourage intentional living and self-care.
Visit the shop HERE!
Absolute Relaxation Skincare and Massage
Sometimes the best thing to do is slow down. Absolute Relaxation offers therapeutic massage and holistic bodywork in a peaceful, private setting designed to help clients relax, recharge, and reconnect with themselves.
Lern more HERE!
People's Pilates
Looking to move your body in a welcoming, judgment-free environment? People's Pilates has become one of Tacoma's favorite inclusive wellness spaces, offering reformer Pilates, hot mat classes, yoga, and more. Their "come as you are" philosophy makes movement accessible for every body and every experience level.
Check them out HERE!
Golden Reflection Gallery
Part tattoo studio, part art space, Golden Reflection Gallery offers a unique creative experience in University Place. Home to multiple tattoo artists, original artwork, and handmade jewelry, it's a welcoming space that celebrates creativity, craftsmanship, and self-expression.
Whether you're planning your next tattoo or simply appreciate local art, this is a spot worth checking out.
Visit them HERE!
Juniper Botanical Bar
If your perfect day ends with a craft cocktail and good company, Juniper Botanical Bar deserves a spot on your Tacoma itinerary.
Located on South Tacoma Way, Juniper has quickly become one of Tacoma's favorite queer-friendly gathering spaces. The atmosphere is cozy, welcoming, and full of personality, with local art, lush greenery, board games, and plenty of places to settle in and stay awhile.
Whether you're ordering one of their creative craft cocktails, exploring their nonalcoholic options, or building your own charcuterie board, Juniper creates a space where everyone feels welcome. It's the kind of place that encourages conversation, connection, and community.
Find out more (and see their Sunday Drag-Brunch schedule) HERE!
Home Sweet Tacoma
The businesses featured here are only a small glimpse of the incredible LGBTQ+ owned and affirming community that exists throughout Tacoma.
These are just a few of my favorite queer-owned and affirming places in Tacoma, and there are so many more worth discovering. Whether you're visiting for the day, new to the area, or have called Tacoma home for years, I hope this guide encourages you to explore somewhere new and support the people who make this city such a special place.
Looking for even more LGBTQ+ owned and affirming businesses? Browse the QueerOwnedWA directory to discover businesses throughout Tacoma, Pierce County, and across Washington State, or submit your favorite business to help us grow the directory.