Before you head into Jake's in Olympia for an evening of sweaty dancing, good drinks, beautiful people and fun for all, I'll let you in on a few hints:  Kerry is probably the best looking and most popular bartender at Jake's. And Olympia Hot Dog Co. is attached to the dance club, so come hungry. 

There's a $1-per-item coat check on Fridays and Saturdays. Karaoke takes place on Mondays and Wednesdays, DJ Alex spins on Thursday and Friday while DJ Danny rolls on Saturdays. DJ Danny likes to start with show tunes, and both DJs take requests.

An amateur stripping contest commences the second Thursday of every month with a $3 cover charge. Friday and Saturdays have a $4 cover charge unless there's a show. One of the best shows is So You Think You Can Drag, which is held the last Saturday of every month and comes with an $8 cover charge.

Jake's may be known as a gay bar, but as all gay bars will say - the venue is really open to everyone. Gay, lesbian or straight - come as you are, just leave your blow-up doll at home. That is all. - Steph DeRosa

[Jake's on 4th, 311 Fourth Ave. E., Olympia 360.956.3247]

Other Awesome Gay-friendly Bars: Airport Bar & Grill, 5406 S. Tacoma Way, Tacoma, 253.475.9730; The Mix, 635 St. Helens Ave., Tacoma 253.383.4327; Club Silverstone, 739 1/2 St. Helens Ave., Tacoma, 253.404.027; Tempest Lounge, 913 Martin Luther King Jr. Way, Tacoma, 253.272.4904