Gyde
Open prototypeProto
Back to all Seattle places

Seattle, Washington / Bars and nightlife

Blue Moon Tavern

A legendary Seattle dive bar and counterculture landmark since 1934, the Blue Moon Tavern has served as a haven for beatniks, hippies, and grunge artists near the University of Washington.

Open prototype Official site Get directions
Blue Moon Tavern
www.thebluemoonseattle.com, website_hero_img_www.thebluemoonseattle.com

What is the Blue Moon Tavern known for?

It is a famous Seattle dive bar and one of the city's few surviving blue-collar landmarks. It is known as a haven for counter-culture and has served as a beatnik haven, biker bar, hippie hive, and grunge-era dive.

What is the history of the Blue Moon Tavern?

The tavern opened in April 1934 in Seattle with original owner Henry "Hank" John Reverman. Built after the repeal of Prohibition, it became popular due to its proximity to the University of Washington campus.

What kind of entertainment and drinks are available?

The tavern serves local breweries on draft and hosts live music most nights a week, as well as DJs, karaoke, and comedy.

Who are some of the notable people associated with the tavern?

The tavern has been visited by writers and poets such as Theodore Roethke, Tom Robbins, Allen Ginsburg, and Dylan Thomas, and was allegedly visited by Jack Kerouac.

How do I get to the Blue Moon Tavern?

The tavern is located in Seattle (98105), half a block off I-5, five blocks from the Light Rail, and near several Metro bus routes, including the 20, 31, 32, 43, 44, 65, 67, and 70.

What should I check before going?

Use Gyde for context, then check official sources for current hours, tickets, construction, and closures.

What to know

Opened in April 1934 by original owner Henry "Hank" John Reverman, the Blue Moon Tavern emerged shortly after the repeal of Prohibition. Its location near the University of Washington campus helped it establish itself as a primary gathering spot for students and intellectuals, eventually becoming one of the few surviving blue-collar landmarks in Seattle. Throughout its nearly nine decades of history, the venue has evolved through distinct cultural phases. It has functioned as a beatnik haven, a biker bar, a hippie hive, and a grunge-era dive. During the 1960s and early 1970s, it was particularly notorious for housing the city's counterculture, providing a safe space for those outside the mainstream. The tavern's walls hold stories of literary and academic figures. Notable poets and writers such as Theodore Roethke and Tom Robbins frequented the establishment. It is even linked to the McCarthy-era tensions of the late 1940s and early 1950s, where dismissed UW professors like Joe Butterworth were associated with the tavern's community. Today, the Blue Moon maintains its old-Seattle vibe while supporting the local community. It serves local breweries on draft and hosts a rotating schedule of live music, DJs, karaoke, and comedy performances to keep the neighborhood spirit alive.

Visitor tips

  • Check the venue's official calendar page for scheduled live music, comedy, or karaoke nights.
  • The bar is conveniently located five blocks from the Light Rail for those not walking the full tour.
  • Wear casual attire to fit the dive bar atmosphere and 'old-Seattle' vibe.

Nearby context

Situated in the University District, the Blue Moon Tavern is positioned half a block off I-5 and within walking distance of the University of Washington campus, which historically fueled its popularity with students and faculty.

Sources

Evidence and links