Escapade

I really wanted to like this place (the outside patio is cute), but unfortunately the inside leaves much to be desired. The entire place reeks of stale cigarette smoke - my partner and I only stayed for a few minutes, and we both stank when leaving (also had the worst headaches for an hour afterwards). There was hardly anyone there, and anyone that was there looked unhappy. I don't know if they usually have music or not, but there was no music either at 9PM on a Saturday evening. Really disappointed this is the only gay bar in Altoona. Would love to give some suggestions on possible improvements if they're open to it (as a former bartender at a gay bar in KC).

Absolutely love this bar. The bartenders are pleasant and friendly to talk to. Very non-judgmental environment where you can easily talk with others and feel safe. I've had a blast every time I've gone. Drinks are a good price and they have a convenient ATM for those who forget cash!

Last night was my first time at Escapde. I had high hopes. Unfortunately this bar is not safe! I went for a local drag show and the performance itself was good. I was worried for the queens safety though because any rando in the place was allowed to video. Patrons were hardly giving the queens any tips and queens were forced to pick up their own tips from the floor at times. On another note, I unfortunately wound up seated in the "cigarette pit" across from some guy wearing a confederate flag hat. I don't understand how a supposed queer space allows people in with that type of attire. No wonder there were hardly any POC there. The only person who seemed willing to speak up about the racist flag hat was subsequently assaulted by Escapade staff. I was shocked! There were so many failures on the part of the bar to make sure queer people have a safe space to gather and queens have a safe place to perform. Gays stay home. This place ain't worth it.

Always welcoming and friendly regardless of sexual identity or orientation. Seasonal drink specials and competitively priced drinks. Monthly drag shows that are always a community hit. The staff and other patrons make everyone feel welcome in this cozy drinking establishment.

This place is super clean, nice and well run inside! They know how to put on a good drag show! The bartenders are so nice and quick. Definitely will be back!

so much smoking, im trans and my lungs have been hurting so bad since i left, it could kill me because of the meds im on for hrt, will not be returning, their "double shot" of amaretto was less than a single shot because of how much ice was in the shot glass, will be going to lucys place in johnstown from now on, it is worth the extra drive if i dont want to die from a blood clot in my lungs, i feel really excluded by this place, they even have a patio with chairs so why is smoking allowed at the bar, this place really lacks consideration for trans individuals

I have been a patron for almost 9 years and just a few months ago became one of the staff! I hade never had a bad experience at Escapade and love everything from the events to the all inclusive atmosphere that this little hidden gem in Altoona provides!

I am happy that escapade is a part of our local GLBTQ community! I have been frequenting the place since 2003. The owners are friendly and the staff love to joke and have fun with you. Everyone is welcome to come. I bartended here over the years and enjoy getting to know everyone! For the people that have posted on here that the bar is biased towards anyone they are wrong! We have many unique individuals who identify in different ways! We should be thankful that the community has a place to go to be themselves!