The Century Ballroom on Capitol Hill is less of a school and more of a straight dance-hall, although one can take classes there as well. The Century is a favored dance spot for Seattle's gay and lesbian community, so leave your biases and phobias at home. Straights need not fear, though, as everyone is welcome. Wednsdays are a swing/lindy night, from 9:30 till at least midnight. Thursdays are latin night, and Saturdays have been known to be a ballroom night, but I'm not sure how regular that is. At the time of this writing the second and fourth Wednsdays of each month are designated as "queer swing night". Feel free to go even if you're straight, just don't be surprised or offended if a MotSS asks you to dance.

The facilities are smoke free, but do include a small bar which offers beer, wine, champagne, and an assortment of non-alcoholic beverages as well. Whether you drink or not, make sure to have been born at least 21 years before you go, and bring your ID. They'll check it, and will stamp your hand on the way in. The bathroom is unisex, so be cool and knock before entering. The Century does have a cover charge, although I'm not sure exactly how their system works. I've seen it range from four dollars up to as much as thirteen, although the latter was on a night when they had a famous live zydeco band playing (CJ Chenier's band).

The century features many different styles of dance, including ballroom, Swing, Lindy-hop, latin dances, and probably some I'm not aware of. The idea is to get ahold of their schedule, then go on a night that features something you like to dance or want to learn. They frequently offer a quick beginner/introductory lesson before the regular dances. If you want to go to one of those, show up an hour or so before the regular dance session and bring a couple of extra dollars.