ROAM Seattle: A New Nightlife Destination Bringing Community, Creativity, and Culture to Ballard

ROAM is the brainchild of owner Nicole Healy, who brings years of experience in the food and beverage industry

Joey Reams
Written By Joey Reams
Senior Regional Reporter
Photo: Official

Nestled in the heart of Ballard at 5105 Ballard Ave NW, ROAM is redefining Seattle’s nightlife with a fresh, multi-level concept that blends vibrant performances, thoughtful cocktails, and a welcoming atmosphere.

The space offers two distinct bars under one roof, inviting guests to explore everything from laid-back drinks to high-energy adult performances, all crafted to surprise and engage. ROAM is the brainchild of owner Nicole Healy, who brings years of experience in the food and beverage industry paired with a deep passion for travel and entrepreneurship. Starting her career as a teenager in both corporate restaurants and small, family-run bars, Nicole’s global experiences sparked a desire to build a nightlife experience that embodies creativity, respect, and modern culture.

“I wanted to create a bar that brings together three core ideas: reimagining the unforgettable moments I experienced while traveling, offering the kind of nightlife experience that’s been missing in Seattle, and contributing to a more modern, respectful culture around adult performance and entertainment,” Healy tells What Now Media Group in an exclusive interview.

Choosing Ballard for ROAM was intentional. Beyond its evolving nightlife scene, the neighborhood’s creative energy and walkability made it the perfect home for a venue dedicated to celebrating artists and performers. With a personal connection to the arts, including canvas murals painted by her wife and a community of performers among her friends, Nicole envisioned a space where artists could feel inspired, respected, and safe.

“This neighborhood felt like the right home for that vision. I wanted these performances to be at the heart of one of Seattle’s best neighborhoods, not on the margins,” Nicole explains. “These artists deserve beautiful, welcoming venues where they can shine.”

Since opening, ROAM has received an overwhelmingly positive response. Though challenges have come, including skepticism from some who don’t fully align with the vision, the support from guests and collaborators has fueled the team’s commitment to growth and community.

“Not every space is meant for everyone, and that’s okay,” Nicole says. “But inviting people in and watching that vision resonate has been incredible.”

The journey of opening ROAM hasn’t been without its hurdles. Nicole reflects on the intense mental and physical demands of starting a new business, including burnout, costly lessons, and the constant balancing act of decision-making.

“What’s kept us going is our team and our community,” she notes. “Having people who believe in the vision and remind us why we started, that’s everything.”

Looking ahead, ROAM’s focus remains on refining the experience and deepening connections with the community rather than rushing into new ventures. Nicole highlights the importance of taking the process one day at a time.

“My little brothers have joined as partners, and together with an amazing staff, we’re building something meaningful,” she says. “Their support has been essential to keeping ROAM aligned with its core values.”

Whether seeking a chill nightcap or an evening filled with artful performance, ROAM invites Seattle to experience a nightlife space designed with intention, respect, and vibrant energy.

“We’re here to surprise, engage, and create moments that matter,” Nicole affirms.

ROAM Seattle: A New Nightlife Destination Bringing Community, Creativity, and Culture to Ballard
Photo: Official

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Joey Reams was born and raised in San Diego and received a Bachelor's Degree in Journalism at San Francisco State University. While there, he interned for several publications while serving as SFSU's News Editor at Golden Gate Xpress for a semester. After college, Joey has worked in the freelance industry for ten years and counting, writing about community news, the music industry, breaking news, pop culture, and other diverse topics. Before joining What Now Media Group, Joey worked as the News Editor for Pasadena Now. In his free time, he enjoys exploring new cities, trying delicious food, and attending concerts.
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