Crow’s Nest Comics Establishes Inclusive Shop in Central District

Comics on a shelf at Crow’s Nest Comics

The Evergreen Echo

Crow’s Nest Comics, formerly Outsider Comics, the beloved comic book shop from Fremont has made the move to a much cozier location in Central District, just a tiny walk from I-90 (or the 7 or 554 bus will get you just a block away). Though the shop has moved and changed names, they are still offering their warm, inviting atmosphere, stunning collection, and commitment to accessibility, all from a better location. 

Why did they move? In a shop newsletter from August, Crow’s Nest Comics’ owner, Wing, explained that their previous location in Fremont was beginning to see a lot less foot traffic than usual, spurred on by the popping up of various nightlife venues on and around their block. Because they weren’t able to bring in their usual customers, they were unable to renew their lease for the space. The sad reality is that a lot of shops are still finding it hard to pick back up since the initial sink of COVID, and the following resurgence of nightlife has a lot of shops making tough decisions like Crow’s Nest did. Especially for a store catering largely to introverts and nerds, it can be difficult to make a mark on a block now dedicated mostly to extroverts and party-goers. 

Though some of Crow’s Nest’s regulars may not like the change in location, I can safely say that they have made their new space feel just as cozy and welcoming as their old store. Still in the “unpacking” phase of their move, they have already started to rebuild the atmosphere of Outsider Comics. And now that they’re on a less nightlife-focused street, I am hopeful that business will pick back up for this beloved Seattle staple. 

What else is new? 

As you may have noticed, the comic-book-shop-previously-known-as-Outsider has picked up a fancy new name! In another newsletter, Wing stated, “When the shop was first named Outsider Comics in 2016, it was in large part because the owners aimed to serve folks who were on the outside of mainstream comics: women, LGBTQIA+ people, and people of color, among others. Since then—thanks to the hard work of so many folks in the industry and the support of readers—that’s no longer the case.” It is an absolutely wonderful reason to change the name of a store, and though I might not speak for all nerdy comic lovers, I truly love the switch. This name feels friendlier and a little sillier, and I think it reflects the laid-back and comfortable vibes of the new location. 

Nimona, by ND Stevenson (paperback)

The Evergreen Echo

My trip to Crow’s Nest’s new location was just as wonderful as my very first step into Outsider Comics. Though their hours are cut down a bit during this important moving phase, the experience inside is just as magical as their old location. Obviously, there were a LOT of comic books to peruse, but what I have always loved about Outsider/Crow’s Nest is that they make a point to highlight the work of smaller publishers and artists. Most comic book stores will often have a good chunk of their shelves dedicated to DC and Marvel, but Crow’s Nest keeps it casual with lesser known names and graphic novels that bend genre. As a trans-owned business, they also have a lot of comics and novels with LGBTQIA+ representation which are always wonderful to see (did I finally pick up a copy of ND Stevenson’s Nimona while I was there? Why yes, yes I did). 

And while the comics are sublime, nothing beats the cheerful attitude of Crow’s Nest’s staff and regulars. When I entered the store, a delightful conversation about books was underway, and the discussion of plot and characters felt like background music to my comic book adventure in the best possible way. There’s no denying that Crow’s Nest Comics cares about their customers, as one of the few shops in the area still requiring masks to enter. Store leadership has always focused on accessibility and safety, which is unfortunately becoming much rarer in the city proper. It is truly one of the most comfortable comic book shops I have ever been in, and this new name and location hasn’t changed that in the slightest.

If you’re looking to revisit a classic Seattle comic store, or looking for a new place to find graphic novels, Crow’s Nest Comics is really one of the best there is. Homely vibe meets great product meets accessibility meets diversity, all in one shop. Here’s to a successful new year in a new location!