Music runs almost as deeply through the Emerald City as coffee and there’s no better way to spend a rainy night than enjoying a show at one of the city’s many venues — it’s a fact that every local knows is true. The music scene here doesn’t just cater to hipsters, either. There are jazz clubs, electronic music shows and everything in between, making it perfect for a date night, rocking out with a friend or just exploring on your own.
With so many venues to choose from, it’s tough to know where to turn. If you’re in need of some guidance, we’ve rounded up the best concert venues in Seattle.
The Crocodile
Source: Facebook.com/thecrocodilesea
- Location: 2505 1st Ave. Seattle, WA 98121
The Crocodile is more than just a venue. This Belltown neighborhood favorite houses a comedy club, theater, two restaurant bars, a 17-room hotel and a mid-size, 300-capacity concert hall in the historic former sailor’s union of the pacific hall building, making it a delightful destination for a night out. Musical acts vary widely, but ticket prices are always reasonable and you’re likely to find a new artist to love just by keeping an eye on their calendar.
Dimitriou’s Jazz Alley
Source: Facebook.com/JazzAlley
- Location: 2033 6th Ave, Seattle, WA 98121
Dimitriou’s Jazz Alley is a Seattle standby, bringing nationally renowned acts to their Belltown stage for over 30 years. Seating is pre-arranged in their bi-level venue and there’s not a bad seat in the house. Enjoy a dinner of delicious Northwestern fare paired with an expertly mixed cocktail and get lost in the sound. If you’re wondering where Seattle’s favorite fictitious psychiatrist and jazz enthusiast Dr. Frasier Crane might unwind for an evening of music, this is the place.
Jewelbox Theater
Source: Facebook.com/SeattleRendezvous
- Location: 2322 2nd Ave., Seattle, WA 98121
Located in the Belltown neighborhood, the Jewelbox Theater is a cozy space to catch a show. Their small stage decorated with a red velvet curtain frequently hosts some exciting emerging acts, as well as stand-up comedy and the occasional burlesque performance. The building also is home to The Rendezvous, a terrific bar that mixes creative cocktails and serves tasty snacks. Legend also has it that this location is supposedly haunted, so there is a chance of encountering spirits while you enjoy the show.
Neptune Theatre
Source: Facebook.com/nptuneseattle
- Location: 1303 NE 45th St., Seattle, WA 98105
For an 800-seat venue, Neptune Theater in the University District neighborhood feels surprisingly intimate. This 100-year-old building once housed a silent movie theater, but it is now a nautically-themed concert hall drawing acts from around the world. Good news for those of us who are staying out past their bedtime for a show — this general admission venue is mostly seated. If you’d like to learn more about Neptune’s rich history, they also offer an informative theater tour on the third Saturday of each month of one of the best concert venues in Seattle.
Neumos
Source: neumos.com
- Location: 925 East Pike Street Seattle, WA 98122
Neumos is a mid-sized music venue with big sound located in Seattle’s First Hill neighborhood. Renovated in 2017, this concert space features state-of-the-art lighting and sound equipment so your favorite artists can look and sound their best.
Neumos draws some of the best, national acts from indie to electronic and everything in between, as well as talented local acts. Grab a drink from one of three full-service bars and a perch from the mezzanine and enjoy the show!
Paramount Theatre
Source: Facebook.com/paramountseattle
- Location: 911 Pine St., Seattle, WA 98101
The Paramount Theater is a grand and majestic performing arts venue originally opened in 1928 in Downtown Seattle. The building’s glamorous architecture is inspired by the Palace of Versailles and earned it a spot on the National Register of Historic Places.
Over the years, the Paramount has drawn some of the biggest names in music, including Pink Floyd, Nirvana and The Grateful Dead, and continues to host some of the most anticipated shows in the northwest.
The Showbox
Source: showboxpresents.com
- Location: 1426 1st Ave., Seattle, WA 98101
The Showbox is a historic and intimate venue that’s been bringing live music to Downtown Seattle for over 75 years. The dance floor can get rowdy in support of an eclectic array of artists, including hip hop and hard rock. Their convenient location within minutes from Pike Place Market makes it easy to enjoy a night on the town before or after the show.
The Sunset
Source: YELP.COM/BIZ_PHOTOS/THE-SUNSET-SEATTLE
- Location: 5433 Ballard Ave. NW, Seattle, WA 98107
Part dive bar, part cozy venue, The Sunset in the Ballard neighborhood is a great place to grab a drink and catch a show on a rainy Seattle night. The lineup usually consists of smaller rock, indie and punk bands. But larger artists like Mudhoney and Fleet Foxes have been known to grace this small stage.
If you’re wondering why the funky décor includes the odd Chinese decoration, it’s because the building used to house a Chinese restaurant. The decorations just became part of the venue’s eclectic charm.
Tractor Tavern
Source: tractortavern.com
- Location: 5213 Ballard Ave. NW, Seattle, WA 98107
The Ballard neighborhood’s charmingly folkyTractor Tavern provides a unique vibe and a calendar full of hip local and national acts with a spotlight on bluegrass, country and indie bands. The historic building has long hosted various music venues over the years. It’s also easily accessible by public transportation if you plan on taking advantage of their excellent bar.
Goodnight Seattle, we love you!
From grand halls to intimate stages, there’s a concert venue in Seattle for every type of act. Each has its own carefully curated vibe. A rich history and love of music are deeply embedded in the very fibers of the city. And nowhere is this more prevalent than in these hallowed halls. Catch your favorite artist when they come to town or discover a new one to fall in love with — Seattle’s venues have a lot to love!
