The Cultural Side of Seattle: 5 Top Theaters in Downtown Seattle

Looking for entertainment in Downtown Seattle? Look no further! The theaters in this area offer a diverse selection of shows that will keep you entertained all year round. And if you keep reading to the end of this article, you’ll discover some valuable tips for saving money on tickets.

In addition to Seattle’s famous coffee culture, the city is also known for its exceptional theater and concert scene. From Broadway musicals to plays to stand-up comedy, there’s something for everyone at the downtown theaters. These venues offer a chance to see talented performers and experience the excitement of a live performance. Plus, with their convenient location, you can make a night of it by grabbing dinner or a drink before or after the show. Don’t miss the opportunity to create memorable experiences at one of Seattle’s historic theaters.

Paramount Theater

The Paramount Theater, located in the heart of downtown Seattle, is a historic venue with a stunningly restored interior featuring ornate decor, high ceilings, and beautiful chandeliers. Its iconic sign is a favorite subject of photographers. In addition to its vintage charm, the theater boasts excellent acoustics and comfortable seating, making it a popular choice for performers and its audience. The Paramount Theater offers a variety of performances, including Broadway shows, concerts, plays, and films. We recommend experiencing a classic Broadway show at this charming venue. 

Pro tip: The Paramount Theater offers free admission to its Archive and Gallery on Tuesdays and Thursdays from 10 am to 3 pm. Plus, you can also book their free tour, happening on the 1st Saturday of every month.
Location: 911 Pine St
Nearest hotels: The Paramount Hotel, Hyatt at Olive 8

Moore Theater

The Moore Theater, built in 1907, is the oldest theater in Seattle and a historic venue that has been beautifully preserved. In its early years, it served as a lavish social gathering place for the city’s elite. Today, it is known for hosting a diverse range of live performances, from indie rock concerts to stand-up comedy shows, thanks to its intimate seating and excellent acoustics. The Moore Theater is also the birthplace of the Seattle International Film Festival. We have personally attended several shows at the Moore Theater, including a stand-up comedy act by Biswa Kalyan Rath and a breathtaking performance by Cory Wong’s band. Therefore, we highly recommend it as a must-see destination for anyone who loves live entertainment.

Pro tip: Want to learn more about the Moore Theater? The Seattle Theater Group offers free tours of this historic venue on the second Saturday of every month. You can book your spot in advance by visiting their website.
Location: 1932 2nd Ave
Nearest hotels: The Charter Hotel, Kimpton Palladian Hotel

5th Ave Theatre

The 5th Ave Theatre is a historic and beautifully restored venue located in downtown Seattle. Built in 1926, it features ornate decor inspired by China’s Forbidden City, Temple of Heavenly Peace, and Summer Palace, making it one of the most beautiful theaters in the country. In the 1920s, the 5th Ave Theatre in downtown Seattle exclusively hosted Vaudeville tours. In the 1970s, it transformed into a movie venue. Then, between 1980 and 1989, the theater made history by becoming the first venue to host a Broadway show in Seattle. The production of Annie was a massive success, with 77 sold-out performances over a ten-week run. This marked the beginning of the 5th Ave Theatre’s legacy as a premier venue for large musicals. Since then, the theater has continued to host a variety of performances and has solidified its place as a beloved venue in the community.

Pro tip: The venue offers free tours every Monday at noon. Be sure to call in advance to confirm tour availability and plan your visit. Don’t miss this opportunity to explore the history and beauty of one of Seattle’s premier theaters.
Location: 1308 5th Ave
Nearest hotels: Motif Seattle, Fairmont Olympic Hotel

Benaroya Hall

Benaroya Hall is a state-of-the-art venue in downtown Seattle that serves as the home of the Seattle Symphony. The hall, which opened in September 1998, consists of two auditoriums: the S. Mark Taper Foundation Auditorium, a 2,500-seat performance space, and the Illsley Ball Nordstrom Recital Hall, which seats 536. Benaroya Hall is renowned for its cutting-edge acoustics, designed by Cyril Harris, and its lobby features artwork by award-winning artists such as Dale Chihuly. Don’t miss the opportunity to experience world-class music in this beautiful and technologically advanced venue.

Location: 200 University St
Nearest hotels: Green Tortoise Hostel, Kimpton Hotel Monaco

The Triple Door

The Triple Door is a live music venue and restaurant offering world-class entertainment and a menu featuring locally-inspired Pacific Northwest cuisine. The venue has three intimate performance spaces: the Main Stage, the musicquarium, and the underworld. The Main Stage features touring national acts, while the MQ Stage & Lounge is a popular destination for happy hour and local music. The Triple Door is a must-visit for anyone looking for an exceptional night of live entertainment and dining.

Location: 216 Union St
Nearest hotels: Green Tortoise Hostel, Kimpton Hotel Monaco