Photo by Christopher Nelson, courtesy of Neptune Theatre
Seattle has more music venues than it’s possible to list in one go, and while that presents a logistical problem for this article, it also means we’re collectively spoiled for choice. As the unofficial capital of grunge in the 1990s, the home of Sub Pop, and the preferred location of choice for a young Brandi Carlile, this city has seen more than a few musical acts rise to extreme levels of fame. That said, it’s also one of the best places to catch a Thursday night indie rock show with friends and bandmates in tow. Ahead, Seattle’s best music venues for big names, modest newcomers, and every act in between.
Ballard
Arguably Seattle’s best bar-slash-slash dive, Sunset Tavern is the kind of place where you can catch indie bands all the way from the east coast (Gustaf, Delicate Steve), plus a ton of local PNW acts (Tomatron, Sunbathe), most of which will set you back just $12. In terms of decor, this former Chinese restaurant turned music venue is as charming and stylish as you’d expect.
Where to eat and drink nearby: Hattie’s Hat, WeRo, Parish NW
Belltown
Crocodile has undergone quite a few changes in recent years, most notably moving locations from their previous location (also in Belltown) to the old El Gaucho building, where they now have several stages, a sit-down comedy club, AND a 17-room hotel (apparently the likes of Bikini Kill and Radiohead played upstairs at the Sailors Union of the Pacific Hall). Most importantly, though, this is still home to some of the best indie shows in town, so don’t let a new location scare you off.
Where to eat and drink nearby: Umi Sake House, Al Basha, Taqueria Cantina
In the city center
Housed in a nearly 100-year-old theater that was originally christened the Seattle Theater in 1928, the Paramount is opulent enough for the Roaring Twenties and still shines with intricately gilded ceilings, numerous chandeliers and an old-school stage. full. with velvet curtains. You can catch some pretty big name acts here, but expect to pay accordingly for the glitz – and the sound.
Where to eat and drink nearby: The Carlile Room, Taylor Shellfish Oyster Bar, Kizuki Ramen & Izakaya
It was surrounded
Established in 1921 as a movie theater (true locals may remember the 14-year-old play strip Rocky Horror Movie Screening once a week in the ’90s), the Neptune is probably the best place to catch an indie band playing a show in the U District. It’s also host to the Seattle International Film Festival, among other arts events and cultural.
Where to eat and drink nearby: Mountaineering Club, U:Don, Finn MacCool’s Irish Public House
Ballard
Just down the street from Sunset Tavern on Ballard Ave, Tractor Tavern caters to the indie-twang aesthetic we’re hearing more and more of these days from bands like Cut Worms and Half Stack, with cowboy boots hanging from the ceiling and an all-western vibe. around. Local bands dominate here, and like Sunset, the shows are extremely affordable and fun.
Where to eat and drink nearby: Barnacle, Percy’s & Co., Ballard Pizza Company
In the city center
Completing Seattle Theater Group’s trifecta of non-profit venues, Moore Theater is located steps from Pike Place Market, AKA, steps from one of the most vibrant parts of downtown Seattle. Inside, this historic 1907 building is less decadent than the Paramount, but just as historic and just as fun to watch a show while sitting in an old-school movie palace seat.
Where to eat and drink nearby: Aburiya Bento House, Cloudburst Brewing, Jupiter Bar
Capitol Hill
Located off Pike Street in the basement of sister venue Neumos, Barboza is the kind of small club perfect for bands that can’t fill a bigger space—like, say, Neumos—yet. So it’s perfect for a spontaneous night of good music, and if you’re eager to bust some moves, the $3 and Free dance parties are some of the easiest (and cheapest) ways to spend a good time at Cap Hill these days.
Where to eat and drink nearby: Oddfellows, Via Tribunali, Havana
Capitol Hill
Neumos might seem like a strangely random name, but that’s only until you learn the history of the venue, which, in short, includes Moe’s M’Roc’N Café and a 2003 reopening at New Moe’s (e understand?). Nowadays, this place hosts all the good indie bands you know and love in a prime Capitol Hill location that’s just steps away from some of our favorite bars and restaurants.
Where to eat and drink nearby: Boat Bar, Pony, Linda Tavern
Capitol Hill
Although some might argue that Cafe Racer hasn’t been quite the same since moving locations from the U District to Capitol Hill, this new era for a beloved Seattle mainstay is shaping up to be just as cool as the last . Come here for a night of open mic, comedy, karaoke, indie rock from locals like Megadose and No Cover, Sunday Jazz, or just a really good drink.
Where to eat and drink nearby: Comet Tavern, Cowboys in Karachi, Light Sleeper
It was surrounded
Jazz and funk are easiest to find in the U District at Sea Monster Lounge, a small venue on the main drag of N 45th Street that has free live music on Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Thursdays. Then it can get quite crowded, but usually in a fun, non-claustrophobic way.
Where to eat and drink nearby: Octopus Bar, TNT Taqueria, Dick’s
In the city center
This historic jazz club, family owned and operated since 1979, is one of those bucket list spots that has played a defining role in Seattle’s music scene. Often playing host to some of the most iconic jazz acts of our time, Jazz Alley specializes in legends and newcomers alike.
Where to eat and drink nearby: Wilmott’s Ghost, Mamnoon Street, Deep Dive
In the city center
The Showbox has been a mainstay of Seattle’s music scene since it opened in 1939 (hosting bands like Duke Ellington, the Ramones and Soundgarden), so much so that STG actually offered to buy it, in partnership with Historic Seattle, in 2019. it remains to be seen if the deal will go through, but regardless, there’s plenty of good music to be had here in the meantime.
Where to eat and drink nearby: Old Brewing Stove, Maximilien, Alibi Room
In the city center
A former vaudeville house turned movie theater turned music venue, The Triple Door is another cornerstone of Seattle’s historic music scene, located in the heart of downtown, right across from Benaroya Hall on Union Street. Nicer than some of its counterparts, you can expect to have a sit-down, dinner and show night here.
Where to eat and drink nearby: Ben Paris, Seattle Beer Co., Purple Café and Wine Bar
Fremont
The Substation is the truly no-nonsense watering hole for locals who love local music. A fairly small stage and dance floor make for an always intimate performance, and the neighboring combination of Bad Jimmy’s and Big Mario’s makes for the perfect weekday (or weekend) night.
Where to eat and drink nearby: Bad Jimmy’s Brewing Co, 4Bs, Big Mario’s Pizza
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