Catch a Show at Seattle’s Historic Theatres

The five members of Seattle’s Historic Theatre District. Clockwise, from top left: The 5th Avenue Theatre, the Paramount, The Moore, Town Hall and ACT.

Seattle is often in the national news these days in the context of a story about technology expansion, a building boom, our high cost of housing, or other current-day concerns. And all that is certainly real, and part of our culture of growth, innovation and change. Also important are our efforts to protect and preserve significant pieces of our history. Three of the best known historic attractions in Seattle are our beloved Pike Place Market, the fascinating Pioneer Square neighborhood, and our iconic Space Needle. But we’re also fortunate to have no less than five beautiful, historic, fully operational theaters within a 1.3 mile radius in the heart of the city center—clustered right around the Washington State Convention Center.

These five venues – The Moore, The Paramount, The 5^th Avenue Theatre, ACT and Town Hall – were recently designated as a Historic Theatre District. With more than 1000 performances a year, including locally produced theater, Broadway touring shows, music, lectures, films, dance and more, you are certain to find something that interests you.

All five venues were constructed between 1907 and 1928, and have distinct styles and engaging histories to discover too. Most offer free guided tours to dive a little deeper into their colorful pasts. Learn more at seattlehistorictheatres.com.

About the Author

Tracey Wickersham

Tracey Wickersham is the Senior Director of Cultural Tourism at Visit Seattle. A volunteer dj & host of a long running music program on KBCS 91.3 FM, she spent 6 years on the board of 4Culture, supporting arts, heritage, public art and historic preservation in King County. You'll often find her at the Tractor Tavern enjoying great bands, exploring one of the region's beautiful parks with her spunky blue heeler mix, or in one of Seattle's many live theater venues.

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