Moore Theatre Seattle: Visiting Hours, Tickets, and Historical Guide
Date: 04/07/2025
Introduction
Located in the heart of downtown Seattle, the Moore Theatre is the city’s oldest continuously operating theater and a vibrant symbol of its cultural and architectural heritage. Since opening its doors in 1907, this landmark has played a pivotal role in Seattle’s performing arts scene, hosting everything from vaudeville and opera to grunge concerts and Broadway shows. This comprehensive guide explores the Moore Theatre’s history, architectural significance, notable events, and provides practical information on visiting hours, ticketing, accessibility, and nearby attractions (Cinema Treasures; Seattle & Sound).
Contents
- Origins and Early Development
- Architectural Significance
- Evolution of Use and Ownership
- Notable Events and Performances
- Visiting the Moore Theatre: Hours, Tickets & Accessibility
- Visiting Hours
- Tickets
- Accessibility
- Travel Tips & Nearby Attractions
- Special Tours & Photo Opportunities
- Role in Seattle’s Cultural Landscape
- Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
- Plan Your Visit and Stay Connected
Origins and Early Development
The Moore Theatre opened at 1932 2nd Avenue on December 28, 1907, commissioned by James A. Moore and designed by Edwin W. Houghton (Cinema Treasures). Conceived as the anchor for the blossoming Belltown neighborhood, the Moore quickly became a central figure in Seattle’s “Theatre Row,” attracting theatergoers with its modern amenities and adjacent Moore Hotel, which catered to visiting performers and guests.
From its inception, the Moore set a new standard for entertainment venues in the Pacific Northwest, hosting vaudeville, opera, and stage plays, and helping establish Second Avenue as Seattle’s premier entertainment corridor.
Architectural Significance
Edwin W. Houghton’s Spanish Gothic design gives the Moore Theatre its signature grandeur, with intricate plasterwork, stained glass, and mosaic floors. The auditorium’s color palette—ivory, rose, olive, and gold—creates an atmosphere of opulence, enhanced by decorative muses and detailed moldings (Moore Theatre Events).
A standout feature is the steel girder spanning the auditorium, enabling unobstructed sightlines—an innovative design for its era. The theater originally seated over 2,200 guests, making it one of the region’s largest venues at the time. Its heavy plaster construction ensures excellent acoustics, while the original hemp line system for scenery remains operational—a rarity among U.S. theaters (Cinema Treasures).
Evolution of Use and Ownership
In 1917, the Moore joined the Orpheum Circuit, hosting vaudeville and later transitioning to cinema as the Moore Egyptian Theatre in the 1970s, before returning to live performances (Cinema Treasures). It was added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1974, and today is managed by Seattle Theatre Group (STG), which also oversees the Paramount and Neptune Theatres (STG Presents).
Notable Events and Performances
The Moore Theatre has been a stage for world-renowned artists and pivotal cultural moments. From Artur Rubinstein’s celebrated 1946 piano concert to performances by Kraftwerk, touring Broadway productions, and icons of Seattle’s grunge era such as Soundgarden and Pearl Jam, the venue’s programming underscores its versatility and relevance (Moore Theatre Events; Travel2Concert).
It has also served as the original home of the Seattle Symphony and the Seattle International Film Festival, nurturing local talent and bringing global culture to the city (HistoryLink).
Visiting the Moore Theatre: Hours, Tickets & Accessibility
Visiting Hours
The Moore Theatre opens its doors approximately one hour before scheduled performances. Box office hours are generally Monday–Friday, 10 AM–6 PM, and extended during event days. For guided tours and special events, refer to the Moore Theatre Official Website for current schedules.
Tickets
Tickets can be purchased online through the official Moore Theatre calendar, at the box office, or via authorized vendors. Pricing varies by event and seating selection; early booking is advised, particularly for popular shows.
Accessibility
Moore Theatre is dedicated to providing an inclusive experience, offering:
- Wheelchair-accessible seating and restrooms
- Assistive listening devices
- Closed captioning for select performances
For specific accommodations, contact the box office in advance at 1-206-467-5510 (STG Presents).
Travel Tips & Nearby Attractions
The Moore Theatre is centrally located and easily accessible via public transit, including Seattle Metro buses and the Link Light Rail. Several parking garages are nearby, though spaces fill quickly during events—consider ride-sharing or public transportation.
Nearby, explore Pike Place Market, the historic Moore Hotel, and Belltown’s vibrant dining and nightlife scene (Visit Seattle).
Special Tours & Photographic Opportunities
The theater occasionally offers guided tours focusing on its history and architecture, with highlights including the ornate Spanish Gothic details and original stage equipment. These tours are ideal for photography enthusiasts; check the STG Presents site for upcoming opportunities.
Role in Seattle’s Cultural Landscape
The Moore Theatre is more than a performance venue—it is a living testament to Seattle’s artistic evolution. Over the decades, it has hosted everything from classic operas and vaudeville to contemporary rock, comedy, and community events. The venue’s history also reflects broader social change, having once enforced segregated seating and now serving as a hub for diverse cultural programming, including Indigenous, LGBTQ+, and multicultural showcases (Wikipedia; STG Presents).
Educational initiatives such as “More Music @ The Moore” nurture emerging talent, while community programs and rallies underscore the Moore’s ongoing commitment to inclusivity and civic engagement (STG Presents).
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: What are the Moore Theatre’s visiting hours?
A: Typically, doors open 60–90 minutes before showtime. Box office hours are Monday–Friday, 10 AM–6 PM, and during events. Confirm schedules on the official website.
Q: How can I buy Moore Theatre tickets?
A: Purchase online via the official Moore Theatre calendar, at the box office, or through authorized vendors.
Q: Is the Moore Theatre accessible?
A: Yes. The venue provides accessible seating, restrooms, and assistive listening devices. Contact ahead for special arrangements.
Q: Are there guided tours?
A: Guided tours are offered occasionally; check the STG Presents site or contact the box office for details.
Q: Are there age restrictions for events?
A: Most events are all-ages, but some may have restrictions. Refer to event listings for specifics.
Q: What are parking options?
A: Several nearby garages are available, but public transit and ride-share are recommended, especially during peak times.
Plan Your Visit and Stay Connected
Stay up to date by visiting the Moore Theatre Official Website and follow the Seattle Theatre Group on social media for news and event updates. Download the Audiala app for personalized event recommendations, seamless ticketing, and real-time alerts.
Image Suggestions:
- Exterior shot with Moore Theatre signage (alt: “Historic Moore Theatre facade in downtown Seattle”)
- Interior view highlighting Spanish Gothic details (alt: “Ornate Moore Theatre auditorium”)
- Archival photo of opening night or a notable performance (alt: “Historic Moore Theatre event”)
- Map showing Moore Theatre and nearby attractions (alt: “Map of Moore Theatre location in Seattle”)
Interactive Features:
- Embed a virtual tour (if available)
- Clickable map for directions and transit
Conclusion
The Moore Theatre is a cornerstone of Seattle’s cultural and historical landscape, bridging the past and present through outstanding performances and inclusive community programming. Its blend of architectural beauty, storied history, and ongoing artistic vitality makes it a must-visit destination for locals and tourists alike. Plan your visit, secure your tickets, and experience the artistic heartbeat of Seattle at the Moore Theatre.
