The Showbox

Opened in 1939 in downtown Seattle, the Showbox is a music venue that has accumulated over eight decades of musical history without losing its identity.

The Art Deco architecture makes an impression before you even step inside: the geometric lines, vertical ornamentation, and facade speak directly to the era in which the Showbox was conceived. Inside, that same design language carries throughout the space, creating an atmosphere few contemporary venues can replicate — blending past and present in a way that feels effortless.

Over the decades, the Showbox has hosted Pearl Jam, Soundgarden, Foo Fighters, Prince, Melvins, Blind Guardian, Cannibal Corpse, The Damned, Fear Factory, Kreator, Hatebreed, Thrice, Botch, The Linda Lindas, and Bombay Bicycle Club, among many others. That list alone says a great deal about this stage: a place that is open to every corner of rock.

The layout inside also encourages direct contact with the music. Most shows take place in a standing-room floor. There are a few seats available in the bar area, claimed by whoever arrives first.

Kerns Music Shop

In 2014, the Showbox lounge was renamed Kerns Music Shop — a name that revives the identity of a former gathering spot for musicians in the area. The original store supported local bands for years, and this nod to its legacy is more than symbolic: it is the venue’s way of acknowledging where it came from.

The bar typically opens around an hour before shows and is restricted to guests aged 21 and over.

Pearl Jam at the Showbox

For Pearl Jam fans, the Showbox holds a special significance — the band has chosen this stage for hometown shows on more than one occasion. But one night stood apart from the rest. On December 6, 2002, during the Riot Act tour, the band recorded a DVD here titled Live at the Showbox, made available exclusively through the official fan club.

Today, individual song videos from that recording can be watched on Pearl Jam’s official YouTube channel.

Practical Information about The Showbox

The Showbox does not have its own parking lot, but options are available nearby, including paid parking garages and occasional street parking.

All entrances are accessible for guests with disabilities. Accessible seating is located on the right side of the venue; for accessible restrooms, staff members are available to assist with directions.

Payments are accepted by card or digital method only — cash is not accepted, which is standard practice at a large number of venues across the United States.

Local law sets the drinking age at 21, and some shows may apply that same age requirement for entry. It is worth checking before purchasing tickets.

The following items are not permitted inside the venue: outside food or drinks, bottles of any kind (including reusable water bottles), bags or backpacks larger than 16″ x 8″ (40 cm x 20 cm), permanent markers, chains, spiked accessories, pocket knives, items that could be used as weapons, prescription medications or eye drops outside of their original labeled packaging, and professional cameras.

Hotels near The Showbox Seattle

Staying close to the venue is always a great opportunity to walk to and from the event, and enjoy the exciting atmosphere as musicians and fans gather throughout the day.