What is 12th Avenue Arts known for?

It is an arts, theater, and entertainment destination in Seattle that combines two performing arts venues, 88 affordable apartments, community meeting space, and local retail and restaurants under one roof.

Where is 12th Avenue Arts located?

The venue is located in Seattle, Washington, with addresses listed as 1620 12th Ave and 1660 12th Avenue (98122).

What are the hours for performances?

Black Box Operations lists performances at 7:30pm on Monday, Thursday, Friday, and Saturday, and at 4:00pm on Sunday.

How do I get there using public transit?

King County Transit routes 11 and 84 stop at E Pine St. and 12th Ave near the venue, and route 12 stops at 13th Ave. and E Pike St.

What else is inside the building besides theaters?

The building includes 88 affordable workforce housing units, retail stores, restaurants, community meeting space, and the main offices of Community Roots Housing on the second floor. It also features a secure underground parking facility for East Precinct police officers.

What should I check before going?

Use Gyde for context, then check official sources for current hours, tickets, construction, and closures.

12th Avenue Arts in Seattle

What to know

12th Avenue Arts is a unique destination in Seattle that blends residential living with vibrant cultural production. The building features 88 affordable workforce housing apartments, community meeting spaces, and local retail stores, all integrated into a single structure. Its innovative design includes a main entry set back from the sidewalk to create an inviting outdoor plaza for visitors. At its core, the venue serves as a performing arts center housing two theaters. Since 2014, Black Box Operations has served as the master lease tenant, facilitating a wide array of quality art experiences including film screenings, workshops, and theatrical performances. The space hosts several partner organizations, such as the Strawberry Theatre Workshop, Velocity Dance Center, and Washington Ensemble Theatre. The development is the result of a 14-year partnership involving Community Roots Housing, three Capitol Hill theater groups, and the Seattle Police Department. This collaboration even includes a secure underground parking facility specifically for officers of the East Precinct. The second floor commercial space further supports the community by housing the main offices of Community Roots Housing. Recognized for its excellence in urban development, the project won the ULI 2015 Global Awards for Excellence. It stands as a modern anchor within Capitol Hill's deep history of fringe arts, where dance companies, galleries, and studios have long flourished.

Visitor tips

Check the schedules for partner companies like Pork Filled Productions or The 14/48 Projects before visiting.
If using public transit, take King County Transit routes 11 or 84 to the E Pine St. and 12th Ave stop.
Spend a few minutes in the outdoor plaza to appreciate the architectural setback from the sidewalk.

Nearby context

Located in the heart of Capitol Hill, 12th Avenue Arts is situated in a neighborhood historically known for attracting fringe arts spaces, studios, and galleries. It is easily accessible via transit routes running along E Pine St. and E Pike St.