Gyde
Open prototypeProto
Back to all Seattle places

Seattle, Washington / Museums

Georgetown Steam Plant

A monumental reinforced concrete power plant from 1906, this National Historic Landmark serves as a testament to Seattle's early industrial electrification and the power of the Duwamish Valley.

Open prototype Official site Get directions
Georgetown Steam Plant
www.georgetownsteamplant.org, website_hero_img_www.georgetownsteamplant.org

What is the Georgetown Steam Plant known for?

The Georgetown Steam Plant is a National Historic Landmark, a National Mechanical Engineering Landmark, and a City of Seattle Landmark. It serves as a reminder of the era of electrification in Seattle's early industrial era, having been built in 1906-1907 to provide power for the city and its streetcars.

When is it open to the public?

The plant is open to the public on the second Saturday of every month from 10:00 AM to 2:00 PM.

Are there guided tours available?

Yes, free guided tours are offered during the monthly open houses at 10:30 AM, 11:30 AM, and 12:30 PM.

How much does it cost to visit?

Admission to open houses and tours is free, although donations are encouraged.

Do I need a reservation to visit?

No reservations are required for general visits. However, groups of 15 or more or those seeking a private tour should call (206) 763-2542.

What should I check before going?

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

What to know

The Georgetown Steam Plant is a massive reinforced concrete frame building located in south Seattle's Georgetown district. Built by the Seattle Electric Company between 1906 and 1907 on 18 acres along the Duwamish River, the facility was designed to provide power for the city's streetcars and residential and industrial needs of the neighborhood. It stands as a reminder of the era of electrification when inexpensive hydroelectric power and an electric trolley car system first attracted industry to the city. Today, the site is designated as a National Historic Landmark, a National Mechanical Engineering Landmark, and a City of Seattle Landmark. Inside the building, visitors can find three steam turbine generators, including two original vertical Curtis turbines that demonstrate the efficiency of large-scale steam power generation. The plant's mission now focuses on SHTEAM programming—Science, History, Technology, Engineering, Art, and Math—to inspire the community to envision a future where everyone belongs. Managed through a preservation partnership with Seattle City Light, the plant has been activated as a museum and community site. Since 2014, it has opened to the general public once a month. It is presented as a local treasure grounded in the stories, memory, and identity of the Duwamish Valley, inviting visitors to explore its past, present, and future together.

Visitor tips

  • Plan your visit for the second Saturday of every month between 10:00 AM and 2:00 PM.
  • Join a free guided tour at 10:30 AM, 11:30 AM, or 12:30 PM during open houses.
  • Note that there are no indoor restrooms; an ADA-accessible portable restroom is provided on the grounds.
  • Free parking is available on site for those arriving by car.

Nearby context

Located at 6605 13th Ave. South, the plant is adjacent to Boeing Field/King County International Airport and sits within the industrial heart of the Georgetown neighborhood, reflecting the area's deep ties to the Duwamish River.

Sources

Evidence and links