What is KEXP at Seattle Center known for?

KEXP is a non-commercial, nonprofit radio station specializing in indie and eclectic music programming. Its Seattle Center location houses audio and video broadcast studios, the KEXP Live Room, a Viewing Gallery, and a public Gathering Space for music lovers.

What are the hours for the Gathering Space?

The Gathering Space is open Monday through Friday from 7:00 AM to 6:00 PM, and Saturday through Sunday from 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM.

Yes, the public Gathering Space is free to use and offers free Wi-Fi and seating. KEXP also hosts many free live performances and a signature free summer concert series at Seattle Center.

What can I do while visiting?

Visitors can get coffee from Caffe Vita, shop for music at Sub Pop Records, listen to live radio broadcasts, and view ongoing art exhibits in the Gathering Space.

What should I check before going?

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

KEXP at Seattle Center in Seattle

Q: Can I take a tour of the studios?

Yes, KEXP offers studio tours most Tuesdays and Saturdays at 2:00 PM.

KEXP at Seattle Center

Visit the home of KEXP, a non-commercial indie radio station. Explore the public Gathering Space, grab a Caffe Vita coffee, and experience the heart of Seattle's eclectic music scene.

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What to know

KEXP is a non-commercial radio station specializing in indie music and operated by Friends of KEXP, a nonprofit affiliate of the University of Washington. Located at 472 1st Ave N, the facility serves as a hub for music lovers, housing audio and video broadcast studios, the KEXP Live Room, and a Viewing Gallery. The public heart of the facility is the Gathering Space. This welcoming community hub provides free Wi-Fi, comfortable seating, and natural light, with KEXP's own music serving as the central soundtrack. Visitors can relax here, browse music at Sub Pop Records, or view ongoing art exhibits. For those seeking a caffeine boost, Caffe Vita operates a café and showroom inside the building. While the main studios and offices are generally off-limits to the public, the station offers studio tours most Tuesdays and Saturdays at 2:00 PM, providing a rare glimpse into their broadcast operations. Beyond its daily operations, KEXP is a vibrant arts organization that hosts hundreds of events and live performances annually. This includes a signature free summer concert series held at Seattle Center, cementing its role as a cornerstone of the city's cultural landscape.

Visitor tips

Visit the Gathering Space between 7:00 AM and 6:00 PM on weekdays, or 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM on weekends.
If you want a studio tour, aim for Tuesdays or Saturdays at 2:00 PM.
Enter via the main entrance on 1st Avenue North between Harrison and Republican for full accessibility.
Check for a local brew at the Caffe Vita showroom located inside the facility.

Nearby context

KEXP sits at the northwest corner of the Seattle Center campus. It is positioned just north of Climate Pledge Arena and is within a short walking distance of iconic landmarks including the Space Needle, MoPOP, and Chihuly Garden and Glass.