KEXP Gathering Space

What to know

The KEXP Gathering Space serves as a public communal hub located at the northwest corner of Seattle Center, specifically at the intersection of Republican Street and 1st Avenue North. Opened in December 2015, this facility marked a significant expansion for the nonprofit arts organization, moving from its previous Dexter Avenue location to a building four times larger than the old studio. Designed to be an inclusive environment, the facility includes a public performance stage, a courtyard, and an indoor viewing gallery. The site is meticulously equipped to support the music community, even providing dedicated shower and laundry facilities for visiting musicians. Visitors can engage with the city's sonic culture by listening to live radio broadcasts or attending special events like KEXP Pride Live. Inside the Gathering Space, guests can enjoy a cup of coffee from Caffe Vita or browse music at the Sub Pop record pop-up. The space also functions as a gallery, presenting ongoing art exhibits to the public. For those seeking a deeper look behind the scenes, the organization offers studio tours most Tuesdays and Saturdays at 2:00 PM. Located at 472 1st Ave N, the facility ensures accessibility for all guests, with the main entrance situated on 1st Avenue North between Harrison and Republican. Whether you are stopping in for a quick caffeine fix or a deep dive into independent music, the space remains a central pillar of Seattle's artistic landscape.

Visitor tips

• Visit on Tuesdays or Saturdays at 2:00 PM if you want to join a studio tour.
• Check the Sub Pop pop-up store hours, which are daily from 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM.
• Arrive early on weekdays; the Gathering Space opens as early as 7:00 AM for coffee and music.

Nearby context

Situated at the northwest edge of the Seattle Center campus, the KEXP Gathering Space acts as a gateway between the city's urban grid and the cultural attractions of the center, positioned near the intersection of 1st Avenue North and Republican Street.