Gyde
Open prototypeProto
Back to all Seattle places

Seattle, Washington / Theaters and music

The Crocodile

An iconic Belltown music institution known as the "CBGB of grunge," this multi-venue complex has hosted legends from Nirvana and Pearl Jam to Billie Eilish for over 30 years.

Open prototype Official site Get directions
The Crocodile
www.thecrocodile.com, og_image_www.thecrocodile.com

What is The Crocodile known for?

The Crocodile is an esteemed Seattle concert mainstay that has been active for over 30 years. It is an iconic venue associated with the grunge era, once described as the "CBGB of grunge," and has hosted notable acts such as Nirvana, Pearl Jam, R.E.M., Lizzo, and Billie Eilish.

What are the hours for the box office?

The box office is open for advance ticket sales Tuesday through Friday from 12:00 pm to 5:00 pm. On the evening of a show, the box office opens 30 minutes before the scheduled event door times.

How can I buy tickets and how much are the fees?

Advance tickets can be purchased on the official website or in person during daytime box office hours. Tickets purchased in-person at the box office are subject to a $2 per ticket fee.

What kind of events are hosted there?

The Crocodile complex features three venues that host a variety of performances and events, including music, comedy, cinema, podcasts, and private events.

Where is it located?

The Crocodile is located at 2505 First Ave, Seattle, WA 98121, in the Belltown neighborhood.

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 Crocodile, often called "The Croc," stands as a cornerstone of Seattle's cultural identity. Originally opened on April 30, 1991, as the Crocodile Cafe by Stephanie Dorgan and Jerry Everard, the venue quickly became the heartbeat of the city's grunge era. It gained a reputation as the "CBGB of grunge," serving as a vital stage for legendary acts such as Nirvana, Pearl Jam, and Mudhoney. In November 2020, the venue transitioned from its original location at 2200 2nd Avenue to a larger complex at 2505 First Avenue. This new site, formerly the Sailors’ Union of the Pacific lodge, spans three stories and houses three distinct performance spaces. These include a state-of-the-art showroom with a 750-person capacity, a mid-sized venue for 300 guests, and an intimate sit-down theater that accommodates 96 people. One of these spaces, Madame Lou’s, is a 300-capacity venue dedicated to Seattle's gritty DIY spirit. It hosts a diverse schedule ranging from all-ages punk shows to dance nights, ensuring the venue remains an indicator of the city's evolving musical and artistic interests. While it has evolved into a modern complex, it continues to host global stars like Lizzo and Billie Eilish. Beyond music, the complex is a multidisciplinary hub. The three venues are equipped to host comedy, cinema, podcasts, and private events. This versatility allows The Crocodile to remain a mainstay of the Belltown neighborhood, reflecting the political and artistic shifts of Seattle for over three decades.

Visitor tips

  • Visit the box office Tuesday through Friday, 12:00 pm to 5:00 pm, for advance ticket sales.
  • Note that in-person ticket purchases at the box office incur a $2 per ticket fee.
  • If attending a show at Madame Lou's, look for the entrance around the corner from the box office on Wall Street.
  • Check the official website for showtimes, as the evening box office only opens 30 minutes before doors.

Nearby context

Located at the intersection of First Avenue and Wall Street, The Crocodile is a central fixture of the Belltown neighborhood. The area is known for its blend of artistic energy and urban grit, making the venue a perfect anchor for a walk through Seattle's music history.

Sources

Evidence and links