Georgetown Steam Plant - Factory
1 / 10

Georgetown Steam Plant

4.7
·122 reviews·Seattle, United States

Historic 1906 power plant, now a vibrant venue for tours, art exhibits, and unique performances.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Second Saturday of the month

Free guided tours available

CrowdMedium
Loading map...
Georgetown Steam Plant - Factory

Georgetown Steam Plant

Best Time

Second Saturday of the month

Free guided tours available

CrowdMedium
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Historic 1906 power plant, now a vibrant venue for tours, art exhibits, and unique performances.

4.7
(122 reviews)

"A beautiful historical steam plant offering free tours and hosting diverse, engaging events."

Vertical photo
TIP

🎯 Check Website for Tours

Tours are often limited to one Saturday a month. Always verify the schedule online before visiting!

📸 Great Photo Opportunities

The historic architecture and art installations make it a cool spot for photography.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Historic Turbine Hall

Historic Turbine Hall

Main Hall

Marvel at the monumental concrete structure and original General Electric turbine units that powered Seattle's growth.

Instagram
Ornate South Facade

Ornate South Facade

Exterior

Admire the more decorative south-facing facade, a testament to early 20th-century architectural style.

Reddit
Kinetic Sculpture Garden

Kinetic Sculpture Garden

Outdoor Area

Discover an interesting kinetic sculpture and an herb garden, adding a modern artistic touch to the historic site.

Reddit
Your AI travel agent

Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you

Start Chatting

Planning Your Visit

Check the Schedule First

The Georgetown Steam Plant isn't always open for general visits. It primarily hosts special events and art exhibits. Always check their official website for tour dates and event schedules before planning your trip to avoid disappointment. Reddit

Embrace the History & Art

This historic power plant offers a unique blend of industrial heritage and contemporary art. Come ready to explore its fascinating past and enjoy diverse exhibitions and performances. Instagram+1

Best Times

When
Second Saturday of the month
Why
Free guided tours available
Crowd
Medium
When
During special events
Why
Unique performances & exhibits
Crowd
High

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

GPA matters less than you think for law school #lawschool #lawschooladmissions #LSAT #lawschooltips #lsatprep #georgetown #georgetownuniversity
@supersplitter
72.5K likes • 507.2K views

🎯 Check Website for Tours

Tours are often limited to one Saturday a month. Always verify the schedule online before visiting! Reddit

📸 Great Photo Opportunities

The historic architecture and art installations make it a cool spot for photography. Reddit

Opened in 1906, the Georgetown Steam Plant once powered Seattle’s electric streetcars and early industrial growth. At the time, it was a cutting-edge facility and one of the first in the U.S. to use steam turbines for electricity generation. Its monumental concrete structure and General Electric turbine units marked a turning point in engineering history. Though decommissioned in the 1970s, the ...
jay_casteel
30 likes • 486 views
The abandoned Georgetown Steam Plant is a hotspot for supernatural, energetic anamolies where the Ghosts of Nebula: The Missing Six are believed to be present! [invited] 🌌 👻 Will you be in one of the next groups of people to help open the portal to uncover this mysterious 103 years old tragedy? This immersive theatrical experience runs til November 2nd, so get your tickets now! 🎟 Head to @nebul...
gsquadohana
0 likes • 944 views

🎶 Attend a Live Event

Experience immersive theatrical performances, concerts, and art shows. Instagram+2

🤝 Friendly Volunteers

Staff and volunteers are knowledgeable and happy to share insights about the plant's history. Reddit

2025 A Circus of Steam & Shadows . Welcome to the Georgetown Steam Plant! The brainchild of Stone and Webster in 1906, it's now the site of a circus show for all ages. Witness circus spectacles by a local troupe directed by Oroki Productions along with shadow puppetry and live animation by queer visual arts duo, Shadow Girls Cult. Made possible by collaboration with the Georgetown Steam Plant CDA...
orokiproductions
99 likes • 2.6K views

Tips

from all over the internet

🎯 Check Website for Tours

Tours are often limited to one Saturday a month. Always verify the schedule online before visiting! Reddit

📸 Great Photo Opportunities

The historic architecture and art installations make it a cool spot for photography. Reddit

🎶 Attend a Live Event

Experience immersive theatrical performances, concerts, and art shows. Instagram+2

🤝 Friendly Volunteers

Staff and volunteers are knowledgeable and happy to share insights about the plant's history. Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.7
(122 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors praise the Georgetown Steam Plant as a beautiful historical venue with knowledgeable and friendly volunteers offering free tours. It's also lauded as a cool spot for photography and a unique space for art exhibits and diverse events, though access is limited to specific dates.

"Very beautiful historical steam plant. They offer free tours, host art exhibits and other events. The staff and volunteers were very friendly and knowledgeable. Cool spot to take photos."

Sam Stones

"Cool Art show at the Georgetown Steam Plant. Looking forward to seeing the other events they are going to have here this year. Also checked out the metal flying bird in the back and the herb garden. A lot going on here these days."

Chris Evergreen

"Free tour guided by volunteers. It’s currently open to visits one Saturday a month, so I recommend checking the website before planning your visit. Very interesting tour, with a mix of history, architecture and engineering."

Leticia Collado

What People Like

Historical significance
Knowledgeable volunteers
Unique event venue

What People Dislike

Limited access/hours

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The Georgetown Steam Plant is located in Seattle. While specific public transport details can vary, it's generally accessible by car. Parking availability might depend on event schedules. Checking local transit apps or ride-sharing services is recommended closer to your visit date. TikTok

Parking availability can be event-dependent. For general visits or tours, it's best to check the official website or contact them directly. For special events, parking might be more structured or limited. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Yes, the Georgetown Steam Plant often offers free guided tours, typically on the second Saturday of each month. It's crucial to check their website for the most up-to-date tour schedule. Reddit

General admission for tours is often free, thanks to knowledgeable volunteers. However, special events, art exhibits, or performances may have separate ticket prices. Always check the event details for pricing. Reddit

The Steam Plant's hours are primarily dictated by its event schedule. It's not typically open for drop-in visits. Refer to their official website for specific dates and times for tours or events. Reddit

For many special events, especially popular ones like the Crowdsource Choir or theatrical performances, booking tickets in advance is highly recommended due to limited space. Check the event listing for booking information. Instagram+1

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

You can take guided tours focusing on history, architecture, and engineering, explore art exhibits, and attend unique live performances like circus shows or immersive theater. There's also an outdoor kinetic sculpture and herb garden. InstagramReddit+1

Absolutely! The historic industrial architecture, unique art installations, and the overall atmosphere make it a fantastic location for photographers. Reddit

Yes, knowledgeable volunteers often lead guided tours that delve into the plant's history, engineering marvels, and architectural significance. These are usually held on specific days, so check the schedule. Reddit

Events range from art exhibitions and live music to immersive theatrical experiences, circus shows, and community singing events like the Crowdsource Choir. Instagram+3

Some visitors and event organizers suggest the Georgetown Steam Plant has a supernatural or energetic ambiance, with some events leaning into its 'haunted' history. Instagram+1

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

Food options are typically available during special events, often from food trucks or vendors. For general tours, it's advisable to dine before or after your visit. Check event details for specific food offerings. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

The historic turbine hall, the ornate south facade, and any current art installations offer excellent photographic opportunities. The outdoor areas with sculptures are also great. Reddit+1

Yes, photography is generally permitted, especially during tours and for personal use. However, for commercial photography or specific event documentation, it's always best to inquire beforehand. Reddit

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

The Georgetown Steam Plant can be a fascinating outing for families, especially during its scheduled tour days or family-friendly events. The sheer scale of the old machinery can capture a child's imagination, offering a tangible connection to industrial history. Instagram

Look out for events specifically advertised as family-friendly, such as circus shows or interactive exhibits. While general tours focus on history and engineering, the unique environment itself provides an engaging experience. Always check the event calendar for age recommendations and suitability. Instagram

📸 Photography Enthusiasts

For photographers, the Georgetown Steam Plant is a dream location. Its imposing industrial architecture, the intricate details of the old machinery, and the often-present art installations provide endless visual inspiration. Reddit

Focus on capturing the textures of concrete and metal, the play of light and shadow within the vast spaces, and the juxtaposition of old industrial elements with modern art. The south facade also offers a more classically architectural subject. Reddit Remember to check for any specific photography guidelines or event restrictions. Reddit

🎭 Art & Performance Lovers

If you're drawn to unique artistic experiences, the Georgetown Steam Plant should be high on your list. The venue's atmospheric industrial setting provides a dramatic backdrop for a variety of performances, from avant-garde theater to community music events. Instagram+2

Keep an eye on their event schedule for immersive theater, live music, and art exhibitions. Attending an event here offers a chance to experience art in a truly unconventional and memorable space, often with interactive elements that engage the audience directly. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

A Glimpse into Industrial History

Opened in 1906, the Georgetown Steam Plant was a pioneering facility that once powered Seattle's electric streetcars and fueled its early industrial expansion. It was one of the first in the United States to utilize steam turbines for electricity generation, marking a significant leap in engineering at the time. Its monumental concrete structure and the impressive General Electric turbine units stand as a testament to this era of innovation. Instagram

Today, the plant serves as a fascinating historical landmark. Visitors can explore its inner workings through guided tours led by knowledgeable volunteers. These tours offer a deep dive into the plant's rich history, its architectural significance, and the engineering principles that made it a powerhouse. Reddit

The Georgetown Steam Plant is more than just a relic; it's a living space that continues to contribute to the community. Its unique atmosphere makes it an ideal venue for a variety of cultural events, blending its industrial past with vibrant present-day activities. Instagram

Art, Performance, and Community

Beyond its historical significance, the Georgetown Steam Plant has transformed into a dynamic hub for arts and culture. It frequently hosts a diverse range of events, from art exhibits and live music to immersive theatrical productions and even circus spectacles. Instagram+1

One notable recurring event is the Crowdsource Choir, an inclusive singing experience where anyone can join in. This initiative highlights the plant's role in fostering community engagement and providing accessible artistic opportunities for everyone, regardless of their vocal experience. Instagram+1

The venue's unique industrial backdrop also lends itself to more avant-garde performances. Events like 'Ghosts of Nebula: The Missing Six' leverage the atmospheric setting for supernatural-themed immersive theater, inviting audiences to uncover mysteries within the historic walls. Instagram This blend of history and contemporary creativity makes the Georgetown Steam Plant a truly multifaceted destination. Reddit

You may also like

1 of 2