McCaw Hall - Old brick Library Bldg with 2 columns
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McCaw Hall

4.7
·3k reviews·Seattle, United States

A stunning steel and glass venue, home to Pacific Northwest Ballet and Seattle Opera, hosting diverse performances.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Holiday Season (Nov-Dec)

For the magical Nutcracker ballet!

CrowdHigh
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McCaw Hall - Old brick Library Bldg with 2 columns

McCaw Hall

Best Time

Holiday Season (Nov-Dec)

For the magical Nutcracker ballet!

CrowdHigh
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A stunning steel and glass venue, home to Pacific Northwest Ballet and Seattle Opera, hosting diverse performances.

4.7
(3k reviews)

"Nice facility with comfortable seating and good acoustics, just watch out for the drinks."

Vertical photo
TIP

🚗 Parking Strategy

Nearby parking can be pricey ($30+). Consider parking further away or using public transport.

💰 Concession Savings

Concessions are expensive. Eat before you go or pack your own snacks if permitted.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Pacific Northwest Ballet's The Nutcracker

Pacific Northwest Ballet's The Nutcracker

Main Stage

A magical holiday tradition with stunning sets and enchanting performances. A must-see for all ages!

Instagram
Seattle Opera Performances

Seattle Opera Performances

Main Stage

Experience world-class opera in a venue known for its excellent acoustics and comfortable seating.

Reddit
Concerts & Live Music

Concerts & Live Music

Main Stage

From K-Pop to classic rock, McCaw Hall hosts a diverse range of musical artists.

TikTokInstagram
Special Events & Drag Shows

Special Events & Drag Shows

Main Stage

Catch unique performances like Seattle Pride's 'Don't Stop the Drag' for a vibrant and entertaining night.

TikTok
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Planning Your Visit

Book Tickets in Advance

Popular shows like The Nutcracker sell out fast! Check the McCaw Hall schedule and book your tickets early to secure the best seats and avoid disappointment. TikTokInstagram

Concessions Can Be Pricey

Be prepared for high prices on food and drinks at McCaw Hall. Consider eating before your show or bringing your own snacks if allowed. Reddit

Best Times

When
Holiday Season (Nov-Dec)
Why
For the magical Nutcracker ballet!
Crowd
High
When
Weekends
Why
More performance options available.
Crowd
Medium
When
Weekday Evenings
Why
Fewer crowds, easier entry.
Crowd
Low

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Sleepless in Seattle… what a beautiful night at McCaw Hall 🌙✨ #MLTR #MichaelLearnsToRock #OnTour #Seattle
@mltrofficial
5.2K likes • 82.1K views

🚗 Parking Strategy

Nearby parking can be pricey ($30+). Consider parking further away or using public transport. Reddit

💰 Concession Savings

Concessions are expensive. Eat before you go or pack your own snacks if permitted. Reddit

“Don’t Stop the Drag” show Seattle Pride - “Don’t Stop Me Now” Seattle Men’s Chorus with Nina West #myvideo #pacnw #WAstate #pridemonth #ninawest #mccawhall #2024pride🏳️‍🌈 #supportlocalartists #queen #drag #hairspray #freddiemercury #seattlecenter #chorus #seattlemenschorus #vocalshowcase #strutting #musical #dontstopthedrag #dontstopmenow
@mrswidowking
822 likes • 13.5K views
The Rose at Mccaw Hall was an amazing experience 🙌😭 It was absolutely unforgettable 🌹 From the moment they got on stage to the final bow, the hall was filled with so much energy 🫶 What was your favorite moment? #KPOP #KPOPSTATION #KPOPSHOP #KPOPSTORE #KPOPCOLLECTION #KPOPOFFICIAL #KPOPMERCH #KPOPMUSIC #KPOPIDOL #KPOPMERCHANDISE #THEROSE #WOOSUNG #DOJOON #HAJOON #TAEGYEOM #BLACKROSE
kpopstation_seattle
141 likes • 4.1K views

💨 Fast Entry Tip

Avoid bringing a bag to speed up your entry through multiple entrances. Reddit

🎶 Check the Schedule

McCaw Hall hosts diverse events from ballet to concerts. Plan ahead! TikTokInstagram

Opening night tomorrow at 7:30 at McCaw hall, Seattle. A 30 min orchestral suite in 10 movements I wrote for ballet. Here’s a clip of my beloved Binary Data IV in a 4/4 variation which captures the essence of my current excitement. Much love.
alfonsopedutomusic
5.6K likes • 91.4K views

Tips

from all over the internet

🚗 Parking Strategy

Nearby parking can be pricey ($30+). Consider parking further away or using public transport. Reddit

💰 Concession Savings

Concessions are expensive. Eat before you go or pack your own snacks if permitted. Reddit

💨 Fast Entry Tip

Avoid bringing a bag to speed up your entry through multiple entrances. Reddit

🎶 Check the Schedule

McCaw Hall hosts diverse events from ballet to concerts. Plan ahead! TikTokInstagram

🪑 Seat View Check

Great views from most seats, including balconies. Check seat views online if possible. Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.7
(3k reviews)

Reviews Summary

McCaw Hall is praised for its excellent acoustics and comfortable seating, making it a top venue for ballet and opera. While the facility and staff are generally well-regarded, visitors frequently note the exceptionally high prices for concessions and parking. Despite these drawbacks, many find the overall experience of attending a performance here to be enjoyable and memorable.

"Absolutely ridiculous pricing for concessions. 1 double white wine, double jack/soda, and 2 cookies is $106, with the gall of requesting a tip on top. That’s more than a pair of comedy show tickets. Getting fatigued by this no transparent pricing nonsense.

Venue has comfortable seating (no place to hold drinks other than your hand) and acoustics are good. Just watch out for the drinks."

Melody Smith

"Nice facility. The staff was friendly and helpful. We had an enjoyable evening. Not being from Seattle, we weren't completely sure about where we were to park, but we parked near the Museum of Pop Culture. Easy walk from there."

Angela Cleverdon

"I have attended the opera here twice so far and see a few visits in my future with the new season. Seating is always abundant and they assist with many mobility impaired attendees. Concessions can be pricey but I don't usually come for the food and drinks. Always a good venue for enjoying the musical arts."

Turbo Turtle

What People Like

Great acoustics
Comfortable seating
Good venue for ballet/opera

What People Dislike

Expensive concessions
Costly parking

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

McCaw Hall is located at 321 Mercer Street, Seattle, WA 98109. You can reach it by car, ride-sharing services, or public transportation. Parking is available nearby, though it can be expensive. Reddit

Yes, there are parking lots near McCaw Hall, often shared with other Seattle Center attractions like the Museum of Pop Culture. However, parking can be costly, especially on event nights. Reddit

Several King County Metro bus routes serve the Seattle Center area. The Seattle Center Monorail also connects downtown to the Seattle Center, though it closes earlier on weekends. Reddit

Yes, ride-sharing services and taxis can drop you off at the main entrance. This is a convenient option to avoid parking hassles. Reddit

McCaw Hall is committed to accessibility. They offer assistance for mobility-impaired attendees and have accessible seating options. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Tickets can typically be purchased through the official McCaw Hall website, the Pacific Northwest Ballet website, the Seattle Opera website, or authorized third-party ticket vendors. TikTokInstagram

McCaw Hall's hours vary depending on the event. Doors usually open about an hour before showtime. It's best to check the specific event schedule for exact times. TikTok

Yes, the McCaw Hall box office is usually open on event days for ticket purchases and will-call pickup. Check their website for specific box office hours. Reddit

McCaw Hall has a bag policy that may restrict the size of bags allowed. Smaller bags are generally permitted, and not bringing a bag can speed up entry. Reddit

Discounts may be available for certain performances, especially for groups or students. Check the specific event listings or contact the box office for details. Reddit

🎫 🎶 Onsite Experience

McCaw Hall offers comfortable seating with good sightlines from most locations, including the balconies. Some seats offer excellent views of the stage. Reddit

The acoustics at McCaw Hall are generally considered very good, making it an excellent venue for musical performances like opera and concerts. Reddit

McCaw Hall has concessions offering food and drinks, but reviews indicate they can be quite expensive. Reddit

Yes, McCaw Hall has multiple restrooms available for attendees throughout the venue. Reddit

Photography and videography policies vary by event. Generally, personal photos without flash are allowed, but professional recording is prohibited. Check with event staff for specific rules. TikTok

📸 📸 Photography

The grand architecture of the hall itself, especially the lobby and exterior, offers great photo opportunities. During performances, capturing the stage lighting can be stunning. TikTok

Photography policies differ per event. While some allow non-flash personal photos, professional recording is usually forbidden. Always check with venue staff. TikTok

For general photos, a smartphone or a standard DSLR with a versatile lens is sufficient. For low-light performances, a camera with good low-light performance and a fast lens is recommended. TikTok

Tripods and professional camera equipment are typically not allowed during performances to avoid obstructing views. Check the specific event's policy. TikTok

The exterior of the steel and glass structure, the grand staircase in the lobby, and the illuminated stage during a performance are popular photo subjects. TikTok

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

McCaw Hall is a fantastic destination for families, especially during the holiday season for Pacific Northwest Ballet's The Nutcracker. The magical performance is captivating for children and adults alike. Instagram The venue is generally accommodating to families, with ample seating and accessible facilities. Reddit

To make the experience smoother, consider arriving early to navigate parking and entry. While concessions are pricey, bringing small, permissible snacks can help keep younger attendees happy. Many families find the ballet to be a memorable and cherished tradition at McCaw Hall. InstagramReddit

🎶 Music Lovers

For music enthusiasts, McCaw Hall offers a diverse lineup, from the soaring vocals of the Seattle Opera to energetic concerts by touring artists. The venue's acclaimed acoustics ensure a superb listening experience, whether you're enjoying a symphony or a rock band. Reddit

Keep an eye on the McCaw Hall schedule for upcoming concerts, as popular acts like Michael Learns to Rock or K-Pop sensations like The Rose draw enthusiastic crowds. TikTokInstagram The variety of genres means there's always something to suit different musical tastes. TikTokInstagram

🎭 Ballet & Opera Aficionados

McCaw Hall is the heart of Seattle's classical performing arts scene, serving as the home for the Pacific Northwest Ballet and the Seattle Opera. Patrons can expect world-class productions, from beloved classics like 'The Nutcracker' and 'Swan Lake' to innovative new works. Instagram+1

The venue's design prioritizes the audience experience, with comfortable seating and excellent sightlines, ensuring you don't miss a moment of the performance. Reddit Attending a PNB or Seattle Opera show at McCaw Hall is a quintessential Seattle cultural experience. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

A Hub for Performing Arts

McCaw Hall, officially the Marion Oliver McCaw Hall, is a premier performing arts venue in Seattle, Washington. Its striking steel and glass architecture makes it a landmark at the Seattle Center. It serves as the primary home for the Pacific Northwest Ballet and the Seattle Opera, hosting their full seasons and major productions. The hall is renowned for its excellent acoustics, making it an ideal space for both grand opera and intricate ballet performances. Instagram+1

The venue is designed to accommodate a wide range of performances, from large-scale theatrical productions to intimate concerts. Its flexible seating arrangements and state-of-the-art technical capabilities ensure a high-quality experience for both performers and audiences. The hall's commitment to the arts is evident in the caliber of productions it hosts throughout the year. Instagram+1

Beyond ballet and opera, McCaw Hall is a popular destination for touring musical artists, comedians, and special events. Its diverse schedule means there's often something for everyone, from rock concerts to K-Pop performances and even drag shows, reflecting its versatility as a cultural hub. TikTokInstagram+1

Navigating Your Visit: Parking & Concessions

When planning your visit to McCaw Hall, it's wise to consider the practicalities of parking and concessions. Parking in the Seattle Center area can be a significant expense, with rates often exceeding $30 on event nights. Many visitors recommend parking a bit further away and walking, or utilizing public transportation options like buses or the Monorail, though the latter has limited weekend hours. Reddit

Be prepared for the cost of food and beverages inside the venue. Reviews frequently mention that concessions at McCaw Hall are particularly expensive, with a single wine and a couple of cookies costing over $100 in one instance. To manage costs, consider having dinner before your show or checking the venue's policy on bringing outside food and non-alcoholic beverages. Reddit

Despite these considerations, many attendees find the overall experience at McCaw Hall to be enjoyable. The venue's multiple entrances can help speed up entry, and the seating offers great views. Planning ahead for parking and budgeting for concessions can help ensure a smoother and more pleasant visit. Reddit

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