Top Rated Attractions in Seattle

Located in Downtown Seattle, Benaroya Hall is a large 189,750 square foot (17,628 square meters) performing arts complex that takes up an entire city block. Located inside are the two performance halls, the Taper Auditorium and the Nordstrom Recital Hall, which each feature state-of-the-art sound and lighting technology. This giant complex provides ample public space and entertainment throughout the year through its various events such as lectures, musicals, festivals and more. A true highlight is the concerts put on by the Seattle Symphony, which call Benaroya Hall, home. For more information regarding venue rentals or upcoming events, visit the website.

This 1920s movie palace-turned-concert hall was renovated in 1995 and is now one of Seattle's premier theaters. The ornate interior with its crystal chandeliers is reminiscent of classic European theaters. Thanks to technology (and a former Microsoft employee), the seats retract and a dance floor rolls out, making this a multifunction space. Paramount theater seats more than 3,000 people and the stage is large enough for touring Broadway block-busters like Fame, Riverdance and Miss Saigon, and musical guests the likes of David Bowie, James Brown and the Beastie Boys.

Located between downtown and Belltown, this proud venue to loud concerts is beautifully embellished inside and out with carvings. It is the kind of place played by artists on their way up or on their way down. Moore Theatre is both big enough to feel important and small enough to get crowded fast. Considering its size, the feel is remarkably intimate, and although the seating is bolted down, there's always ample dance space by the stage. Typical bookings include rock, pop, crooners, electronica, dance, comedy and the occasional film festival.

The Crescent Lounge is the local favorite sports bar and karaoke lounge. The bar is frequented by people who want to kick back with a drink and watch a game, or simply hang out with friends. This bar is known for its excellent cocktails made by the crafty bartenders with premium liquor. Karaoke evenings are normally packed, so getting here early to grab a table is recommended.

Opened as a vaudeville theater in 1926, 5th Avenue Theatre shortly became a movie house. Closed in 1978, it was restored and reopened in 1980. The ornate interior of deep red, blue and gold is modeled after decor from Imperial China. The theater averages 175 shows a year, mostly musicals, including classics like The King and I and Les Miserables. The long, narrow theater seats 2130 with the back seats far from the stage.

Linda Hartzell created this wonderful theater especially for children, and it was worth the effort. Specially selected for theater, the plays and performers are top rate. There are up to nine productions during the school year—September through June—with shows performed daily for school classes and on weekends, for families. Located at Seattle Center, the state-of-the-art Seattle Children's Theatre has 280 seats, and it sponsors year-round classes and workshops for children with an interest in performing. Call or check the website for information and tickets. Show times vary.