Broadway in Seattle 2025 – 2026

Seattle’s Broadway scene brings razzle-dazzle to the Pacific Northwest with touring blockbusters, pre-Broadway debuts, and hometown hits. From the storied Paramount Theatre to The 5th Avenue’s crowd-pleasers, this guide covers everything—tickets, tips, eats, and seats—to help you plan the perfect night out in this theater-loving city.

Broadway Shows in Seattle

Where Broadway Takes the Stage

Seattle’s most iconic stages set the scene for Broadway magic, each with its own flavor of showbiz sparkle.

• Paramount Theatre – This grand dame of downtown Seattle is the city’s top Broadway tour stop. With about 2,800 seats, plush art deco architecture, and restored 1920s details, it’s both glamorous and comfortably modern. The Paramount hosts most national tours through the Broadway at The Paramount series. Expect stunning acoustics and perfect views from the orchestra and front mezzanine.
• The 5th Avenue Theatre – A local legend with global ambition, the 5th is where many shows have debuted before hitting Broadway proper (think Hairspray and Shrek). Its Chinese-inspired design, ~2,100 seats, and original programming make it a can’t-miss venue. Many audience members are regulars thanks to strong subscriber perks.
• Moore Theatre – Seattle’s oldest theater, built in 1907, often features smaller musicals and indie productions. Seating about 1,400, it’s intimate, a little funky, and rich with old-school charm. A great spot for experimental or off-Broadway-style performances.

All venues offer ADA-accessible seating, elevators or ramps, assistive listening devices, and service animal accommodations. Coat check and refreshment stations vary by venue, but you’ll always find friendly ushers ready to help. Whether you’re sipping bubbly at the Paramount or exploring bold new works at the 5th, Seattle’s stages have serious star power.

Family-Friendly Broadway in Seattle

Bringing your kiddos to the theater? Seattle makes it easy to share the stage magic with the next generation—without the stress (or the side-eye).

• Top kid-friendly picks: Musicals like Frozen, The Lion King, Aladdin, and Bluey’s Big Play are family crowd-pleasers when they roll through town. These shows often come with age recommendations (usually 5+) and offer matinee options that are gentler on little attention spans.
• Best matinees for families: Weekend matinees are your golden ticket. They’re earlier, typically less crowded, and full of other theater-loving families. Schools and camps often book weekday matinees for field trips—check ahead to avoid big student groups if you prefer a quieter vibe.
• Booster seats & comfort tips: Both the Paramount and 5th Avenue Theatre offer booster seats for smaller children. Just ask an usher! Restrooms are located on multiple levels, and staff are happy to point you toward family-friendly facilities. Pro tip: grab a snack during intermission to ward off any mid-show meltdowns.
• Rules for young audiences: Most Broadway shows recommend ages 5 and up; toddlers and infants generally aren’t allowed. Lap seating isn’t offered, so every attendee needs a ticket and their own seat.
• Special events for young theatergoers: Keep an eye out for “Kids Night on Broadway” promotions—these often include discounted youth tickets, pre-show activities, and cast Q&As that’ll spark young imaginations.

Just remember: kids who are prepped are kids who behave. Talk through the story, practice “theater manners,” and maybe let them wear something sparkly. It’s all part of the experience.

How to Get Tickets

Scoring Broadway tickets in Seattle doesn’t have to feel like solving a riddle wrapped in an enigma. Here’s how to snag the seats you want—without getting burned or breaking the bank.

• Official sources: The safest way to get tickets? Go straight to the source. That means STGPresents.org for the Paramount Theatre and 5thAvenue.org for shows at The 5th Avenue Theatre. These sites connect you to real-time availability and fair pricing.
• Resale platforms you can trust: Can’t find the date you want? Check reliable resale sites like SeatGeek, StubHub, or TodayTix. Prices can vary wildly, so compare listings. Just steer clear of shady third-party sellers with no refund policy.
• Discounts and deals: Students, educators, and seniors often qualify for reduced pricing on select shows. Sign up for the STG and 5th Avenue email newsletters—they’re gold mines for pre-sale access and promo codes. Last-minute rush tickets are sometimes offered a few hours before curtain, especially for less packed performances.
• Season subscriptions: Want guaranteed seats and early bird perks? Broadway at The Paramount and 5th Avenue’s subscription programs offer locked-in pricing, priority access, and exchange flexibility. Perfect for locals who catch more than one show a year.
• Group bookings: Got a theater-loving crew? Groups of 10+ can often snag discounts, reserved blocks, or concierge service. It’s a solid option for birthday celebrations, field trips, or friend night done right.

Bottom line: skip the stress and buy early—especially for popular productions like Wicked or Hamilton. The best seats tend to vanish faster than a magician’s rabbit.

Where to Sit: Best Seats at Seattle Theaters

Whether you’re after front-row magic or a bird’s-eye view, Seattle’s Broadway venues offer options for every budget—and body type. Let’s break it down by theater and tier.

• Paramount Theatre: This 2,800-seat stunner has three main sections: Orchestra (closest to the stage), Mezzanine (overhang with strong sightlines), and Balcony (higher up, budget-friendly).
  • Best overall views: Front orchestra center, rows D–K. You’re close without craning your neck.
  • Great value: Front mezzanine rows A–C—no obstructions, excellent perspective, and less pricey than orchestra.
  • Budget picks: Balcony rows A–D. Just bring opera glasses if you want to catch facial expressions.
• 5th Avenue Theatre: With about 2,100 seats and a more intimate vibe, the 5th Ave has a cozy Orchestra, Dress Circle (mezzanine), and Balcony.
  • Best acoustics: Dress Circle center. The sound flows beautifully, and you’ll see everything with zero heads in the way.
  • Mobility-friendly: Orchestra left/right aisles have excellent ADA seating with companion spots and easy access to restrooms.

Accessibility tip: Both theaters offer elevators, ADA-compliant seating, hearing assistance devices, and large print programs. Companion seats are always available when requested in advance. Want extra legroom? Aisle seats in the orchestra or front balcony are usually your best bet.

Quick advice: skip extreme side seats in the mezzanine or rear balcony—especially if you hate leaning. And if you’re tall or bringing someone who is, opt for row ends or bulkhead seats to avoid knee-cramping misery.

Getting There: Parking and Transportation

Planning your trip to the theater? Good news—Seattle makes it fairly painless, if you know where to go and what to avoid. Whether you’re driving, taking public transit, or hopping out of a rideshare, here’s how to get there smoothly.

• Paramount Theatre: Located at 911 Pine Street in downtown Seattle.
  • Parking garages: Paramount Parking Garage (directly behind the theater), Pacific Place Garage (around the corner), and the Convention Center Garage are reliable bets.
  • Rates: Expect $7–$18 depending on event timing. Prepay online when possible to avoid long lines.
• 5th Avenue Theatre: Found at 1308 5th Ave, just off University Street.
  • Nearby garages: Hilton Garage (across the street), IBM Building Garage, and Rainier Square Garage. Some offer evening and weekend flat rates.

Public Transit: Seattle’s Link light rail drops you a block or two from both venues via Westlake or University Street stations. Buses run frequently downtown, and many routes let you off right outside the doors. Just double-check schedules if you’re catching a late show.

Rideshare zones: Uber and Lyft riders can get dropped off right along Pine Street (Paramount) or 5th Ave (5th Ave Theatre). Look for posted signs—police don’t mess around with no-parking zones.

Winter tip: Bring an umbrella and leave extra time. Rain, Seahawks games, or Friday traffic can mess with even the best-laid plans. And don’t forget—both theaters offer coat check so you’re not wrestling with soggy layers all night.

Where to Eat Before the Show

Whether you want to dine in elegance or just grab a quick bite before curtain, Seattle’s theater district delivers. Within walking distance of both the Paramount and 5th Avenue Theatre, there’s something for every taste, budget, and timeline.

• Fine Dining (perfect for date night or celebrations):
  • Canlis – Iconic, upscale, and a bit farther away, but a bucket-list spot if you’ve got time.
  • Lola – Mediterranean flavors and cocktails just steps from 5th Ave Theatre.
  • The Carlile Room – Trendy New American dining directly across from the Paramount.
• Mid-Range Favorites (smart and stylish without breaking the bank):
  • Palace Kitchen – Comfort food with a twist, perfect for pre-show energy.
  • Serious Pie – Artisan pizza worth writing home about.
  • Wild Ginger – Southeast Asian cuisine with flair, walkable from either theater.
• Quick Bites (in and out without rushing it):
  • Grab-n-go at PCC Market – Healthy sandwiches, snacks, and drinks.
  • Dick’s Drive-In – Classic Seattle fast food for the no-fuss crowd.
  • Ghost Note Coffee – Espresso, baked goods, and cool vibes for a light pre-show treat.
• After-Show Sweets & Sips:
  • Il Bistro – Cozy wine bar ambiance under the Pike Place Market.
  • Rumba – Rum-forward cocktails and snacks if you want a tropical twist post-show.
  • Hot Cakes – Gooey chocolate lava cakes that turn your encore into dessert heaven.

Tips: Book reservations at least a day ahead for peak nights. If you’re in a rush, opt for prix-fixe menus or bar seating for faster service.

What to Wear to a Broadway Show in Seattle

Seattle doesn’t stand on ceremony—unless you’re going to the opera. For Broadway? The vibe is polished but relaxed. Think smart-casual with a personal twist. You’ll see everything from blazers and bold prints to jeans with elevated flair. So, if you’re wondering what to wear—relax, just make it intentional.

• Daytime Matinees: Clean jeans, a fitted sweater or blouse, ankle boots or loafers. Comfort wins, but skip gym wear.
• Evening Performances: Dress it up a notch—slacks or a midi dress, stylish layers, or even a statement coat. Seattle’s nightlife tends to add some edge after dark.
• Weather Wisdom: Layers are your best friend. It might be sunny at 6 p.m. and drizzling by 9. Pack a compact umbrella and wear shoes that can take on slick sidewalks.
• Use the Coat Check: If you’re wearing a bulky jacket or carrying a large tote, take advantage of the coat check at the Paramount or 5th Avenue Theatre. You’ll thank yourself later.
• Avoid These: Oversized hats (they block views), noisy jewelry (distracting), overpowering scents (seating is close), and anything you’d regret fidgeting with for two hours.

In short, look like you’re out for a night worth remembering—but you’re still in Seattle, so let your personal style shine without overthinking it.

Broadway for Locals: Subscriptions & Perks

If you live in the Seattle area and love theater, a Broadway subscription is your backstage pass to the best seats and serious savings. From guaranteed seats to early access, locals can enjoy perks that turn casual ticket-buyers into front-row regulars.

• Broadway at The Paramount Subscription: Offered through Broadway Across America, this series gets you into hit national tours at the historic Paramount Theatre. Lock in your seats for every show in the season lineup—think Hamilton, Moulin Rouge, and beyond.
• Benefits Galore: Subscribers enjoy perks like priority seating, flexible ticket exchanges, discounted pricing, and presale access to added shows. You’ll often beat the rush and the markup.
• How to Subscribe: Head to Seattle.Broadway.com for current season details. Payment plans, auto-renewal, and online management tools make signing up surprisingly simple.
• 5th Avenue Theatre Subscribers: This subscription gets you into one of Seattle’s premier producing theaters. Shows often premiere here before heading to Broadway itself. Bonus: you’re supporting local talent and original musicals.
• Additional Perks: VIP lounges, special invites, and even backstage tours pop up throughout the year—especially for top-tier donors or season package holders.

Whether you’re a Broadway superfan or just want to build some culture into your calendar, Seattle’s subscription perks make it easy to keep the spotlight shining year-round.

Explore Broadway in Other Cities

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I buy or manage tickets?

You can purchase tickets and manage subscriptions via official sources: STGPresents.org (for the Paramount), BroadwayAtTheParamount.com, or the Paramount box office (open Mon–Fri, 10 a.m.–6 p.m.). These options ensure real-time seat maps and avoid extra convenience fees.

Are rush tickets available?

Yes—student rush tickets may be offered for select Broadway shows, often available 1–2 hours before curtain and require a valid student ID. Availability varies by show and is not guaranteed in advance.

What are the late seating policies?

Most Broadway productions allow late seating only during designated breaks, such as applause moments. Some performances, like dance or fine arts, enforce a strict no-late-seating policy. Your confirmation email or the show listing will note restrictions.

What about bag, camera, and security policies?

Large bags may require inspection; bags over roughly 18×12×12 inches might be prohibited and must fit under the seat. Cameras with detachable lenses and flash are not allowed. As one Reddit user mentioned:

“No… they do not allow you to change seats.”
“None have allowed cameras.”

Be sure to purchase opera glasses in the lobby if you’re in balcony seats!

Is there a dress code?

No formal dress code. Smart-casual is the norm—jeans and a button-up are fine, as is a dress or blazer. Just skip beachwear, oversized logos, or bare midriffs.

What accessibility services are offered?

The Paramount and sister venues offer wheelchair and companion seating, elevators, assistive listening devices, and service animal accommodations. Accessible restrooms and large-print programs are available; call the box office to request accommodations when booking.

When should I arrive before the show?

Venue doors typically open about 90 minutes before curtain. Plan to arrive at least 60 minutes beforehand to allow for parking, security screening, and concessions before seating begins.

Can I exchange or refund tickets?

Ticket policies vary by event. Refunds are rare, but exchanges may be possible if your ticket includes Ticket Protection or if the event is canceled by the presenter. Subscription holders often have flexible exchange windows—check show-specific terms.

What if there’s bad weather or major downtown events?

For severe weather, game nights, or festivals, leave extra travel time. The theatre may issue rescheduling updates via official channels; stay tuned to your purchase confirmation or STG communications for guidance.

Are there group or student discounts available?

Yes—students, educators, and seniors may access rush pricing. Groups of 10+ can qualify for discounts and streamlined block bookings. Subscribe to STG or Broadway newsletter alerts for pre-sale announcements and promo codes.