The Crocodile

The Crocodile is one of the venues most closely linked to Seattle's music history. It first opened on 30 April 1991 as the Crocodile Cafe on Second Avenue in Belltown, founded by Stephanie Dorgan, and over the years its stage hosted Nirvana, Pearl Jam, Alice in Chains, Soundgarden, R.E.M., Green Day, The Strokes and the Beastie Boys, among many others. Scenes from the film Singles were shot there. After closing in 2007, it reopened under new owners in 2009, and Rolling Stone later ranked it among the best clubs in America.

In December 2021 the Crocodile moved to a much larger building at 2505 1st Avenue, at Wall Street, still in Belltown. The new site is a complex of spaces: a main showroom for about 750 people, Madame Lou's downstairs for around 300, and the Here-After, a 100-seat theatre and comedy club. There is also a café, bars and 17 hotel rooms upstairs, branded Hotel Crocodile, with a lobby lounge. The venue describes itself as an independent music sanctuary for artists and fans.

The programme centres on live music from touring and local acts, with comedy and smaller shows in the other rooms. Check the website for the calendar and buy tickets in advance, as popular shows sell out. Age rules depend on the event, so check the listing before you go, and bring ID.

The Crocodile suits music fans, groups of friends and anyone wanting to experience the Seattle club scene where many famous bands started out. Allow a full evening, as support acts usually play first.

With three rooms in one building, it is worth checking what is on across all of them, as a small show in Madame Lou's or a comedy night at the Here-After can be a good alternative to a big gig. The on-site bars mean you can arrive early for a drink.

Belltown has plenty of bars and restaurants close by, and the venue is within walking distance of downtown hotels, the Olympic Sculpture Park and the waterfront. Dimitriou's Jazz Alley is a short walk inland for a different kind of evening. General questions can be emailed to the venue.