Washington's 7 Best Cities For Art and Music

Art, music, and culture thrive in The Evergreen State. With cities like Seattle, which many credit with the invention of grunge music, it’s safe to say that Washington state appeals to artists of all kinds. Between massive and historic concert venues to small theater groups that bring communities together, Washington has a bit of everything when it comes to the arts. During a trip to Washington, you’ll be able to participate in art walks, browse local cafes boasting live music, and experience the history of art at several well-respected museums. However you choose to enjoy art, Washington makes it easy. 

Seattle

Widely accepted as the birthplace of grunge music, Seattle, Washington has been considered an artist haven for decades. Long before the likes of Nirvana and Pearl Jam hit the scene, Seattle was home to the Seattle Symphony. Founded in 1903, the Symphony is one of the most recorded symphony orchestras in the world, according to visitseattle.org. Today, the Seattle Symphony frequently plays alongside the Seattle Opera and both draw in massive crowds of tourists and locals each year.

Seattle is also home to a wide selection of performing arts theaters, concert venues, art galleries, museums, and dance studios. Several local theaters run under the Seattle Theatre Group banner including popular spots like the Neptune Theatre and the Paramount Theatre. Both locations are great spots for live music and plays. For something a little more peaceful, you can spend some time strolling through the Seattle Art Museum, or the Olympic Sculpture Park. Speaking of sculptures, a visit to the city isn’t complete until you see the iconic Fremont Troll. The troll is an 18-foot sculpture situated under the George Washington Memorial Bridge.

Next, head to the Southeast portion of Seattle and explore the city’s Rainier Valley Creative District. Here, you can admire plenty of local, public artwork while supporting a community in need. If you have time, The Museum of Pop Culture and the Chihuly Garden and Glass Art Museum are also important pillars of Seattle’s art scene and are worth a visit. 

Tacoma

Tacoma is a vibrant and bustling arts city tucked along the picturesque shores of Commencement Bay. Home to well over 200,000 people, the city is perhaps best known for its unique glass art. A highlight of Tacoma’s glasswork is the Chihuly Bridge of Glass–a 500-foot pedestrian bridge featuring three gorgeous Chihuly glass art installations. If the bridge delights you, then head over to the Museum of Glass to see more of Dale Chihuly’s work and various other glass art exhibits. The Tacoma Art Museum is another worthwhile activity while you’re in the area.

In addition to visual art, Tacoma also has a thriving music scene. And we can’t talk about the city’s music scene without mentioning the Tacoma Dome. The Dome, which was constructed in the early 1980s, is made of wood and for a time, held the title of the world’s largest wooden dome. David Bowie was the first artist to perform in the Dome and since then, the premiere concert and event venue has hosted a long list of artists and attracted thousands of concert-goers from around the country.

Those hoping to experience a fun stage show or the sweet sounds of the Tacoma Symphony Orchestra will want to check out venues such as the Pantages Theatre and the Rialto Theatre, both of which are located downtown. Of course, you don’t need to spend tons of cash to experience good art in the city. For a more laid-back day, head to the sparkling Owen Beach where you can soak in gorgeous sunsets and admire the whale sculpture.

Bellevue

Bellevue is a relatively young city, having only been incorporated in 1953. Despite its short history, Bellevue has made a name for itself as one of the top places to live in Washington according to Travel + Leisure magazine. The City of Bellevue government website describes the area as "a city in a park” due to the massive number of parks and greenspaces located within city limits. In addition to the natural beauty and high livability scores, Bellevue also boasts an exciting up-and-coming arts scene.

To experience some of the best offerings, head to the BelRed Arts District. Here you can discover plenty of free public art displays including various murals and decorated utility boxes. The city also offers a handful of grants for local artists to provide more opportunities for things like craft, public art, music, and performances. Visitors can take in more of Bellevue’s art scene at the Bellevue Arts Museum. And for some natural beauty, don’t forget to visit the Bellevue Botanical Garden. In addition to the stunning flora here, visitors arriving in December can enjoy a magical display of holiday lights at the Garden d’lights festival.

Edmonds

Edmonds is a friendly city nestled along the shores of Washington’s Puget Sound. According to the City of Edmonds website, the residents here share a “strong sense of civic pride.” This is due largely to the city's many amenities and “active arts and cultural community.” Visitors to Edmonds can actively participate in that community by visiting the popular Cascadia Art Museum. Places like Gallery North and The Phoenix Theater are also great local spots where you can enjoy visual and performance art.

Those who love spending time outdoors will want to explore the city’s Olympic Beach. Here, beachgoers will see a fun selection of beach-themed sculptures including seals, whale watchers, and an octopus. Edmonds is also home to Washington’s first Creative District which is designed to help grow the creative sector over the next five years.

Port Townsend

Welcome to Port Townsend–a historic city on the tip of Washington’s Quimper Peninsula. At one time, Port Townsend was called The City of Dreams because of its bustling seaport. Today, the city’s maritime history and culture are celebrated at places like Northwest Maritime. But there’s more than just seaport history to be admired here. Between the annual Port Townsend Film Festival and the city’s many art galleries and theaters, it’s safe to say that the Port Townsend arts scene is very much alive and thriving.

The Jefferson County Historical Society Museum of Art and History is a good place to start if you want to see the work of local artists and curators. There is also a monthly Art Walk event that showcases local artwork and gives visitors the chance to mingle with the artists. The Port Townsend Farmers Market is another city highlight featuring handmade crafts and frequent live music performances. Lovers of the art of writing will definitely want to pop into William James Bookseller where they can browse a vast selection of used and out-of-print books. And for live theater performances, there’s no better spot than the Key City Public Theatre. 

Bainbridge Island

Surrounded by beautiful bay views and densely forested areas, Bainbridge Island is like a natural work of art. During a visit here, discover peace at the Bloedel Reserve–a 140-acre nature preserve with colorful gardens and beautifully landscaped grounds. A visit to the West Point Lighthouse will also have you feeling like you’ve just stepped inside a real-life painting. Beyond the island’s natural appeal, the music and art scene is vibrant and full of life.

Enjoy a play at the Bainbridge Performing Arts theater or take in a mix of history and art at the Bainbridge Island Japanese American Exclusion Memorial. If you’re traveling with young kids then a trip to the Kids Discovery Museum for their monthly Art Walk is a must. Of course, for the adults, there’s plenty to see at the Bainbridge Island Museum of Art. And if you’re looking to sip coffee and enjoy live music then head to the charming Treehouse Cafe.

Ellensburg

Located in the heart of Washington state, Ellensburg is a bustling city with an affinity for its Wild West roots. The city is perhaps best known for its annual Rodeo which has been called "one of the best rodeos in North America." But the cowboy way of life isn’t the only thing celebrated here. Ellensburg is also home to one of Washington’s creative districts. The Ellensburg Creative District boasts “a collaborative hub of artists, innovators, and creative entrepreneurs” and frequently hosts events including art walks and the Ellensburg Music Festival. During a visit here, don’t forget to take in a play at the Valley Theatre Company or plan your trip around any number of events that feature live performance such as the Winterhop Brewfest. 

In Conclusion

From the birthplace of grunge music to cities with small but dedicated theater companies, finding places to enjoy art and music in Washington is easy. Whether you want to browse out-of-print books, take in a play, enjoy live music at a local coffee shop, or wander peacefully through a gallery or museum, The Evergreen State has you covered. Beyond the man-made art, Washington is also a perfect place to enjoy nature's art with gorgeous sea-side towns and plenty of mountain backdrops.