Quick Facts
| Information | Details |
|---|---|
| Address | 334 1st Ave N, Seattle, WA 98109 |
| Venue type | Indoor arena, built underground beneath a historic roof |
| Hockey capacity | ~17,100 |
| Concert capacity | Up to 18,100 |
| Opened | 2021 |
| Primary tenants | Seattle Kraken (NHL), Seattle Storm (WNBA) |
| Website | climatepledgearena.com |
Overview
Climate Pledge Arena opened in 2021 on the site of the old KeyArena, on the Seattle Center campus in Seattle’s Uptown neighborhood. The project preserved the arena’s iconic 1962 World’s Fair roof, designed by Paul Thiry, while excavating deep underground to build an entirely new modern bowl beneath it. The arena was built to be net-zero carbon in operation, running on renewable energy and incorporating rainwater capture and living plant walls throughout the building.
Because the seating bowl sits well below the original roofline, every level ends up closer to the floor than in a typical modern arena of similar size.
Seating and Layout
- Floor (GA or reserved): Directly on the floor, either standing general admission against the stage barrier or numbered rows extending toward the mixing board, depending on the show.
- 100-Level (Lower Bowl): Encircles the floor level. Side sections, such as 101, 114, 115, and 126, offer balanced elevation and direct sound from the main speakers.
- Club tiers and suites: Premium seating integrated around the lower bowl, with private lounges, padded seats, and dining amenities.
- 200-Level (Upper Bowl): The upper tier. A steep row pitch keeps sightlines clear across the full production without columns blocking the view.
Most touring concerts use an end-stage setup, placing the stage at one end of the floor and closing off the rear sections behind it. Some shows go in-the-round instead, with the stage at the center of the floor opening up the full 100 and 200 levels around it. Floor configurations vary by artist, from standing-room general admission to assigned chairs.
Capacity
The arena’s baseline capacity is about 17,100 for hockey (and closer to 18,300 for basketball). For concerts, floor seating can expand attendance up to around 18,100, depending on the stage footprint and standing room configuration.
Sound and Production
The arena was engineered with acoustics in mind: sound-absorbing ceiling materials and wall paneling help reduce echo throughout the underground space. The structural steel roof supports heavy rigging loads, allowing productions to bring in LED screens, lighting rigs, and suspended audio arrays.
Accessibility
Wheelchair-accessible platforms with companion seats are available across both the lower and upper tiers. Accessible entrances include ground-level plazas, escalators, and elevators reaching all underground concourses. Assistive listening devices and sensory support tools are available at Guest Services, and accessible parking is available in nearby connected garages.
Venue Policies
- Bags: One bag, clear or otherwise, up to 14″ x 14″ x 6″, or one small clutch, purse, or wallet up to 4″ x 6″ x 1.5″. Anything larger than a clutch, including medical and diaper bags, goes through X-ray screening at designated lines. There’s no on-site bag check for non-compliant bags.
- Water bottles: Reusable, non-glass bottles up to 32 ounces are allowed, but must be empty upon entry. Some events restrict water bottles on the floor specifically.
- Tickets: Digital entry only, scanned via smartphone.
- Payment: Fully cashless. Food, bars, and merchandise all take cards or mobile payment only.
- Cameras and recording: Professional cameras with detachable lenses and recording equipment aren’t allowed.
- Other prohibited items: Laser devices and weapons.
Because specific events can add their own prohibited items on top of the arena’s standard policy, it’s worth checking the event detail page before you go.
Getting There
- Monorail: The Seattle Center Monorail runs directly between Westlake Station downtown and the Seattle Center station, a short walk from the arena. Publicly ticketed events include a complimentary transit pass with your ticket.
- Bus: Multiple King County Metro routes stop directly adjacent to the Seattle Center campus along 1st Avenue North and Mercer Street.
- Driving and parking: The arena is accessible via I-5 and Highway 99. Parking is available at the Climate Pledge Arena Garage, Mercer Garage, 5th Avenue N Garage, and nearby private lots.
- Rideshare: Drop-off and pickup zones are set up along 1st Avenue North and Warren Avenue North.
Nearby
The arena sits on the Seattle Center campus, surrounded by landmarks including the Space Needle, Chihuly Garden and Glass, and the Pacific Science Center. The Uptown neighborhood next door has plenty of restaurants and coffee shops within walking distance.
Before You Arrive
Plan to arrive 60 to 90 minutes before showtime to allow for Seattle traffic or transit, security screening, and finding your section before the show starts.
What to bring:
- A smartphone with your digital tickets loaded in your wallet
- A valid photo ID and a credit card, debit card, or mobile payment method
- A small clutch or wallet if you’re bringing anything, since larger bags face X-ray screening and the size limits are tight
- A light jacket for the walk through Seattle Center
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the concert capacity of Climate Pledge Arena?
Up to about 18,100, depending on stage placement and floor setup.
Where is Climate Pledge Arena located?
334 1st Ave N, on the Seattle Center campus in Uptown Seattle.
Is Climate Pledge Arena a cashless venue?
Yes, all concession counters, merchandise booths, and beverage stands accept card or mobile payment only.
How do you take the monorail to Climate Pledge Arena?
Take the Seattle Center Monorail from Westlake Station downtown to the Seattle Center terminus, a short walk from the arena doors.
What are the best seats for sound at Climate Pledge Arena?
Lower-bowl sections opposite the stage, such as those around 101 to 103 or 113 to 115, tend to offer balanced acoustic clarity.
Does Climate Pledge Arena have a clear bag policy?
Not exactly. One bag, clear or not, up to 14″ x 14″ x 6″ is allowed, or a small clutch up to 4″ x 6″ x 1.5″. Anything larger than a clutch goes through X-ray screening regardless of clarity.
Is Climate Pledge Arena an underground venue?
Yes, the arena was built well below grade beneath its preserved 1962 roof to create a modern multi-level bowl.
How early should I arrive for a concert at Climate Pledge Arena?
Arriving 60 to 90 minutes before showtime allows time for transit, security, and finding your section.
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