Whether you’re dancing to EDM with sweeping views of the Columbia River or sipping pinot grigio at a winery as you listen to jazz, music lovers are spoiled for choice when it comes to outdoor concert venues in Washington.
During the warmer months, the state’s amphitheaters and outdoor spaces play host to a full spectrum of upcoming and well-known artists across multiple genres. Add superb acoustics, breathtaking views of star-filled skies, and a range of amenities, and Washington State is the perfect destination to sit back and soak in the music.
Outdoor Concert Venues in Washington
The Gorge Amphitheatre
One of the state’s premier outdoor concert venues, this 27,500-capacity amphitheater overlooking a gorge brings some of the world’s biggest performers to central Washington. Perched on a hillside above the Columbia River, the amphitheater’s spectacular views and natural acoustics make it one of the world’s most iconic concert locations; it was even the subject of a documentary, “Enormous: The Gorge Story.” The venue hosts three annual festivals: Beyond Wonderland, Watershed, and Bass Canyon, as well as solo acts.
Onsite camping options range from a large lawn for tents and RVs to glamping. Visitors can also choose to stay off-site at properties like the luxurious Sagecliffe Resort and Spa, which boasts a pool, vineyards, and an on-site restaurant.
White River Amphitheatre
Located on the Muckleshoot Indian Reservation, White River Amphitheater offers views of Mount Rainier on clear days. With a capacity of 16,000 — including 9,000 covered seats — the venue features excellent acoustics and hosts well-known recurring festivals such as the Vans Warped Tour, Crüe Fest, Ozzfest, and The Mayhem Festival.
Guests can enjoy a free shuttle service at select events with pickup and drop-off at the Outlet Collection in Auburn. Consider basing yourself in Tacoma, about 30 minutes to the west, to enjoy theater, art, and a thriving dining scene. Visit Point Defiance Park, stroll the Ruston Way Waterfront, and shop for local goods in the Proctor District.
Wine Country Amphitheater
Situated on the grounds of Walla Walla’s Veterans Memorial Golf Course at the foothills of the Blue Mountains, this 6,000-seat venue features manicured lawns sloping toward the stage and gorgeous sunset views of the rolling wheatfields. Guests can purchase bites from a variety of food trucks, and upgrades are available through the Premier Club.
Wine lovers will appreciate the amphitheater’s location in the greater Walla Walla area, which is home to more than 130 wineries producing world-class wines. Consider staying at the historic Marcus Whitman Hotel for easy access to downtown.
Spokane Pavilion
Built for Expo ’74, the Spokane Pavilion was renovated in 2019 to include state-of-the-art lighting and the Garco Terrace, which delivers panoramic views of Spokane Falls and Kendall Yards. This Washington outdoor concert venue has a capacity of 5,000 and is open year-round, hosting Hoopfest in June and an annual summer concert series.
While you’re in Spokane, don’t miss taking a gondola ride over the falls on the Numerica Skyride. Music lovers can enjoy more live performances at some of the city’s standout indoor venues, including the architecturally stunning Martin Woldson Theater at The Fox.
Cascades Amphitheater
Located in Ridgefield, the Cascades Amphitheater is surrounded by rolling greenery yet conveniently close to Interstate 5. Its natural setting offers a serene contrast to the bustling nearby cities of Vancouver, WA and Portland, OR. The 16,000-capacity venue includes both covered seating and an expansive lawn.
Base yourself in Vancouver, about 20 minutes to the south. Lodging options are plentiful and include everything from new hotels along the waterfront — home to stellar wine tasting rooms and restaurants — to family favorites like the Heathman Lodge.
Tulalip Amphitheatre
North of Seattle, this intimate 3,000-capacity amphitheater is conveniently located near Interstate 5 and next door to Tulalip Resort Casino, a 370-room luxury hotel. Bonus: The Seattle Premium Outlets with more than 125 shops are within easy reach as well. Visit during the warmer months to attend the venue’s annual Summer Concert Series and take advantage of free parking and free RV facilities (without hookups). The amphitheater hosts everything from high-energy performances to laid-back comedy shows.
Marymoor Live
This Washington concert venue tucked into a wooded grove in Seattle’s Marymoor Park hosts an annual summer concert series popular with locals and visitors alike. Concerts are held May through September with curated food trucks and a general store on site. Guests looking for a premium experience can purchase a single-show upgrade through Base Camp to enjoy exclusive parking, lounge seating, and enhanced dining options.
Lodging options are available in Redmond and neighboring Bellevue, which boasts upscale shopping and dining along Lake Washington.
Chateau Ste. Michelle
This sprawling winery in Woodinville has been hosting live performances since 1984. Its Summer Concert Series runs May through September with an intimate 4,500-seat capacity. Guests can reserve seating or sit and picnic on the grass. Wine is available for purchase on-site. For those seeking a premier experience, Live Nation Premium offers private cabanas and field reserve service.
Chateau Ste. Michelle is a great first stop when exploring the other tasting rooms in Woodinville Wine Country. Bed down at the Willows Lodge, where you can enjoy spa treatments and upscale dining at the Barking Frog.
About the Author
Lauren Kramer is a freelance travel writer who has spent the last 24 years exploring the Pacific Northwest from her home base of Bellingham. Her favorite trips focus on nature and wildlife, and her work has been widely published in the US and Canada, including Boulevard Magazines, Northwest Travel & Life, 1889 Magazine, and many others.