Imagine time-traveling 100 years into Seattle’s past to a place shaped by the Progressive Era. Now, this vision can be a reality and families can do their version of time travel right here in Seattle at the historic Georgetown Steam Plant.
The Progressive Era
Built in 1906 to provide energy for the region’s growing streetcar system, the Georgetown Steam Plant helped shape Seattle as we know it today. The Steam Plant serves as a reminder of the era when electrification came to the West Coast, and today it stands as a National Historic Landmark, a Historical Mechanical Landmark, and a Seattle Landmark. It is listed on the National Register of Historic Places, too!
Original coal-powered furnaces that fueled the steam plant’s turbines.(Image: Allison Peterson)
This massive steam plant in the Duwamish Valley helped power the region for over 70 years. Since the operations ended in the late 1970s, the purpose of the Georgetown Steam Plant has changed. In recent years, a non-profit has taken over the operations of the facilities to make this landmark accessible to visitors.
Visiting
If you want to visit the Georgetown Steam Plant, free public open houses are available on the second Saturday every month between 10:00 a.m. and 2:00 p.m.. Guests are welcome to explore at their leisure, or take a free guided tour, available on open house days at 10:30 a.m., 11:30 a.m., and 12:30 p.m.. While safety upgrades have been completed throughout the facility, many portions are only accessible via stairs, so plan for a stroller alternative if you bring little ones. Alternatively, a virtual tour of the steam plant is available online.
The Georgetown Steam Plant dates back to the 1906. (Image: Allison Peterson)
Observe all of the steam plant’s original equipment and machinery as you walk through it. One of the most impressive sights is the two massive vertical Curtis Turbines, some of the only turbines of their type ever produced worldwide. Information signs, hands-on activity tables during guided tours, and events like live music help make a visit to the Georgetown Steam Plant a fully immersive experience.
Building construction and outdoor amenities
Take note of the impressive architecture and attention to detail that went into the construction of this building—details such as marble walls and gold-inlaid clocks give a nod to the gilded Gatsby era when the steam plant was built.
Historical architectural details in the steam plant. (Image: Allison Peterson)
Make sure you save some time to explore the outdoor portion of the steam plant. Around the perimeter of the steam plant, you’ll find interactive outdoor sculptures, picnic areas, and grassy fields where kids can blow off some “steam” of their own! Look up and watch planes flying high–with its location adjacent to Boeing Field and the Museum of Flight, the Georgetown Steam Plant property is the perfect location for planespotting.
Interactive sculptures, picnic area, and a view of airplanes in the outdoor area of the Georgetown Steam Plant. (Image: Allison Peterson)
After the tour
While you’re in the Georgetown neighborhood, stop by Deep Sea Sugar & Salt for a special treat. This bakery serves gourmet cupcakes and cake slices, making it a sweet finish to your day.
With history, hands-on learning, and unique experiences around every corner, the Georgetown Steam Plant is a Seattle landmark you’ll want to visit with family. Step back in time and enjoy all that this piece of Seattle’s past has to teach you.
