Coliseum Theater, Movie theater in downtown Seattle, United States
The Coliseum Theater is a movie house in downtown Seattle built specifically for showing films in 1916. Its white terra cotta exterior displays intricate plasterwork featuring goddess busts, gargoyles, and a large lion head positioned above the stage area.
This building opened in 1916 as Seattle's first theater designed exclusively for motion pictures. It was listed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1975.
The theater became known for hosting exceptional live musical performances during silent films, with a Russian orchestra and organist providing accompaniment that enhanced the viewing experience. This combination of cinema and live music created a cultural gathering place for Seattle audiences seeking complete entertainment.
The theater sits in a central location within Seattle's entertainment district, making it easy to reach on foot. Visitors should know the building is accessible for special events and guided tours rather than regular movie screenings.
The Royal Institute of Architects recognized this building in 1931 as the world's first movie palace, setting the standard for how cinema halls would be designed afterward. This international honor marked Seattle's contribution to establishing the blueprint for theatrical cinema architecture globally.
Location: Seattle
Architects: B. Marcus Priteca
Official opening: January 8, 1916
Address: 500 Pike Street,Seattle, WA 98101
GPS coordinates: 47.61140,-122.33400
Latest update: December 12, 2025 17:44
IBM Building
342 m
Rainier Tower
267 m
Rainier Square Tower
255 m
Paramount Theatre
294 m
5th Avenue Theatre
248 m
Freeway Park
308 m
Washington Athletic Club
178 m
ACT Theatre
140 m
Camlin Hotel
295 m
U.S. Bank Center
116 m
1600 Seventh Avenue
203 m
Times Square Building
332 m
Liggett Building
222 m
Helios
328 m
Eagles Auditorium Building
164 m
Premiere on Pine
211 m
Medical Dental Building
249 m
Sheraton Grand Seattle
33 m
1411 Fourth Avenue Building
269 m
United Shopping Tower
242 m
Urban Garden
128 m
Puget Sound Plaza
336 m
Two Union Square
146 m
520 Pike Tower
75 m
Olive 8
245 m
Plymouth Congregational Church
288 m
Winter Garden Theatre
345 m
One Union Square
259 mVisited this place? Tap the stars to rate it and share your experience / photos with the community! Try now! You can cancel it anytime.
Discover hidden gems everywhere you go!
From secret cafés to breathtaking viewpoints, skip the crowded tourist spots and find places that match your style. Our app makes it easy with voice search, smart filtering, route optimization, and insider tips from travelers worldwide. Download now for the complete mobile experience.
A unique approach to discovering new places❞
— Le Figaro
All the places worth exploring❞
— France Info
A tailor-made excursion in just a few clicks❞
— 20 Minutes