Are you looking for an amazing place to see live performances in Spokane? The First Interstate Center for the Arts is a truly special spot, a downtown landmark that brings all sorts of entertainment to our community. This historic building, a real treasure from the 1974 World's Fair, has been a key part of the city's cultural heart for many years, offering memorable experiences to everyone who walks through its doors. It's a place where stories unfold on stage and music fills the air, creating moments you'll remember for a long time.
This wonderful facility, you know, has a rich past, changing names a few times but always keeping its promise of great shows. It was once known as the INB Performing Arts Center, and even before that, it went by the Spokane Opera House. People who remember the Washington State Pavilion Opera House might recall its earliest days, too. No matter the name, it has always been a hub for arts and culture, serving the public with a wide array of events. It really is a central gathering spot for those who enjoy live entertainment.
After a big, important renovation, the First Interstate Center for the Arts opened its doors again in November 2018. This significant upgrade, a $22 million effort, brought new life to the beloved building, making it even better for visitors and performers alike. So, it's pretty much a blend of its storied past and modern comforts, ready to host everything from grand Broadway shows to intimate concerts, giving folks many reasons to visit. You could say, it’s a place that really cares about its guests.
Table of Contents
- A History of Transformation and Community
- What's On Stage? Events and Performances
- Planning Your Visit to the Center
- Stay Connected for Special Access
- Frequently Asked Questions About the First Interstate Center for the Arts
- A Cultural Gem for Everyone
A History of Transformation and Community
The First Interstate Center for the Arts, as we know it today, has a truly fascinating story, you know. Its beginnings trace back to the iconic 1974 World's Fair, where it stood as the Washington State Pavilion Opera House. This building, a lasting gift from that big event, has remained a prominent fixture in downtown Spokane, right on the beautiful Spokane Falls Boulevard. It’s a pretty significant part of the city's overall history, too.
Over the years, the venue changed its name a few times, reflecting new chapters in its life. For a while, it was known as the Spokane Opera House, a name many people still recall. Later, it became the INB Performing Arts Center, and people grew quite fond of it under that name, as a matter of fact. Each name change marked a new phase, but the core purpose of providing a stage for amazing performances always stayed the same, really.
A big moment for the center came with its $22 million renovation. This extensive work, completed in 2018, brought the building up to modern standards while keeping its historic charm. It reopened in November 2018, looking fresh and ready for many more years of shows. This investment shows just how much the community values this place, and how important it is for the arts in Spokane. The Spokane Public Facilities District (SPFD) owns and operates this special building, ensuring it continues to serve as a vital cultural asset for everyone, you know.
What's On Stage? Events and Performances
The First Interstate Center for the Arts is well-known for hosting a truly wide array of events, from big Broadway productions that draw crowds to concerts by famous musicians, and everything in between. It's a place where you can catch a variety of performances, making it a key spot for entertainment in the area. We’re talking about, like, truly diverse shows that cater to many different tastes, which is pretty great.
This venue has a history of bringing top-tier talent to Spokane. For instance, back in 2011, it hosted "Wicked," a show that many people remember seeing there, apparently. The center also saw "Dancing with the..." in 2005, showing its long-standing tradition of diverse entertainment. It really does bring a lot of different kinds of acts to the stage, which is pretty cool.
You can often find all sorts of interesting shows listed for the center. It's a place where you might see a touring Broadway hit one week and a beloved musical group the next. The variety is a big part of its appeal, honestly, ensuring there's usually something for everyone to enjoy. It’s a very active spot for live events, pretty much all year round.
Upcoming Shows You Won't Want to Miss
The calendar at the First Interstate Center for the Arts is often packed with exciting events, so it's always a good idea to check what's coming up. For example, there are often four or more concerts scheduled at any given time, giving you plenty of options. You can usually find details about these shows, see photos from past events, and read reviews to help you pick something you'll like, too.
Looking ahead, the venue has some truly notable performances planned. Cirque Dreams Holidaze, for instance, is set to light up the stage on December 4, 2024, promising a spectacular show for the holiday season. That sounds like a really fun time, doesn't it?
Music fans have plenty to look forward to as well. Rumours of Fleetwood Mac, a band personally endorsed by Fleetwood Mac founding members, will be performing on Saturday, October 11. The Oak Ridge Boys are also returning to Spokane with their ‘American Made, Farewell Tour’ on Monday, July 28, for what promises to be an unforgettable night of entertainment. Jason Isbell and the 400 Unit, known for their honest songs, are coming on Friday, May 16. And for something a bit different, the Stardew Valley Concert Symphony of Seasons is also on the schedule, offering a unique musical journey. It's a pretty full lineup, naturally.
Planning Your Visit to the Center
Getting ready for an event at the First Interstate Center for the Arts is quite simple, and knowing a few things beforehand can make your experience even better. The venue, located at 334 W Spokane Falls Blvd, Spokane, WA 99201, is easy to find in the heart of downtown. It's a very accessible spot, which is nice for everyone planning a trip, you know.
Getting There and Parking
You have several good options for getting to the center. Spokane Transit (STA) offers bus service directly to events, making public transport a very convenient choice. Spokane’s bus rapid transit line, the City Line Route 1, even has a stop just a block away, so that's super easy. This makes it a great choice for those who prefer not to drive, or who want to enjoy a relaxed trip to the show, actually.
If you prefer to drive, there are a variety of parking choices around the First Interstate Center for the Arts. Finding a spot shouldn't be too much trouble, as there are many options to consider. You can usually find directions and details about the best parking areas online before you head out, which helps a lot with planning your arrival. It's pretty much all set up to make your visit simple.
Seating and Accessibility
The theater itself is a sizable space, designed to give everyone a good view. Reviews often mention it as a beautiful venue, clean and in a nice location. Some seats, like the six end seats in the orchestra section, offer a clear view with no one sitting directly in front, which is a pretty nice perk for some folks. The venue aims to provide a comfortable experience for all guests, and that includes looking at seating options that work for different needs, you know.
The First Interstate Center for the Arts works to make sure everyone can enjoy the shows. They have policies and procedures in place to help you with things like what to bring and what to expect when you arrive. It’s always a good idea to check their specific guidelines before you go, so you're fully prepared for your visit. This helps ensure a smooth and pleasant time for all attendees, naturally.
Venue Policies for a Smooth Experience
To ensure everyone has a good time and stays safe, the First Interstate Center for the Arts has specific policies and procedures for attending events. It’s always a good idea to get familiar with these guidelines before you arrive. This includes information about what items you can bring inside, and what to expect once you are there. These policies are in place to help all guests enjoy the show without any unexpected issues, you know.
For example, knowing about security checks or bag policies ahead of time can really speed up your entry. They want to make sure your visit is as enjoyable as possible, so understanding these details helps everyone. You can usually find this information on their official site, which is pretty convenient for planning your trip. It's honestly a very straightforward process, designed for guest comfort.
Stay Connected for Special Access
If you really want to make the most of your visits to the First Interstate Center for the Arts, consider joining their eClub. It's a pretty smart way to stay in the loop and get some cool perks. Signing up today gives you exciting access to special event information, which means you'll be among the first to know about new shows. This is a great benefit for those who like to plan ahead, you know.
Beyond just event info, eClub members often get early ticket sales access. This means you can grab tickets to popular shows before they go on sale to the general public, increasing your chances of getting the best seats. Plus, there are often chances to win cool stuff, which is a nice bonus. It’s a fairly simple way to enhance your experience and stay connected with the venue, and it really does offer some good advantages. Learn more about the First Interstate Center for the Arts and sign up for their eClub on their official site.
Frequently Asked Questions About the First Interstate Center for the Arts
What types of events does the First Interstate Center for the Arts host?
The First Interstate Center for the Arts hosts a really wide variety of events, you know. This includes big Broadway shows, concerts by popular artists, and diverse performances like Cirque Dreams Holidaze. They also welcome various festivals and other special events throughout the year, so there’s often something for everyone to enjoy. It's a pretty active venue for all sorts of entertainment, honestly.
How can I get tickets for shows at the First Interstate Center for the Arts?
You can buy tickets for shows at the First Interstate Center for the Arts through official sellers, which is usually the best way to ensure you get legitimate tickets. For instance, you can often find ticket links directly on the venue's website or through reputable ticketing platforms. Joining their eClub might even give you early access to ticket sales, which is a pretty good perk for popular shows, too.
Where is the First Interstate Center for the Arts located and how do I get there?
The First Interstate Center for the Arts is located downtown at 334 W Spokane Falls Blvd, Spokane, WA 99201. Getting there is quite convenient, as you can take a Spokane Transit (STA) bus directly to events, or use the City Line Route 1, which stops just a block away. If you're driving, there are many parking options available around the venue, so that's pretty easy to figure out, you know.
A Cultural Gem for Everyone
The First Interstate Center for the Arts truly stands as a cornerstone of Spokane's cultural scene. From its early days as a legacy of the 1974 World's Fair to its recent, significant renovation, this venue has consistently provided a stage for countless memorable moments. It’s a place where history and modern entertainment meet, offering something special for every visitor. This iconic building, owned and operated by the Spokane Public Facilities District, continues to be a vital hub for arts and performances in the Pacific Northwest, providing a welcoming space for all kinds of shows, you know.
Whether you're planning to catch a big Broadway production, enjoy a concert from a favorite artist, or simply explore a bit of Spokane's history, the First Interstate Center for the Arts is a destination worth visiting. With its convenient downtown location, various transport options, and a calendar full of exciting events, it’s always ready to welcome guests. To learn more about upcoming events and plan your visit, and to find out about other attractions in Spokane, keep an eye on their schedules and resources. It’s a pretty important part of the community, offering lots of great experiences.
