The Big Dipper

Located in the heart of Spokane, the historic The Big Dipper building is a true symbol of local alternative culture. It is not just a concert venue, but a living architectural monument with a recognizable blue facade, adorned with a recently restored mural of the constellation.

In the USA, there are few places with such a dense concentration of musical history from the end of the last century. Today, this multifunctional space is used for live concerts, private parties, and exhibitions. Inside, visitors will find an authentic stage, a dance floor, and a cozy bar that have preserved the spirit of the legendary 80s rock club.

The venue's role in shaping the Washington state youth scene gives it special significance. As a "gathering point" for alternative bands, the building survived periods of neglect and a triumphant return, transforming from an abandoned structure into a modern cultural hub with a bar and a full kitchen.

When planning a visit to this iconic venue in the USA, it is worth checking the details of upcoming events on the official resource in advance. Below are the main contact details for getting in touch and finding the location on the city map.

A visit to The Big Dipper is always an immersion into a cozy and slightly experimental atmosphere. Here, you can witness all-ages rock concerts, poetry slams, or open mics featuring both emerging talents and seasoned artists.

Inside the venue, guests can settle onto plush sofas along the walls, dance right in front of the stage, or stop by the bar. The menu offers not only drinks made with fresh-squeezed juices but also excellent snacks: handmade pretzels, pizza, and signature grilled pear and cheese sandwiches.

For those who appreciate fresh air, there is a small back patio. Thanks to a recent renovation, the interior looks fresh while still retaining its industrial charm. It is a versatile spot for an evening out, where the historical significance of an alternative rock hub meets modern comfort.

Getting to this cultural center is easy, as it is located on the northeast corner of Second Avenue and Washington Street, right in the heart of downtown. If you are already walking through the city's central streets, the walk from Spokane Falls will take only about 5–10 minutes.

For those arriving from Spokane International Airport (GEG), the trip by car or taxi will take 15 to 20 minutes via I-90. In the evening, this is the most convenient way to travel, as taxis are easily called to any point in the city center.

If you prefer public transportation, several bus routes stop near the intersection of Second Avenue and Washington Street. Visitors with personal vehicles should keep in mind that downtown parking can be limited, so it is better to look for a spot in nearby municipal parking lots in advance.

This place gained its legendary fame in the late 1980s and early 1990s. At that time, The Big Dipper was a true epicenter of alternative rock in Spokane, where young musicians could perform for all-ages audiences, which was a rarity for other clubs.

After the original venue closed in 1995, the building went through a long period of decline. It stood abandoned, suffered from vandalism, was stripped of its copper wiring, and became a shelter for squatters. Several attempts to revive it, including the opening of a coffee shop in 2010, were unsuccessful.

A new chapter began in 2011 when the building was purchased by Dan Hoerner, a former member of the band Sunny Day Real Estate, along with his partners. The new owners invested about $50,000 in a large-scale renovation, completely updating the electricity, flooring, and plumbing to restore the venue to its former glory.

Interestingly, the venue's capacity is limited to 110 visitors due to fire suppression system constraints. This technical detail, known among locals as "The Big Dipper puzzle," gives the concerts a special sense of intimacy and exclusivity, making every event feel truly personal.

Typically, a visit to a concert or creative evening at The Big Dipper takes between 1 and 3 hours. This is enough time to enjoy a live performance, order drinks at the bar, and soak in the building's historical atmosphere.

If you plan to spend a full evening here, renting the venue for your own event or attending a series of performances, you should allow for 4–6 hours. The cozy sofa areas and back patio allow for comfortable relaxation over a longer period.

The venue is geared toward evening leisure and events. Typically, the doors of The Big Dipper are open to visitors daily from 7:30 PM to 12:00 AM.

Since the venue is often rented for private events and concerts, the schedule may change depending on the lineup. It is recommended to check the schedule for the current date on the official website before visiting.

A walk around the neighborhood after attending an event will allow you to better feel the atmosphere of Spokane. Within walking distance are architectural landmarks and modern entertainment centers that harmoniously complement the city's character.