Georgetown Steam Plant

about the plant

The Georgetown Steam Plant, a National Historic Landmark, stands today as a reminder of the era of electrification of America's cities and a time when industry was first attracted to Seattle by its inexpensive hydroelectric power and electric trolley car system. Built in 1906-1907 by the Seattle Electric Company on 18 acres of land along the Duwamish River, the plant was once at the center of the bustling residential and industrial activity in the rapidly growing Georgetown neighborhood of Seattle.

Photography in the plant

• Tripods are permitted, though we ask for you to be courteous of other visitors in the plant. Tripods are not allowed on the second-floor catwalk. Steam plant staff have the discretion to ask you to move a tripod if it appears to be a hazard or is impeding the experience of other visitors.
• Flash is permitted inside the building.
• A safe distance must be maintained from all machinery, equipment, and other steam plant paraphernalia.
• External gear, such as reflectors, softboxes, and other studio equipment, is not permitted inside the plant during the Open House. Photographers may bring in a maximum of one tripod each.
• Props, including weapons of any kind, are not permitted at the Open House.

parking

There is limited parking available on-site. Carpools and public transportation are encouraged. If on-site parking is full, visitors may be requested to find parking off-site, including local neighborhood streets.

Notes

• Dress warmly. It often feels colder inside the plant than outside!

• Suitable Activities: Photography, Urban Adventure
• Seasons: Year-round
• Weather: View weather forecast

• Land Manager: Georgetown Steam Plant
• Parking Permit Required: None
• Recommended Party Size: 15
• Maximum Party Size: 15
• Maximum Route/Place Capacity: 12