When asking yourself about something to do near me in Seattle with a group of friends or family, consider
First & Bell
Why First & Bell is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
First & Bell is an exceptional event venue nestled in the heart of Seattle, offering a chic, urban ambiance with a storied past and modern renovations. This unique space caters to a wide range of events such as corporate gatherings, weddings, private parties, and networking affairs, making it an ideal meetup spot for friends or colleagues. Its nearly 9,000 square feet of flexible indoor/outdoor space features high ceilings over 20 feet, exposed brick walls, elegant chandeliers, and wrought iron railings that provide a distinctive aesthetic appeal. Guests can enjoy the versatility of three distinct areas: The Great Room & Mezzanine, The Side Room, and The Rooftop Patio, each offering intimate or expansive settings depending on the size and nature of the event. The rooftop patio additionally offers a refreshing outdoor experience in an urban setting. The venue’s customizable layout supports events ranging from small groups of around 50 people to large gatherings of up to 500 cocktail-style or 350 seated attendees. These attributes, combined with its prime Seattle location on First Avenue, make First & Bell a standout choice for memorable social meetings with friends or formal celebrations.
Here's what people think of First & Bell
As of recent, First & Bell holds a 3.9-star rating based on 45 reviews.
User reviews of First & Bell present a range of opinions with an average rating of 3.9 out of 5 based on 45 reviews, indicating generally positive but somewhat mixed feedback. Many positive reviews praise the venue's unique ambiance created by its historic exposed brick, high ceilings, and elegant chandeliers, which contribute to a memorable atmosphere suited to social and corporate events. Reviewers often highlight the versatility and spaciousness of the different rooms and the attractive rooftop patio, which is valued for adding an outdoor element to events. Several commend the professional staff and the customizable layout that accommodates various group sizes and event types effectively. Conversely, some negative reviews mention issues such as occasional problems with event coordination or customer service, and at times the acoustic experience or amenities are not as perfect as expected for the price point. A few guests report logistical challenges or that certain areas felt underwhelming compared to the venue’s overall potential. In conclusion, while First & Bell is favored for its distinctive charm and wide-ranging event capabilities, potential visitors should consider recent reviews and specific event requirements to ensure a smooth experience.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
C-Loz Beats
I don't know whats happened to this place but since the beginning of 2025 they have had back to back amazing events like nowhere else in downtown. This is becoming my regular spot, music is great, staff is great and its always a party. I always check their website to see who's coming out next, Every time im there its like a whole new vibe and new music Beware there is a line, but they have QR codes outside to buy tickets which makes the line move way faster.
kyle “xVictorianx” kauzlarich
Venue has zero internal communication. Security not letting anyone in till an hour after the posted start time on flyers missing the first act. Bar is 5 bottles all in all over priced underwhelming hotel party but hey if that's your thing it's perfect for you
Jackson
Worst venue ever. When I was there, there was almost never someone tending the counter where they serve (sell) water. When I went to get water, I stood there for several minutes trying to make it obvious I was waiting to be served but staff walked by me and ignored me. Eventually I got really thirsty and reached over the counter and served myself a water. Security guard saw and demanded the water back. Tried to say I would pay for it but I do need water. Security guard ignored me and grabbed at it and I instinctively pulled back. This led to them telling me I was getting kicked out, and before I could even process what they said, they start shoving me towards the club exit. On the way out I was shoved into multiple other guests. All this nonsense over WATER! Obviously, their failure to provide access to clean drinking water (despite the fact that they serve alcohol) put me in a situation where I had to serve myself, so there was no good reason to kick me out of the show, let alone justify the use of force. I emailed to ask for a refund, but they didn't respond, so I had to chargeback. That's not all: - The main bathroom is a single stall with a broken lock that connects right to the main floor. So when I went to the bathroom, I opened the unlocked door and walked in on someone. - The side stage was setup in such a way that the DJ table was about 10 feet back from the edge of the stage. This caused guests to have to pack together ON THE STAGE in order to see. There is a ~1.5ft dropoff at the edge of the stage. I saw someone get bumped off the stage, and while he fortunately caught himself in this instance, this is a COLOSSAL falling hazard that could very easily cause a death.
c f
Incredibly beautiful space, European Conglomerate has really turned this whole building around . This is the place to go to for any meetings, birthdays, weddings, receptions, events, concerts and more. Highly recommend
Daniel Zhang
Good event, great venue. However security staff is extremely rude. They yell at you and do not adhere to policy at all.
How to reach First & Bell
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Website: None
Why First & Bell may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at First & Bell with your friends? First & Bell offers an urban industrial chic setting that creates an unforgettable atmosphere for social gatherings, making it an ideal rallying spot for groups of friends or family. Located in the heart of Seattle, this venue boasts expansive indoor and outdoor spaces with elegant design elements such as 20+ foot ceilings, exposed brick walls, wrought iron railings, and shimmering chandeliers. The spacious 9,000 square feet of newly renovated event areas include multiple distinct rooms and a rooftop patio, each offering a unique vibe for socializing, dining, or celebrating. Whether you're looking for a relaxed meetup, an energetic cocktail event, or a memorable dinner party, First & Bell provides ample room and a versatile layout to customize your experience. Its central city location also adds ease of access, making it convenient for all your friends to join. Beyond aesthetics, the venue’s intimate yet flexible atmosphere encourages interaction and makes it an excellent choice for creating lasting memories with your group.
What activities can you enjoy at First & Bell, and why is it perfect for group meetups? First & Bell is designed with multiple functional spaces to accommodate a variety of group activities. The Great Room and Mezzanine offers 4,500 square feet with a dramatic ceiling and two fully stocked bars, perfect for cocktail parties or seated dinners supporting up to 120 people. This space features a caterer’s kitchen, a spacious prep area, and multiple restrooms to ensure convenience. Adjacent to it is the Side Room, a 2,000-square-foot area equipped with dimmable lighting, built-in booth seating, WiFi, and a stage, ideal for live entertainment such as bands or DJs. This makes it perfect for hosting dance parties or karaoke sessions. For outdoor gatherings, the Rooftop Patio covers 2,000 square feet with a full outdoor bar and optional heaters for cooler evenings, allowing groups to enjoy fresh air under the sun or stars. The venue also includes a cozy Green Room, versatile enough for private conversations or smaller group activities. This variety of spaces ensures that any group size or activity type can be comfortably and stylishly accommodated, whether it’s casual socializing, music-focused events, or celebratory occasions.
How does First & Bell’s customizable layout enhance your group experience? Flexibility is a key strength of First & Bell’s layout, which can be tailored to meet the specific needs of your event. The venue can host up to 500 guests cocktail-style or 120 guests for sit-down dinners, accommodating groups ranging from intimate family reunions to large friend gatherings. The distinct areas — Great Room & Mezzanine, Side Room, Green Room, and Rooftop Deck — can be used individually or combined, allowing for seamless transitions between different parts of the event. This adaptability makes it easy to plan activities simultaneously or consecutively, such as starting with a seated meal in the Great Room, moving to the Side Room for dancing or live music, and then heading to the Rooftop for fresh air and chill time. Additionally, the industrial chic aesthetic with exposed beams and ironwork offers a stylish backdrop that enhances photo opportunities, creating a visually memorable setting for your memories. By offering such flexible configuration options, First & Bell ensures every gathering feels personalized and dynamic.
What amenities make First & Bell stand out for hosting group events? One of the standout features of First & Bell is its comprehensive amenities designed to support varied event needs. Two fully equipped bars in the Great Room and Rooftop Patio ensure your group can enjoy a wide selection of beverages with professional service. An onsite caterer’s kitchen comes with ample prep areas, refrigerators, and a high-capacity ice machine, making food service smooth and efficient even for large groups. The venue also offers cloakrooms and eight restrooms, accommodating guest comfort during extended events. Free WiFi enables easy connectivity for guests, whether to share moments on social media or coordinate group activities. Built-in stages and dimmable lighting in key rooms provide the technical support essential for live entertainment or presentations. Moreover, the rooftop heaters available for rent extend the venue’s usability into cooler months or evenings. These thoughtful amenities contribute to a hassle-free hosting experience that keeps guests comfortable and engaged throughout the event.
Why is First & Bell ideal for special occasions with friends and family? First & Bell’s unique characteristics make it a top choice for commemorating important moments with loved ones. From weddings, holiday parties, and engagement celebrations to milestone birthdays and work-related social events, the venue’s versatile spaces and elegant design elevate the atmosphere of any occasion. Its city-center location adds an urban vibe paired with welcoming interiors, blending sophistication with a warm ambiance. The customizable environment lets you tailor the mood to your group’s preferences, whether classic, casual, or festive. Large groups can mingle comfortably without feeling cramped, while smaller groups still enjoy intimate corners like the Green Room. The rooftop patio, with its open-air charm, is perfect for sunset gatherings and offers breathtaking views, adding an element of enchantment rarely found in other venues. Hosting your event at First & Bell ensures a setting that enhances connection, celebration, and fun with your friends and family.
How accessible and convenient is First & Bell for group meetups? Accessibility is a key benefit for groups arranging meetups, and First & Bell delivers on this front with a prime downtown Seattle location at 2218 First Avenue. This central spot is easily reachable by car, public transit, or even walking for residents of nearby neighborhoods. Ample parking options around ensure guests won’t have to worry about finding a spot or walking long distances. Furthermore, the venue is designed with inclusivity in mind, featuring ramp access and facilities suitable for guests with diverse mobility needs. The availability of multiple restrooms, cloakroom services, and efficient staffing helps reduce wait times and keeps the event flowing smoothly. Also, the venue’s professional event staff can assist with logistics, allowing hosts to focus on enjoying time with friends and family. The convenient setting combined with thoughtful venue management simplifies planning, reducing stress and enabling memorable group experiences.
What types of events and group activities are best suited for First & Bell? First & Bell’s design and amenities make it suitable for a wide range of social gatherings and group activities. It is an excellent choice for events where mingling, dancing, and social engagement are priorities, such as cocktail parties, birthday celebrations, or anniversary soirées. The flexible layout supports both stand-up receptions and seated dinners, making it suitable for various dining styles and event formality levels. The venue is also perfectly fitted for live music nights or DJ events due to its dedicated stage and sound equipment infrastructure. For groups interested in creative or corporate activities, parts of the venue can serve well for team-building workshops, product launches, networking events, fundraisers, or even photo and film shoots. The rooftop space encourages relaxed informal gatherings or sunset viewing parties. These multiple options allow groups from diverse social circles to find something that suits their preferred mode of connection and entertainment under one roof.
How do First & Bell’s design and ambiance contribute to group enjoyment? The venue’s industrial chic aesthetic creates a unique atmosphere distinct from typical event spaces. High ceilings and exposed timbers frame the rooms, giving a spacious and airy feel that prevents crowding even in large groups. Wrought iron railings and original brick walls add texture and warmth, contributing to an urban yet inviting environment. The gorgeous chandeliers provide soft, elegant lighting, which enhances the ambiance without overpowering it. Meanwhile, the rooftop patio offers a breath of fresh air and scenic city views that inspire relaxation and conversation. This thoughtfully curated environment encourages guests to linger, socialize, and enjoy the moment. By blending modern design with classic architectural elements, First & Bell creates an exciting yet comfortable backdrop that elevates every group meetup.
What support does First & Bell offer for event planning and coordination? Booking and planning an event at First & Bell is streamlined by the venue’s experienced staff and resources. The venue’s website and event planners provide information on availability, pricing, and customization options. Besides space rental, First & Bell offers guidance on layout configurations to optimize guest flow based on event size and type. They also coordinate rental needs, such as heaters for the rooftop, professional sound systems, and lighting setups. Their collaboration with local caterers and beverage services ensures high-quality food and drink options can be seamlessly integrated. For weddings and special events, First & Bell provides additional amenities like a dedicated Green Room for preparation, along with coat check and multiple restrooms. This comprehensive support system reduces the burden on the host, allowing them to focus on the experience rather than logistics.
How does First & Bell compare to other venues for group socializing? Compared to traditional banquet halls or venues with a single large room, First & Bell’s multiple distinctive spaces offer enhanced flexibility and variety, which can accommodate different guest preferences within one event. Its urban-chic styling provides a distinctive atmosphere that is both trendy and timeless, unlike more generic or hotel-based venues. The rooftop patio is a rare feature in city venues, giving groups an outdoor option without leaving the venue. With a substantial capacity of up to 500 standing and 120 seated guests, it can comfortably host sizeable gatherings that many smaller venues cannot support, all while maintaining a cohesive experience. Furthermore, the venue’s emphasis on service, with multiple full bars and kitchen facilities, provides convenience often missing in other spaces. This combination of design, amenities, and flexibility makes First & Bell a top-tier option for dynamic group social events.
What should groups keep in mind when booking First & Bell? Groups planning a meetup or special occasion at First & Bell should consider the size and nature of their event to select the best suited rooms or combination thereof. Because it is a popular venue, early reservation is recommended to secure the desired date and layout. Groups should also communicate specific needs such as AV requirements, catering preferences, and outdoor heating well in advance to allow full customization. Although the space is versatile, certain events may benefit from professional event planning support, which the venue offers to help coordinate. Lastly, given its location in downtown Seattle, arranging transportation or parking logistics ahead of time helps ensure smooth guest arrival and departure. Taking these steps enables groups to maximize the venue’s offerings and have a stress-free, enjoyable gathering.
Overall, First & Bell combines a striking urban industrial design with versatile and ample space, excellent amenities, and comprehensive event support, making it a highly attractive venue for group meetups. Its multiple distinct rooms and rooftop patio provide exceptional flexibility for a diverse range of activities, while its central location ensures convenience. Whether hosting casual social gatherings or formal celebrations, First & Bell fosters an engaging and memorable environment to connect with friends or family in style and comfort.