When asking yourself about something to do near me in Seattle with a group of friends or family, consider
Seattle Makers
Why Seattle Makers is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
Seattle Makers is a vibrant member-based makerspace located in Seattle’s Interbay neighborhood, offering an exceptional environment for individuals to connect, collaborate, and create. Founded in 2017 by Jeremy Hanson, a passionate fabricator and maker, this space fueled by a deep community spirit simultaneously provides access to world-class facilities, emerging technologies, and a broad range of classes. Whether you’re an experienced maker or just curious, Seattle Makers welcomes all individuals looking to bring their ideas to life. Their comprehensive offerings include woodworking, video and music studios, and specialized equipment to facilitate diverse projects. What truly distinguishes Seattle Makers is the strong community focus—members and volunteers called “Maketeers” play a crucial role in assisting newcomers and maintaining the space, fostering a collaborative and supportive environment. The organization’s mission centers on teaching skills essential for future jobs, obliterating barriers, especially for kids, and inspiring creativity across all ages. Gathering around the maker ethos, Seattle Makers successfully creates a place where people experience the amazement of turning ideas into tangible reality, making it an outstanding hub to meet up with friends and fellow innovators.
Here's what people think of Seattle Makers
As of recent, Seattle Makers holds a 4.8-star rating based on 50 reviews.
Reviews of Seattle Makers reflect a highly positive reception from its community, with an impressive rating of 4.8 out of 5 based on 50 reviews. Users consistently highlight the welcoming atmosphere and knowledgeable staff, noting how the generosity and expertise of the Maketeers greatly enhance the experience. Many praise the variety and quality of equipment available, appreciating the accessible classes and support that empower members to develop new skills and complete projects confidently. The community aspect is repeatedly celebrated, with reviewers citing how the space fosters meaningful connections among makers and inspires creativity.
On the positive side, users often mention the clean, well-maintained environment and the diverse range of workshops and facilities that cater to both novice and professional makers. They value the flexibility of membership options and the seamless integration of classes and machine time credits. The passion and leadership of founder Jeremy Hanson are also commonly recognized as a driving force behind the strong community and growth of Seattle Makers.
Some critical feedback revolves around operating hours, with a few members wishing for longer or more consistent open times. As Seattle Makers relies on volunteers for staffing, this limitation is understandable and ongoing efforts aim to expand availability. A small number of reviews mention occasional equipment availability challenges but emphasize that the team actively addresses these concerns.
Overall, the reviews convey a vibrant, engaging space with a strong community focus and an evolving infrastructure dedicated to supporting makers of all backgrounds—making Seattle Makers a highly recommended destination for anyone eager to innovate and connect.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
Mohammed Alzubaidi
What an amazing space for makers, creative, and the curious. The space hosts makers, classes, work shops, and team events for tumbler etching, shirt screen printing, circuit board design and soldering, wood working, metal working, CNC, and a full array of 3D printers. We had a team event we all designed our own tumbler etches. It was so much fun! Highly recommend. Thr staff is kind, welcoming, and inviting.
Elliot Mueller
I've worked at Seattle Makers for nearly 3 years. It has been one of the most rewarding experiences of my professional and personal life. I've visited many makerspaces, but Seattle Makers is truly one of a kind. It's more than a 12,000 sqft makerspace; it's a community of creatives, builders, and lifelong learners. The team is passionate and supportive. Continously improving the space to make it safe, inclusive, and well organized for anyone who wants to make whatever their heart desires. They have it all.... woodworking, pottery, lasers, 3d printers, electronics, lapidary, CNC machines,screen printing, metal working, sewing, and more. For every tool and studio, you don't have to have any prior experience they offer beginner classes for almost every tool to make you feel confident operating machines independently. As well as fun project based classes where you leave with something cool while learning a new skill. The community of 250+ members is amazing to be able to connect with about projects, ask questions, and find people with similar interests. Highly recommend for anyone who wants to make things and be around awesome people while doing it. I wasn't asked to write this, and these are my own words. I am now just a member of the space and still fully believe Seattle Makers as being one of the best makerspaces you'll ever go to.
andrew varney
Came here for a team event and we all had a blast. We all were able to make a personal craft and had a great time sharing and comparing designs. Looking forward to coming back and doing one of their other activities!
Ousman Fatty
3 hours was far too short to encompass what Seattle makers had to offer. The staff and the members curated a sense of creativity and comfortably. 10/10 would recommend
Andrew Chiu
Very nice place. Went for a tour and was shown a lot of hardware that i'm interested in learning how to operate. Was going to join for the orientation but suddenly became busy with a task that i need to focus on. Great maker space. Would join for the community.
How to reach Seattle Makers
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Website: None
Why Seattle Makers may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at Seattle Makers with your friends?
Gathering at Seattle Makers is an exceptional choice when planning a group meetup with friends or family because it combines creativity, learning, and collaboration in a welcoming, dynamic environment. Unlike typical venues, Seattle Makers is a vibrant makerspace where anyone can dive into hands-on projects, whether you’re a novice eager to explore or an expert seeking to innovate. The atmosphere at Seattle Makers encourages teamwork, curiosity, and skill-building, making it perfect for groups that want more than just a casual hangout—they want an experience where everyone can contribute to making something unique. Its highly rated community and diverse membership reflect a friendly space where you can feel inspired and supported while working alongside others. Whether your group shares an interest in technology, crafts, or entrepreneurial ventures, Seattle Makers offers the perfect blend of camaraderie and creativity to help make your meetup memorable and rewarding. It’s a place where friends come together not only to socialize but to ignite their collective ingenuity and produce lasting, tangible results.
What activities can you do at Seattle Makers?
Seattle Makers provides a variety of activities that cater to a wide range of interests and skill levels, making it an ideal destination for group engagement. The makerspace is fully equipped with tools and equipment suited for woodworking, metalworking, electronics, sewing, 3D printing, laser cutting, and more. This arsenal of resources allows groups to undertake projects from building custom furniture to creating electronic gadgets or crafting personalized wearable art. For those interested in digital fabrication, there are training classes and workshops that teach foundational skills such as CAD design and circuit assembly, fostering educational opportunities within your group. Because it’s a collaborative space, members often work together on joint projects, fostering a sense of teamwork and innovation. Additionally, Seattle Makers hosts regular events and open studio hours, providing structured and casual opportunities to connect, learn new techniques, or simply brainstorm creative ideas with peers. This diversity of offerings lets your group tailor your visit according to your interests, skill levels, and time, ensuring a fulfilling experience for everyone.
Why is Seattle Makers perfect for a group meetup?
Seattle Makers’ layout and welcoming culture make it particularly perfect for hosting group meetups. The space is designed not only to accommodate individual projects but also to foster group collaboration. Large worktables, communal areas, and specialized stations allow groups to spread out and work simultaneously on different aspects of a project or collaborate closely on the same creation. Its hours of operation are flexible enough to facilitate day or evening visits, from weekends to weekday afternoons, accommodating diverse schedules. Moreover, the knowledgeable community staff and experienced members are always available to assist with technical questions, ensuring your group has support throughout your creative process. This makes Seattle Makers especially inviting for mixed groups with varying skill levels, as beginners can receive guidance while more advanced members push boundaries. The inclusive atmosphere encourages members to share ideas, which can lead to new friendships and lasting collaborations beyond the meetup itself. The mix of professional-grade tools and a friendly environment sets Seattle Makers apart as an ideal hub for productive and enjoyable group gatherings.
What kind of membership or access options does Seattle Makers offer for groups?
Seattle Makers offers accessible membership plans ranging from free introductory access to comprehensive memberships priced up to $1000, catering to individuals and groups alike. This tiered structure means your group can choose how deeply they want to engage with the space, from casual drop-in visits to full access including workshops and specialized equipment use. For first-timers or those new to the maker community, Seattle Makers provides trial memberships or day passes, which allow groups to explore what the space offers without a lengthy commitment. For more frequent groups or clubs, memberships unlock enhanced benefits like priority equipment booking, discounts on classes, and invitations to exclusive events. This flexible membership approach ensures cost-effective access tailored to your group’s interests and schedule. The space also organizes group-oriented tutorials and events, which are perfect for meetups aiming to learn new skills together. This scalable access promotes inclusivity, making Seattle Makers an inviting hub regardless of whether your meetup is a one-off outing or a regular gathering.
How does Seattle Makers support creativity and learning in a group setting?
Seattle Makers excels at fostering creativity and learning by combining hands-on resources with a collaborative, educational environment well-suited for groups. The makerspace offers a steady schedule of workshops, classes, and events designed to build practical skills in areas like electronics, woodworking, and digital fabrication. Groups can sign up together to learn new techniques in a supportive setting where interaction and teamwork are encouraged. Experienced instructors and community mentors are on hand to guide projects, help troubleshoot challenges, and inspire experimentation. This learning ecosystem helps different skill levels thrive simultaneously, allowing more experienced makers to mentor newcomers within your group. Additionally, the overall community culture promotes sharing knowledge, tools, and creative insights freely. This nurturing environment can spark innovation and deepen connections within your group, as members inspire and support one another’s creative ambitions. Whether your group is looking to prototype a new invention, craft gifts, or simply enjoy an educational outing, Seattle Makers provides the ideal foundation to grow skills and collaborate in meaningful ways.
What makes Seattle Makers a unique venue compared to other meetup spaces?
Seattle Makers stands out from typical meetup venues because it’s a fully equipped, interactive makerspace where the focus is on creating rather than just socializing. Unlike restaurants, cafes, or parks, Seattle Makers provides direct access to tools and technology that enable guests to build physical projects and prototypes during their visit. This hands-on aspect creates a dynamic, engaging experience where group members not only connect socially but also work together to make something tangible. The community-driven model means everyone participates in a culture of innovation and learning, breaking down barriers between experts and novices. Seattle Makers also distinguishes itself through its flexibility—whether your group wants to spend a couple of hours experimenting with woodworking or attend a workshop on 3D printing over multiple sessions, the space adapts to your needs. Beyond the practical, the space fosters collaboration with a network of like-minded makers, which can lead to new group ideas, creative ventures, or even business opportunities. This combination of creativity, community, and resources makes Seattle Makers an exceptional and memorable choice for hosting group meetups.
How accessible and convenient is Seattle Makers for groups?
Seattle Makers is located at 3012 16th Ave W, Seattle, WA, a spot that is easily accessible for both locals and visitors within the city. The space offers extensive hours during afternoons and evenings throughout the week, plus weekend availability from 10 am to 8 pm, giving your group considerable flexibility in planning meetups according to your preferred times. Whether your crew prefers weekday evenings or weekend day trips, Seattle Makers accommodates these preferences well. Additionally, the facility’s operational schedule, with a single midweek closed day, ensures it is open most days for scheduled group activities or drop-ins. Parking and public transit options in the area facilitate easy access for groups arriving by car or bus. The combination of convenient location, flexible hours, and an inclusive community setting means your group can focus on creativity and connection without logistical hassle. This ease of access further strengthens Seattle Makers’ appeal as a prime destination for group meetups aiming to blend fun, learning, and productivity.
What social and networking opportunities does Seattle Makers offer for groups?
Seattle Makers goes beyond just a workspace by offering rich social and networking opportunities ideal for groups looking to expand their connections. The makerspace regularly hosts community events, maker fairs, demonstrations, and collaborative projects that encourage members to meet fellow creators, entrepreneurs, and hobbyists. These occasions create a bustling social environment where groups can mingle, share ideas, and build valuable contacts across diverse fields like technology, arts, and business. The space’s vibrant community includes students, independent creators, and small business owners, giving your group chances to encounter inspiring stories and potential partnerships. Seattle Makers also prides itself on fostering an inclusive and supportive atmosphere where newcomers are warmly welcomed, helping groups quickly feel part of a thriving collective. For groups interested in entrepreneurship or launching creative ventures, these networking possibilities add significant value beyond pure making. This blending of social, creative, and professional networking makes gatherings at Seattle Makers not only fun but also meaningful in long-term relationship building.