When asking yourself about something to do near me in Seattle with a group of friends or family, consider
SURF Incubator
Why SURF Incubator is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
SURF Incubator, founded in 2009 by Seaton Gras, is a unique entrepreneur network and technology incubator based in downtown Seattle at 999 3rd Avenue. It is a vibrant community of entrepreneurs, mentors, investors, developers, designers, and educators focused on transforming innovative ideas into disruptive businesses. Unlike many other incubators, SURF offers a flexible membership model without taking equity stakes, making it an attractive choice for startups at various stages. The space is designed to foster collaboration and creativity, with amenities including high-speed WiFi, meeting rooms, video conferencing facilities, and a café-style environment that encourages idea exchange over coffee. The location in the Exchange Building provides stunning views and convenient access to the city, enhancing its appeal as a hub for tech startups. SURF also hosts numerous events and workshops aimed at supporting entrepreneurs on their journey to success. This incubator stands out as a great place to meet up with friends or colleagues in the startup ecosystem, offering a welcoming, resource-rich environment for networking and growth.
Here's what people think of SURF Incubator
As of recent, SURF Incubator holds a 4.8-star rating based on 58 reviews.
Reviews of SURF Incubator are overwhelmingly positive with an average rating of 4.8 from 58 reviews. Users frequently praise the welcoming atmosphere and the quality of the workspace, describing it as professional and well-equipped with essential amenities such as 24/7 access, coffee, and advanced meeting facilities. The host, Seaton Gras, is often highlighted for being accommodating and helpful, contributing positively to the overall experience. Positive feedback emphasizes the collaborative and supportive culture within the incubator, making it a preferred choice for many entrepreneurs needing a reliable and inspiring place to develop their startups. On the other hand, negative reviews are rare but some users mention minor concerns such as limited parking and the busy environment during peak times. Despite these few criticisms, the general consensus is that SURF Incubator is a highly valuable resource for startups in Seattle. The space effectively balances a professional setting with a community-centric approach, making it a recommended destination for entrepreneurs and innovators looking to connect and grow their ventures.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
Grant Engle
I helped coordinate an event here, and the venue was perfect. It has great natural light, a nice view of Elliott Bay, and plenty of available parking in the garage under the building. The venue rental also came with a great A/V setup: Two mics and a large screen for presentations. Most other venues I researched use that as an opportunity to charge more, but not SURF. It was all included, and setup was easy. I worked with Seaton, who was incredibly helpful throughout the process. He was exceptionally communicative and had everything ready for us upon arrival. I'd recommend this space for anyone hosting an event. Thank you so much for everything, Seaton!
Lori Arakaki
The event space is beautiful! The space is fully equipped with chairs and tables in almost any imaginable configuration. There's a full kitchen for catering and a high countertop for self service. High quality AV and projector system, and a beautiful view out to Eliott Bay. Seaton is a gem - so helpful and accommodating. He's seen it all and knows what needs to be done!
Benjamin Hall
Absolutely excellent location! Many bright, well-appointed conference rooms with easy access to a large presentation room with beautiful views of the city & sound, and a huge modern kitchen/catering area. I visited several places around the city and this was honestly the best
Jenna Anderson
SURF is a great co-working venue in Seattle! Within walking distance of the Symphony light rail stop, and close to lots of good lunch spots in downtown. A very welcoming atmosphere, with strong wifi, high quality equipment to plug into, and even some private rooms where you can take meetings if preferred. SURF strikes a good balance of providing privacy along with the opportunity to engage in social events (essential if you're like me and like a little bit of community with your remote job). I did a trial at SURF back in October and met folks from startups, or others attending external events hosted by SURF. It's a lively place to get connected in Seattle!
Julia Tung
The SURF Cafe was the absolute perfect venue for our outreach event. We had a very flexible attendance range, 20-50 people, and the arrangement of the venue made it so that the space still felt warm with fewer folks. Seaton and his partner were excellent hosts- they prepared the chairs and tables based on our event format, assisted with catering, AV, etc. And, when the building fire alarm went off and we had to evacuate đ they kindly helped usher our attendees out and back in again. I definitely plan to use this space in the future for our larger events, trainings etc. TLDR: beautiful space, incredible hosts, a real gem in DT Seattle!
How to reach SURF Incubator
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Why SURF Incubator may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at SURF Incubator with your friends?
When you want to bring your friends or family together for a memorable and productive meetup, SURF Incubator offers an unbeatable combination of comfort, inspiring ambiance, and practical amenities. Located in the heart of downtown Seattle, this 15,000-square-foot space is more than just an office or event venue; itâs a hub buzzing with creativity and vibrant energy. Whether your gathering is casual or business-oriented, SURF Incubatorâs welcoming environment encourages connection and collaboration. Youâll find plenty of natural light streaming through large glass panels, panoramic views of Puget Sound and the Olympic Mountains, and tasteful, modern dĂ©cor that sets the perfect tone for any occasion. A very high rating of 4.8 based on 58 reviews attests to the consistent positive experiences guests report here. The mix of professional functionality with an atmosphere that fosters inspiration makes SURF Incubator a top choice to host friends and family, whether you want to hold brainstorming sessions, celebrate milestones, or simply enjoy quality time in a stylish setting. The accessibility, comfort, and full-service nature of the location guarantee an effortless, enjoyable experience for your group.
What activities can you enjoy at SURF Incubator?
SURF Incubator caters to a wide range of group activities that make it ideal for meetups with friends or family. The venue offers several distinct spaces, including private conference rooms like Banana and Wave, which are perfect for collaborative work, discussion groups, or creative planning sessions. For larger gatherings, The CafĂ© event space comfortably hosts up to 120 guests in theater-style seating or up to 50 for dining experiences. This flexibility means you can organize anything from casual hangouts to formal celebrations, workshops, or presentations all under one roof. The CafĂ© is equipped with a professional sound system, a 200-inch screen, wireless microphones, and seamless media connectivityâperfect for parties with multimedia elements or interactive sessions. The kitchen facilities support catering with appliances such as microwave, toaster oven, coffee makers, and ample refrigeration. With these features, you can easily serve food and drinks, making it an inviting place to share meals or cocktail hours with those you care about. Beyond formal events, many visitors appreciate simply spending relaxed time in these spaces that offer spectacular views and abundant natural light, helping to create an uplifting atmosphere. Additionally, the Sunset Beach room is designed as a premium retreat for groups seeking tranquility and elegance with breathtaking views and natural light, ideal for more intimate friendly gatherings or productive days together.
Why is SURF Incubator perfect for a group meetup?
Several qualities make SURF Incubator a perfect choice when you want to host a gathering with your friends or family. First, its downtown location at 999 3rd Avenue places it right in the center of Seattleâs energy and culture, easily reachable by public transit and with secure parking options nearby. This accessibility eliminates common stress factors related to group logistics, allowing everyone to arrive effortlessly. Second, the variety of room options provides the versatility groups needâwhether you are a small team wanting a quiet conference room or a large party needing a spacious event hall, SURF accommodates diverse needs. The spaces have been thoughtfully designed with style and functionality; elegant French doors, angled glass walls, and tasteful artwork create an inviting setting that enhances social interaction. Third, the excellent Wi-Fi connectivity and advanced A/V technology ensure that any presentations, video calls, or music streaming will run smoothly, supporting both casual fun and professional uses. Also, the friendly and attentive staff contribute heavily to a stress-free experience by assisting with setup, catering, and access. Many guests have specifically praised the helpfulness and accommodating nature of the hosts. Finally, the vibrant community atmosphere cultivated by SURF, which originated as a startup incubator, means that your gathering will benefit from a positive, inspiring environment that fosters connection and creativityâwhether youâre meeting to work, celebrate, or relax together.
How do the facilities at SURF Incubator support a successful group event?
The facilities at SURF Incubator thoughtfully combine technology, style, and convenience to support any group event. The Café space, for instance, stands out with its 19 expansive windows that flood the room with daylight and offer stunning views of Puget Sound and the Olympic Mountains. This natural setting helps create a relaxed yet energizing environment that keeps the mood upbeat. The fully equipped kitchen and catering amenities allow event organizers to serve a vast array of food and beverage options to their guests without logistical headaches. Whether you want a coffee break, a casual buffet, or a sit-down meal, everything can be arranged easily. On the tech front, the high-quality sound system and 200-inch projector screen lend themselves perfectly to presentations, movie screenings, or speeches, supporting engagement and immersion for any audience size up to 120. Smaller private rooms such as the Avocado or Wave conference rooms offer exceptional internet connectivity and quiet, focused spaces for workshops or brainstorming sessions. The décor marries professionalism with comfort, and amenities like comfortable seating and elegant lighting contribute to a productive yet welcoming environment. Clean restroom facilities, secure entry, and parking add further ease to hosting and attending events. Collectively, even the smallest details have been planned to ensure your meetup goes off without a hitch.
What makes SURF Incubatorâs atmosphere unique?
The atmosphere at SURF Incubator is uniquely a blend of professional energy, creative inspiration, and welcoming comfort. Originating as a tech startup incubator, it carries forward a dynamic ethos where innovation, collaboration, and networking are encouraged. This creates an environment that is simultaneously upbeat and sophisticated, perfect for groups who want their meetups to be more than just socialâthey want to connect on deeper, meaningful levels. The expansive windows provide natural sunlight and breathtaking city and mountain views, which enhance mood and foster a sense of openness and possibility. The tasteful interior design balances modern minimalism with warm touches, making guests feel both energized and at ease. Many visitors comment on the friendly and helpful staff who actively assist in making sure every event runs smoothly and every need is met. Unlike some generic venues, SURFâs roots in a community-driven startup culture imbue the space with a lively but focused spirit that motivates and inspires. Whether your gathering is a casual day out with friends, an important family milestone, or a professional workshop, the atmosphere supports connection, creativity, and celebration in equal measure.
What logistical advantages does SURF Incubator offer for meetups?
SURF Incubatorâs location and logistics make it a highly smart choice for group meetups in downtown Seattle. Situated at the Exchange Building on 3rd Avenue, it benefits from excellent access to multiple public transportation options including light rail just two blocks away and rapid bus lines nearby, making it effortless for attendees to arrive without the need to drive. For those who choose to come by car, the building offers secure, onsite parking with reduced rates for evening eventsâhelping balance convenience with cost. The venue is well-served by nearby eateries and hotels, which can complement your meetup with additional dining or accommodation options if needed. The buildingâs layout provides multiple access points including main elegant French doors and discreet service entrances, which facilitate smooth flow in and out of events, minimizing bottlenecks. The venueâs staff handle entry coordination and can assist with any special requirements your group may have, such as early access or coordination for larger groups. The combination of location, parking, transit, and onsite support alleviates many common challenges when organizing group gatherings in a busy city, allowing attendees to focus fully on the event itself.
Why do guests consistently rate SURF Incubator so highly?
With a stunning 4.8 out of 5 rating across 58 reviews, SURF Incubatorâs guests frequently praise the space for its combination of comfort, functionality, and excellent service. Reviewers highlight the helpfulness and professionalism of the staff, who go âabove and beyondâ to ensure their needs are met and problems are swiftly resolved. The thoughtful, stylish design and breathtaking views consistently receive compliments, helping guests feel both impressed and inspired. Many guests mention the reliability of the tech infrastructure, which means presentations, video conferencing, and events run smoothly without frustrating interruptions. The flexible room setup options accommodate different group sizes and event types, contributing to a hassle-free experience. Others appreciate the cleanliness and organization of the space, an important factor for comfort and professionalism. Overall, the reviews indicate that SURF Incubator successfully balances the best qualities of a professional venue and a welcoming social space, making it highly recommended by those whoâve experienced it.
How can you maximize your time at SURF Incubator during a meetup?
To get the most out of your meetup at SURF Incubator, prior planning and taking advantage of the venueâs amenities is key. Start by choosing the room setup that best fits your group size and event typeâoptions range from small cozy rooms to large event halls with theater seating. Use the kitchen facilities to arrange refreshments or meals that can turn a work session into a lively social gathering. Incorporate the AV technology for interactive presentations, slideshows, or music playlists to keep the energy up. Schedule breaks that allow attendees to mingle in the bright cafĂ© area or step out to enjoy the stunning views. Utilize the easy access to public transport for guests arriving from different parts of the city, and coordinate parking passes if needed for those driving. Engage the helpful staff early to ensure smooth logistics on the day of your event. Finally, embrace SURFâs unique ambience to blend productivity and celebration, making your time with friends or family both enjoyable and memorable.
By choosing SURF Incubator, your meetup is guaranteed a vibrant, comfortable, and fully equipped setting that fosters connection, creativity, and fun while streamlining every aspect of event planning and execution. Whether for casual gatherings or more formal occasions, SURF stands out as an exceptional venue to rally your favorite people.