When asking yourself about something to do near me in Seattle with a group of friends or family, consider
The Rabbit Box
Why The Rabbit Box is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
The Rabbit Box is a unique and intimate performance and events venue nestled in the basement of the Corner Market Building in Seattle’s historic Pike Place Market. Known as a treasured secret among locals and a sought-after destination for travelers, it offers an inviting space where storytellers, writers, poets, performers, comedians, and musicians come together to share their craft and build community. The venue pairs the creative ambiance with a restaurant and bar serving simple but exquisite food, craft cocktails, and aperitifs, perfect for a relaxed and enriching experience. Open Tuesday through Sunday, with a welcoming happy hour daily from 3 to 6 pm, it provides an ideal setting to unwind after exploring the city or to gather with friends in an atmospheric venue that champions local art and culture. The Rabbit Box emphasizes a connection to the past by resurrecting cherished traditions and creating a space to enjoy the simple pleasures of life, making it a memorable spot to pause, socialize, and celebrate creativity.
Here's what people think of The Rabbit Box
As of recent, The Rabbit Box holds a 4.6-star rating based on 94 reviews.
Visitors and reviewers consistently praise The Rabbit Box for its warm, intimate atmosphere that fosters a strong sense of community and cultural engagement. Many appreciate the diverse range of live performances including literary events, music, comedy, and family-friendly matinees, highlighting the venue's ability to cater to varied interests. The food and drink menu also receives positive comments for its quality and thoughtful pairing with the artistic setting. Positive reviews often focus on the venue's hidden location, which adds to its charm and appeal as a special spot to discover and enjoy away from typical tourist crowds. On the other hand, some negative feedback points to the venue's limited space and capacity, which can sometimes make it feel crowded during popular events. A few reviews also mention the basement setting as potentially less accessible for some visitors. Nonetheless, the majority of patrons find The Rabbit Box’s intimate charm and vibrant programming make these minor drawbacks worthwhile. Overall, reviews depict The Rabbit Box as a beloved cultural haven in Seattle, appreciated for its commitment to community, art, and a welcoming atmosphere.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
Darya Shestakova
We didn't try food there, but cocktails were great. It's such a cool noir vibe there, something in between Alice In Wonderland and Twin Peaks. Would love to come and see a show next time.
G. D.
The cocktails are unique and complex. My wife and I enjoyed the atmosphere - very worldly, whimsical, and cozy. I don't know if it is, but it felt like it was part of the Seattle Underground, which is really cool too! The staff (and patrons) were extremely welcoming and friendly, which really warmed the heart and made us feel welcomed and loved. We didn't eat here, but the food sounds delicious and is VERY reasonable; I wish we would have gotten dinner here. We ended up grabbing some merchandise too - their logo is a great representation of what to expect, but you'll still be pleasantly surprised when you walk in (you just have to see it). They also had live world music (unfortunately I'm not cultured enough to place the heritage, but regardless, it was awesome to hear). I would definitely recommend this spot if you're looking for a cocktail or a bite! Located in Pike Place Market - a hidden gem.
Paul M
Great live music venue right at Pike Place Market. Cool spot downstairs with great staff, food and atmosphere. Sat at bar, bartender was friendly and knowledgeable. Food came within a reasonable time and the salad was crisp and fresh. Restroom was easy to find and very clean. Didn’t stay for band due to time but based on just the sound check they were worth staying for. Second visit, will definitely have it on my list for another time.
Mandee
Went for a comedy show, the comedians were great, but Rabbit Box oversold the tickets by A LOT. Paid the same amount as everyone else, but there was “only standing room” left when we got there. The host said he was going to bring out more chairs, he brought out 4 more chairs for others and that was definitely not enough because there were many many people standing and the venue is already pretty small. Couldn’t say how the food or drink was because I didn’t want to spill my drink on someone on accident since standing was pretty tight. People were standing anywhere they could find, basically surrounding the sound booth. The people standing basically blocked the view of anyone that sat in the back. I would not come again and wouldn’t recommend any of my friends to go just because of the overselling tickets leaving people to stand in clusters and it was incredibly hot inside. So imagine standing for one and a half hours squished next to others and not even having room to lean side to side without touching someone’s leg or arm in a hot room.. it was pretty miserable. If Rabbit Box wasn’t so greedy I would have probably enjoyed the experience. The comedians were great though.
The Photographer
We went for the concert. Also loved the bohemian atmosphere, intimate venue, great food and service! We even had creamy homemade ice cream there! Winning combination!
How to reach The Rabbit Box
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Website: None
Why The Rabbit Box may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at this place with your friends?
When deciding on the perfect spot to gather with friends and family, The Rabbit Box in Seattle’s iconic Pike Place Market stands out as a compelling choice. With a remarkable 4.6 rating based on 94 reviews, it has earned a reputation for offering a unique, warm, and inviting atmosphere that balances intimacy with vibrant energy. Located in one of Seattle’s most historic and bustling districts, The Rabbit Box offers more than just a venue – it delivers an experience. Friends can rally here because of its blend of charming decor with a speakeasy vibe, a place where cozy comfort meets creative energy. It’s the kind of place that feels like a treasured secret, providing a sanctuary from the rush of everyday life, yet inviting lively conversation, shared moments, and cultural connection. Guests often express appreciation for the attentive and friendly staff who make groups feel truly welcomed and part of a community. Whether it’s to enjoy a casual night out, celebrate a special occasion, or take part in one of the many curated artistic experiences, The Rabbit Box presents an ideal environment for making memories together in a space that champions creativity, storytelling, music, and a genuine sense of connection.
What activities and experiences make The Rabbit Box perfect for a group meetup?
The Rabbit Box offers a variety of activities that make it attractive for hosting group meetups, appealing to diverse interests and tastes. Firstly, it is widely known as a vibrant live music venue, hosting performances that range from jazz and blues to indie and acoustic sets. These intimate shows create a memorable auditory experience, allowing groups to enjoy great music while socializing comfortably. Beyond music, The Rabbit Box embraces a literary-forward environment with regular performances and talks, including storytelling sessions and dinner theater, catering to groups interested in arts and culture. This blend of live entertainment ensures a stimulating environment whether your group appreciates music, literature, or performance art. The venue also offers a full-service restaurant and bar, serving creative cocktails and delicious food, making it convenient for groups to settle in for a night or an afternoon without needing to move elsewhere. The Rabbit Box’s decor and ambiance, inspired by a speakeasy aesthetic, enhances every gathering with a cozy yet sophisticated flair. This variety, combined with attentive service and a welcoming atmosphere, turns every meetup into a rich cultural and social event that is truly shared.
How does The Rabbit Box support a sense of community and shared purpose?
One of the most compelling reasons to choose The Rabbit Box for your group gathering is its role as a steward of community and creative expression. Situated within Pike Place Market, the venue operates under standards that emphasize specialty businesses that serve the immediate community and honor the historic character of the district. The owners and staff are actively engaged in preserving the unique charm and artistic spirit of the space, giving guests a chance to feel connected to a place with a story and purpose beyond just entertainment. The Rabbit Box is described as a sanctuary of intention, championing art, poetry, and resilient hope, making it more than just a place to meet but a cultural home for those seeking meaningful connection. This focus on community engagement means groups can feel confident that a meetup there contributes to the support of local art and culture, aligning their gathering with a larger celebration of creativity and inclusion. It’s an inspiring backdrop that elevates the value of spending time together, making it ideal for friends and family who appreciate places with depth and a shared vision.
What type of atmosphere can guests expect at The Rabbit Box?
Guests at The Rabbit Box experience a warm, intimate atmosphere that combines a sense of quietude with creative vibrancy. The interior design features stylish touches, including a speakeasy vibe marked by cozy lighting, tasteful vintage-inspired decor, and an intimate setting that feels personal yet inviting. This makes it ideal for groups because it fosters conversation while also offering engagement with various artistic events. The setting has been carefully preserved and curated to honor the historic Pike Place Market location, blending old-world charm with contemporary cultural touches. Visitors often mention the feeling of stepping into a “warren of like minds” where curiosity and thoughtfulness are encouraged. It operates as a treasured secret for locals, giving groups a place that feels exclusive but welcoming, a rare find in a busy city. In addition, the staff’s professionalism and friendly demeanor further enhance this atmosphere, ensuring that everyone feels comfortable and attended to, whether you’re there for a large celebration or an intimate gathering.
Why is The Rabbit Box considered a go-to destination for arts and stories?
The Rabbit Box has carved out a distinctive niche in Seattle’s cultural scene by positioning itself as a “house of stories” for guests of all ages. Its program includes literary talks, poetry nights, live music performances, comedy shows, and dinner theater, which are carefully curated to cater to an audience that values storytelling and creativity. This diverse range of arts offerings gives groups a dynamic agenda to explore, whether they come for a specific event or to discover something spontaneous. By blending different performance types under one roof, The Rabbit Box nurtures a varied community of artists and attendees, which benefits groups looking for a multi-dimensional experience. This venue’s commitment to being a “gateway to wandering thoughts” and a “birthplace of new ideas” invites groups not only to entertain themselves but to engage intellectually and emotionally with the performances and the audience. The atmosphere respects both adult and family audiences, making it a versatile spot for friends and family gatherings with cultural enrichment at its core. The Rabbit Box’s dedication to arts promotion ensures that every visit feels like participating in an ongoing cultural celebration.
In summary, The Rabbit Box is an exceptional venue for hosting group meetups because it combines a unique, intimate atmosphere with a rich program of live music, literary events, and artistic performances. Its location in the historic Pike Place Market adds historic charm, while its community-focused mission and excellent service create an environment where friends and families feel truly welcome and inspired. Whether seeking a lively night of music, an engaging literary experience, or a cozy place to share food and drinks, The Rabbit Box offers a complete package that makes any gathering special and memorable.