About Knitting Factory
Knitting Factory Spokane is a mid-size indoor live-music and nightclub venue in downtown Spokane (919 W Sprague Ave) with about 1,500-person capacity. Opened in late 2009 as part of the national Knitting Factory Entertainment (KFE) chain, it has become the city’s premier concert house and dance club. The venue combines a high-tech sound and lighting rig with a full bar and attached restaurant space, giving it an upscale but casual feel. Many Spokane music fans regard the Knitting Factory as the heart of the local concert scene – it regularly books touring acts that otherwise skip the region, and also offers smaller local and alternative events. Notably, former Spokane Mayor David Condon once mentioned that he met his wife at a Knitting Factory concert, which illustrates how ingrained the venue is to the community’s nightlife. (www.inlander.com ) (sp.knittingfactory.com ) Its downtown location (at Sprague and Monroe) puts it within easy reach of hotels and other entertainment, making it a hub for culture and music in Spokane.
Events and Programming
The Knitting Factory hosts an eclectic lineup of events almost nightly. Concerts cover every major genre – rock and indie bands, hip-hop artists, metal and punk acts, jazz ensembles, country and singer-songwriters – plus cover and tribute bands. The venue also throws regular themed dance parties and club nights. For example, weekly Friday night “Dayshift” dance sessions feature DJs spinning rave, EDM, ’90s R&B and other dance music, often with a costumed or era theme. Comedy shows, special movie-themed dance parties (like “Shrek Rave” or Stranger Things events) and holiday-themed concerts are also common. Past headline acts have ranged from national tours (rock, pop, country) to well-known regional bands, making the venue a must-stop for touring bands passing through Spokane. Smaller local bands and up-and-coming artists frequently open or play mid-week “local” shows, helping support the local scene. In short, you can expect everything from indie rock and alt-pop one night to heavy metal or an electronic dance party the next. The Knitting Factory’s schedule is packed; it often hosts multiple events each week. Typical ticket prices vary from the mid-$20s up to the $40s or higher for big-name acts, with many shows in the $25–$35 range.
Tickets and Booking
Tickets for Knitting Factory shows are sold online and at the venue. You can usually purchase tickets in advance through the official Knitting Factory website or affiliated ticket vendors (watch for presales through fan clubs or mailing lists). On show nights, the on-site box office opens about one hour before doors (sp.knittingfactory.com ). Box office tickets are often available at that time if an event is not sold out. For very popular shows, tickets may sell out in advance, so it’s wise to buy early if possible. Prices depend on the act: local or emerging artists tend to be on the lower end, while bigger national acts can be significantly more. A typical range for nationally touring bands is roughly $20–$50, with general admission and limited reserved seating options. Signing up for the venue’s email newsletter or following its social media can alert you to upcoming shows and pre-sale opportunities. Day-of-show tickets may be available at the door (box office) if the show isn’t sold out, often at the listed price with a small, last-minute fee. In summary: get tickets online or box-office (opens ~1 hour pre-show) and watch the Knitting Factory’s announcements to book popular shows early. (sp.knittingfactory.com )
Seating and Layout
The Knitting Factory’s main room is predominantly general admission standing-room. According to the venue, about 90% of shows are limited seating, with the crowd standing on the floor (sp.knittingfactory.com ). The stage is at one end of a rectangular hall, 32 by 20 feet in size and raised about 4.8 feet above the ground (sp.knittingfactory.com ). There are no fixed seats on the main floor (it’s a flat dance/standing area), so arriving early is key for front-row spots. In the back or along the edges there is room to stand farther away if you prefer, but for the best view and sound you generally want to be near center front. The house’s high ceiling and pro audio system (QSC line-array speakers, Yamaha consoles, etc. for a balanced mix) help ensure good sightlines and sound quality almost anywhere on the floor. In addition to the GA floor, the Knitting Factory now offers a limited number of reserved table seats for 21-and-over patrons (sp.knittingfactory.com ). These are essentially booth-style tables placed near the front that seat about four each; you buy them like individual tickets for a guaranteed spot. Aside from those table areas, there are no balconies open to customers (the only mezzanine houses the sound and lighting console). If accessibility or seating is important, note that the venue does commit to providing a premium seat for patrons with special needs (reservation required in advance (sp.knittingfactory.com )). In general, the best viewing spots are straight on to the stage – avoid the far side angles or directly behind large speakers. Ambience-wise, the lighting rigs and occasional fog or video screens can add atmosphere, making any spot fairly immersive. Overall, Knitting Factory fans find the layout straightforward but packed: for big shows it can get crowded, so many choose a slightly off-center vantage to have a bit more elbow room.
Getting There and Parking
The Knitting Factory is at 919 W Sprague Avenue, in the heart of downtown Spokane (intersection of Sprague and Monroe). If you’re coming via I-90 (Spokane’s main freeway), take an exit into downtown Sprague Avenue: from the east take the Maple Street exit, from the west take Lincoln Street. Both routes lead you onto Sprague westbound or eastbound. Once downtown, the venue is just a couple of blocks off these exits. For example, from I-90 westbound, exit at Lincoln, turn left on Sprague and you’ll see it on your left. For GPS use “919 W Sprague Ave, Spokane, WA 99201.”
Driving and parking: There is on-site parking adjacent to the club, but it fills up quickly on show nights. Specifically, two small lots sit just north and south of the venue building (prked.com ). Street parking is available on Sprague and side streets nearby, but it is metered and monitored. Downtown parking rates are currently low (about $1 per hour after initial free period, and often free after 6 PM (prked.com )), but check posted signs. There is also a public parking garage (Parkade Plaza) across the street at 511 W Main, and River Park Square Mall garage a few blocks away – both have hourly rates (roughly \$5–\$10 for an evening). Some fans book ahead with parking apps (ParkWhiz or SpotHero) for guaranteed spots. If parking lots are full, you may need to park a few blocks away or in a nearby pay garage (e.g. Republic Parking on 2nd Ave, or Jefferson Park & Ride to the south). Rideshare (Uber/Lyft) drop-offs are easy; drivers will usually let you out right at Sprague & Monroe. Taxi stands can sometimes be found nearby as well.
Public transit: Spokane Transit Authority (STA) buses run frequently downtown. Routes that stop on Sprague Ave or on nearby streets put you within a block of the venue. For example, STA Route 4 (Monroe-Lincoln) and Route 9 (Sprague) both run along Sprague Ave. Other lines such as 23, 25, 28, 45, 61 and 94 also stop on Sprague or Monroe right by the Knitting Factory (moovitapp.com ). In addition, the new CityLine bus rapid transit (along Division, a couple blocks north) has stops that connect to other downtown routes. If you’re arriving by train, Amtrak’s Spokane station (Empire Builder line) is at 507 W Sprague – only about three blocks east of the venue (about a 5–10 minute walk). In short, the venue is easy to reach by STA buses or train (Sprague & Monroe station) or by car, and it’s only minutes on foot from most downtown spots.
Inside the Venue
Expect a lively but safe environment once inside. You’ll enter through the main doors into the club’s bar and lounge area. Security is visible; bags may be checked and oversize backpacks are discouraged. The venue’s policy strictly prohibits outside food or drink, weapons, and professional photo/video gear (sp.knittingfactory.com ). (In practice, this means bring only your phone or a small camera for photos. Large DSLRs or video cameras aren’t allowed.) There is a coat/check area where you can leave jackets or larger bags for a small fee – though not all shows have staffed coat-check, so use lockers or keep valuables on you if concerned.
An important feature: attached to the Knitting Factory is The District Bar at 916 W 1st Ave. This bar/restaurant shares ownership with the concert hall. During shows, District Bar serves its full menu and drinks to both venue guests and the public. It offers seating and pub-style food (pizza, burgers, salads, and snacks) in an adjacent building – you can even order District bar food and have it brought into a show. Inside the main concert room there is also a service bar; hats, T-shirts and band merchandise are usually sold near the stage or bar area by show promoters. Restrooms (men and women) are down a short hallway – just ask staff if you don’t see them. The lighting is dark and theatrical during concerts, with colored lights and video screens up on stage. The house sound system is quite powerful, so plan to wear earplugs if you’re sensitive to loud music. Wi-Fi generally isn’t offered to patrons, but cell signal is available for most carriers.
Atmosphere-wise, the crowd and staff tend to be relaxed and friendly. The decor is industrial-chic with exposed brick walls and rigging—and the space fills with energy on concert nights. If you arrive early you can enjoy the lounge feeling, grab a drink on the patio area (if open), and explore the view from the mezzanine lookout. By late showtime, the main floor is packed and dancing – standing and bleachers along rear walls provide sitting room. The venue enforces a casual dress code (no costumes required except on themed nights), so most people wear comfortable shoes. Overall, expect a classic rock-club vibe: a dedicated crew, energetic crowd, and full amenities including bar service and food inside the building.
Nearby Amenities
Since the Knitting Factory is downtown, you’re surrounded by plenty of other restaurants, bars and hotels. For pre-show dining, you have choices within a few blocks. The District Bar itself offers a full menu and is essentially inside the same complex. A block to the east on Sprague is Frank’s Diner , a well-known 24-hour spot (classic American breakfasts, burgers, sandwiches) beloved by locals (aviewfrommyseat.com ). A few doors down from Frank’s is the Wild Sage Bistro (Pacific Northwest/New American cuisine), and a short walk north will get you to Italia Trattoria for Italian dishes (aviewfrommyseat.com ). Other nearby spots include Queen of Sheba Ethiopian Restaurant, various casual pubs and taquerias, plus a pizza bar (Fire Artisan Pizza) just a block over (aviewfrommyseat.com ). Downtown’s River Park Square shopping complex is just a few blocks away and includes restaurants like White Tavern and P.F. Chang’s. Coffee shops and quick bites (like Blazing Bagels or Fatty’s Bacon Burger) are also within easy walking distance north or south on 1st Avenue.
For nightlife and lodging, there are many options. Hotels within a block or two include the historic Davenport (Tower, Granby, and The Montvale Hotel) and the boutique Hotel Ruby River – all highly rated and walkable (www.concerthotels.com ). These are popular choices for concert-goers since they’re practically next door. If you need a full stay, even parking garages like River Park Square (555 W Main) or the Parkade Plaza (511 W Main) have discounted overnight rates. For a quick drink or post-show cocktails nearby, check out the nearby bars on 1st Ave (Vista, Copa, or Aloft’s bar all serve late-night). Most attractions in downtown Spokane (like Riverfront Park, the Bing Crosby Theater next door, or the Fox Theater) are within a short walk, which can make for a nice outing before or after a show.
What Makes This Venue Special
The Knitting Factory stands out for combining a major concert hall with club comforts. It is one of the only places in Spokane large enough to bring both national touring acts and a nightclub atmosphere under one roof. Its advanced stage and sound system allow for professional-level productions – the FOH (mix) position even sits on a second-floor mezzanine for premium audio control (sp.knittingfactory.com ). Yet it still feels intimate: the crowd is right on top of the stage, and the shared history (added to by dozens of local and regional performances each year) gives it a lived-in, hometown vibe. Spokane locals also appreciate that it doesn’t pigeonhole itself musically – one night you might dance to an EDM DJ set, the next you could be singing along to country classics. The presence of a full kitchen/bar on site (District Bar) is unique for a music club, eliminating the need to leave for food (citybythegay.wordpress.com ).
The venue’s cultural impact is reflected in local lore. For example, Mayor David Condon shared that his very first date with his future wife was at a Knitting Factory concert (Big Head Todd & the Monsters) (www.inlander.com ), underscoring how it’s woven into the community’s personal stories. The Knitting Factory also plays a big role in Spokane’s economy and nightlife – it draws visitors from surrounding areas (even from Idaho or Montana) and helps fuel downtown’s restaurants and hotels. In sum, its combination of size, technical capability and friendly local atmosphere makes it a beloved institution. Both artists and audiences love this club for its energy and professionalism (bands know they’ll get a great sound system and enthusiastic crowd), and over a decade it has hosted almost every genre and style in Spokane, becoming a landmark of the city’s music scene (citybythegay.wordpress.com ) (sp.knittingfactory.com ).
Visitor Tips and Information
Accessibility: The Knitting Factory is wheelchair accessible. (Entrance ramps and accessible restrooms are available.) If you have mobility or hearing needs, contact the venue in advance so they can reserve an appropriate spot. They intentionally hold a few “premium” seats for ADA patrons if notified beforehand (sp.knittingfactory.com ). Just arrive a little early (15 minutes) on show night and staff will assist.
What to bring/not bring: A government ID is required if you plan to drink (or if the event is 21+). Outside bags are checked – only small purses/backpacks are allowed. As noted, no outside food or drinks, and no professional cameras or video equipment. Cell phones and small point-and-shoot cameras are okay for snapshots. Also pack earplugs if you’re sensitive to loud music. Dress is casual – most people wear everyday club attire (jeans and t-shirts or casual button-ups). For theme nights (e.g. an 80s party or another occasion where costumes are encouraged), feel free to dress up if you like, but it’s never required on a regular concert night. High heels may be difficult if you expect to stand and dance, so comfortable shoes are recommended.
Arrival time: To ensure entry and good spots, plan to arrive at least 30–45 minutes before showtime (doors often open one hour prior (sp.knittingfactory.com )). This lets you beat any lines, especially for popular shows. Parking lots and buses are easier before full evening crowds arrive. If you have general admission floor tickets and want front-row space, enlist friends to stand in line together. Remember that on busy nights it can be crowded, so give yourself time. Since Spokane’s event crowd is fairly friendly, merging into a queue is usually safe – though always keep wallets/phones secure in busy crowds.
Age restrictions: Most concerts at the Knitting Factory are open to all ages (sp.knittingfactory.com ). However, events will be clearly marked as “21+” or “Alcohol Only” if minors are not allowed or if the performance is at the District Bar (in that case only ages 21+ can enter the bar area). If bringing a child or teenager to a show, check the ticket details first. Even if under 21, the venue’s bar and kitchen serve food, so children are generally fine if accompanied by adults. (For truly family-friendly events, they often still allow kids; it’s only the strictly 21+ nights that bar entry is limited.)
Common policies: No smoking is allowed inside the building (Washington law); an outdoor smoking area is near the entrance. Coat check is available for a small fee but can be very busy – many people skip it and keep light jackets in their (small) bags. Merchandise booths typically take both cash and credit cards, but cash is handy to speed purchases. There is no dedicated “lost and found” desk, so keep belongings on you; the venue will hold valuables briefly at the bar if lost, but best practice is minimal personal gear. Finally, be polite to staff and obey posted rules – they’re usually friendly and helpful, and misconduct could result in ejection from the show.
Overall, this venue offers a fun and safe concert experience. Many fans advise arriving early for a drink at the bar, saving your voice and ears (and money) with earplugs, and expecting a bit of a wait at the door or bar on busy nights. But once inside, the combination of music, food, and crowd energy usually makes for a great night out. Spokane’s Knitting Factory balances a concert-hall production with the laid-back Northwest vibe: just come prepared to dance, sing or watch a performance – and enjoy the show!
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the capacity of the Knitting Factory Spokane?
This concert house holds roughly 1,500 people when at full capacity (sp.knittingfactory.com ). It’s Spokane’s largest live music club, so it can welcome big crowds. Enjoy standing-room general admission or a few reserved spaces for premium seating (table seating) within that capacity.
Are the concerts general admission seating or reserved seats?
Most shows are general admission (standing room)🎫 (sp.knittingfactory.com ). There are no theater-style seats on the main floor, and patrons usually stand or sit at the edges. A small number of 21+ only *reserved table seats* are sold for some shows – these are small tables of four in front of the floor. But outside of those limited tables, you should expect an open-floor club layout.
How do I buy tickets for a show?
Tickets can be purchased in advance online or at the venue’s box office. The box office (919 W Sprague) opens about one hour before the concert (sp.knittingfactory.com ), and will sell any remaining tickets at door time. For advance purchase, check the Knitting Factory’s official site or authorized sellers. Signing up for the mailing list or following their social channels is smart if you want presale access to the most popular acts.
What are the ticket price ranges?
Prices vary by event. Small local or cover bands might charge \$10–\$20, while national touring acts usually range \$25–\$50. Specialty nights (like big DJ or comedy events) can be around \$30–\$40. Students or group discounts aren’t common, so plan on paying the listed face value (plus fees if buying online). Expect to pay a little extra for reserved table seats (21+ areas).
Where can I park, and what does it cost?
Parking downtown can be tricky. The Knitting Factory has two small lots right by the building, but they’re often full. Metered street parking on Sprague and nearby streets is available (usually \$1/hr; some spots are free after 6 PM) (prked.com ). A city garage (Parkade) is across the street (511 W Main) for about \$3–\$5 after hours. You’ll often find cheaper parking a few blocks away – for example, River Park Square or 2nd Avenue lots. Rideshare drop-off is also convenient right at Sprague & Monroe.
What public transit serves the venue?
Spokane Transit (STA) routes stop within a block of Sprague & Monroe. Key lines include Route 4 (Monroe/Lincoln) and Route 9 (Sprague), plus others like 23, 25, 28, 45, 61, and 94 (moovitapp.com ). There’s also the CityLine rapid bus on Division Street (a couple blocks north). If arriving by train, Spokane’s Amtrak station (Empire Builder) is at 507 W Sprague, about a 5-minute walk east. In short: buses and train make it easy to reach the venue.
What is the layout and what seats are best?
The venue is a rectangular hall with a raised stage at one end. The best views are generally near the center-front of the crowd, facing the stage head-on. Avoid standing directly under hanging speakers or at extreme side angles. If you want a seat, the limited reserved tables (for 21+) near the front offer chairs. Otherwise, prepare to stand on the main floor. The acoustics are solid throughout because of the quality sound system, so even moderately back still sounds good. Arriving early ensures you can claim the spot or table area you like.
Can I bring a camera or video recorder?
Professional cameras and video gear are generally not allowed (sp.knittingfactory.com ). You may use your cell phone or a small point-and-shoot to take photos, but large DSLRs or audio recorders are prohibited. This is standard for most shows. If you have press credentials, you must arrange clearance in advance with the venue’s management. Otherwise, stick to simple snapshots.
What are the age restrictions?
Most events at the Knitting Factory are all-ages (sp.knittingfactory.com ). If a show is strictly 21+, it will be clearly marked on the ticket or listing. Check before you buy. Even for all-ages shows, guests 21 and over need valid ID to drink alcohol at the bar. In practice, minors (with guardians) can attend concerts unless specifically barred. Dance nights or late-night club events are usually 21+.
Is the venue wheelchair accessible?
Yes, it is ADA accessible. The entrance has a ramp and there's elevator or ramp access to all public areas. If you need special accommodations, contact the venue in advance. They explicitly state they’ll reserve premium seating for anyone who asks (sp.knittingfactory.com ) and can let you in early. Arriving a little before doors allows staff to guide you to the best accessible spot.
What food and drink options are available inside?
There is a full bar inside the Knitting Factory hall (mixed drinks, beer, wine) and soft drinks. In addition, the connected District Bar (916 W 1st Ave) doubles as the venue’s restaurant. It has a full menu serving pizza, sandwiches, salads and entrees, even during concerts (citybythegay.wordpress.com ). You may eat and drink from District inside or in their bar area before/after the show. (No outside food/beverage from offsite is allowed.)
Are there restrooms and coat check?
Yes. Restrooms (men’s and women’s) are located down the hall and are shared for all guests. A coat check is typically available (first-come, small fee) for jackets and bags – especially welcome on cold nights. However, it can be busy with lines before shows. You may also use in-lobby food tables or booths to stow personal items temporarily.
What is the atmosphere like inside?
Expect a vibrant club-concert atmosphere. Lighting is dim but colorful when shows are on, and the crowd is energetic. People often dance or headbang on the floor. Staff and sound engineers are helpful and control everything professionally. Even though it’s a large space, it still feels energetic and intimate because the ceiling is high and the crowd is close. The sound is powerful but clear. In short: it’s a high-energy, crowd-driven vibe – casual dress, friendly crowd, and quality production values.
When should I arrive for a show?
Plan to arrive **at least 30–45 minutes before the official start time**. Doors usually open an hour before the show (sp.knittingfactory.com ). This gives you time to park, go through security, and find a good spot or table before things fill up. Arriving early also makes it easier to buy drinks at the bar without long lines. If it’s a sold-out event, arrive even earlier to ensure entry. In any case, check your ticket for the exact “doors” time.
What nearby hotels are recommended?
Downtown Spokane has several good hotels within walking distance. Four blocks east, you’ll find the historic Davenport Hotel (and its sister The Montvale), which are local landmarks (www.concerthotels.com ). The modern Davenport Grand (formerly Crowne Plaza) is one block north on Spokane Falls Blvd. Other easy options include Hotel Indigo (555 W. Main, right by the venue) and Hotel Ruby River (901 W 1st) (www.concerthotels.com ). All of those are under 5 minutes’ walk to the club and offer downtown parking and dining. Staying downtown is convenient for late-night shows.
Are there any special events or recurring nights?
Yes, in addition to concerts, the Knitting Factory runs themed event nights. Fridays often feature “Dayshift” paid dance parties (21+) with DJs spinning retro or electronic music. Other examples include 80s/90s R&B throwback nights, Halloween dance parties, or holiday-themed events. Also watch for one-off special events like comedy shows or karaoke nights. Check their calendar – many weeks include a mix of live bands and club nights.
Is smoking allowed inside the venue?
No, there is no smoking or vaping allowed inside the building (Washington state law). There is an outdoor smoking area by the main entrance if you need a break. Make sure to use it quickly (especially in cold weather) so you don’t miss too much of the show. The staff does enforce this rule strictly for indoor fire safety and local regulations.
