The SODO Welcome Center.
Opening June 11, 2026 at 1950 1st Avenue South. A new front door for visitors, workers, and businesses — with the district’s history, culture, and economic story all under one roof.
Connecting visitors, businesses & community.
“With major global events on the horizon, we want visitors to feel welcomed and encouraged to explore everything SODO has to offer.” — Erin Goodman, Executive Director, SODO BIA.
The new SODO Welcome Center is a space designed to connect visitors, workers, and businesses with the district’s history, culture, and economic impact.
Located at 1950 1st Avenue South — in the heart of Seattle’s SODO district — it serves as an entry point for exploring the neighborhood, offering information on local businesses, public art, historic sites, and ongoing events.
The center is also intended to help visitors navigate the district as it prepares to welcome increased regional and international attention surrounding the upcoming 2026 FIFA World Cup™ matches hosted in Seattle. Made possible through a partnership between the SODO BIA and SeattleFWC2026.
What you'll find inside
Rotating exhibits
Highlighting SODO’s industrial heritage, creative community, and longstanding role as one of Seattle’s most diverse districts.
Maps & recommendations
Curated walking routes, food & drink picks, directional guidance, and current event schedules.
Certified Tourism Ambassadors
Staffed during open hours by
SODO BIA team members who can answer your specific questions on the spot.
Giveaways & Prizes
Special giveaways and merchandise to commemorate your visit.
"We see the Welcome Center as an investment in SODO's future — a place where people can learn about the district, discover local businesses, and understand why SODO is such a vital part of Seattle's economy and culture."
— Erin Goodman, Executive Director, SODO BIA
A walkable history down 1st Ave south.
A pathway along 1st Avenue South that invites you to experience SODO’s history in a new, interactive way. Participating businesses display custom window clings featuring archival photos, historical insights, and unique stories about the district’s evolution.
1950 1st Ave S · Origin point
Your starting point. Pick up a printed map from any of the stops, then head out along 1st Avenue South. Each stop is a participating storefront with a custom window cling featuring archival photos and stories about SODO.
The pathway forms a walkable trail down 1st Avenue South, guiding you toward the Welcome Center while encouraging you to engage with the local businesses along the way.
So Do You Know SODO?
Every Storefront Stories window cling carries a fun fact or trivia question. Guess the answer, share it with staff at the Welcome Center, and if you’re right— you’ll win a prize.
01
Walk the pathway
Spot the window clings along 1st Avenue South.
02
Read a trivia question
Each cling features a fun fact or a question about that block.
03
Bring your answer
Drop by the Welcome Center and share what you guessed.
04
Win a prize
If you’re right, walk away with a piece of SODO swag.
A few to get you started
Q1
In what year did Filson open its first SODO outfitter for gold-rush bound prospectors?
Q2
Before Starbucks Center housed the world's largest coffee company, which catalog retailer occupied the eight-story building?
Q3
How many large-scale murals make up the SODO Track outdoor mural corridor along the rail line?
Drop in.
1950 1st Avenue South Seattle, WA 98134
Visit the Welcome Center on your way to a match or Mariner’s game! Open 3 hours before most
stadium games.
Mon – Thu
10am – 6pm
Fri – Sat
9am – 8pm
Sunday
10am – 5pm
Match Days
Extended hours
