Magnuson Park Hangar 30

Located in Seattle’s northeast corner within the expansive Magnuson Park, Hangar 30 stands out as a unique multi-purpose venue with deep historical roots and a versatile modern identity. This iconic structure, once part of the former Sand Point Naval Air Station, has been transformed into one of the city’s most dynamic spaces for community gatherings, exhibitions, markets, and special events. With its industrial charm, large open floor space, and central location, Hangar 30 has become a favored destination for both local residents and visiting organizers looking for a spacious indoor venue that captures the spirit of the Pacific Northwest.

A Glimpse into the History of Hangar 30

Hangar 30 is a preserved remnant of Seattle’s military past. Built during World War II, it was originally used to house aircraft for the U.S. Navy. Located within what was then known as Naval Air Station Sand Point, the hangar played a key role in training pilots and maintaining military readiness during wartime.

After the base was decommissioned in the 1970s, the area was gradually repurposed and eventually became Magnuson Park named in honor of longtime Washington Senator Warren G. Magnuson. The transition from military facility to community park included transforming its massive hangars into usable civic spaces. Today, Hangar 30 stands as a proud example of adaptive reuse, blending heritage with functionality.

Preserving Heritage with Modern Purpose

Despite its updated use, the hangar retains its authentic design. With exposed steel beams, high ceilings, and concrete floors, Hangar 30 maintains its raw, industrial aesthetic. These design elements not only serve as a reminder of the building’s original purpose but also lend themselves perfectly to contemporary event staging.

Versatility for Events and Gatherings

One of the reasons Hangar 30 is so popular is its flexibility. The large interior spanning over 18,000 square feet can be easily adapted to suit a wide range of activities. The venue is regularly used for art shows, vintage markets, food expos, concerts, and private functions such as weddings and galas.

Popular Events at Hangar 30

• Seattle Makers Market: A regular gathering of local artisans, creators, and vendors showcasing handmade goods and unique art pieces.
• Holiday Bazaars and Craft Fairs: During the festive season, the hangar transforms into a winter wonderland filled with decorations and shopping booths.
• Pop Culture and Comic Conventions: With ample space and easy access, Hangar 30 is also home to niche events celebrating gaming, comics, and fandoms.

The space is also frequently rented for private occasions due to its customizable nature. Clients can bring in their own lighting, decor, stages, and furniture to suit their event’s needs. The hangar’s blank canvas feel makes it ideal for both casual and formal functions.

Magnuson Park: A Community Hub

Hangar 30 is located within Magnuson Park, one of Seattle’s largest and most diverse recreational areas. Spanning over 350 acres, the park features sports fields, wetlands, beaches, off-leash dog areas, and art installations. This makes Hangar 30 more than just an indoor venue it becomes part of a broader destination that visitors can explore before or after attending an event.

Activities Around Hangar 30

• Walking Trails: Visitors can enjoy scenic walking paths that wind through natural habitats, meadows, and along the Lake Washington shoreline.
• Public Art: Magnuson Park hosts several public art installations, giving the area a creative and inspiring vibe.
• Sports Facilities: Soccer fields, tennis courts, and baseball diamonds are located just steps away from Hangar 30, often used in conjunction with large outdoor events.

This integration with outdoor spaces makes it easy to host hybrid indoor-outdoor events at the park, giving planners more flexibility and a beautiful natural setting.

Accessibility and Amenities

One of the practical advantages of Hangar 30 is its accessibility. Located off Sand Point Way NE, the venue is reachable by car, bike, or public transportation. There is ample parking available for guests, a critical factor for larger events. The hangar also includes loading bays and large entry points that simplify logistics for event setup.

On-Site Facilities

• Restrooms and sanitation stations
• Electrical outlets throughout the space
• Roll-up doors for ventilation and equipment entry
• Room for catering setups and food trucks

Organizers appreciate the flexibility and ease of setting up inside Hangar 30, while attendees enjoy the convenience of the park’s amenities and open environment.

Booking and Availability

Hangar 30 is managed by Seattle Parks and Recreation, and its availability is posted through the city’s event booking system. Given the venue’s popularity, early booking is recommended, especially during spring and summer when the weather encourages more activity around Magnuson Park.

The venue is offered for both full-day and half-day rentals, with additional options for early setup or extended breakdown. Non-profit organizations and community groups may qualify for discounted rates, aligning with the city’s goal to keep the space accessible for public use.

Ideal Uses for Hangar 30

• Community fundraisers and cultural festivals
• Art exhibitions and gallery-style shows
• Wedding receptions and private parties
• Food and drink festivals
• Workshops, fairs, and conferences

Its open-concept design and central location make it a strong contender for a wide array of events across multiple industries and interests.

A Symbol of Seattle’s Adaptive Spirit

Hangar 30 is more than just an event space it’s a symbol of Seattle’s ability to preserve its history while embracing innovation and creativity. By reimagining this once-military facility into a thriving community hub, the city has created a space that honors the past while serving today’s diverse needs.

Whether you’re a Seattle local hosting a community market or a visitor attending a comic convention, the space offers an inviting environment that blends character with convenience. With its location inside Magnuson Park, Hangar 30 continues to be a beacon of transformation, community connection, and celebration in the heart of Seattle.