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About The Big Dipper
Welcome to The Big Dipper, a quintessential small-venue experience in the heart of downtown Spokane. Located at 171 S Washington St, this all-ages music club is known for intimate shows, a raised stage, and a lively standing-room vibe. The venue has evolved through renovations since 2014–2016 under the leadership of Dan and Dawson Hoerner, preserving its indie spirit while refreshing the mural exterior that now carries the revived name Ursa Nightingale. Whether you’re here for a local showcase or touring act, we’ve got you covered with practical details to help you secure your seats and plan a smooth night out in Spokane.
Note: The Big Dipper operates as a small- to mid-sized venue with general-admission floor standing, no fixed seating or balcony. Capacity has fluctuated with upgrades, and events can range from intimate sets to crowd-withdrawals that feel like a club night. Always verify event specifics when booking.
Getting there is convenient with downtown parking lots and garages nearby. The STA Plaza is about a block away, and City Line stops are within easy reach, making public transit a practical option. If you’re staying in the area, several hotels are within half a mile, including the Downtown Davenport, The Centennial, Hotel Indigo, and Courtyard by Marriott Spokane. After your show, consider our trusted partner recommendations for nearby dining and lodging to complete your Spokane night out. For official updates and connections, follow the venue and performers on their social channels and official sites.
Good to know
Seating, Parking & Venue Information
- Address: 171 S Washington St, Spokane, WA 99201.
- Venue type: small, all-ages live music club in downtown Spokane.
- Capacity: officially ~110; after sprinkler upgrades around 2015–2016 shows were cleared to ~200–250 (some sources mention up to ~300 for certain events).
- Seating/chart: general-admission floor with a raised stage; no fixed seats or balcony; largely standing-room.
- Parking & transit: downtown parking lots/garages nearby; STA Plaza is about a block away; City Line stops nearby; walkable to several hotels.
- Nearby hotels: within a half-mile include Downtown Davenport, The Centennial, Hotel Indigo, and Courtyard by Marriott Spokane.
- Notable events hosted: historic shows (e.g., Mudhoney in 1991); revival/renovation led by Dan and Dawson Hoerner starting ~2014–2016; mural restored and renamed Ursa Nightingale; ongoing indie/local and touring acts (2025).
- Renamed/demolished: not demolished; mural exterior updated and renamed during revival; venue remains The Big Dipper.
- Other venue with the same name: The Big Dipper Ice Arena in Fairbanks, Alaska (address 1920 Lathrop St; seating capacity 1,857; tenants include Fairbanks Ice Dogs).