Step Inside Chateau Ste Michelle Winery Woodinville WA
Nestled in the heart of Woodinville, Washington, Chateau Ste Michelle Winery at 14111 Northeast 145th Street is more than just a winery; it’s a complete destination. Renowned for its exceptional wines and the celebrated Summer Concert Series, this iconic estate seamlessly blends the charm of a historic winery with world-class entertainment. From May to September, the outdoor venue transforms into a vibrant hub of music, offering a diverse lineup of rock, pop, and jazz performances that perfectly complement the winery’s extensive selection of wines. Join us as we delve into the rich history, unique features, and essential visitor information for Chateau Ste Michelle Winery, your perfect destination for a memorable experience in Woodinville, WA.
A Legacy of Wine and Music: Exploring Chateau Ste Michelle Winery’s History
Chateau Ste Michelle Winery’s story is deeply intertwined with the rise of Washington State as a premier wine region. Located just about 20 miles from Seattle in Woodinville, the winery’s grounds boast a history that stretches back to 1912. As the oldest operating winery in Washington, Chateau Ste Michelle has played a pivotal role in shaping the Pacific Northwest wine industry, evolving into a must-visit destination that offers both exquisite wines and captivating entertainment. While the picturesque landscape and French-inspired chateau evoke a sense of timeless elegance, the winery is equally committed to innovation, providing exceptional hospitality and unforgettable experiences.
The Summer Concert Series at Chateau Ste Michelle Winery began modestly in 1984 as a small musical offering for wine lovers. Initially held in the parking area, the concerts quickly gained popularity, becoming an annual highlight that eventually necessitated the construction of a dedicated amphitheater on the estate grounds. Mirroring the sophisticated palate of the winery’s vintners, the Summer Concert Series has consistently showcased an impressive roster of talent. Music icons such as Stevie Wonder, Bob Dylan, and The B-52s have graced the stage, alongside contemporary stars like John Legend, Sarah McLachlan, Kelsea Ballerini, and Jason Mraz.
In 2023, Chateau Ste Michelle Winery hosted a record-breaking 41 concerts, marking its most extensive season to date. The winery further celebrated a significant milestone in 2024, commemorating the 40th anniversary of its beloved Summer Concert Series.
Immerse Yourself in the Chateau Ste Michelle Winery Experience
Venue Highlights and Ambiance
Concerts at Chateau Ste Michelle Winery are staged at the outdoor amphitheater, located directly opposite the winery’s main building. The distinctive French chateau, a focal point of the estate since 1976 when Woodinville became the company’s headquarters, stands proudly beside the performance area, captivating every concert attendee upon arrival. Adding to its historical significance, the Manor House and gardens were honored with a place on the National Register of Historic Places in 1978.
Step Inside Chateau Ste Michelle Winery Woodinville WA
Offering breathtaking views of the sprawling 118-acre estate, the amphitheater at Chateau Ste Michelle Winery is both integrated into its stunning natural surroundings and possesses an enchanting atmosphere. Despite its convenient proximity to the Seattle metropolitan area, the venue provides a refreshing escape from the urban environment. Enhance your visit by bringing a picnic to enjoy on the expansive lawn or booking a guided tour or wine tasting to fully appreciate the winery’s diverse offerings.
Seating Options for Every Preference
The amphitheater at Chateau Ste Michelle Winery is cleverly designed on a gentle slope, ensuring excellent stage views from all seating areas, even from the back rows. Reserved seating is positioned at the base of the slope, directly in front of the stage. General admission lawn seating is available on either side of the reserved section, with additional reserved lawn areas behind. Chairs are provided for reserved seating and reserved lawn areas. For general admission lawn seating, guests are welcome to bring their own chairs, with restrictions limiting seat height to 12 inches and top height to 32 inches, unless in a designated “High Back Chair” section.
For an elevated experience, VIP packages at Chateau Ste Michelle Winery include access to reserved tables and cabanas situated behind and above the standard seating and general admission areas, as well as entry to the exclusive Peacock Lounge.
Chateau Ste Michelle Winery’s amphitheater can accommodate up to 4,500 guests, creating an intimate yet vibrant concert atmosphere. To better understand the venue layout and choose your preferred spot, refer to Chateau Ste Michelle Winery’s seating chart.
Accessibility for All Guests
Chateau Ste Michelle Winery is committed to providing an inclusive experience for all visitors. ADA Reserved seating tickets are available for guests with disabilities and a companion. Both reserved and general admission areas offer accessible pathways throughout the amphitheater. ADA parking is available on a first-come, first-served basis at the north and south entrances. If ADA parking is full, pick-up and drop-off arrangements can be made. For specific accessibility needs or questions, it’s recommended to contact the winery in advance via email or by phone at 425-488-1133.
Getting There and Admission Information for Chateau Ste Michelle Winery
Chateau Ste Michelle Winery is located at the address 14111 Northeast 145th Street, Woodinville, Washington. For those using public transportation, the Woodinville Park And Ride is the nearest hub, serving the ST522 bus line. It is advisable to check the Sound Transit website for the bus schedule and operating hours. Cyclists can enjoy a scenic route to the winery via the Sammamish River Trail.
For guests driving to Chateau Ste Michelle Winery, onsite parking is available for $40, subject to availability. More affordable offsite parking at $20 is located nearby, opening three hours before concert start times. The overflow parking area is situated at 15300 Redmond-Woodinville Road Northeast, Woodinville, WA, and includes a convenient shuttle service to the South Gate entrance. Parking passes can be purchased in advance along with your concert tickets. Rideshare users will find a designated pickup location on 145th Street, a short walk after exiting the venue, especially helpful during post-concert traffic.
The amphitheater gates typically open two hours before the scheduled show time, accessible via the North or South Gate entrances. Each guest is allowed to bring one bag or item, one blanket, and one chair (if in the designated lawn area). To enhance the picnic-friendly atmosphere, Chateau Ste Michelle Winery’s bag policy permits tote bags, small backpacks, and coolers (hard or soft-sided) no larger than 14″ x 14″ x 14″. Given the Pacific Northwest weather, rain jackets and umbrellas are encouraged as concerts proceed rain or shine. Notably, glass containers are not permitted within the amphitheater unless they are unopened bottles of wine purchased at the winery. For a complete list of admission rules, please visit the venue’s visitor page.
While most concerts at Chateau Ste Michelle Winery are all-ages events, age restrictions can vary. Tickets are required for children aged three and older. Children two years and younger may enter the general admission area for free when accompanied by a ticketed adult.
Explore More Around Chateau Ste Michelle Winery
Dining and Drinks Near the Winery
Chateau Ste Michelle Winery itself is a culinary destination. In addition to the delightful Chateau Picnic experience and the shared plates available in the Tasting Room, concertgoers can find diverse food options within the amphitheater from local vendors such as Bar Dojo, Isidro’s, and Nutty Squirrel Gelato. All alcoholic beverages consumed on the property must be purchased from Chateau Ste Michelle Winery, which also offers a selection of beers from local breweries. Perfectly complementing the concert experience, the winery has even created a range of concert-inspired wines.
Accommodation Options Nearby
Extend your visit to Chateau Ste Michelle Winery into a relaxing getaway by staying at one of the nearby hotels. Willows Lodge, situated along the Sammamish River, and the charming Holly Creek Farmhouse B&B are both less than a mile from the winery. Slightly further afield, you’ll find options like the Hampton Inn & Suites-Seattle Woodinville and the Country Inn & Suites by Radisson, Seattle-Bothell, WA. In neighboring Redmond and Kirkland, you can choose from hotels such as the Archer Hotel Redmond, the Redmond Inn, The Heathman Hotel Kirkland, and the Courtyard by Marriott Seattle Kirkland.
Concluding Your Chateau Ste Michelle Winery Experience
Chateau Ste Michelle Winery at 14111 Northeast 145th Street in Woodinville, WA, offers a unique blend of world-class wines, captivating concerts, and rich history within a stunning setting. Whether you’re a wine enthusiast, a music lover, or simply seeking a memorable experience in the Pacific Northwest, Chateau Ste Michelle Winery is a destination that promises to delight. Plan your visit today and discover the magic for yourself at this Woodinville gem.
