Stay in Rock History: Kurt Cobain’s Famous 1990s Olympia Apartment Is Listed on Airbnb

by Anna D'Amico

Rock 'n' roll fanatics have the opportunity to step into history as one of Kurt Cobain’s apartments is now an Airbnb listing.

Located on Pear Street in Olympia, WA, about 60 miles south of Seattle, the space has been updated and filled with Nirvana photos and memorabilia.

The triplex building, which includes two apartments facing the street and a third apartment in the rear, was built around 1914, according to the Olympia Historical Society. Cobain lived in the house between 1989 and 1991, marking one of the most creative eras of his career.

The grunge icon wrote “about 75% of his total lifetime output” within the apartment, the historical society notes.

Among the most well-known hits to be written in the space was “Smells Like Teen Spirit.” Cobain was inspired by graffiti written on the wall by Bikini Kill’s Kathleen Hanna during a lively evening.

Cobain and his then-girlfriend, Tracy Marander, paid $137 for both rent and utilities, according to YouTube travel creator Dave Seminara.

Marander supported Cobain for much of the time that they lived in this space. After breaking up in 1990, Marander moved out. Shortly after, Cobain was evicted from the apartment and returned from a Nirvana press trip to find his belongings outside on the lawn, according to Seminara.

Nirvana released three studio albums and, during its three years as a mainstream group, received an American Music Award, Grammy Award, and seven MTV Music Video Awards. Having sold more than 75 billion records worldwide, Nirvana is one of the bestselling music artists of all time.

The band’s time in the spotlight was cut short in 1994, when it disbanded following Cobain’s death.

Now, 35 years after Cobain moved out of the Pear Street apartment, grunge fans can stay in a piece of the band’s history through Airbnb.

Living Room Corner with Green Tufted Sofa, Glass Coffee Table, and Vintage Radio Console — Located on Pear Street in Olympia, WA, the space has been updated and filled with Nirvana photos and memorabilia. (Kelli)

The listing describes a “quiet and charming downtown Olympia studio” where visitors can take in local music history.

“Unique opportunity to experience a one of a kind vibe for musicians, artists and writers. An eclectic space with musical history,” reads the apartment’s Airbnb page.

The studio apartment is available for $250 to $300 per night, depending on the length of the stay. The host requires a two-night minimum for stays and offers discounts for stays of six months or more.

Guests have given the listing a 4.8-star rating, noting that the space was clean and cozy and the host accommodating, in addition to enjoying the powerful music history. Many also appreciated the proximity to places to eat and explore in downtown Olympia.

Cozy Sitting Nook with Electric Guitar, Wooden End Table, and Green Tufted Armchair — The host promises a “unique opportunity to experience a one of a kind vibe for musicians, artists and writers. An eclectic space with musical history.” (Kelli)

“A very special place, still can't quite believe we stayed here. Many of the fixtures and fittings that Kurt would have used are in tact (the shower, sink, taps, some door handles, the kitchen cabinets etc.) and probably much more. Many notable photos are also taken in the Garden...” wrote one happy guest.

“For any fan of the grunge legend Kurt Cobain this is a must stay! The history of this apartment is legendary it was during the time of bleach and beginning of nevermind (aka this time period as Kurt’s happiest). They kept the unit as it would have been back in his day. It makes it an experience to live in this relic. To see how a ‘rockstar’ would live,” another contributed to the positive reviews.

This listing combines a cozy and convenient space with a glimpse at an iconic time in the U.S. music scene.

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