Washington is a stunning state with much to see and do (one of its greatest outdoor attractions is exploring the picture-perfect Mt Rainier National Park). And like the wider state around it, Seattle boasts many things to explore and experience (e.g. Seattle and Puget Sound are some of the best places in the world to go whale watching). Seattle is much more than the home of Boeing! As one visits Seattle, one will notice just how imposing the Space Needle is. This observation tower was designed to be the city's landmark and today it is open to the public.
When it was built back in the early 1960s it was the tallest structure west of the Mississippi. The Space Needle is one of the most defining landmarks of Seattle's skyline and looks something like someone placed a UFO on a tower overlooking the city.
About The Space Needle
The most notable feature of the tower is its observation deck some 520 feet above the ground. From here one can enjoy stunningly beautiful panoramic views of the downtown Seattle skyline. Scanning further out and one's gaze will fall on the eye-watering Olympic and Cascade Mountains, Mount Rainier, Mount Baker, and various islands dotting Puget Sound.
- Complimentary: Digital Photo Downloads And Access To Powerful Telescopes
- Tip: Consider Downloading The Space Needle App
- Height: 605 Feet or 184 Meters
It is built to withstand earthquakes of up to 9.0 magnitude - so one needn't worry about being in such a high tower on the Pacific Ring of Fire. The foundation for this structure is so big and heavy that its center of gravity is just five feet off the ground.
- Design: Initially Inspired The Stuttgart Tower In Germany (Resembled More Of A Tethered Balloon), The Design Morphed Into The Fly Saucer Shape
Visiting The Space Needle
Enjoy fast elevators zipping up and down traveling at 10 mph. It only takes 41 seconds to reach the top. Once on the Observation Deck see Seattle with a bird's eye view with its 360° views. From here one can take in the city, the snowcapped mountains, and the ocean all at once. The opening hours vary by season.
- Days Open: 365 Days A Year (Can Close On Occasion For Special Events)
Hours Through October 2
- Friday & Saturday: 9:30AM - 9:30PM
- Sunday, Monday, Thursday: 9:30 AM - 9:00 PM
- Tuesday & Wednesday: 9:30AM - 8:00PM
Hours October 4 to October 31
- Thursday - Monday: 10:00 AM - 8:30 PM
- Tuesday & Wednesday: 10:00AM - 8:00PM
Space Needle General Admission
- Adult: $34.00 to $37.50
- Senior: $29.00 to $32.50 (Aged 65 and Over)
- Youth: $25.00 to $30.00 (Aged 5 to 12)
The cost of admission above is according to the Space Needle Ticketing page, see their website for more information and bookings. Note that if one is planning to see and do multiple things while in Seattle, it is often cheaper to bundle the packages. There are many Seattle package deals to choose from - many of them offering guided tours of the iconic Pacific Northwest city. The Space Needle itself is not an attraction that needs a guided tour.
SkyCity Restuarant
The Space Needle boasts an amazing revolving restaurant called SkyCity restaurant. It is just below the observation deck and offers a range of gourmet meals. Unfortunately, as at the time of writing the SkyCity Restaurant is closed for a major renovation, check the Space Needle website for updates.
The Loupe Lounge
One of the Space Needle's most notable attractions is its Loupe Lounge. It has the world's first and only revolving glass floor. As one orbits, take in the unmatched views 500 feet up while enjoying the tastes of the Pacific Northwest. Enjoy a great menu crafted by their Executive Chef and choose from a selection of seafood, cheeses, treats, and more.
- Revolution Time: The Loupe Makes A Complete Revolution Around The Skyline Every 30 Minutes
- Age Limit: The Loupe Lounge Is For Guests Aged 21 and Over
Here are two Loupe Lounge reservation packages to select from. For more information and booking see here.
Loupe Lounge Experience
- Enjoy: Choose From Nitrogen Theory, Americana with Space Cowboy, or Savor Flavors From Both Sides Of the Pacific With Rose Rising
- Includes: Ticket To the Top, Parking, Priority Lounge Seating
- Booking: Two Hour Booking
- Price: $275.00 to $315.00 Per Person
Taste Of Washington
- Enjoy: Favorite Local Wine With Wagyu Beef Sliders and Hand Cut Truffle Fries
- Included: Ticket To The Top, Priority Lounge Seating
- Duration: 90 Minute Booking
- Cost: $95.00 Per Person
Atmos Cafe
Another option to relax and get a bite or drink is the Atmos Cafe. The Atmos Cafe is located on the upper observation level. It features an espresso bar, beer & and wine. There is a range of treats as well including Pinkabella Cupcakes and Whidbey Island Ice Cream.
- Atmos Cafe Hours: Open During Normal Building Hours Throughout The Day and Night