Visiting the Space Needle in Seattle was an unforgettable experience.
This iconic landmark, soaring 184 meters (605 feet) tall, was originally built for the 1962 World’s Fair, and it has since become a symbol of the city.
As I approached the Space Needle, its futuristic design immediately caught my eye.
The rotating restaurant and saucer-shaped observation deck make it an architectural marvel.
Designed by architects John Graham Jr., Victor Steinbrueck, and John Ridley, the Space Needle embodies the spirit of space exploration and the optimistic view of the future that defined the 1960s.
Taking the elevator up to the observation deck, which is 158 meters (520 feet) above the ground, was exhilarating.
The panoramic views from the top are truly spectacular, offering a stunning vista of Seattle’s downtown skyline, Elliott Bay, the Olympic Mountains, and even Mount Rainier on clear days.
One of the highlights of my visit was seeing the Space Needle illuminated at night.
The vibrant colors and patterns that light up the tower to celebrate special occasions, holidays, and local events add to its charm and make it a focal point of Seattle’s skyline.
Ticket
It is better to buy your tickets online in advance to avoid last minute disappointment.
# Space Needle Tickets
# Space Needle and Seattle Center Private Tour
# Night Tour of Seattle with Space Needle and Skywheel
Booking your tickets
For the best experience, I recommend booking your Space Needle tickets online in advance.
Not only are online prices generally cheaper, but you can also avoid the long queues at the ticket counters.
Booking early ensures you get your preferred time slot, which is especially important as some tours have a limited number of tickets.
Here’s how it works: visit the ticket booking page, select your preferred date, choose from the available options, and purchase the number of tickets you need.
After booking, you’ll receive a confirmation email. On the day of your visit, head to the ticket redemption point at the attraction. Get Directions
Show your email confirmation on your smartphone to redeem your timed ticket. This ticket grants you access to both the Space Needle and, if you choose, the Chihuly Garden and Glass.
Space Needle ticket prices
When I visited the Space Needle, I found that ticket prices vary depending on the day of the week.
Here’s a breakdown:
| Weekday prices | Weekend prices | |
|---|---|---|
| Adults (13-64 years) | $63 | $68 |
| Children (5-12 years) | $47 | $51 |
| Seniors (65+ years) | $57 | $63 |
| Infants (up to 4 years) | Free | Free |
Booking in advance online can help you secure the best rates and avoid the hassle of long lines at the ticket counter.
Space Needle tickets + Chihuly Garden and Glass
When I visited the Space Needle, I booked the combo ticket that includes the Chihuly Garden and Glass. This ticket is a fantastic deal, allowing you to explore both attractions and save some money.
With this ticket, I enjoyed the breathtaking views from the 158-meter (520-foot) observation deck. The panoramic vistas of downtown Seattle, Mount Rainier, and Puget Sound were absolutely stunning. The interactive digital activities and free digital keepsakes were a nice bonus.
After taking in the views, I headed to the nearby Chihuly Garden and Glass. The creativity and passion of artist Dale Chihuly were evident in every piece. The Galleries, the vibrant Garden, and the iconic Glasshouse were all mesmerizing.
This ticket is valid for one-time use on any day during regular operating hours. Note that only service animals are permitted, and the Tower is wheelchair accessible.
Ticket Prices
Weekday Ticket
Adult Ticket (13 to 64 years): US$63
Child Ticket (5 to 12 years): US$47
Senior Ticket (65+ years): US$57
Infant Ticket (up to 4 years): Free
Weekend Ticket
Adult Ticket (13 to 64 years): US$68
Child Ticket (5 to 12 years): US$51
Senior Ticket (65+ years): US$62
Infant Ticket (up to 4 years): Free
Private tour: Space Needle and Seattle Center Experience
Although I haven’t tried this one myself, it sounds like a fascinating option for art, history, and culture enthusiasts. This private tour starts with a walking tour of the Seattle Center, where a guide provides insights into the “Uptown” and Queen Anne neighborhoods.
The tour highlights lesser-known artworks and institutions, taking you past landmarks like the Museum of Pop Culture and Chihuly Garden and Glass. You’ll also visit a local café and radio station to learn about Seattle’s unique coffee and music cultures.
The tour concludes with a timed entrance to the Space Needle’s viewing deck, offering stunning views of the city and Puget Sound. This tour is accessible for those with mobility issues.
Ticket Price: US$404 (for 2 adults)
*Price varies by group size.
Buy This TicketNight Tour of Seattle with Space Needle entry
This night tour sounds like an incredible way to experience Seattle’s beauty after dark. Although I haven’t taken it, the 2.5-hour tour combines famous sights and an unforgettable nighttime experience.
You’ll see the Great Wheel, Kerry Park, and the architectural wonder of the Space Needle. The tour offers a captivating look at Seattle’s hidden gems and includes a city drive that captures the vibrant nightlife.
The ticket includes hotel pickup and drop-off, but note that the tour is not wheelchair accessible.
If like me, you also enjoy exploring cities at night, this tour is worth considering.
During my next visit to Seattle, I plan to go up the Space Needle at night.
Ticket Prices
Adult Ticket (12+ years): US$144
Child Ticket (4 to 11 years): US$99
Infant Ticket (up to 3 years): US$21
What to see and do at the Space Needle
Midway through my visit I realized that Space Needle was more than just 360-degree panoramic views from its Observation Deck.
Here are a few of the experiences you must also explore.
The Loupe Observation Deck
Walking on The Loupe, the world’s first revolving glass floor, was both thrilling and surreal.
As I stepped onto the transparent floor, I could see the cityscape directly beneath my feet.
This innovative feature added an exhilarating dimension to my visit, making it an unforgettable part of the experience.
Digital Experiences
The interactive digital experiences on the Observation Deck were a lot of fun.
I tried the Skyriser, where I virtually scaled the tower and took some fantastic selfies.
The SkyPad was another highlight, allowing me to explore the history of the Space Needle and leave my digital mark on a global guestbook.
Photo Opportunities
Every corner of the Observation Deck provided incredible photo opportunities.
The stunning views made for the perfect backdrop, and I captured some amazing shots.
Whether you’re a photography enthusiast or just looking to snap a few memorable pics, the Space Needle offers endless possibilities.
The Atmos Café & Wine Bar
While I didn’t visit the Atmos Cafe, I saw many tourists stepping in to sip on local wines and craft beers.
The laid-back setting of the cafe and the stunning views were luring me in, but I had no choice but to leave because I had to catch my sightseeing HOHO bus soon.
Opening Hours of Space Needle
The Space Needle is open daily with the following schedule:
- Sunday to Friday: 10 am to 9 pm
- Saturday: 9 am to 9 pm
The last entry is always 45 minutes before closing time.
The viewing platform may occasionally close fully or partially for special events, so it’s a good idea to check ahead before planning your visit.
How long does a visit to the Space Needle take?
A visit to the Space Needle can take approximately two to three hours. However, the duration can vary depending on several factors, such as the time of day, the size of the crowds, and whether you plan to dine at the restaurant.
If you only plan to visit the Observation Deck, you can expect your visit to last around 60 to 90 minutes.
Best time to visit Space Needle
From my experience, the best time to visit the Space Needle is right when they open—at 10 am Sunday to Friday, or 9 am on Saturday.
Visiting in the morning is fantastic because it’s quieter and less crowded, and the skies are often clearer, making for excellent photo opportunities.
Weekdays are ideal since there tend to be fewer tourists and shorter lines. If you aim for a clear day, you’ll have the best chance of enjoying breathtaking views of Seattle and its surroundings.
For a truly magical experience, I recommend planning your visit during the hour leading up to sunset. The golden-hour lighting as the sun sets behind the Olympic Mountains is stunning. Just make sure to arrive early to secure a good spot.
If you want to see Seattle’s skyline illuminated, visiting at night is a must. The city lights create a beautiful backdrop, and the Space Needle itself is often lit up in various colors and patterns.
Space Needle Restaurants
Before my visit, I had read about the SkyCity Restaurant in the Space Needle and was excited to try the revolving dining experience. It would have been my first time at such a restaurant.
However, I was disappointed to learn that it closed in September 2017 as part of the Space Needle’s historic renovation project.
Unfortunately, there is currently no full-service revolving restaurant at the Space Needle. But there are three other places where you can stop for a bite or two.
The Loupe Lounge
At the Loupe Lounge, you can enjoy a cocktail experience like no other, orbiting on the world’s first and only revolving glass floor. Located 152 meters (500 feet) above the city, the lounge offers unmatched views of Seattle and beyond.
The Loupe Lounge features impressive mixology, serving show-stopping cocktails paired with flavors of the Pacific Northwest. It’s the perfect spot to sip and savor while taking in the spectacular scenery.
The lounge is open daily during operating hours—10 am to 9 pm, Sunday to Friday, and 9 am to 9 pm on Saturday—and is exclusively for guests aged 21 and over.
Atmos Cafe
The Atmos Café, located on the upper observation level, offers an inviting selection of espresso drinks, beer, wine, and local treats from artisans like Pinkabella Cupcakes and Whidbey Island Ice Cream.
The Café is open throughout the day and night during regular building hours, providing a perfect spot to relax and enjoy a delicious snack while taking in the views.
Atmos Wine Bar
Located on the upper observation level, the Atmos Wine Bar offers a variety of beverages including beer, wine, soft drinks, and coffee, along with convenient grab-and-go snacks.
The wine bar is open throughout the day and night during regular building hours, providing a perfect spot to unwind and enjoy a drink while admiring the stunning views.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here a few questions that tourists frequently asked:
The Space Needle stands an impressive 605 feet (184 meters) tall. This iconic structure dominates the Seattle skyline and offers visitors breathtaking views from its observation deck, which is located at a height of 520 feet (158 meters).
From the observation deck, you can take in stunning, 360-degree views of Seattle and its surroundings. The deck offers a panoramic look at the city’s skyline, the sparkling waters of Elliott Bay, and the vast expanse of Puget Sound. You can also see the majestic Cascade and Olympic Mountains in the distance. On clear days, the iconic Mount Rainier is also visible.
Large bags are not allowed at the Space Needle. They won’t fit in the on-site storage lockers, so you’ll need to make other arrangements for storing your luggage. Small backpacks and purses (the size that fits under an airline seat) are permitted inside. Medium-sized bags and large backpacks (carry-on-sized luggage) can be stored in the complimentary lockers near the main entrance.
The Space Needle was constructed in 1962 for the Century 21 Exposition, commonly known as the Seattle World’s Fair. This iconic structure was designed to symbolize the future and innovation.
It was built in 1962 for the Century 21 Exposition, also known as the Seattle World’s Fair.
Reaching the Space Needle from downtown Seattle is easy. You can walk, take public transportation like the Seattle Monorail or bus, or use a car or rideshare service. The Seattle Monorail offers a quick and scenic route directly to the Space Needle from Westlake Center, making it a convenient and popular option for visitors.
The elevator ride to the top of the Space Needle takes approximately 41 seconds. Once at the observation deck, visitors typically spend around 45 minutes to an hour enjoying the views and attractions before heading back down.
Yes, the is wheelchair accessible. Elevators, ramps, and accessible restrooms are available for visitors with disabilities.
Yes, there are restrictions. Large bags, backpacks, tripods, drones, and weapons are prohibited inside the Space Needle. However, small bags and personal items are allowed.
Yes, you can purchase tickets in advance online through the official Space Needle website or from various authorized partners. This ensures you secure your preferred time slot and avoid long lines.
There are no specific age restrictions for visiting. Children up to four years old can enter for free.
Although guided tours are not available, the Space Needle offers informative signs and interactive digital experiences to enrich your visit and provide detailed insights about the landmark.
Nearby attractions include the Museum of Pop Culture, Chihuly Garden and Glass, the Pacific Science Center, and the Seattle Children’s Museum.
Yes, there are parking garages and lots nearby, including the Seattle Center’s parking facilities.
How to reach Space Needle
This is located in the Lower Queen Anne neighborhood.
Address: 400 Broad St, Seattle, WA 98109, United States. Get Directions.
Can be reached by car or public transportation.
By Bus
Take buses 3 or 4 and reach the nearest bus stop, 5th Ave N & Broad St. Walk for 2 minutes to begin your experience of viewing from the observation deck.
Denny Way & 2nd Ave N is 6 minutes walking from the observation deck. Buses 1, 2, 8, 13, 17, 24, and 33 have stops here.
By Monorail
Seattle Center Monorail is the nearest monorail station, just 1-minute walking distance from Observation Deck. Seattle Monorail has a stop here.
By Car
You can rent a cab or drive to reach the Observation Deck.
Launch Google Maps and get started!
There are numerous parking lots around the attraction.
Popular Observation Decks
Sources
# Tripadvisor.com
# Spaceneedle.com
# Wikipedia.org
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