Space Needle in Seattlesoaring 605 feet (184 meters) tallwas originally built for the 1962 World’s Fairand it has since become a symbol of the city.
Designed by architects John Graham Jr.Victor Steinbrueckand John Ridleythe Space Needle embodies the spirit of space exploration and the optimistic view of the future that defined the 1960s.
As you approach this iconic landmarkthe futuristic design will immediately catch your eye. The rotating restaurant and saucer-shaped observation deck make it an architectural marvel.
Taking the elevator up to the observation deck520 feet (158 meters) above the groundis an exhilarating experience.
The panoramic views from the top are truly spectacularoffering a stunning vista of Seattle’s downtown skylineElliott Baythe Olympic Mountainsand even Mount Rainier on clear days.
One of the highlights is to see the Space Needle illuminated at night. The vibrant colors and patterns that light up the tower to celebrate special occasionsholidaysand local events add to its charm and make it a focal point of Seattle’s skyline.
This article covers everything you must know before booking tickets for the Space Needle.
Top Tickets
# Space Needle + Chihuly Garden and Glass Tickets
# Space Needle and Seattle Center Private Tour
# Night Tour of Seattle with Space Needle and SkywheelIt’s highly recommended to book the Space Needle tickets in advance. These tickets sell out quicklyso securing your spot early ensures you don’t miss out on this unforgettable experience.
Key takeaways
Booking tickets online is better to avoid long queuesespecially during peak seasons.
To avoid the crowdvisit when the Space Needle opens at 10 am on weekdays. You get the best view from the top of the tower during the sunset hours.
Set aside 60 to 90 minutes to explore the observation deck. If you plan to explore the Chihuly Garden and Glassadd two additional hours.
Visit the Loupe Lounge for a unique revolving glass floor cocktail experienceor head to the Atmos Café and Atmos Wine Bar for snacksdrinksand breathtaking views. Keep aside two hours if you plan to dine at any of these restaurants.
What’s ahead
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Things to know before booking tickets
You can buy the Space Needle tickets online or at the attraction.
Online tickets let you skip the linesoften at a lower pricewhile also guaranteeing availability for your visit.
After the purchasetickets are emailed to you. You can enter by showing the e-ticket on your smartphone at the redemption point—no printouts are needed. Remember to bring your official IDs.
Space Needle tickets + Chihuly Garden and Glass
This 3-hour combo ticket includes the Chihuly Garden and Glassalong with the Space Needle. A fantastic dealallowing you to explore both attractions and save money!
With this ticketenjoy the panoramic vistas of downtown SeattleMount Rainierand Puget Sound. The interactive digital activities and free digital keepsakes are a nice bonus.
After taking in the viewshead to the nearby Chihuly Garden and Glass. The creativity and passion of artist Dale Chihuly are evident in every piece. Enjoy the galleriesthe vibrant gardenand the iconic Glasshouse.
This ticket is valid for one-time use on any day during regular operating hours. Only service animals are permittedand the Tower is wheelchair accessible.
Ticket Prices
Adult (13 to 64 years): US$68
Child (5 to 12 years): US$51
Senior (65+ years): US$58
Infant (up to 4 years): Free
Recommended
Private tour: Space Needle and Seattle Center Experience
This is a fascinating option for arthistoryand culture enthusiasts. This experience starts with a walking tour of the Seattle Centerwhere a guide provides insights into the “Uptown” and Queen Anne neighborhoods.
The tour highlights lesser-known artworks and institutionstaking 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 deckoffering stunning views of the city and Puget Sound. This tour is accessible to those with mobility issues.
Ticket Price: US$161
* Price varies by group size.
Buy This TicketRelated: Best times to visit observation decks for stunning views
Night Tour of Seattle with Space Needle entry
This night tour is an incredible way to experience Seattle’s beauty after dark. The 2.5-hour tour combines famous sights and an unforgettable nighttime experience.
You’ll see the Great WheelKerry Parkand 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.
Ticket Prices
Adult (12+ years): US$189
Child (4 to 11 years): US$169
Infant (up to 3 years): US$24
Opening hours of Space Needle
On weekdaysthe Space Needle opens at 10 amand on weekendsat 9 am. Throughout the weekthe closing times vary between 7 pm and 9.30 pm.
Here’s a table with the Space Needle’s opening hours:
| Day | Opening Hours |
|---|---|
| Wednesday | 10 am – 9 pm |
| Thursday | 10 am – 8 pm |
| Friday | 10 am – 9 pm |
| Saturday | 9 am – 9 pm |
| Sunday | 9 am – 8.30 pm |
| Monday | 10 am – 8 pm |
| Tuesday | 10 am – 7 pm |
The last entry is always 45 minutes before closing time.
The viewing platform may occasionally close fully or partially for special eventsso checking before planning your visit is a good idea.
How long does a visit take?
A visit to the Space Needle can take approximately two to three hours. Howeverthe duration can vary depending on several factorssuch as the time of daythe size of the crowdsand whether you plan to dine at the restaurant.
If you only plan to visit the observation deckyou can expect your visit to last around 60 to 90 minutes.
Best time to visit
The best time to visit the Space Needle is right when they open—at 10 am on weekdays and 9 am on weekends.
Visiting in the morning is fantastic because it’s quieter and less crowdedand the skies are often clearermaking for excellent photo opportunities.
Weekdays are ideal since there tend to be fewer tourists and shorter lines. If you aim for a clear dayyou’ll have the best chance of enjoying breathtaking views of Seattle and its surroundings.
For a truly magical experiencewe 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.
Visiting at night is a must if you want to see Seattle’s skyline illuminated. The city lights create a beautiful backdropand the Space Needle is often lit in various colors and patterns.
What to see and do at the Space Needle
Space Needle is more than just 360-degree panoramic views from its Observation Deck. Here are a few of the experiences you must explore.
The Loupe observation deck
Walking on The Loupethe world’s first revolving glass flooris both thrilling and surreal.
As you step onto the transparent flooryou can see the cityscape directly beneath my feet. This innovative feature adds an exhilarating dimension to your visitmaking it an unforgettable part of the experience.
Digital experiences
The interactive digital experiences on the observation deck are a lot of fun.
Try the Skyriserwhere you can virtually scale the tower and take fantastic selfies.
The SkyPad is another highlightallowing you to explore the history of the Space Needle and leave your digital mark on a global guestbook.
Photo opportunities
Every corner of the observation deck provides incredible photo opportunities.
The stunning views create the perfect backdrop for amazing shots.
Whether you’re a photography enthusiast or just looking to snap a few memorable picsthe Space Needle offers endless possibilities.
Space Needle restaurants
One of the highlights of the Space Needle was the SkyCity revolving restaurantwhich closed in September 2017 as part of the Space Needle’s historic renovation project. Unfortunatelythere 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 Loungeyou can enjoy a cocktail experience like no otherorbiting on the world’s first and only revolving glass floor. Located 152 meters (500 feet) above the citythe Lounge offers unmatched views of Seattle and beyond.
The Loupe Lounge features impressive mixologyserving show-stopping cocktails paired with flavors of the Pacific Northwest. It’s the perfect spot to sip and savor while enjoying the spectacular scenery.
The Lounge is open daily during operating hours—10 am to 9 pmSunday to Fridayand 9 am to 9 pm on Saturday—and is exclusively for guests aged 21 and over.
Atmos Cafe
The Atmos Cafélocated on the upper observation leveloffers an inviting selection of espresso drinksbeerwineand local treats from artisans like Pinkabella Cupcakes and Whidbey Island Ice Cream.
The Café is open throughout the day and night during regular building hoursproviding a perfect spot to relax and enjoy a delicious snack while taking in the views.
Atmos Wine Bar
Located on the upper observation levelthe Atmos Wine Bar offers a variety of beveragesincluding beerwinesoft drinksand coffeealong with convenient grab-and-go snacks.
The wine bar is open throughout the day and night during regular building hoursproviding a perfect spot to unwind and enjoy a drink while admiring the stunning views.
Frequently asked questions
Here are a few questions that tourists frequently ask about the Space Needle:
How tall is the Space Needle?
The Space Needle stands an impressive 184 meters (605 feet) tall. This iconic structure dominates the Seattle skyline and offers visitors breathtaking views from its observation decklocated at a height of 158 meters (520 feet).
What can I see from the Space Needle’s observation deck?
From the observation deckyou can take in stunning360-degree views of Seattle and its surroundings. The deck offers a panoramic look at the city’s skylinethe sparkling waters of Elliott Bayand the vast expanse of Puget Sound. You can also see the majestic Cascade and Olympic Mountains in the distance. On clear daysthe iconic Mount Rainier is also visible.
Are large bags allowed at the Space Needle?
Large bags are not allowed at the Space Needle. They won’t fit in the on-site storage lockersso 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.
Can I take my tripod to the Space Needle?
The Space Needle was constructed in 1962 for the Century 21 Expositioncommonly known as the Seattle World’s Fair. This iconic structure was designed to symbolize the future and innovation.
When was the Space Needle built?
It was built in 1962 for the Century 21 Expositionalso known as the Seattle World’s Fair.
How do I get to the Space Needle from downtown Seattle?
Reaching the Space Needle from downtown Seattle is easy. You can walktake public transportation like the Seattle Monorail or busor use a car or rideshare service. The Seattle Monorail offers a quick and scenic route directly to the Space Needle from Westlake Centermaking it a convenient and popular option for visitors.
How long does it take to go up and down the Space Needle?
The elevator ride to the top of the Space Needle takes approximately 41 seconds. Once at the observation deckvisitors typically spend around 45 minutes to an hour enjoying the views and attractions before heading back down.
Is the Space Needle wheelchair accessible?
Yesit is wheelchair accessible. Elevatorsrampsand accessible restrooms are available for visitors with disabilities.
Are there any restrictions on items I can bring into the Space Needle?
Yesthere are restrictions. Large bagsbackpackstripodsdronesand weapons are prohibited inside the Space Needle. Howeversmall bags and personal items are allowed.
Can I buy tickets to the Space Needle in advance?
Yesyou 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.
Are there any age restrictions for visiting the Space Needle?
There are no specific age restrictions for visiting. Children up to four years old can enter for free.
Are there guided tours available at the Space Needle?
Although guided tours are not availablethe Space Needle offers informative signs and interactive digital experiences to enrich your visit and provide detailed insights about the landmark.
What other attractions are near the Space Needle?
Nearby attractions include the Museum of Pop Culture, Chihuly Garden and Glassthe Pacific Science Centerand the Seattle Children’s Museum.
Is there parking available at the Space Needle?
Yesthere are parking garages and lots nearbyincluding the Seattle Center’s parking facilities.
How to reach Space Needle
This is located in the Lower Queen Anne neighborhood.
Address: 400 Broad StSeattleWA 98109United States. Get Directions.
Can be reached by car or public transportation.
By Bus
Take buses 3 or 4 and reach the nearest bus stop5th 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 128131724and 33 have stops here.
By Monorail
Seattle Center Monorail is the nearest monorail stationjust 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.
