Smith Tower Observatory
Iconic 1914 skyscraper offering historic charm, vintage elevator rides, and stunning 360° views from its speakeasy-style Observatory Bar.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Sunset views are magical
Smith Tower Observatory
Best Time
Sunset views are magical
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Iconic 1914 skyscraper offering historic charm, vintage elevator rides, and stunning 360° views from its speakeasy-style Observatory Bar.
"A delightful time with incredible atmosphere, great views, and well-made drinks."
🎯 Book Tickets Online
Secure your spot in advance to avoid disappointment and long waits.
🍸 Happy Hour Deals
Check out the $10 cocktail happy hour for great value and views.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
360-Degree Seattle Views
Observatory Deck
Panoramic vistas of the city, Puget Sound, and surrounding mountains. A truly breathtaking perspective.
Observatory Bar & Cocktails
35th Floor
Enjoy unique cocktails and small plates in a speakeasy-chic setting with stunning city views.
Historic Otis Elevator
Ascent to Observatory
Ride in one of Seattle's oldest, modernized elevators, a charming journey back in time.
Museum Exhibits
Lower Floors
Explore the history of the Smith Tower, once the tallest building west of the Mississippi.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Book Ahead for Best Experience
Dress Code & Comfort
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Book Tickets Online
Secure your spot in advance to avoid disappointment and long waits.
🍸 Happy Hour Deals
Check out the $10 cocktail happy hour for great value and views. 
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be doing some walking and standing to take in the views.
📸 Capture the Sunset
Aim for a visit around sunset for the most spectacular city panoramas.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Book Tickets Online
Secure your spot in advance to avoid disappointment and long waits.
🍸 Happy Hour Deals
Check out the $10 cocktail happy hour for great value and views.
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be doing some walking and standing to take in the views.
📸 Capture the Sunset
Aim for a visit around sunset for the most spectacular city panoramas.
⬆️ Don't Miss the Museum
Explore the fascinating history of this iconic skyscraper before heading up.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Smith Tower for its historical charm, unique speakeasy-style Observatory Bar, and beautiful 360-degree views of Seattle. The vintage elevator and museum exhibits add to the immersive experience. While some find the food and drink prices a bit high and service occasionally slow, the overall atmosphere and stunning vistas make it a highly recommended destination.
"Such a fantastic experience to see Seattle from up above. The lift has its own character too - one of the oldest hand crank elevator now modernized. Oh yes , we saw the old manual telephone exchange. The food is good too. Highly recommended."
Hadi Curtay
"I finally decided to go up to the observation bar/restaurant at the Smith Tower after coming to Seattle a few years in a row, and I'm so glad I did. As a skyscraper nerd, this place did not disappoint. The craftsmanship and the engineering is amazing! The views, while not as high as other prominent buildings in the central business district, are still really incredible. For dinner, I had a cocktail, salad, and a flat bread. While small, the salal ingredients were fresh, and the flat bread was quite delicious! The drink was quite good as well. Can't wait to go back to this place!"
Daryl Shook
"You go here for the vibes and the views. We got there before the dinner rush at about 3:30 and the wait was only 20 minutes. Great views, historical landmarks marked out, very nice. The drinks were excellent, I got the submarine club, delicious. We ordered the meat and cheese plate and it took longer than I would have imagined. Maybe it was an off day but we only ordered drinks and the board and the drinks were quick but the board was probably put together by hand instead of some pre made thing. Which is great but I guess I sort of expected more. So many olives but it could use more cheese and bread pieces imo. Worth the visit but the food and drink would need to be better to be impressive."
Sean WW
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Smith Tower is located in Pioneer Square, Seattle. It's easily accessible by public transport, including buses and light rail. Parking is available in nearby garages, but can be pricey. Many visitors find it convenient to walk from downtown hotels.
Yes, there are several parking garages in the Pioneer Square area. However, be prepared for potentially high rates, especially during peak times.
If you're staying in downtown Seattle, walking to Smith Tower is a pleasant option and allows you to see more of the city.
Public transportation like buses or the light rail is a cost-effective and convenient way to reach Smith Tower.
Absolutely! Several bus routes stop near Pioneer Square, and the Pioneer Square Link Light Rail station is just a short walk away.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
General admission tickets for the observatory and museum typically cost around $22. Happy hour tickets for the Observatory Bar can be as low as $10.
It's highly recommended to book your tickets online in advance to secure your preferred time slot and ensure faster entry.
Standard tickets usually include access to the museum exhibits and the observatory viewing deck.
Hours can vary seasonally, but generally, the observatory is open daily, with later hours on some evenings. It's best to check their official website for the most up-to-date information.
Yes, Monday through Thursday evenings offer special $10 tickets to the Observatory Bar, which often include a food and beverage credit.
🎫 🔭 Onsite Experience
You'll experience breathtaking 360-degree views of Seattle, explore historical exhibits about the tower's construction, and ride in a vintage Otis elevator.
Many visitors find it a worthwhile experience for its historical significance, unique atmosphere, and beautiful views, especially from the Observatory Bar.
Visiting around sunset offers stunning views as the city lights begin to twinkle.
Yes, there is an open-air viewing deck that allows you to experience the Seattle skyline up close.
Allow at least 1-2 hours to fully explore the museum exhibits and enjoy the views from the observatory and bar.
🍽️ 🍸 Food & Dining
The bar offers a selection of small plates, including flatbreads and charcuterie boards, alongside creative cocktails.
Prices can be on the higher side, but many find the quality of the drinks and the views to be worth the cost. Happy hour offers better value.
Visitors often rave about the unique cocktails, such as the 'Submarine Club,' and the delicious flatbreads.
For the experience and the views, many say yes, especially during happy hour. The food is generally good, though some reviews suggest it can be slow.
Typically, access to the Observatory Bar requires a ticket, or you can take advantage of their special evening offers.
📸 📸 Photography
The open-air deck offers unobstructed city views, while the interior of the bar provides a chic backdrop for photos with drinks.
Yes, photography is generally allowed throughout the observatory and the bar area.
Absolutely! The sunset views from Smith Tower are renowned and make for spectacular photographs.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive cityscapes. A fast lens can be helpful for lower light conditions in the evening.
Tripod policies can change, so it's best to check with the venue directly before your visit, especially if you plan on long exposures.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
The museum exhibits offer a chance to learn about Seattle's past in an interactive way. While the Observatory Bar is more adult-oriented, the general admission ticket grants access to the observatory deck, which provides expansive views that kids will find fascinating. Consider visiting during the day to avoid potential late-night crowds and ensure a more relaxed experience for younger visitors. Comfortable shoes are a must for little explorers!
💰 Budget Travelers
+1While general admission tickets are around $22, booking in advance can sometimes offer slight discounts or guarantee entry during popular times. Prioritizing the museum and observatory deck access over extensive dining can also help manage costs.
💖 Couples & Date Nights
+1 Enjoying craft cocktails with panoramic city lights as your backdrop is an unforgettable experience. Consider booking a table for sunset to witness the magical transition from day to night over Seattle. The historical charm of the tower adds a unique touch to any special occasion.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
A Glimpse into History: The Smith Tower
+1The tower's speakeasy-chic Observatory Bar on the 35th floor is a deliberate nod to its Prohibition-era roots, providing an intimate and stylish atmosphere. The bar's decor complements the historical ambiance of the building, making it more than just a place for drinks – it's an experience.
+1Exploring the museum exhibits on the lower floors provides crucial context for the tower's significance in Seattle's development. Understanding its history enhances the appreciation of the panoramic views from the top, transforming a simple sightseeing trip into a journey through time.
Experiencing the Views: Observatory vs. Bar
+1 It's a fantastic spot for photography, especially during daylight hours when the city is bustling.The Observatory Bar on the 35th floor provides a more refined way to enjoy the views. While not as high as some other Seattle skyscrapers, the vantage point is still spectacular, particularly during sunset.
+1 Visitors can savor craft cocktails and small plates while taking in the cityscape, making it a popular choice for a date night or a relaxed evening out. Many visitors recommend visiting both the museum and the observatory, and then capping off the experience with a drink at the bar. This combination allows for a comprehensive appreciation of the tower's history, its architectural grandeur, and its breathtaking vistas.
Cocktails and Cuisine: A Taste of the Smith Tower
Beyond the beverages, the bar also serves a selection of small plates, including flatbreads and charcuterie boards. While the portions might be on the smaller side, the ingredients are fresh, and the flavors are generally well-received.
It's worth noting that while the food and drinks are good, some reviews mention that service can be slow, especially during peak times. However, for many, the overall experience of enjoying a well-crafted drink with a stunning view makes the visit worthwhile.
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