Space Needle
Seattle's iconic 605-ft spire offering breathtaking panoramic views and a thrilling rotating glass floor.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better photos
Space Needle
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better photos
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Seattle's iconic 605-ft spire offering breathtaking panoramic views and a thrilling rotating glass floor.
"Visiting the Space Needle was an unforgettable highlight of our trip to Seattle. "
🎟️ Combo Tickets Save
Bundle with Chihuly Garden and Glass for a fuller experience & potential savings.
🚶 Monorail Magic
Take the Seattle Monorail from downtown for a quick, fun, and easy ride.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Rotating Glass Floor
Observation Deck
Experience Seattle from a thrilling new angle on the world's only rotating glass floor.
Panoramic Observation Deck
Top Level
Soak in breathtaking 360-degree views of Seattle, Puget Sound, and Mount Rainier.
Sunset from Above
Observation Deck
Witness a magical sunset painting the sky over Seattle, a truly unforgettable sight.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Everything
Ticket Savvy
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎟️ Combo Tickets Save
Bundle with Chihuly Garden and Glass for a fuller experience & potential savings.
🚶 Monorail Magic
Take the Seattle Monorail from downtown for a quick, fun, and easy ride.
📸 Early Bird Gets Views
Go as early as possible to take photos with fewer people around.
📱 Capture the Moment
Look for the special camera that zooms in on you for a unique video souvenir.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎟️ Combo Tickets Save
Bundle with Chihuly Garden and Glass for a fuller experience & potential savings.
🚶 Monorail Magic
Take the Seattle Monorail from downtown for a quick, fun, and easy ride.
📸 Early Bird Gets Views
Go as early as possible to take photos with fewer people around.
📱 Capture the Moment
Look for the special camera that zooms in on you for a unique video souvenir.
🛍️ Souvenir Hunt
Browse the large gift shop for unique finds and classic souvenirs.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the Space Needle for its iconic status and breathtaking panoramic views of Seattle, Puget Sound, and Mount Rainier. The rotating glass floor is a unique thrill, and many find the experience well worth the ticket price, especially when combined with other attractions. Some note the cost can be high and crowds significant during peak times.
"5 Stars – Iconic Experience and Worth Every Penny
Visiting the Space Needle was an unforgettable highlight of our trip to Seattle. My grown daughter and I had an amazing time—this is truly a must-see attraction.
We started by taking the Seattle Monorail from downtown, which was fast, easy, and a fun way to get there. The ride up the Needle itself takes just 45 seconds, and before you know it, you’re looking out over some of the most stunning views the city has to offer.
The rotating glass floor and panoramic observation deck are both incredible. Walking around outside, you’re surrounded by thick glass walls that make the experience feel open and thrilling, yet totally safe. There are plenty of photo ops from every angle.
The gift shop is huge, offering everything from classic souvenirs to fun, quirky finds—definitely worth a browse.
Yes, tickets are on the pricier side, but it’s absolutely worth it for the experience, especially if you’re sharing it with someone special. We’ll both remember it for years to come.
Tip: going to multiple places? Get a City Pass to save money!!!"
Bonanza Jellybean
"The Space Needle is one of the most iconic and happening landmarks in Seattle. Conveniently located just minutes from downtown, it’s a must-visit for anyone exploring the city. The observation deck offers a stunning 360-degree panoramic view of Seattle — from the sparkling Puget Sound to Mount Rainier on a clear day, and the vibrant skyline all around.
Whether you're visiting during the day or at night, the experience is breathtaking. The glass floors and rotating glass walls add a modern thrill to this historic structure. It's perfect for photography, sightseeing, or simply enjoying the beauty of Seattle from above."
RAJAN KAFLE
"Totally worth the price of admission! We went up before sunset to get some great views, and, of course, experience the sunset from above. You get great views from the observation deck, but don't forget the rotating deck below. There's this awesome camera in one of the downtown buildings that zooms in to you inside the needle for a great little video! Definitely a highlight of our trip!"
Chaco Ruiz
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Space Needle is easily accessible. Many visitors opt for the Seattle Monorail, which offers a quick and fun ride directly from downtown Seattle. Driving is also an option, with parking available nearby, though it can be pricey.
Yes, there are several parking garages and lots around the Seattle Center, where the Space Needle is located. Be prepared for potential fees, especially during peak times.
If you're staying in downtown Seattle, it's a pleasant walk, though it can take about 30-40 minutes. The Monorail is a faster and more direct option.
The Seattle Monorail is highly recommended for its convenience and novelty. It's a direct link from Westlake Center in downtown to the Seattle Center.
Absolutely! Besides the Monorail, several King County Metro bus routes stop near the Seattle Center, making it very accessible via public transit.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Ticket prices can vary, but expect them to be on the pricier side. It's recommended to check the official Space Needle website for current pricing and to book online in advance.
You can purchase Space Needle tickets directly from the official Space Needle website. Many visitors also opt for city passes that include Space Needle admission, which can offer savings.
Look into Seattle City Passes or other multi-attraction passes for potential discounts. Sometimes, booking online in advance can also offer slight savings.
It's highly recommended to book your Space Needle tickets online in advance, especially during peak season or weekends, to guarantee your entry time and avoid long queues.
Admission typically includes access to the observation deck and the rotating glass floor. Some ticket packages may include other attractions.
📸 📸 Photography
The observation deck offers incredible panoramic shots of the city, Puget Sound, and mountains. Don't forget to capture unique angles from the rotating glass floor and the exterior grounds.
Yes, absolutely! The observation deck is designed for stunning photography, with floor-to-ceiling glass offering unobstructed views.
Sunset is a popular and magical time for photos, offering beautiful golden hour light. Be prepared for crowds, but the views are well worth it.
Yes, there's a unique camera setup that can zoom in on you inside the Needle from a downtown building, creating a fun video souvenir.
Early mornings offer fewer crowds and softer light. Sunset provides dramatic colors, while nighttime offers a glittering cityscape.
🎫 🏙️ Onsite Experience
The main attractions are the observation deck with its panoramic views and the rotating glass floor. There's also a gift shop and often interactive exhibits.
Most visitors spend about 1-2 hours at the Space Needle, allowing time for the ascent, enjoying the views, and browsing the gift shop.
For many, the iconic views and unique experience, especially the rotating glass floor, make it worth the price. Consider combo tickets for added value.
The Space Needle's hours vary seasonally and can change. It's best to check the official Space Needle website for the most up-to-date schedule.
While there isn't a full-service restaurant anymore, there are usually grab-and-go options and snacks available for purchase at the top.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider visiting during the day when younger children might be more engaged. The Monorail ride to the Space Needle is also an adventure in itself for little ones. Pack snacks and be prepared for crowds, especially during peak times.
💰 Budget Travelers
Consider visiting during off-peak hours or weekdays to potentially find slightly lower ticket prices or fewer crowds. Planning ahead and booking online can also help manage costs.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
Experiment with the rotating glass floor for unique perspectives looking down. For the best light, aim for sunrise or sunset, though be prepared for more visitors. The surrounding Seattle Center grounds also offer great vantage points for capturing the Needle itself.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
A Glimpse into History
Its unique saucer-shaped top houses the observation deck and a former revolving restaurant. The design was inspired by the theme of the World's Fair, 'Century 21 Exposition,' aiming to showcase the potential of the 21st century. The structure is engineered to withstand high winds and earthquakes, a testament to its innovative construction.
Today, the Space Needle has undergone significant renovations to enhance the visitor experience, including the addition of the all-glass rotating floor and improved viewing areas, ensuring its continued relevance as a beloved landmark.
Experiencing the Views
A truly unique feature is the rotating glass floor, which allows visitors to look straight down 500 feet to the ground below. This thrilling perspective provides an unforgettable experience and is a major draw for tourists.
Whether you visit during the day for clear vistas or at night to see the city lights twinkle, the views are consistently breathtaking. Many visitors recommend timing your visit around sunset for a truly magical experience, watching the sky change colors over the Pacific Northwest.
Maximizing Your Visit
Many travelers suggest taking the Seattle Monorail from downtown to reach the Space Needle. It's a convenient, fast, and nostalgic way to travel, avoiding potential traffic and parking hassles.
For the best photo opportunities and a less crowded experience, aim for a weekday morning visit. If you're keen on capturing the city lights, an evening visit is spectacular, though it will likely be busier.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit