Far and away Seattle‘s most iconic structure, this U.F.O saucer on a stick is an Atomic Age baby—it only dates back to the 1962 World’s Fair. A 41-second elevator still whisks guests to the observation deck, which really ladles on the natural beauty when the clouds lift and “the mountains are out.” The Needle underwent a glorious $100-million “space-lift” in 2018. Innovations include floor-to-ceiling glass walls with benches that angle backwards (designed for great selfie angles—seriously!). The landmark also added the world’s first and only revolving glass floor, spinning under the Atmos Wine Bar. A café still serves quick bites, but the full-service restaurant has yet to reopen in early 2019. Below sprawls the Seattle Center’s carnival rides, science exhibits, world-famous glass art garden and the MoPop, a superb rock and sci-fi museum that resembles Jimi Hendrix’s smashed guitar when viewed from above
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Eyeing the Needle
Far and away Seattle‘s most iconic structure, the Space Needle really isn’t that old—built in 1962 for the World’s Fair (along with several other buildings like the Pacific Science Center and Key Arena), it celebrated its 50th anniversary in 2012. If you’re lucky enough to catch it on a sunny day, the views really are outstanding, and the interesting interactive time-lapse video screens on the observation deck let you see Seattle‘s skyline at any hour. And, of course, a gigantic gift shop on the ground floor will take care of all your souvenir needs (for a price). The Space Needle is located directly in front of the EMP Museum/Sci-fi Museum, so if you’re feeling ambitious, you can get in a full day of sightseeing right here at the Seattle Center. The Pacific Science Center is a great spot for families, too. At $22 per adult, it isn’t cheap, but few can resist the pull of this quintessential Seattle attraction (shown here from inside Chihuly Garden and Glass, also in the Seattle Center). For a better deal, eat lunch in the revolving restaurant; entrees run $25-30 and the elevator ride and admission to the observation deck are included.
5th Anniversary in Seattle
There’s nothing better than seeing the Space Needle on a clear sunny day! My boyfriend and I spent our 5th anniversary in Seattle and it was the most amazing time! If you’re in the area, get a “City Pass” and visit the Space Needle, Aquarium, Day Cruise, EMP Museum, Zoo and Pacific Science Center. Worth every penny!!
Seattle Space Needle
View from the Bainbridge Island ferry.
The Seattle Space needle from its underbelly
Seattle famous Space Needle from below.
SkyCity Restaurant Atop the Space Needle
SkyCity Restaurant offers breathtaking views of Seattle and Puget Sound from the dining room. The views, however, are equally matched by SkyCity’s menu. Executive Chef Jeff Maxfield brings regionally sourced ingredients to a new level of mouthwatering. Try the Razor Clam and Corn Chowder with peppered bacon, or the Weathervane scallops with stonefruit-radish salad. Their extensive wine list features varietals from local and international vineyards. SkyCity is open for brunch, lunch, and dinner, and every meal is accompanied by a free trip to the observation deck. The restaurant completes a full rotation every 47 minutes, so if you dine leisurely, you’ll be able to take in the 360-degree views twice.
The Space Needle
Seattle’s most iconic structure was built in 1962 for the World’s Fair and celebrated its 50th anniversary in 2012. The tower is 184 meters tall, with the Observation Deck at 160 meters and reachable in only 41 seconds via the high-speed elevator. The views are as mind-blowing as you’d expect, and just below is the rotating SkyCity Restaurant, if you’re looking for a meal with a side of panorama.
View From Sky City Restaurant in Space Needle
One of the most romantic restaurants in town