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Seattle, Washington / Bars and nightlife

Smith Tower Observatory Bar

A speakeasy-inspired bar perched on the 35th floor of Seattle's historic Smith Tower, offering craft cocktails and panoramic 360-degree views of the city.

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Smith Tower Observatory Bar
www.smithtower.com, og_image_www.smithtower.com

What is the Smith Tower Observatory Bar known for?

It is a speakeasy-inspired bar located on the 35th floor that offers craft cocktails and locally influenced bites. It is known for its Prohibition-era flair and menus that pay homage to the tower's rum-running roots and Chinese Room history.

What are the hours?

The Observatory Bar opens daily at 12 p.m., with some sources listing closing time at 8 p.m. Please note that last admission and food and beverage service end one hour before closing.

Do I need a ticket to visit the bar?

Yes, admission tickets are required to access the Observatory and the Observatory Bar.

How can I buy tickets?

Tickets can be purchased online or at the door (at the Observatory check-in next to Caffe Vita).

What else is there to see besides the bar?

Visitors can experience 360-degree views of Seattle, Puget Sound, and Mount Rainier from the 35th floor and an open-air viewing deck. The experience also includes historic Otis elevators and a historical exhibit featuring curated artifacts and L.C. Smith’s original typewriters.

What should I check before going?

Use Gyde for context, then check official sources for current hours, tickets, construction, and closures.

What to know

The Smith Tower Observatory Bar is a sophisticated destination perched on the 35th floor of the iconic Smith Tower. This historic landmark opened in 1914 in Pioneer Square and was the tallest building west of the Mississippi River at the time, standing 462 feet tall. Visitors can ascend to the top via historic Otis elevators to reach the speakeasy-inspired bar, which pays homage to the building's rum-running roots and Chinese Room history. The bar offers a curated menu of craft cocktails and locally influenced bites, designed with Prohibition-era flair. The atmosphere is designed to encourage guests to linger over their drinks while taking in the breathtaking views. Access to the bar is bundled with an observatory ticket, which also provides entry to a historical exhibit featuring L.C. Smith’s original typewriters and curated artifacts from the tower's storied past. Beyond the indoor lounge, the experience includes access to an open-air viewing deck. From this vantage point, guests can enjoy stunning 360-degree panoramic views of Seattle, including the Puget Sound, Mount Rainier, and the surrounding mountains. This combination of historic architecture and modern luxury makes it a world-famous tourist attraction that has welcomed visitors for over a century.

Visitor tips

  • Purchase tickets online to skip the line at the Observatory check-in next to Caffe Vita.
  • Plan your visit between 12 p.m. and 8 p.m., but remember that last admission and food service end one hour before closing.
  • Allow extra time to explore the historical exhibit featuring original L.C. Smith typewriters before heading up to the bar.

Nearby context

Located at 500 Second Ave in the heart of Pioneer Square, the Smith Tower is a cornerstone of Seattle's oldest neighborhood, serving as a symbol of the city's early 20th-century ambition.

Sources

Evidence and links