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Seattle, Washington / Landmarks

Space Needle

Seattle's most iconic observation tower, rising 605 feet to offer panoramic views of the city, mountains, and Puget Sound, featuring the world's first revolving glass floor.

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Space Needle
www.spaceneedle.com, og_image_www.spaceneedle.com

What is the Space Needle known for?

The Space Needle is an iconic Seattle landmark and observation tower known for its panoramic views of the city, mountains, and water. It features The Loupe, which is the world's first and only revolving glass floor.

How much does it cost to visit?

General admission is priced between $37.50 and $49.00, depending on the season and time of day. Other options include a Chihuly Garden & Glass combo ticket for $69.00, an After 6PM Friends & Fam Pack for $36.50, and CityPASS ranging from $99.00 to $129.00.

What are the hours?

The Space Needle is open from 8:00 AM to 11:00 PM Monday through Friday and Sunday, and from 8:00 AM to 11:30 PM on Saturday.

What is the history of the Space Needle?

Built as the centerpiece for the 1962 World's Fair (Century 21 Exposition), the tower opened on April 21, 1962. It was constructed in approximately 400 days, earning it the nickname '400-Day Wonder.'

How tall is the tower?

The Space Needle rises 605 feet above the city.

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 Space Needle is a designated Seattle landmark and an observation tower that rises 605 feet above the city. It was built in the Seattle Center for the 1962 World's Fair, also known as the Century 21 Exposition, which drew more than 2.3 million visitors. The tower was constructed in just 400 days, earning it the nickname '400-Day Wonder.' Conceived by hotel executive Edward E. Carlson, who was inspired by a Stuttgart broadcast tower with a restaurant, the structure was designed as a cultural centerpiece for a fair themed around 'The Age of Space.' Construction began in 1961, and the basic tower was completed in December 1961 before officially opening on April 21, 1962. Visitors are carried by elevator to an observation deck 520 feet above ground. From here, they can experience panoramic views of the downtown Seattle skyline, the Olympic and Cascade Mountains, Mount Rainier, Mount Baker, and Elliott Bay. The tower now features two viewing levels with 'floor-to-forever' glass. One of the most modern additions is The Loupe, which is the world's first and only revolving glass floor. This feature allows visitors to lean out over the city from the Loupe Lounge, providing a 360-degree perspective of the surroundings.

Visitor tips

  • General admission tickets range from $37.50 to $49.00 depending on the season and time of day.
  • Consider the Chihuly Garden & Glass combo ticket for $69.00 to maximize your visit to the Seattle Center.
  • For a potentially lower price, look into the After 6PM Friends & Fam Pack at $36.50.
  • The tower is open daily from 8:00 AM to 11:00 PM, with Saturday hours extended to 11:30 PM.

Nearby context

Located at 400 Broad Street in the Lower Queen Anne neighborhood, the Space Needle is the centerpiece of the Seattle Center, where it stands alongside other major attractions like the Chihuly Garden & Glass.

Sources

Evidence and links