Seattle | Space Needle & Seattle Center

Without a doubt, the most iconic building in Seattle is the Space Needle. Of course it would be, standing 605 feet tall! For the last 50 years it has been a defining landmark, identifying the Seattle skyline at a mere glance. For those daring enough, a one minute elevator ride takes you to the top of the spire, where the observation deck provides 360 degree views of the city.

The Space Needle is in the heart of Seattle Center, an area also home to the Museum of Pop Culture, the Children’s Museum, the Chihuly Garden and the Pacific Science Center. This incredible structure was originally built for the 1962 World’s Fair. The observation deck now features multi-level floor to ceiling glass panels, and is home to a first of its kind rotating glass floor. 

While we were certainly tempted, we decided not to venture to the top of the Space Needle this trip because we knew we wanted to visit another landmark with commanding views of the city - the Smith Tower. But that just means we’ll need to come back to Seattle and visit the top next time!