Space Needle Tours

Puget Sound which includes modern architecture
Space Needle which includes railway items, central business district and modern architecture
Space Needle showing views, general coastal views and a skyscraper
Space Needle which includes a city, mist or fog and skyline
Space Needle which includes wildflowers, modern architecture and flowers


Seattle’s skyline is instantly recognizable when you see this soaring slender structure, built as a showpiece for the 1962 World’s Fair.

Seattle’s iconic Space Needle rises 605 feet (184 meters), like a beacon towering over the city. Erected in 1962, this unique building resembles a futuristic flying saucer set on irregular legs. 

The views are great, whether you’re looking up at the Space Needle from the grounds of the Seattle Center or looking down from the observation platform. The views are beautiful on a cloudy day and absolutely breathtaking when it’s sunny.

The tower is a comfortable walk of just over a mile (1.6 kilometers) from downtown. Alternatively, enjoy a ride on the Monorail, which leaves every 10 minutes from Westlake Center mall at Fifth Avenue and stops at the base of the Space Needle. Elevators whisk visitors up to the enclosed observation deck in a matter of seconds. On a fine day, step outside and walk all around the outdoor terrace for 360-degree views of the surrounding city. Free telescopes are strategically placed around the outside observation area.

Children in particular will love exploring the surrounding Seattle Center, with its green spaces and great fountain, and carts selling popcorn and rope licorice. The Pacific Science Center, a sidewalk away from the Needle, is a fun place to spend a few hours. Take in a show at the IMAX Theater, or gaze at the stars in the Willard Smith Planetarium. If you’re hungry, the Center House offers an expansive food court and sometimes entertainment.

Browse the gift shop at the Space Needle for all kinds of space-themed souvenirs to take home as a memento. 

The Space Needle is located in lower Queen Anne, about a 10-minute drive from downtown. Parking for a fee is available.  It’s open year round, day and evening.

Plan a trip to see Space Needle

Price found within the past 48 hours. Click for updated prices.
Mayflower Park Hotel
Mediterranean Inn
Hotel 1000, LXR Hotels & Resorts

Browse tours and tickets to explore Space Needle

Tours & day trips

See all 187 activities

Private & custom tours

See all 45 activities

Adventure & outdoor

See all 39 activities

Food, drink & nightlife

See all 38 activities

Classes & workshops

See all 8 activities

Reviews of Space Needle

4.5
Top Destination
5 - Excellent
2775
5 - Excellent 61%
4 - Good
1374
4 - Good 30%
3 - Okay
357
3 - Okay 8%
2 - Disappointing
29
2 - Disappointing 1%
1 - Terrible
44
1 - Terrible 1%

5/5 - Excellent

Verified traveler

Worth the trip to the top. Awesome view. Seniors and Military discounts.

3/5 - Okay

Verified traveler

Expensive

4/5 - Good

Verified traveler

Actually just saw it from outside- the prices were outrageous IMO to actaully go up...

4/5 - Good

Verified traveler

Buy tickets ahead of time and be prepared for a wait at sunset

4/5 - Good

Verified traveler

Ideal place to buy Seattle souvenirs - the airport was lacking.

1/5 - Terrible

Verified traveler

Way too overpriced

Popular places to visit


Best Lodging Options Near Space Needle

Hyatt Regency Seattle

Hyatt Regency Seattle

4 out of 5
808 Howell St, Seattle, WA
Hyatt Regency Seattle
Mediterranean Inn

Mediterranean Inn

3 out of 5
425 Queen Anne Ave N, Seattle, WA
Mediterranean Inn
Mayflower Park Hotel

Mayflower Park Hotel

4 out of 5
405 Olive Way, Seattle, WA
Mayflower Park Hotel
citizenM Seattle South Lake Union

citizenM Seattle South Lake Union

4 out of 5
201 Westlake Avenue North, Seattle, WA
citizenM Seattle South Lake Union
Hampton Inn & Suites Seattle-Downtown

Hampton Inn & Suites Seattle-Downtown

2.5 out of 5
700 5th Ave N, Seattle, WA
Hampton Inn & Suites Seattle-Downtown
Executive Hotel Pacific

Executive Hotel Pacific

3 out of 5
400 Spring St, Seattle, WA
Executive Hotel Pacific
The Belltown Inn

The Belltown Inn

2.5 out of 5
2301 Third Avenue, Seattle, WA
The Belltown Inn
Crowne Plaza Seattle - Downtown by IHG

Crowne Plaza Seattle - Downtown by IHG

4 out of 5
1113 6th Ave, Seattle, WA
Crowne Plaza Seattle - Downtown by IHG
Hyatt House Seattle/Downtown

Hyatt House Seattle/Downtown

3 out of 5
201 Fifth Avenue North, Seattle, WA
Hyatt House Seattle/Downtown
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.

Things to do near Space Needle

Explore the vibrant cultural scene around the Space Needle, where art lovers can enjoy galleries and installations nearby. Don't miss the lively theater performances and unique shopping experiences that showcase Seattle's creativity. Engage in various cultural events that highlight the city's artistic spirit, making your visit a memorable one.

Shopping

Pike Place Market, only 1.3km from the Space Needle, offers a vibrant public market experience. Westlake Center, also 1.3km away, combines shopping with entertainment and family-friendly options. Nordstrom is nearby at 1.4km, perfect for a stylish gift hunt.

Recreation

Experience the energy of T-Mobile Park, where you can catch a game and feel the vibrant atmosphere. For musical entertainment, head to Showbox SoDo, offering live performances that will lift your spirits. For a serene retreat, Seward Park invites you to unwind amidst nature and enjoy peaceful walks.

Adventure

At the UW Waterfront Activities Center, enjoy thrilling water sports only 4.8km from the Space Needle, surrounded by adventure vibes. Camp Long, located 6.4km away, offers a perfect outdoor setting for hiking and exploration. The Amy Yee Tennis Center, also 4.8km away, provides exciting tennis experiences for all skill levels.

Nightlife

At night near the Space Needle, the Paramount Theatre offers captivating performances with a romantic atmosphere. For an adventurous experience, the Seattle Great Wheel provides stunning views. The Crocodile, a vibrant nightclub, pulses with energy, making it the perfect spot for romance and city vibes.

*Distances are measured in a straight line; actual driving distances may vary depending on the route.

Find the best attractions near Space Needle

When visiting the Space Needle in Seattle, you'll discover a variety of attractions that cater to cultural enthusiasts and families alike. Explore the nearby urban parks for a taste of nature, visit local art museums to immerse yourself in creativity, and take in the architectural beauty of nearby churches. This vibrant area offers a perfect blend of urban experiences that will enrich your vacation.

  • Seattle Waterfront: Enjoy stunning views of Elliott Bay and the Olympic Mountains at this vibrant harbor. With its picturesque beaches and scenic promenades, it's the perfect spot for leisurely strolls, local seafood dining, and exploring shops and attractions.
  • Seattle Center: This lively urban park offers a family-friendly atmosphere with vast open spaces, gardens, and iconic structures like the Space Needle itself. Engage in outdoor activities, visit museums, or attend events that celebrate Seattle's culture and creativity.
  • Seattle Convention Center Arch Building: A hub for business and conferences, this impressive venue features modern architecture and versatile spaces. It's an essential stop for networking and professional events while showcasing the bustling spirit of Seattle's business community.

Best time to go to Space Needle

The best time to visit Space Needle can depend on the weather and when visitor numbers rise and fall. The hottest average temperature around Space Needle falls in August, when visitor numbers are slightly high and weather is sunny with no rain. The coolest average temperature around Space Needle falls in December, visitor numbers are average and weather is mostly cloudy with light rain.

calendarCalendar MonthtemperatureTemperaturerainPrecipitationmostlyCloudinessoccupationOccupancypricePricing
January40.3°F (4.6°C)Light RainMostly CloudyAverageSlightly Low
February40.5°F (4.7°C)Light RainMostly CloudySlightly LowSlightly Low
March43.9°F (6.6°C)Light RainMostly CloudyAverageAverage
April48.6°F (9.2°C)Light RainMostly CloudyAverageAverage
May55.8°F (13.2°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
June61.0°F (16.1°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly HighSlightly High
July67.1°F (19.5°C)No RainMostly SunnySlightly HighSlightly High
August67.5°F (19.7°C)No RainSunnySlightly HighSlightly High
September61.3°F (16.3°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
October52.7°F (11.5°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly LowAverage
November44.2°F (6.8°C)Light RainMostly CloudySlightly LowAverage
December39.2°F (4.0°C)Light RainMostly CloudyAverageSlightly Low

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Space Needle

To save money on your visit to the Space Needle, consider traveling between December and February when hotel prices are lower, and aim for a stay on a Monday for the best rates. Avoid Saturdays, which are typically the most expensive. Use Expedia to find and customize your hotel options, and look for package deals that combine flights, hotel stays, and activities for additional savings. Don't forget to explore free activities around the Space Needle to maximize your experience without breaking the bank.

  • The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay around Space Needle are December to February, where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to June to August, where prices are slightly higher.
  • The most and least expensive days on average to stay in a hotel: The least expensive day to stay around Space Needle is Monday. The most expensive day to stay around Space Needle is Saturday.
  • Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Utilize Expedia's search tool to customize your options by adjusting your budget, preferred location, and the type of hotel you desire. To find the best prices and deals, simply sort the price filter from lowest to highest.
  • Consider bundling your trip: You can save some money by combining your hotel stay near the Space Needle with your flights and activities through an Expedia package deal.

Explore a world of travel with Expedia