Space Needle - All You Need to Know BEFORE You Go (2024)
Space Needle
Space Needle
4.5
Points of Interest & LandmarksObservation Decks & Towers
10:00 AM - 8:00 PM
Monday
10:00 AM - 8:00 PM
Tuesday
10:00 AM - 6:00 PM
Wednesday
10:00 AM - 6:00 PM
Thursday
10:00 AM - 8:00 PM
Friday
9:30 AM - 9:30 PM
Saturday
9:30 AM - 9:30 PM
Sunday
9:30 AM - 8:00 PM
About
Located in the Lower Queen Anne neighborhood, this iconic landmark and observation tower was built for the 1962 World’s Fair. Perch on the glass benches known as “Skyrisers” and gaze out of floor-to-ceiling windows, snap a selfie at the outdoor deck, or head upstairs to The Loupe, an indoor lounge featuring the world’s first and only rotating glass floor. Here, you’ll be greeted with 360-degree views of the downtown Seattle skyline, Mount Rainier, Elliot Bay, and the Olympic and Cascade Mountains. For a smooth-sailing experience, it’s best to pre-purchase a timed ticket. Space Needle is also a part of CityPASS. – Tripadvisor
Duration: 1-2 hours
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Admission tickets
from $34.13
All you need to step foot in the door.
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Top ways to experience Space Needle
The area
Address
Neighborhood: Queen Anne
How to get there
  • Seattle Center • 4 min walk
Reach out directly
See what travelers are saying
  • Artful D
    Paignton, United Kingdom57 contributions
    5.0 of 5 bubbles
    Exhilarating and scary at the same time!
    Fast lift to the top. Amazing views. There is a outside viewing deck with sloping glass to lean on to take photos (not for me) and an inside viewing deck with a rotating glass floor that also has a bar on it. My wife(much braver than me) walked on the glass floor within a minute, took me about 10 mins to build up the courage to do it. Large giftshop at the bottom. So as a bonus our ticket allowed us to go back in the evening as well. We watched the sun go down over the mountains. Beautiful.
    Visited April 2023
    Written May 14, 2023
  • Carolyn M
    23 contributions
    5.0 of 5 bubbles
    Birds eye view of Seattle
    This was alot of fun. Get there early as it gets crowded. Once at the top it gives you a great bird's eye view of the city. They take you pricture on the way in and it's free. They give you a card, go to the websitge, put in the cose and you can put your picture on various backgrounds and download it. You heard me right, its free. You can also stand on the rotating floor. It was a lot of fun.
    Visited June 2023
    Traveled as a couple
    Written June 2, 2023
  • Kumar_Dutt
    Isleworth, United Kingdom60 contributions
    5.0 of 5 bubbles
    Bucket list item
    Don't think there is much to write home about. Its one of those touristy experiences that you already may have done in many other places but you still want to do it if you are visiting Seattle. There is nothing negative, to be honest. There is a nice bar up there and the moving platform is a good touch.
    Visited May 2023
    Written June 8, 2023
  • Russell3939
    Castle Rock, Colorado856 contributions
    5.0 of 5 bubbles
    Beautiful views
    Amazing. You can see 2 different aspects to this. First the elevator will take you to the part that is outside. I really enjoyed when you come down 2 floors and stand on the rotating floor. It takes about 30 minutes to make a full rotation. It’s fund to stand on the glass floors as it rotates. You can’t beat the views from the space needle of Seattle. This should be a must visit
    Visited June 2023
    Written June 11, 2023
  • Beth Hodgkinson
    Lancashire, United Kingdom276 contributions
    5.0 of 5 bubbles
    Worth the visit!
    Easy to get tickets, no problem buying them from the self service machines outside the Space Needle. Nice touch providing free photos too. Went on a sunny day, and had amazing 360 views! Drinks are expensive, but worth a splurge for a one off.
    Visited May 2023
    Traveled solo
    Written June 12, 2023
  • Jennifer J
    Langwarrin, Australia112 contributions
    5.0 of 5 bubbles
    Spectacular views over the whole Seattle Centre.
    A wonderful experience, especially on a sunny day. We only did the basic, single ticket, as we were not interested in the Chihuly Garden and Glass. We also went early because the tickets were a little bit cheaper for the first hour, or so. We bought the tickets at the window (9.15am) and went straight up to the top, avoiding any queues. We spent about an hour there, taking in the views from the observation deck; and the rotating floor below it. It's great for visitors of all ages.
    Visited June 2023
    Traveled as a couple
    Written June 15, 2023
  • Sandy M
    Pennsylvania253 contributions
    5.0 of 5 bubbles
    Wow
    Very cool. We read reviews and bought tickets online ahead of time to avoid the lines....great advice! No wait at 10:00 AM. Elevator takes you to the observation deck. It can be crowded but people seem to move along fine. Down one flight of stairs is the deck with the revolving glass floor. Also very cool. Elevator ride down drops you off in the souvenier shop where you can literally find everything Space Needle related.
    Visited June 2023
    Written June 23, 2023
  • undgrad01
    Olympia, Washington301 contributions
    5.0 of 5 bubbles
    Nice day to spend in the air
    Pricey but a cool experience. Not for the light hearted about heights. You can spend about an hour in the observation area as it turns and get the 360 degree view. Fun to watch the cars drive around. Thankful for no stairs.
    Visited January 2023
    Traveled with family
    Written June 25, 2023
  • KCLizard
    State College, Pennsylvania629 contributions
    5.0 of 5 bubbles
    amazing views
    Reserve your tickets in advance and go early. Be sure to check out the walls as you wait to get to the elevator, and you will learn about the construction of the needle and some amusing aspects of life at the time. The elevator ride is quick, and the view at the top is amazing. We enjoyed walking around the exterior on the top floor to get the open air feel, but it was also fun to stand on the rotating floor in the lower level, and you could see all 360 degrees of views without ever moving. Take a good camera.
    Visited June 2023
    Written June 27, 2023
  • ShannonDufour
    Warwick, Rhode Island12 contributions
    4.0 of 5 bubbles
    Loved the Space Needle… DESPISE GetYourGuide’s scammy ticket policies!
    Space Needle was amazing, but do NOT book through GetYour Guide!!! I booked what I thought was a visit to the Space Needle when GetYour Guide’s ad for a different location popped up in my Google search. I mistakenly booked tickets for four adults, totaling $118. When I realized my mistake, they refused to refund, credit, or even let us change the date or time for the tour we didn’t even want, because it was within their 24 hour cancellation window. Inflexible policies in the fine print, and no resolution whatsoever for a basic customer service issue, which Could have been so easily resolved. We travel and book tours/experiences often, but will never recommend or use GetYourGuide again. Non-existent customer service, no good faith effort whatsoever to please the customer, and a scammy way to do business. We ended up paying twice for The Space Needle because of GetYourGuide’s horrible customer service policy.
    Visited June 2023
    Traveled with family
    Written June 30, 2023
These reviews are the subjective opinion of Tripadvisor members and not of TripAdvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.

Most Recent: Reviews ordered by most recent publish date in descending order.

Detailed Reviews: Reviews ordered by recency and descriptiveness of user-identified themes such as wait time, length of visit, general tips, and location information.

Popular mentions

4.5
4.5 of 5 bubbles19,870 reviews
Excellent
9,762
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Average
2,684
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WanderingWithUsTwo
Phoenix, AZ737 contributions
5.0 of 5 bubbles
Aug 2019
The Space Needle is obviously a must see location whenever visiting Seattle. It not only is a great addition to the Seattle skyline but it also provides some of the best views of the city and surrounding Pacific Northwest. Much like any other attraction you will need to purchase tickets to go.Tickets are sold based on the time frame that you'd like to go up which helps to make sure it won't be too overcrowded but make sure you get your tickets in advance to avoid missing out. They can range from $27-$37 with cheaper options in the early morning or after sunset. The busiest time to go is during sunset so be sure to buy tickets for at least 45 minutes before sunset. The reason why we recommend that time frame is to account for the time that will be spent waiting in line to get up and get a good spot. Once up there they have an indoor and outdoor section that have floor to ceiling glass that allows you to still see everything. There is also a small shop that sells some basic food and drinks in case you'd like something to hold you over while up there. If you'd like to sit down for a while there are also a handful of places to sit but they are usually taken up so you'll need to be quick to save a spot especially when waiting for sunset. Because there is glass outside it can cause some undesirable reflections and glares when taking photos so just keep that in mind when taking photos. From up here you can also get some great views of Mt Rainier on clearer days which adds even more to the landscape. When we went we didn't get to see the new glass floors put in but hope to be back again to get to see it all again!
- @wanderingwithustwo
Written July 21, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.

brmusicman
Chicago, IL3,216 contributions
4.0 of 5 bubbles
Sep 2020 • Solo
I visited the Space Needle during a solo trip to Seattle in September 2020. It’d been almost 15 years since my previous visit.

Overall, I had a nice time. On the ground, the COVID-19 protocols were excellent: timed entry (buy online in advance, which was easy), strong cleaning protocols (some of which seemed theatrical, honestly, but good for the Needle for taking it seriously), spacing in-line, limited capacity on elevators, etc. However, the top of the Needle was a bit of a social distancing nightmare: even with timed entry, there were a lot of people in a small space. Masks were, at least, required, and people were being mindful about it.

Obviously, try to visit on a nice day. The weather was perfect for my visit, and the views of the region are spectacular! I do wish that the viewing platforms had a few more information panels, however, about the geography of the area and landmarks to look for in the views. While the views were great, it wasn’t very educational.

The lower level of the top, which used to be a restaurant, has been converted into a viewing deck (entirely enclosed, unlike the top level). It still rotates, and much of the floor is transparent. That was cool and there were some great photography opportunities. Lines for elevators back down, however, were loooonnng.

The ground level featured a couple of interesting exhibits about the Needle’s construction (viewed primarily while waiting in-line) and a large gift shop with typical souvenirs but also some nice items featuring the Pacific Northwest.

The area around the Space Needle, Seattle Center, is really nice and worth visiting on its own—a lovely park, the fantastic Chihuly gardens and glass, etc. I’d plan extra time to explore that area beyond your visit to the Needle itself.

Getting to the Needle was very easy; I bought a round trip ticket on the monorail that runs from downtown, where I was staying. Monorail staff were diligent about masks and social distancing, and it felt very safe. It was great to not have to worry about parking.
Written October 17, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.

Kralahome
Orlando, FL88 contributions
5.0 of 5 bubbles
Aug 2020 • Couples
Advance reservations are not necessary, simply visit when the weather is clear. Beautiful views of the downtown Seattle skyline, Lake Union, and Elliott Bay. The glass revolving floor is fun for taking pictures. Do not miss the overpriced cafe: not only does it have the best views, but it is the only area where you can remove your facemask to take a picture.
Written August 30, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.

Christina R
Friend, NE349 contributions
5.0 of 5 bubbles
Feb 2020 • Couples
This is a must do stop. View is amazing! I was somewhat disappointed your not able to eat dinner anymore. They do offer a wine and cheese tour but it was booked and we tried booking 3 weeks in advance on a Monday so plan ahead. Also dont skip the glass art museum in the same complex of buildings it was also very beautiful. We got to needle about 11 we had no waiting in line. Make sure you scan your ticket at the spots on the needle you get free pictures. It was a short trip 4 days we plan on going back this summer
Written February 15, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.

Sandy D
Bellevue, WA11 contributions
3.0 of 5 bubbles
Oct 2021
I didn't see a way to review the observation deck and the lounge separately, hence the average rating.

The Loupe Lounge: 4/5

Parents and I did the "Taste of Washington" which included a wine flight, truffle fries, and wagyu beef sliders. It was not mentioned that "sliders" actually meant one for each person, so it was a bit of a disappointment there as far as clarity. We ended up ordering more sliders, though it would have been nice if we had been given the digital menu a bit earlier so we weren't cutting it too close to the end of our allotted time. Our server was excellent, friendly and made the experience worth it overall. The lounge is on the rotating glass floor panel so you have views both below and outwards.

Observation deck: 2/5

I'm a 40yo local who has been up the Space Needle a few times throughout my life. The glass remodel is gorgeous. The cafe and selfie kiosks are still there. But gone is everything else. The maps indoors that would show you what views are in front of you in every direction, the wall murals that showed the history of the Space Needle including information about how it was built. They used to have interactive touch screens too, but now everything is empty and sterile. If it was a matter of cost to upkeep, there should be no cost in leaving at the very least the info maps and history bits on the walls. They have taken out all the important information that makes the Space Needle such a special landmark. Because of that, $35 for an observation deck ticket is a ridiculous cash grab. It's like they removed everything else to keep people from spending too much time up there, for faster turnaround.

If you have reservations for the lounge, you already get access to the observation deck without needing to pay a separate ticket for it. This is much more worth the cost if you have the time, money, and are interested in what the lounge offers. Otherwise you could honestly skip the Space Needle entirely, unless $35 for an empty observation deck to maybe buy overpriced Starbucks coffee excites you. There are many other places to get great views of the city along with much better coffee shops!
Written October 13, 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.

ehackettBoston
Seattle, WA54 contributions
4.0 of 5 bubbles
Feb 2020
I went up the Space Needle because I had purchased the City Pass which made it more affordable. Without the pass the ticket price alone would not have been worth the experience. The ticket also included a return entrance for the same day after 6:30 PM. II did not take advantage of this as I was alone and I do not walk around by myself after dark in a strange city.
Written February 24, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.

BeginsInWonder
Seattle, WA409 contributions
5.0 of 5 bubbles
Sep 2020 • Solo
I very much enjoyed visiting the Space Needle and some particular highlights were as follow. They operate safe , staged entry in light of Covid. When you enter there is an interesting information display which really evokes the optimistic, futuristic mindset that spurred its construction in 1962. Then they will take a photo of you in front of a green screen which you can download with your chosen Seattle backdrop on the app for free. It is great that this is included in the ticket price (I’m looking at Seattle Aquarium which charges more than 20 dollars to get your photo). The trip in the elevator is quick and fun if you stand by a window. There is a viewing deck with glass windows where you can see views over Lake Union, Queen Anne and the Puget Sound. Half of the viewing deck is taken up by a cafe and has views over the buildings of downtown and towards the East. Then - and don’t miss this - you go down a floor to the floor which revolves. Part of the revolving floor is made of glass and so you can see right below to the structure of the Space Needle and the plaza, Chihuly Garden and Glass, and flower sculptures below. You’ll want to do a couple of rotations to appreciate the sights below and although it’s not really scary kids will love the glass floor. At the ground again is an ok gift shop with lots of choice. All in all I’m pleased with my visit. Yes, it’s no longer the tallest building in Seattle but it’s iconic and the features like the revolving floor make it really memorable.
Written September 7, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.

Iris D
Maryland24 contributions
1.0 of 5 bubbles
Aug 2019
Avoid at all cost. Not worth the hassle especially with rude staff. The Space Needle is extremely disorganized. It took us 2 hours to get through the line with a 6 month old baby in the summer heat. When we finally got to the top, my sister had to breast fed her hungry baby. There were so many people that all the chairs were unavailable. We took a corner stairs so my sister can feed her crying baby. A few minutes later, a staff came yelling at us for taking up space. I explained that my sister is feeding her baby underneath the blanket and if she can give her a few minutes to finish. The staff refused to listen and proceeded to yell at us further saying that the stairs are for old people to use the rails. I looked around and there was no geriatrics needing to use the rail at that moment. Plus, there’s another rail in the opposite corner that people can use if needed. What a disappointment that Space Needle management tolerates their staff yelling at customers. I will never ever in my life visit the Space Needle again. First of all, it wasn’t even that impressive compared to the view from high risers in NYC (One World Observatory, Empire State, Top of the Rock) and the Space Needle definitely cannot compare with the view from the Eiffel Tower in Paris. Second, I live in DC and I do travel often and have been to many cities and countries, but every time I visit Seattle, my experience with their locals just gets worse and they’re extremely rude - from the Space Needle staff, to Southwest check in counters and yes, even the drivers are crazy. I would expect this in Europe or even Asia, but not in the USA such as Seattle with every encounter of the local customer service is a disappointment and what’s with all the homeless people? It’s starting to look like San Francisco and Los Angeles. I’ve seen homeless people in DC, NYC and even Paris, but the West Coast takes the cake.
Written June 23, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.

Charles S
Northamptonshire, UK1,051 contributions
5.0 of 5 bubbles
Sep 2019
My wife and I visited the Space Needle in Seattle on our US trip to Washington State. We enjoyed the 360 view of Seattle and surrounding area. It was busy but visitors were continually moving around so you could see everything by moving too. We went to the top level then walked down 2 floors to the revolving level. Unfortunately one of the lifts wasn't working so there were long lines to descend. The lift operator provided interesting facts and fun commentary and when asked how is day had been he answered "it's been up and down!" Tickets may be purchased either from a manned counter or from the self service machines. Worth a visit plus enjoy the excellent store on the ground floor.
Written February 28, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.

Rachel H
Lakeside, CA7 contributions
4.0 of 5 bubbles
Feb 2020 • Couples
Time your trip to arrive an hour or so before sunset... the line to get in takes a good 45 mins to an hour, even with timed pre bought tickets. Wine bar is more like a roped off section. Loved watching the sunset and then seeing the city lights.
Written February 11, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.

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Space Needle - All You Need to Know BEFORE You Go (2024)

Frequently Asked Questions about Space Needle

Space Needle admission prices can vary. Entrance tickets currently cost $34.13, while a popular guided tour starts around $10.91 per person.

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