Sky View Observatory

Overview

The Sky View Observatory is a must-visit attraction offering panoramic views of Seattle from the 50th floor of the Columbia Center. It's an excellent spot for sightseeing and photography.

Offers one of the best vantage points to see Seattle's skyline and surrounding landscapes.

Viewing Platform Tourist Attraction

Location

Address

700 4th Ave., Seattle, Washington

Neighborhood: Downtown

Coordinates

47.606200, -122.332100

Visiting Information

Opening Hours

monday 10:00 AM - 9:00 PM

tuesday 10:00 AM - 9:00 PM

wednesday 10:00 AM - 9:00 PM

thursday 10:00 AM - 9:00 PM

friday 10:00 AM - 9:00 PM

saturday 9:00 AM - 10:00 PM

sunday 9:00 AM - 10:00 PM

Admission

Adults

$24.95 (ages 13-64)

Children

$16.95 (ages 5-12)

Best Time to Visit

Overall Best Period

March-May, September-October

Best Time of Day

Early morning or late afternoon

Fewer crowds and better lighting for photos

Duration Recommendations

Minimum

30 minutes

Recommended

1-2 hours

Full Experience

Half-day (including nearby attractions)

Seasonal Highlights

spring

Mild, occasional rain

• Blooming city views
• Easter Sunday celebrations

summer

Warm, sunny, but can be crowded

• Extended daylight hours
• Summer festivals

autumn

Cooler, crisp air, occasional rain

• Fall foliage
• Halloween events

winter

Cold, rainy, possible snow

• Holiday lights
• Christmas decorations

Know Before You Go

Essential Information

Book tickets online in advance
Check weather conditions
Arrive early to avoid crowds

What to Bring

essential

ID Printed or digital tickets Comfortable shoes

seasonal

Rain jacket (October-March) Umbrella (October-March) Warm coat (December-February)

not allowed

Large bags or backpacks (size restrictions apply) Drones Professional camera equipment without permit

Health & Safety

Physical Requirements: Low to moderate (elevators available)

• Elevators and ramps available, but some walking required

Medical facilities: First aid available on-site

Payment Information

Accepted

Credit cards, Debit cards, Cash (at some locations)

Currency

USD (United States Dollar)

Typical Costs

entry $24.95 (adults), $16.95 (children 5-12), $22.95 (seniors 65+)

parking $12-$25 (varies by location)

food $10-$20 (cafe prices)

souvenirs $5-$30 (depending on item)

Dress Code

Casual, comfortable clothing, Layered clothing for changing temperatures, comfortable walking shoes, Comfortable shoes for walking and standing, Inappropriate or offensive clothing

Booking Tips

• At least a few days in advance, especially during peak season
• Official website or authorized ticket vendors
• 24 hours in advance for full refund
• Available with online tickets

Amenities

Restrooms

Gift shop

Atm

Wifi

Lockers

Wheelchair rental

Stroller rental

Coat check

On site restaurant

Cafe

Picnic areas

Outside food allowed

Digital Services

Mobile App

Sky View Seattle

Size: 45 MB

Features: Ticket purchasing, Wait times, Interactive map, Audio guide, Event calendar

Platforms: iOS, Android

WiFi Zones: Observation Deck, Cafe, Lobby

Charging Stations: Observation Deck, Lobby

How to Reach

From Airport

Nearest: Seattle-Tacoma International Airport (SEA)

Distance: 21 km (13 miles)

Travel Time: 25-40 minutes

Taxi

$45-$55 25-35 min

Ride-sharing (Uber/Lyft)

$30-$40 25-35 min

Public Transport (Sound Transit Light Rail)

$3.50 40-45 min

From City Center

Distance: 1-2 km (0.5-1 miles)

Metro Bus

$2.50 10-20 min

Monorail

$2.50 10 min

Walking

Free 15-20 min

Biking

Free (with your own bike) 10-15 min

Local Insights

Cultural Context

Why Locals Love It: Unique perspective of the city, great for events and celebrations

Historical Significance: Part of the Columbia Center, one of Seattle's tallest skyscrapers

Insider Tips

Best views of Mount Rainier are on clear days
Visit on a weekday for fewer crowds
Check for special events and exhibitions

Local Recommendations

• Try local coffee at the nearby Starbucks Reserve Roastery
• Visit the Seattle Art Museum next door
• Ask staff for tips on the best views and times

Language Help

Useful Phrases

hello Hello

thank_you Thank you

where_is Where is

how_much How much

beautiful Beautiful

ticket Ticket

Guide Languages: English, Spanish, Mandarin (some guides)

Photography Guide

Best Photo Spots

Observation Deck

Best Time: Golden hour (sunset)

Tips: Use the glass walls for reflections, capture the Space Needle and Mount Rainier

Result: Stunning cityscape shots

#SeattleSkyline #SkyViewSeattle #SeattleFromAbove

Indoor Exhibits

Best Time: Anytime

Tips: Focus on details and exhibits

Result: Interesting and unique photos

#SeattleHistory #SkyViewObservatory

Photography Rules

allowed areas Observation deck, Outdoor areas, Indoor exhibits (without flash)

prohibited areas Elevators, Restricted areas

flash photography Not allowed in indoor exhibits

commercial photography Permit required for commercial shoots

drone policy Prohibited

tripod policy Allowed with prior permission, not during peak hours

selfie sticks Allowed, but be mindful of other visitors

Nearby Attractions

Space Needle

Distance: 500m

Walking: 7 min

Type: Iconic Landmark

Seattle Art Museum

Distance: 200m

Walking: 3 min

Type: Museum

Pike Place Market

Distance: 800m

Walking: 10 min

Type: Market/Food

Seattle Waterfront

Distance: 1.2km

Walking: 15 min

Type: Waterfront/Attractions

Chihuly Garden and Glass

Distance: 400m

Walking: 6 min

Type: Art Garden

Reviews

4.6

Based on 21,500 reviews

Recent Visitor Tips

"Visit during sunset for the best views"
"Book tickets online to skip the line"
"Combine with a visit to the Space Needle"
"Check for special events"

Contact Information

+1 206-622-6944

info@seattleobservatory.com

www.seattleobservatory.com

Social Media

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