Space Needle Tours and Activities

Puget Sound which includes modern architecture
Space Needle which includes outdoor art, railway items and cbd
Space Needle showing a city, views and general coastal views
Space Needle featuring skyline, a high-rise building and mist or fog
Space Needle


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 metres), 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 Centre 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 kilometres) from downtown. Alternatively, enjoy a ride on the Monorail, which leaves every 10 minutes from Westlake Centre 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 Centre, with its green spaces and great fountain, and carts selling popcorn and rope licorice. The Pacific Science Centre, a sidewalk away from the Needle, is a fun place to spend a few hours. Take in a show at the IMAX Theatre, or gaze at the stars in the Willard Smith Planetarium. If you’re hungry, the Centre 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

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Level Seattle Downtown - South Lake Union
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Popular places to visit


Best Lodging Options Near Space Needle

The Belltown Inn

The Belltown Inn

2.5 out of 5
2301 Third Avenue, Seattle, WA
The Belltown Inn
Mediterranean Inn

Mediterranean Inn

3 out of 5
425 Queen Anne Ave N, Seattle, WA
Mediterranean Inn
Hyatt Regency Seattle

Hyatt Regency Seattle

4 out of 5
808 Howell St, Seattle, WA
Hyatt Regency Seattle
The Paramount Hotel

The Paramount Hotel

3.5 out of 5
724 Pine St, Seattle, WA
The Paramount Hotel
Executive Hotel Pacific

Executive Hotel Pacific

3 out of 5
400 Spring St, Seattle, WA
Executive Hotel Pacific
Coast Seattle Downtown Hotel by APA

Coast Seattle Downtown Hotel by APA

4 out of 5
1301 6th Avenue, Seattle, WA
Coast Seattle Downtown Hotel by APA
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
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

Near the iconic Space Needle in Seattle, visitors can enjoy a variety of activities including vibrant art displays, captivating theatre performances, and unique shopping experiences. A standout experience is the opportunity for sailing, which allows tourists to explore the stunning waterfront views and the surrounding natural beauty. Whether you're seeking culture or adventure, the Space Needle area offers an exciting mix of attractions for every traveller.

Shopping

For a great shopping experience near the Space Needle, check out Pike Place Market, just 1.3km away, offering a lively public market atmosphere. Westlake Center, also 1.3km away, features a mix of entertainment and shops. Nordstrom is a short 1.4km away, perfect for finding quality gifts.

Recreation

At T-Mobile Park, immerse yourself in the excitement of live sports, just 3.2km from the Space Needle. For music lovers, Showbox SoDo, also 3.2km away, offers vibrant concerts. For a tranquil escape, visit Seward Park, 11.3km away, where you can enjoy wellness and relaxation in nature.

Adventure

Explore the UW Waterfront Activities Center for exhilarating water sports, located 4.8km from the Space Needle. For a serene outdoor experience, head to Camp Long, situated 6.4km away, offering beautiful natural surroundings. If you're eager for indoor skiing, Mini Mountain, 14.5km away, provides a family-friendly atmosphere.

Nightlife

Experience the vibrant nightlife near the Space Needle. Catch a show at the Paramount Theatre, just 1.6km away, for a dose of culture and entertainment. For a romantic evening, visit The Crocodile nightclub, located 644m away, where city vibes and live music await you.

*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 find a variety of attractions to suit every traveler, from urban parks and art museums to charming churches. Enjoy stunning views of the Seattle skyline while exploring nearby attractions at the Seattle Center, perfect for those seeking cultural and family experiences. Whether you're looking to soak in the city's vibrancy or appreciate its artistic flair, there’s something for everyone around the iconic Space Needle.

  • Seattle Waterfront: Located 1.6km from the Space Needle, the Seattle Waterfront offers stunning beach views and vibrant scenery. Enjoy leisurely strolls along the piers, indulge in fresh seafood, and take in the picturesque sights of Elliott Bay.
  • Seattle Center: Just 0.1.6km away, Seattle Center is a lively urban park perfect for families. With lush green spaces, cultural attractions, and outdoor activities, it's an ideal spot to relax and soak in the city's energy.
  • Seattle Convention Center Arch Building: Situated 1.6km from the Space Needle, this modern event venue exudes a professional atmosphere. It's a hub for conferences and business gatherings, showcasing Seattle's commitment to innovation and commerce.

Best time to go to Space Needle

The best time to visit Space Needle is dependant on what kind of holiday you are seeking. August is its hottest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are slightly high and weather is sunny with no rain. December is its coolest month on average. At this time, 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 during your visit to the Space Needle, consider travelling between December and February when accommodation prices are lower. Mondays typically offer the best rates, while Saturdays tend to be the priciest. Use Expedia to find budget-friendly options by filtering prices from lowest to highest and consider booking a package that combines flights, hotels, and activities. Additionally, explore free attractions around the area and take advantage of public transport for affordable travel within Seattle.

  • 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 refine your options based on your budget, preferred destination, and desired hotel type. To find the most affordable prices and best deals, arrange the price filter from lowest to highest.
  • Consider bundling your trip: You can save on your trip by combining your hotel stay near the Space Needle with your flights and activities through an Expedia package.

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