Space Needle Tours and Activities

Puget Sound showing modern architecture
Space Needle featuring skyline, modern architecture and a skyscraper
Space Needle which includes general coastal views, views and a high-rise building
Space Needle featuring skyline, a high-rise building and a city
Space Needle


A dramatic sculpture first erected for the 1962 World’s Fair, now an iconic fixture of the modern day Seattle skyline.

Standing proud over Seattle at 184 metres tall, the towering Space Needle is an integral feature on the cityscape as it has been ever since it was constructed in 1962. Made of a futuristic flying saucer built on irregular legs, it is immediately recognisable as a key Seattle landmark.

Look up at the Space Needle or down from its observation platform and you’re greeted with two dramatically different yet equally breathtaking views. On a clear, sunny day you can see far and wide and see the city from a whole new angle.

You can reach the observation deck in a few seconds’ in the lift. Then once you reach the top, you can get out and wander around the outdoor terrace to enjoy a panoramic view of all Seattle, with telescopes dotted around so you can take a closer look at the rest of the city. Book a table at the rotating Sky City Restaurant for a truly superb dining experience whilst admiring the view.

The Space Needle has its own gift shop where you can find all kinds of space age mementoes to take home with you. The surrounding Seattle Centre is a favourite destination for youngsters, with green spaces all over where you’ll find popcorn carts and liquorice vendors selling their wares.

Close to the Needle, you can also visit the Pacific Science Centre, watch something at the IMAX, or watch the stars down at the Willard Smith Planetarium. If you start to feel a little hungry, you can go and grab some food at the Centre House’s great food court too.

Less than two kilometres from downtown Seattle, the tower is easy to reach on foot and is open day and night all through the year. Or if you’d prefer a more leisurely journey, get on board the Monorail departing from Westlake Centre mall at Fifth Avenue every 10 minutes and stopping at the foot of the Space Needle. Situated in lower Queen Anne, it is just 10 minutes by car from downtown too, with parking available for a fee.

Tours & day trips

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Food, drink & nightlife

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Private & custom tours

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Cruises & boat tours

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Classes & workshops

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Popular places to visit


Top Space Needle Hotel & Accommodation Deals

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
Mediterranean Inn

Mediterranean Inn

3 out of 5
425 Queen Anne Ave N, Seattle, WA
Mediterranean Inn
The Belltown Inn

The Belltown Inn

2.5 out of 5
2301 Third Avenue, Seattle, WA
The Belltown Inn
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
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
Mayflower Park Hotel

Mayflower Park Hotel

4 out of 5
405 Olive Way, Seattle, WA
Mayflower Park Hotel
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

When visiting the Space Needle in Seattle, you can enjoy a variety of activities including exploring nearby art galleries, catching a theatre performance, and indulging in shopping experiences. Don't miss the tranquil meditation space, perfect for relaxation amidst the bustling attractions. This iconic landmark offers a unique blend of cultural experiences and stunning views, making it a must-see on your Seattle itinerary.

Shopping

The nearest shopping spots are Pike Place Market, a vibrant public market 1.3km from the Space Needle, and Westlake Center, a bustling shopping mall also 1.3km away. Nordstrom, a popular store, is just 1.4km from the Space Needle, offering a great selection of gifts.

Recreation

T-Mobile Park, a lively sports venue 3.2km from the Space Needle, offers an energetic atmosphere perfect for sports enthusiasts. The Showbox, located 1.6km away, boasts vibrant live music performances for entertainment lovers. Golden Gardens Park, 9.7km away, provides a tranquil space for relaxation and rejuvenation amidst nature.

Adventure

Experience thrilling water sports at UW Waterfront Activities Center, located 4.8km from Space Needle, perfect for adventure lovers. Enjoy the great outdoors at Camp Long, 6.4km away, offering hiking and stunning scenery. For tennis enthusiasts, Nordstrom Tennis Center, also 4.8km away, provides an exciting venue.

Nightlife

Enjoy a night out at the Crocodile nightclub, where the vibrant atmosphere is perfect for dancing and romance. Catch a show at the Paramount Theatre for a dose of culture, or take a ride on the Seattle Great Wheel for stunning views and family fun.

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

Find the best attractions near Space Needle

Whether you're keen on soaking up culture, enjoying family outings, or simply taking in stunning views, the Space Needle in Seattle offers a range of attractions. Explore nearby urban parks, art museums, and local churches, or indulge in the breathtaking vistas from the Space Needle itself. Don't miss out on the surrounding Seattle Centre and other city attractions that promise a memorable experience for every type of traveller.

  • Seattle Waterfront: Enjoy stunning views at Seattle Waterfront, where the vibrant harbour meets beach vibes. Stroll along the promenade, explore local shops, and indulge in fresh seafood while soaking up the scenic beauty of Puget Sound.
  • Seattle Center: Just a stone’s throw from the Space Needle, Seattle Center is an urban park perfect for families. Enjoy outdoor activities, cultural attractions, and the lively atmosphere that defines this central city hub.
  • Seattle Convention Center Arch Building: Experience the business vibe at this modern event venue. With its striking architecture, the convention centre hosts various conferences and events, making it a vital part of Seattle’s economic landscape.

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 (dry). 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 Rain (Dry)Mostly SunnySlightly HighSlightly High
August67.5°F (19.7°C)No Rain (Dry)SunnySlightly 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 on your trip to the Space Needle, consider visiting from December to February for lower accommodation prices, especially on Mondays. Use Expedia to find budget-friendly hotels by sorting prices from lowest to highest and applying filters for eco-friendly options. Combine your hotel, flights, and activities into a package deal for additional savings. For transport, opt for Seattle's public transit system, which is affordable and efficient, or enjoy walking around the compact city to explore free attractions nearby.

  • 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: Utilise Expedia's search tool to tailor your preferences, such as your budget, preferred location, and desired hotel type. For instance, selecting the Eco-certified filter will highlight sustainable and environmentally friendly accommodation options currently available. To find the best prices and deals, simply sort the price filter from lowest to highest.
  • Consider bundling your trip: You can save some dollars by combining your Space Needle hotel reservation with your flights and activities through an Expedia package deal.