Space Needle Tours

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Space Needle which includes railway items, central business district and modern architecture
Space Needle showing views, general coastal views and a skyscraper
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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.

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The Inn at Virginia Mason
1 Hotel Seattle
Baymont by Wyndham Bremerton WA

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Best Lodging Options Near Space Needle

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
Mediterranean Inn

Mediterranean Inn

3 out of 5
425 Queen Anne Ave N, Seattle, WA
Mediterranean Inn
Executive Hotel Pacific

Executive Hotel Pacific

3 out of 5
400 Spring St, Seattle, WA
Executive Hotel Pacific
Hyatt Regency Seattle

Hyatt Regency Seattle

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

The Belltown Inn

2.5 out of 5
2301 Third Avenue, Seattle, WA
The Belltown Inn
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
Hyatt Place Seattle Downtown

Hyatt Place Seattle Downtown

3 out of 5
110 6th Ave N, Seattle, WA
Hyatt Place Seattle Downtown
The Paramount Hotel

The Paramount Hotel

3.5 out of 5
724 Pine St, Seattle, WA
The Paramount Hotel
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 photo tours, ice skating, and exploring the stunning views from the observation deck. The area is also vibrant with theater, shopping, and entertainment options, making it a perfect spot for a fun-filled day. Don't miss the chance to experience the unique atmosphere that surrounds this famous landmark!

Shopping

While visiting the Space Needle, check out Pike Place Market, only 0.8 miles away, for a vibrant public market experience. Westlake Center, also 0.8 miles away, offers family-friendly shopping and entertainment. Nordstrom is a great store located 0.9 miles from the Space Needle, perfect for gifts.

Recreation

Experience the excitement at T-Mobile Park, just 2 miles from the Space Needle, where you can catch a thrilling game. Enjoy live music at Showbox SoDo, also 2 miles away, for a vibrant night out. For tranquility, head to Golden Gardens Park, 6 miles away, perfect for relaxation and nature walks.

Adventure

Experience thrilling water sports at the UW Waterfront Activities Center, located 3 miles from the Space Needle, or enjoy the serene outdoor vibes at Camp Long, 4 miles away. For more adventure, check out the Green Lake Small Craft Center, also 4 miles from the Space Needle.

Nightlife

The nightlife around the Space Needle is vibrant and diverse. Catch a show at the Paramount Theatre, just a mile away, or enjoy thrills on the Seattle Great Wheel nearby. For an energetic vibe, dance the night away at The Crocodile, only 0.4 miles from the iconic landmark.

Find the best attractions near Space Needle

The Space Needle in Seattle offers a variety of attractions for tourists, including urban parks, art museums, and charming churches. These points of interest provide a perfect blend of culture and family-friendly experiences. While visiting, don't miss the iconic Space Needle itself, which serves as a fantastic starting point for exploring the vibrant city and its rich artistic scene.

  • Seattle Waterfront: Experience stunning views of Elliott Bay and the Olympic Mountains at Seattle Waterfront, a vibrant harbor just 1 mile from the Space Needle. Enjoy beach vibes, waterfront dining, and leisurely strolls along the scenic piers.
  • Seattle Center: Located a mere 0.1 mile from the Space Needle, Seattle Center is an urban park bustling with family-friendly activities. Enjoy outdoor adventures, cultural events, and beautiful gardens in this lively city hub.
  • Seattle Convention Center Arch Building: Situated 1 mile away, this modern event venue offers a professional atmosphere perfect for conferences and gatherings. With its striking architecture, it embodies the business vibes of Seattle.

Best time to go to Space Needle

Visitor numbers around Space Needle is generally unchanged in popularity throughout the year. 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.

calendar iconCalendar Monthtemperature iconTemperaturerain iconPrecipitationmostly cloudy iconCloudinessoccupation rate iconOccupancyprice iconPricing
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 money during your visit to the Space Needle, plan your trip between December and February for lower hotel rates, with Mondays being the cheapest day to stay. Utilize Expedia’s search tool to find budget-friendly accommodations and consider booking package deals that include flights and activities. Joining Expedia’s One Key membership can provide you with exclusive discounts and OneKeyCash for future stays. For public transport, consider using buses or the light rail, which are cost-effective ways to explore Seattle. Don't forget to check for free activities around the area to enhance 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: Expedia's search tool enables you to choose your budget, desired location, and additional preferences. You can easily sort your results from the lowest to the highest prices, ensuring you find the most affordable hotels first. Additionally, you have the option to filter by hotel type—selecting the "Eco-certified" filter will highlight sustainable and environmentally-friendly hotels that you can book.
  • Consider bundling your trip: You can save money by combining your hotel stay near the Space Needle with your flights and activities through an Expedia package deal.
  • Become a One Key member: Join Expedia's One Key membership program for exclusive discounts and deals on hotel bookings. You can also earn OneKeyCash to use on future selected hotels.