Overview
Located on the 73rd floor of the Columbia Center, the Sky View Observatory is the highest public viewing area in the Pacific Northwest. At nearly 1,000 feet up, it dwarfs the Space Needle and offers supreme panoramic views of Seattle and beyond.
Highlights
- 360-Degree Views: Gaze upon Mount Rainier, the Olympic and Cascade Mountains, Puget Sound, and the dense downtown core below.
- Interactive Displays: Screens around the observatory provide information on the landmarks you see below.
- Cafe and Bar: Have a drink or snack while enjoying the spectacular heights.
History
The Columbia Center was completed in 1985 as the tallest building in Seattle. The observatory was remodeled and expanded in 2013.
Visitor Tips
- Weather check: Before buying a ticket, ensure it’s not a completely fogged-out day, as visibility will be zero.
- Value: It's often less crowded and cheaper than the Space Needle, yet offers a higher vantage point.
- Duration: 1–2 hours.