Going up to the top of the Space Needle seems pretty straightforward at first. Just buy a ticket and take the elevator up, right?
But after visiting the Space Needle multiple times and living nearby, I’ve learned there’s a bit more to it if you want the best experience.
So I put together this blog post where I share my top tips for visiting the Space Needle.
Some of my tips may seem counterintuitive at first, but once you read through, you’ll understand why they matter.
My top 5 tips for visiting the Space Needle
1. Visit during sunset
The absolute best time to go up the Space Needle is just before sunset. Not only do you get that golden-glowing light on Seattle’s skyline, but you also get to see the city transition from day to the lights of night.
The morning fog usually clears out by midday, but it’s not uncommon for it to rain in the evening, especially during the spring, fall, and winter. This is Seattle, after all.
So here’s my best tip: check the Space Needle Webcam before heading out to see exactly what the view looks like. Then you can decide whether going up to the top is worth your time.
2. Be sure to visit both levels of the Space Needle
Most visitors don’t realize that the Space Needle actually has TWO observation levels.
The upper level includes the open-air observation deck, and is where most people hang out. But they don’t realize that if they take the stairs down, they can get to the lower level called the Loupe.
For whatever reason, I’ve never heard the staff mention the lower level on the way up, so some people just skip it without knowing. But it’s absolutely worth checking out. Every time I’ve been to the Loupe, it has had only about half as many people as the upper level.
The Loupe has the world’s only revolving glass floor, letting you look straight down at the Needle’s base and the city below. It makes a full rotation every 45 minutes, so I usually just pick a spot, stand still, and let the entire city revolve under my feet.
3. You don’t really need a reservation
Buying your Space Needle tickets online guarantees your spot. But unless you’re visiting on a busy summer weekend, it’s usually not necessary.
I’ve been up the Space Needle three times (twice in the summer) and never once bought a ticket in advance.
Here’s what I recommend: check the official website on the day you want to go. If the time slots aren’t selling out, you should be able to just walk up and buy a ticket at the door. This method gives you way more flexibility. Especially since you can play it by ear and just visit when the weather is clear.
4. The entire place is set up for photo-ops
Both levels of the Space Needle have a full 360-degree glass perimeter that’s perfect for snapping photos of the skyline.
But even though the windows are always clean, glare on the glass can be an issue on sunny days.
If you have a polarizing filter for your camera, bring it. If you don’t, holding up a pair of polarized sunglasses in front of your lens can help cut down on reflections.
If you don’t have a camera, there are photo stations set up around the upper deck. Just scan your ticket and pose for a picture, photobooth style. You can download the photo straight to your phone. And it’s all for free.
5. Some of the best Space Needle views… aren’t at the Space Needle
There’s no doubt that the top of the Space Needle has one of the best views in Seattle. But some of the most iconic views of the city are from places where the Space Needle simply serves as the backdrop.
I put together a full guide on the best spots to photograph the Space Needle. My blog post includes both popular lookouts and hidden spots you won’t find in other guides. You can check it out in the link below.
Read our full blog post: 8 Incredible Views of the Space Needle: Complete Travel Guide
Frequently Asked Questions about the Space Needle (and my honest answers)
Where is the best place to park for the Space Needle?
The two official Seattle Center Parking garages at 5th Ave N and Mercer St are solid options because they are massive and convenient. But they are also expensive.
If you want cheaper parking, I recommend street parking in the Lower Queen Anne Neighborhood, which is west of Climate Pledge Arena. It’s a little further of a walk to the Space Needle, but it’s also a cool neighborhood with a bunch of bars and restaurants.
How much time should I spend at the Space Needle?
I would set aside about 2 hours for a Space Needle visit. That will give you enough time to get your tickets, stand in line, ride the elevator up, and then check out the views from both levels at the top.
Of course, if you are the type of person who takes tons of photographs, or if you are visiting during the peak summer season, then give yourself a little more time.
How tall is the Space Needle, anyway?
The entire Space Needle is 605 feet tall, and its upper and lower viewing levels sit at 518 feet and 500 feet, respectively.
One of the reasons that the Space Needle seems to rise above the cityscape is that Seattle has laws that help protect public views of landmark structures like the Space Needle. New development can be rejected if it would significantly block a designated view of the Space Needle (from Kerry Park, for example).
Are You Following Our Seattle Blog Series?
We’re based in Seattle and have done so many awesome things in this city. To help fellow adventurers, we’ve put together guides to the best places we found. You can check them out by clicking the links below.
- Our Seattle travel guide: 29 Incredible Things to Do in Seattle
- Our Seattle hiking guide: 11 Incredible Hikes Near Seattle
- Best day trip from Seattle: 11 Awesome Things to Do on Bainbridge Island
- Best Space Needle photo spots: 8 Incredible Views of the Space Needle
- Best national park near Seattle: 12 Unique Things to Do in Mount Rainier
- Best winter weekend trip from Seattle: 8 Amazing Things to Do in Leavenworth in Winter
I hope you enjoyed our guide to the Space Needle in Seattle! Feel free to leave a comment below if you have any questions 🐸
