See Seattle From the Land at Sky View Observatory
Located on the 73rd floor of the Columbia Center, the Sky View Observatory’s 902-foot-perch offers a view you’ll want to savor.
From the window seat of a de Havilland Beaver, you’re treated to an unparalleled view of Seattle. But it’s a moving view, which is why we’re also quite fond of the Sky View Observatory. It makes the perfect sequel to a Seattle Scenic Flight Tour.
Perched above Seattle’s original skyscraper – the Smith Tower – the Observatory’s 360-degree view is the tallest public observatory in the Pacific Northwest.
Stoll the loop and you’ll be treated to views of Mount Rainier, Elliott Bay, Bellevue, the Cascades, Mount Baker, the Olympic Mountains, and the Space Needle!
On game days, be sure to bring binoculars. The southern windows offer peak-a-boo views of the Seahawks, Mariners, and Sounders.
Along the northern facing windows, the Space Needle and Lake Union lay below. Keep an eye out. Seaplanes can often be seen coming in for landing at Lake Union.
To the west, ferries frequently make their way into and out of Elliott Bay. The green and white boats pass by the Great Wheel. At night, the Wheel’s lights change frequently, helping to light up the pier.
Throughout the observation floor you’ll find snippets about the city’s history and details about the building. For instance, the 1.5 million square foot tower boasts 8,800 windows and utilizes 2,100 hydraulic heat pumps!
The Observatory is also home to a small café. The menu features seasonal bites, house-baked pastries, and a collection of local draft beers and wines. Talk about an amazing spot for a pre-dinner cocktail!
Want to experience it for yourself? Don’t miss out on the Sky View Observatory’s current giveaway!