Bookable
Your visit, considered
Make room for
a little wonder.
A practical guide to Sky View Observatory,
from planning your ticket to finding your way.

Before you go
The details for a good day
Plan your visit to Sky View Observatory
Opening times, useful amenities and a few things to know before you arrive.
Opening times
All times are local to Seattle.
- October to February
- 11:00–20:00 · Thursday to SundayClosed Monday to Wednesday
- March
- 11:00–20:00 · Wednesday to SundayClosed Monday and Tuesday
- April to August
- 11:00–21:00 · Every dayJune to August: 11:00–22:00
- September
- 11:00–21:00 · Thursday to MondayLast entry an hour before closing. Closed 26 November and 25 December
Allow time to explore before closing. Your ticket shows your date and entry time.
Finding the observatory
Sky View Observatory is on the 73rd floor of Columbia Center in downtown Seattle. The entrance is on 4th Avenue, just south of Columbia Street; tickets are checked in the first-floor atrium.
Columbia Center, 700 4th Avenue, Floor 73Seattle, WA 98104, USA
- Arrive early for late visits: the doors to Columbia Center lock an hour before the observatory closes, when the last elevator goes up.
- By car: parking is in the Columbia Center garage, which the observatory does not run and cannot validate.
- Before arrival: leave time for the journey and entry checks so you are ready for your booked slot.
Useful stops along the way
Facilities can change through the year. Visitors can usually expect:
- Restrooms and baby-changing stations on the observatory level.
- The Sky View Café & Bar on the 73rd floor.
- Views on every side, with no time limit once you reach the top.
- Card payments only: the observatory and its café are cashless.
Travel light: there are no lockers, and rolling luggage is not allowed. Ask staff about current arrangements when you arrive.
A visit that works for you
Every visitor reaches the observatory by elevator; the stairs are for emergencies only. Restrooms and baby-changing stations are on the observatory level, and strollers are welcome, though you may be asked to fold yours in the elevator.
- Check arrangements for your particular mobility or access needs before travelling.
- Strollers are welcome; fold yours in the elevator if staff ask.
- Ask observatory staff for assistance or directions during your visit.
Enjoy the observatory thoughtfully
- Visitors under 18 must be with an adult, and children should be supervised at all times.
- Small bags, backpacks and purses are allowed but may be checked; rolling luggage is not, and there are no lockers.
- Smoking and vaping are not allowed, and only service animals may come up.
- Photos are welcome, and personal tripods and selfie sticks are allowed if they don’t block paths or views.
- Follow the signs and staff guidance, including any restrictions in the exhibition spaces.
A little care helps keep the observatory comfortable for everyone.
Make time for a pause
The Sky View Café & Bar on the 73rd floor serves coffee, snacks, local beer, wine and seasonal cocktails, with the city below.
- Stop for breakfast, lunch, a hot drink or refreshments nearby.
- Leave room in your plans to sit down and enjoy the setting.
- Check opening hours and menus on the day; food and drinks are purchased separately.
Outside food and drink are not allowed, apart from baby food and special dietary needs. The café closes 30 minutes before the observatory.
A few details worth planning
- Book ahead: choose the date, time and places you want to visit before making other plans.
- Keep your QR ticket ready: save it on your phone or bring a printed copy, with any proof needed for reduced admission.
- Start in the right place: use the 4th Avenue entrance to Columbia Center and follow your ticket’s instructions.
- Watch the weather: views are best on a clear day, and a charged phone or camera makes the most of them.
- Leave space to linger: there is no time limit at the top, so allow time to walk all the way round.
Visitor information checked 10 November 2026. Opening times and facilities can change; follow the date, time and instructions on your issued ticket.

Bring the essentials
Check the current visitor guidance before you travel.
- Comfortable shoes
- Charged phone
- A clear day
- Your booking details