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Your visit, considered

Make room for
a little wonder.

A practical guide to Sky View Observatory,
from planning your ticket to finding your way.

Downtown Seattle, Elliott Bay and the Space Needle seen from Sky View Observatory, with the Olympic Mountains beyond

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.

Downtown Seattle and the big wheel on the waterfront lit up at night, seen from Columbia Center

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.

The name Columbia Center above the entrance, under the curving dark glass of the tower

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 73
Seattle, 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.
Open directions
Lumen Field and the streets of the SoDo district seen from the top of Columbia Center

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.

Looking up the curved glass facade of Columbia Center against a deep blue sky

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.
Ask us about planning your visit
Columbia Center, the dark tower on the right, rising above the downtown Seattle skyline, with the snows of Mount Rainier behind

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.

The lights of downtown Seattle and the waterfront just after sunset, seen from Columbia Center

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.

The snowy peak of Mount Rainier above the haze, seen from the observation deck of Columbia Center

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.
Find your ticket option

Visitor information checked 10 November 2026. Opening times and facilities can change; follow the date, time and instructions on your issued ticket.

Find your way

Columbia Center, 700 4th Avenue, Floor 73, Seattle, WA 98104, USA

Open directions
The name Columbia Center above the entrance, under the curving dark glass of the tower

Bring the essentials

Check the current visitor guidance before you travel.

Your visit starts here.

Explore ticket options Read the FAQs

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