Space Needle: Iconic Tower of Seattle
The Space Needle is one of the most iconic landmarks in the city of Seattle, Washington. Located on the grounds of the Seattle Center, the Space Needle is a 605-foot-tall observation tower that was built for the 1962 World’s Fair. It is perhaps best known for its unique and futuristic architecture, which features a sleek, white exterior and a revolving restaurant at the top. Despite its age, the Space Needle still remains an iconic symbol of Seattle and a popular tourist destination.
History of the Space Needle
The Space Needle was built by the Seattle World’s Fair, a committee created to organize the 1962 World’s Fair. The committee wanted to create a futuristic symbol to represent the fair and they chose Edward E. Carlson, a prominent Seattle businessman, to design the tower.
Carlson’s design was inspired by the Stuttgart Tower in Germany and the Seattle Space Age. His design featured a sleek, white exterior and a revolving restaurant at the top of the tower. The tower was completed in just 400 days and was ready for the fair’s opening day on April 21, 1962.
Visiting the Space Needle
The Space Needle is open to the public year-round and offers a variety of attractions. Visitors can take the elevator to the observation deck, which offers 360-degree views of the city and Mount Rainier. The tower also features a glass-enclosed rotating restaurant and a gift shop.
The Space Needle also hosts a variety of events throughout the year, including a New Year’s Eve celebration, a summer concert series, and a Fourth of July fireworks show. The tower also features the SkyCity restaurant, which offers fine dining with views of the city below.
Tips for Visiting the Space Needle
If you’re planning a visit to the Space Needle, here are a few tips to make the most of your experience:
- Purchase tickets in advance. Tickets can be purchased online or at the ticket window.
- Arrive early. The observation deck is open from 8:30 am to 10 pm, but the restaurant closes at 9 pm.
- Dress for the weather. The observation deck is exposed to the elements, so be sure to dress appropriately.
- Bring a camera. The views from the top of the tower are incredible, so be sure to bring your camera to capture the moment.
- Avoid peak times. The Space Needle can get very crowded during peak times, so try to avoid visiting during these times.
Final Thoughts
The Space Needle is an iconic symbol of Seattle and a popular tourist destination. Visitors can take the elevator to the observation deck or dine at the revolving restaurant for stunning views of the city and Mount Rainier. Whether you’re a local or a tourist, the Space Needle is a must-see attraction.