What Is the Space Needle? (2024)

FAQs

What is the purpose of the Space Needle? ›

The result was the Space Needle, a futuristic 184-metre-tall observation tower. The goal was to showcase the scenic beauty of the region, symbolise and dramatise Space Age architecture with its “flying saucer” motif, and prove commercially viable with the first free-standing revolving restaurant in the world.

Traditionally referred to as the “top house,” the Space Needle's saucer-like top is now called the Atmos and includes the tower's 520-foot and 500-foot observation levels and the 510-foot Ring Level. A newly- installed grand staircase, the Oculus Stairs, now connects guests to all three levels.

You will be asked to select a 15-minute arrival window for each location. This is only the arrival window for entry, once inside you can stay until closing.

Past visitors agreed that the Space Needle is a must for first-time visitors to Seattle, and recommend either purchasing your ticket online in advance or showing up early to avoid long lines. Several said they bought the combo ticket that also includes access to Chihuly Garden and Glass.

All admissions tickets include: Access to the Space Needle's 520-foot indoor and open-air observation level. Access to The Loupe—the world's first and only revolving glass floor—located on the 500-foot observation level. Access to digital experiences including Stratos VR, a new virtual reality bungee jump experience.

Wind causes it to sway. A strong breeze blowing at 10 miles per hour (mph) causes the Space Needle to sway approximately 1 inch. It can supposedly withstand wind velocities up to 200 mph. When winds reach speeds of 35 mph or higher, the tower's elevators reduce their traveling speed to 5 mph for safety purposes.

Seattle's Space Needle was lit up in pink during New Year's Eve celebrations in Washington late on Saturday, December 31. Video filmed by Virginia Lau shows the Space Needle aglow shortly before midnight.

That said, the typical building has floors between about 10 to 20 feet in height depending upon the design of the building. Taking the average of 15, this would make the space needle approximately 40 floors because its total height is 605 feet.

The Space Needle is privately owned by the Wright family and sits on a 120-foot by 120-foot private parcel of land on the Seattle Center campus. The Space Needle is the only private property on the Seattle Center's 74-acre campus. The Space Needle stands at 605 feet tall.

Is the Space Needle floor all glass? ›

The glass floor is the strongest structural glass added to the renovated Space Needle. Between the revolving glass floor and its underlying soffit, there are a total of 10 layers of glass. The glass floor was designed for the highest of code requirements for floors.

Indulge in an exclusive co*cktail & culinary experience atop the Space Needle! Limited edition menus feature showstopping mixology paired with locally influenced food Towers to bring your night out to new heights.

Conclusion. Downtown Seattle is generally a safe place to walk around at night, with a vibrant atmosphere and a strong police presence. By following the suggested tips and being mindful of your surroundings, you can have a secure and enjoyable experience while exploring all that downtown Seattle has to offer.