Where to See the Best Views of Seattle?

Are you visiting Seattle, hoping to take in its stunning skyline? If you’re looking to get a look at the Emerald City from high up in the air, we have the best spots to do just that. This guide will tell you all the places to go to have the perfect view of Seattle, no matter if you’re looking for a spot to take breathtaking photos or a place to watch the sun set.

Kerry Park on Queen Anne Hill

Kerry Park is the most famous spot in Seattle for getting great views of the city—it’s often featured in photos, and for good reason! The park is located on top of Queen Anne Hill and offers panoramic views of Downtown Seattle, including the Space Needle, with Elliott Bay and Mount Rainer in the backdrop. Even if it’s a busy day and full of other visitors, the views from Kerry Park will still make it worth it.

If you happen to be there during sunset, you’ll get an extra treat and be rewarded with beautiful colors in the sky. To get the best views of Kerry Park, it helps to bring along a telephoto lens if you have one available.

Smith Tower Observation Deck

Just a five-minute walk away from Chinatown lies Smith Tower, one of the most important buildings in Seattle. Once built as the tallest skyscraper on the West Coast, Smith Tower still stands as a Seattle landmark. Additionally, there’s an observation deck on floor 35 of the building with unbeatable views of the city.

The lights that come on at night make it an especially beautiful sight. Of course, this is an excellent spot at any time of day and is one of the best places to take pictures of the city at night. Up here, you can enjoy your drinks from the Tower lobby bar or explore the remaining rooms and hallways. You can also join one of their guided tours if you want to learn even more about Seattle’s history from Smith Tower’s perspective.

The Space Needle

The Space Needle is certainly one of the most famous attractions in Seattle and also offers unparalleled 360 degree views of the city. From its location 520 feet (160m) above ground, you’ll be able to see Mount Rainier, Elliott Bay, Downtown Seattle and much more. The views become even more stunning when it’s dark outside, considering the Space Needle is lit up with hundreds of colorful LED lights.

Sunset at Myrtle Edwards Park

Sunset is one of the best times to visit Myrtle Edwards Park if you want great views of Seattle. Located along the northern shore of Elliott Bay near Downtown Seattle, this park has stunning views of both the city and Puget Sound as well as Mount Rainier. And while Kerry Park is mostly known as a spot for photography, users also have access to picnic tables, grassy areas and even a beach here which makes it perfect for an evening stroll.

From Seattle’s highest mountain or from an iconic skyscraper to a waterfront park – there are plenty of great spots for breathtaking views! Ultimately, no matter which spot you decide to visit for your perfect view of Seattle, we guarantee that each and every option in this guide will give you unforgettable memories.

An Insider’s Guide to Seattle: Where to See the Best Views

Seattle is a vibrant city in the Pacific Northwest that is full of history, culture, and breathtaking views. It is known for its iconic landmarks such as the Space Needle, historic Pike Place Market, and bustling waterfront. If you’re a first-time or returning visitor to Seattle, you won’t want to miss the opportunities to take in the stunning surrounding scenery. Here is where to see the best views in Seattle.

Kerry Park

Kerry Park is one of the most popular viewpoints in Seattle. It is located on the south side of Queen Anne Hill and offers an unobstructed view of downtown Seattle, Elliott Bay, and Mount Rainier in the distance. If you’re looking to take postcard-worthy photographs of Seattle, this is the perfect spot. If you’re an early riser, visit at sunrise to see the city’s skyline bathed in soft morning light.

Space Needle

One of the most iconic landmarks in Seattle, the Space Needle is a must-visit on your trip. Take the elevator up to the observation deck to see the city from 520 feet above. The deck offers 360-degree views of Seattle’s skyline, the Olympic and Cascade mountain ranges, Mount Rainier, and Elliott Bay. Go at night to see the city lights sparkle below.

Columbia Center Observation Deck

If you want to experience the highest view of Seattle, head to the Columbia Center Observation Deck located in the tallest building in Seattle’s Sky View Observatory on the 73rd floor. From here, you can enjoy unobstructed views of the city and its surrounding areas. The observation deck also has interactive screens to help you identify the landmarks you’re seeing.

Gas Works Park

Gas Works Park is a former industrial site that was transformed into a park. It offers a unique perspective on Seattle from the north end of Lake Union. The park is known for its hill that provides a panoramic view of Seattle’s skyline, the lake, and the surrounding hills. Additionally, the park is a great spot to watch sea-planes land.

Sky View Observatory

Another great spot to see the city’s stunning skyline is the Sky View Observatory. However, the only difference is that you’ll be 902 feet above the ground. From this spot, you can see some of Seattle’s most famous attractions and landmarks including the Space Needle, the Ferris wheel on Pier 57, Pike Place Market, and CenturyLink Field.

Additional Recommendations

Apart from the best views in Seattle, the city is also known for its dining spots, cultural experiences, and local history. Here are few recommendations to make your trip to Seattle more enjoyable.

Dining Spots

Seattle is known for its coffee, so don’t miss visiting the original Starbucks at Pike Place Market. Enjoy fresh seafood at restaurants like The Walrus and the Carpenter or visit Canlis, one of Seattle’s most iconic fine-dining restaurants.

Cultural Experience

Experience music history with a visit to the famous Jimi Hendrix statue or indulge in the city’s art scene at the Seattle Art Museum.

Local History

From the early days of the logging industry to the grunge rock scene of the 90s, Seattle has a rich local history. A visit to the Museum of Pop Culture and the Klondike Gold Rush National Historical Park will take you on a journey through the city’s past.

Off-beaten-path attractions

If you’re looking for something a little more unique, visit the Fremont Troll sculpture under the Fremont Bridge or explore the historic Georgetown neighborhood.

Seattle is a must-visit destination for travelers from around the world. With stunning views, rich history, and an incredible food scene, it’s the perfect place to explore. Make sure you don’t miss the spots we’ve listed above.