Located in Seattle, Washington, the Sky View Observatory is a truly original way to experience the city of Seattle. Visitors can expect a once in a lifetime 360-degree view of the Seattle skyline complete with a café and educational experiences for members of the entire family.

  • What is the Sky View Observatory?
    • The Sky View Observatory is known as the Northwest’s Highest Public Observatory and stands at 1,000 feet with a 360-degree view of the Seattle skyline.
  • Where is the Sky View Observatory located?
    • The Sky View Observatory is housed on the 73rd floor of the 76-story Columbia Center in downtown Seattle.
  • How tall is the Columbia Center?
    • At the time of its construction, the Columbia Center was the tallest skyscraper on the West Coast. It is now the fourth tallest, falling behind buildings in San Francisco and Los Angeles.
  • Who designed and developed the Columbia Center?
    • The Columbia Center was designed by Chester Lindsey and developed by Martin Selig.
  • When was the Columbia Center built?
    • Construction began in 1982, and the building was completed in 1985.
  • Why does the Columbia Center have a triangular design?
    • The triangular design of the Columbia Center makes it resistant to hurricanes and earthquakes.
  • Was the Columbia Center a target in the 9/11 attacks?
    • It is rumored that the attacks planned for September 11, 2001 were also supposed to be directed at the tallest buildings on the West Coast, which at the time included the Columbia Center.
  • What was the original purpose of the Columbia Center?
    • The original purpose of the building was as an office building for Bank of America, with retail shops on the ground floor and a space for the Sky View Observatory, café, and club lounge.
  • How has the Sky View Observatory changed over time?
    • The viewing deck originally offered only a 270-degree view. It was remodeled in the summer of 2013 to expand the viewing area and enhance the experience for future visitors.
  • How long should visitors plan to spend at the Sky View Observatory?
    • Visitors could easily spend an entire afternoon at the Sky View Observatory.
  • What amenities are available at the Sky View Observatory?
    • Visitors can enjoy a coffee or lunch break in the café or relax with a cocktail in the club lounge while taking in the incredible views.
  • Where can tickets be purchased for the Sky View Observatory?
    • Tickets can be purchased online or on the 73rd floor of the Columbia Center.
  • Are there special events held at the Sky View Observatory?
    • There are no special events held at the observatory, but visitors have the option to host private events there.
  • What can visitors do in the surrounding Seattle area?
    • The area offers some of the best music, food, artwork, and coffee in the country. There are also museums and national monuments that entertain visitors of all ages.

Sky View Observatory, 701 5th Ave, Seattle, WA, Phone: 206-386-5564

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