Seattle is an exciting city with amazing, breathtaking views. It can be hard to decide which places to go to enjoy the panoramas. So, we have a list of ideas for you – locals and visitors alike!
First, visit Kerry Park to get an unobstructed view of the skyline and mountains. For something unique, Alki Beach Park lets you see Seattle’s skyline from the Puget Sound waters.
Fremont Avenue has Gas Works Park for an educational and inspiring trip. Plus, for adventurous hikes with panoramic vistas, try Rattlesnake Ledge or Mount Si. There is always a gorgeous view nearby in Seattle. Discover these destinations and take in the beauty of the Emerald City!
Here are the Top 5 Views of the Skyline that will leave you feeling on top of the world:
- Kerry Park
- Alki Beach Park
- Gas Works Park at Fremont Avenue
- Rattlesnake Ledge
- Mount Si
Top 5 Seattle Skyline Views
To find the top 5 Seattle skyline views, Kerry Park, Space Needle, Columbia Center Observation Deck, Smith Tower Observation Deck, and Seattle Great Wheel offer the best panoramas. These popular spots provide stunning vistas to capture Seattle’s metropolitan skyline.
Kerry Park
Kerry Park is a renowned vantage point in Seattle, perfect for adventurers and photographers. It is situated on Queen Anne Hill, a short distance from Safeco Field and CenturyLink Field.
Gaze upon Elliot Bay, Victoria ferries, Puget Sound, and Mount Rainier. Hear the hustle and bustle of life below. It’s one of the best places to enjoy the beauty of Seattle’s architecture and natural surroundings.
Visit in springtime and see blossoming Cherry Blossoms. The park was established in 1927 by Albert Sperry Kerry, who sold his property on Queen Anne Hill. His dream lives on and continues to benefit Seattle’s tourism industry.
The Space Needle gives a SimCity-like view of Seattle with amazing visuals and no disasters!
Space Needle
For an awe-inspiring sight of Seattle’s skyline? Look no further than the iconic observation tower. It offers 360-degree views of the city, Elliott Bay and Mount Rainier. The needle-shaped building was formerly known as the Century 21 Exposition. Take the elevator up to its observation deck for unparalleled views of Seattle’s skyline.
At a staggering 605 feet tall, the Space Needle was built in 1962 for the World Fair. It’s now one of Seattle’s most visited tourist attractions, with over one million visitors every year. There’s a revolving restaurant inside, offering panoramic views while you dine. Plus, two observation decks – lower and upper – giving you more options to take in the view.
Unbelievably, the Space Needle’s design was inspired by a doodle on a napkin! In 1961, Edward Carlson sketched his vision of a futuristic tower while dining with business associates at a restaurant. That simple napkin sketch became one of Seattle’s most beloved landmarks. Get ready to experience the city from a whole new perspective at Columbia Center’s Observation Deck.
Columbia Center Observation Deck
In the center of Seattle, you’ll find a remarkable viewpoint. Tourists and locals alike have to check it out! With height and views that can’t be beat, the Columbia Center Observation Deck is 73 floors above the ground.
You can take in the Space Needle, Mount Rainier, and Elliott Bay Marina from up there. Plus, interactive exhibits tell you all about Seattle’s history and culture. You can tour with a guide or just admire the view with your loved ones.
Time your visit right and avoid the crowds with a timed entry system. The best time is sunset when the sky turns orange and pink. Don’t forget your camera! It’s a great spot for photos.
Smith Tower Observation Deck
Atop a historical tower lies the unique Smith Tower Observation Deck. From here, you can relish the panoramic views of Seattle. See glimmering waterways, lofty mountains, and famous landmarks from this remarkable spot.
When you ascend to the 35th floor, the past of Seattle comes alive. Ornamental ceilings and 100-year-old elevators make it feel like a time gone by. Inhale the mesmerizing sunsets or witness the lights of the evening turn it into a sparkling dream.
Capture special moments on this renowned Observation Deck. It’s so entrancing, you may find it tough to leave- but don’t miss out on the other Top 5 Skyline Views in Seattle. The Seattle Great Wheel is one of them- a view that’ll make you feel on top of the world.
Seattle Great Wheel
Witness the Magnificent Rotating Wheel, a striking landmark in the heart of Seattle. It towers over Pier 57, offering a never-before-seen perspective of the city’s skyline. Here’s the essential details:
- Location: Pier 57
- Height: 175ft
- Diameter: 140ft
- Ridership: Over 1 million
- Operating Hours: 10am-10pm daily
From its 175ft height, visitors can take a leisurely Ferris wheel ride and see Mt. Rainier, Elliott Bay and downtown Seattle. There are forty heated gondolas to choose from in winter.
Pro Tip: For a romantic getaway or an exclusive experience, book one of the VIP gondolas with leather seats and Glass floors at night. Seattle’s waterfront views are breathtaking!
Best Seattle Waterfront Views
To get the best Seattle waterfront views, turn to Alki Beach, Golden Gardens Park, Pier 66, and the Elliott Bay Trail. Each of these locations offers a unique perspective on the city’s stunning panoramas. Whether you’re seeking a quiet shoreline or a bustling pier, you’ll find a variety of options for taking in the best waterfront views Seattle has to offer.
Alki Beach
On the edge of Seattle’s Puget Sound, Alki Beach awaits! Miles of sandy shores, restaurants, and water activities like paddleboarding and kayaking.
Take in the view of Mount Rainier at Salty’s on Alki. Stroll along the beach promenade and find the Alki Point Lighthouse for photo ops. Hop on a water taxi from Seacrest Park Dock to Downtown Seattle for a 15-minute city skyline view.
For a sunset experience, watch boats anchored in Elliot Bay and relax at Alki Beach Park picnic areas. Relax or adventure, Alki Beach has it all! Head over to Golden Gardens Park for some envy-inducing waterfront views.
Golden Gardens Park
In Seattle, if you’re looking for breathtaking views of the waterfront, Golden Gardens Park ought to be your top pick! Its 87-acres offer lush greenery and golden sunsets, with snow-capped mountains and endless blue water as a backdrop.
Here, you can take leisurely strolls, go picnicking, fishing off the pier, or boating through the Locks to Lake Washington.
Amenities like playgrounds, picnic shelters, fire pits, volleyball nets, and hiking trails are available for all levels. If you’d like, you can even reserve ahead to host special events or go camping!
On one particular day, I watched the sky turn pinkish-purple as the sun set. The distant children playing on swings made me realize moments like these are priceless. Nature’s beauty blended with tranquility can only be found here – at this magnificent park by Puget Sound. So, who needs a therapist? Seattle’s Pier 66 waterfront will do just fine!
Pier 66
At the prime waterfront location of Seattle, lies Pier 66. It’s full of recreation and leisure activities. Visitors can take in the views of Elliott Bay and shop handmade crafts. Plus, they can dine on delicious food.
As the day ends, the bay’s waters glisten in vibrant hues. Harbour seals pop up to say hello! This is a great spot for visitors to get a real taste of Seattle’s culture.
For those seeking adventure, Pier 66 is the perfect place to hop from island to island or explore Puget Sound. People come together here – couples, families and friends. They make memories that will last a lifetime!
Stroll along the Elliott Bay Trail to get an eyeful of the waterfront. And eat all the seafood chowder you want – you earned it!
Elliott Bay Trail
The Elliott Bay Boardwalk in Seattle is a treasure trove of breathtaking views! With the Olympic Mountains and city skyline in view, your journey begins.
Stroll along the 3.4-mile elevated walking trail, from Smith Cove Cruise Terminal to Terminal 91. Breath in the sea breeze and take in the harbor activities.
As you go, you can’t miss the beautiful gardens, blooming all year round. Plus, a variety of local wildlife and Northwest plants.
At dusk, the Elliott Bay Trail is something else entirely! A spectacular sunset lights up Seattle’s skyline like fireworks. Perfect for romantic walks or evening jogs.
When in town, don’t miss out on this magical experience. Come witness one of Seattle’s most popular destinations while drinking in the melody of nature. Discover the hidden gems – it’s like finding buried treasure, with a better view!
Hidden Seattle Views
To uncover more of Seattle’s hidden viewpoints, check out this section on Hidden Seattle Views with Gas Works Park, Volunteer Park Water Tower, Magnolia Boulevard, and Discovery Park as a solution. These sub-sections offer stunning panoramas of Seattle that many visitors miss, so make sure to include them on your itinerary.
Gas Works Park
This Seattle landmark soars on Lake Union’s shoreline. It’s a unique mix of industrial history and public parkland, boasting awe-inspiring views of the Seattle skyline. You can relish in the unblocked water and mountain sights.
At the heart of the park is a former natural gas plant, now an open-air grassy area. It’s great for picnics, relaxing, and soaking up the sun. Old machinery equipment stands as a reminder of its past. Visitors can climb The Great Mound for spectacular panoramic views or explore the grounds on foot or bike.
Gas Works Park hosts lots of events and activities year-round like kite flying contests, Fourth of July celebrations, and outdoor movie showings. Tourists can make use of the summer weather by renting stand-up paddleboards and kayaks on Lake Union nearby.
To make your visit more enjoyable, pack snacks and drinks since there are few food options onsite. Also, don’t forget sunscreen – Seattle weather can get sunny! Follow these tips to make the most of one of Seattle’s hidden gems. Climb the Volunteer Park Water Tower for amazing views of Seattle – and to spot any amateur superheroes testing their costumes.
Volunteer Park Water Tower
Seattle’s Volunteer Park boasts an incredible 75-foot tall Water Tower. Its Victorian-style design imitates European castles and is a popular destination for tourists. Built in 1906, it was once used to store drinking water, but is no longer functional. It was restored in 2012, offering admission of just seven dollars. From the top, visitors can take in the Seattle skyline, Cascade Mountains, Space Needle, Mount Rainier, Olympic mountains, and Elliott Bay.
Not only that, but the top floor of the tower houses a museum filled with information about the history of Seattle and Volunteer Park. Visitors can take a self-guided tour of the exhibits and learn more about the city’s beginnings.
The tower has also been used as a backdrop for TV shows and movies such as “10 Things I Hate About You,” adding to the allure of this historic site. For breathtaking views of Seattle, and a chance to see how the other half live, take a stroll down Magnolia Boulevard.
Magnolia Boulevard
Magnolia Boulevard awaits with grand views of the harbor and the Olympic Mountains. Tree-lined streets offer a picturesque drive or walk that showcases the ocean and stately homes. Take in panoramas from park benches or admire architecturally stunning properties. Each turn brings something new to see.
Lawton Park and Discovery Park provide lush forested areas and beaches. Shops and eateries line the way for a break from nature.
This iconic backdrop has been featured in “Sleepless in Seattle,” so make sure it’s on your travel itinerary. Don’t miss out on adding Magnolia Boulevard to your list. It’s a sight not to be missed! Explore the stunning views and hidden gems at Seattle’s Discovery Park.
Discovery Park
In the northwest corner of Seattle, you’ll find a captivating park oasis. Discovery Park offers an idyllic escape with picturesque beaches and green space. Take a stroll and enjoy bird-watching, hiking trails, and the historic West Point Lighthouse.
For the adventurous, there’s kayaking and sailing across Elliot Bay. Nature-lovers can spot wildlife like coyotes, eagles, raccoons, and seals. Don’t miss South and North Beach Trails for a close-up view of nature’s tranquility.
Bring binoculars – it’s one of the best places to watch birds during migration season. Plus, Seattle’s mountains and lakes provide beautiful vistas, to remind you of your tiny speck in this vast universe!
Best Views of Seattle’s Mountains and Lakes
To find the best views of Seattle’s mountains and lakes, look no further than this section on “Best Views of Seattle’s Mountains and Lakes.” You’ll discover breathtaking panoramas of Mount Rainier National Park, serene waters of Lake Union and Lake Washington, and awe-inspiring views of Puget Sound.
Mount Rainier National Park
Nestled in the heart of the Cascade Range lies a natural wonder in Washington – Mount Rainier National Park. It offers visitors majestic views, and is home to glaciers, waterfalls, old-growth forests and wildflower-filled meadows.
At 14,411 ft above sea level, its peak dominates over two million acres.
Hikers can explore trails such as Skyline Trail which provides panoramic views, and reflection Lake Trail, surrounded by lush trees and serene bodies of water. Nearby lakes include Tipsoo Lake and Mowich Lake which offer vibrant wildflowers and awe-inspiring perspectives.
Mount Rainier also offers a tranquil retreat away from populated areas, with scenic drives through groves of old-growth forests, and opportunities for wildlife viewing. For those interested in staying outside the park, there are also glamping accommodations offered by the park.
Lake Union
Lake Union, situated in Seattle, is a popular spot for mountain and lake views. There are neighborhoods with dining, parks, and waterfronts. Boating events are hosted here and houseboats are home to many. Freshwater lake views include Mount Rainier, the Olympic Mountains, and the city skyline.
Stop off at restaurants or grab a cup of coffee. For a closer look, there are public docks for fishing and diving.
For over a century, this lake has been an important transportation hub. It was once an industrial area housing sawmills and factories. It then became a center for shipbuilding during WWI. One famous plant was responsible for 20% of America’s wartime ships! Now, it is mainly used recreationally – an important part of Seattle’s culture.
Peace of mind? Check out Lake Washington’s tranquil views!
Lake Washington
Seattle’s Lake is a beautiful spot for leisure and fun. The majestic Lake Washington offers stunning views of snow-capped mountains and tranquil waters from many places such as Mount Baker Park, Madison Park Beach, Seward Park, etc.
People love to walk or cycle around it. Adventurers also enjoy a range of water sports here like kayaking, paddleboarding, and jet-skiing. Plus, waterfront parks along the shorelines are great for picnics, barbecues, and sunset watching.
Interestingly, Lake Washington also has floating houses since the early 1900s. These houseboats provide unique living experiences to those who love waking up to beautiful views each day.
Seattle Times states that Lake Washington is 22 miles long – one of the largest freshwater lakes in Washington State. Visit for the stunning views of Puget Sound and maybe even catch sight of a sea monster!
Puget Sound
The city of Seattle is surrounded by various bodies of water, including a large inlet that leads to the Pacific Ocean. This body of water is renowned for its stunning views and natural formations, which draw in millions of tourists annually.
At Puget Sound, visitors can partake in a range of recreational activities such as kayaking, fishing, and whale watching. Ferry rides are available throughout the area, some taking you on a guided tour, others simply providing transport.
The landscape is dotted with picturesque islands and towering mountain ranges, including the Olympic Mountains that can be seen from downtown Seattle on the eastern shore. On clear days, one can also spot Mount Rainier’s snow-capped peak.
Puget Sound has been inhabited by Native American tribes for thousands of years, and European explorers arrived in the late 1700s and established settlements on abandoned Indian homes.
In conclusion, Puget Sound is one of Washington State’s most noteworthy attractions, boasting breathtaking beauty and a rich cultural heritage.
Conclusion
Unlock Seattle’s Most Amazing Panoramic Views!
Discover spectacular views of Seattle’s skyline from the iconic Space Needle to the waterways and mountain ranges.
Popular spots include:
- Kerry Park, showcasing downtown Seattle;
- Gas Works Park, with a panorama of Lake Union and the cityscape;
- Columbia Center’s Sky View Observatory for a bird’s eye view.
Hidden gems like Hamilton Viewpoint Park and Volunteer Park Water Tower await you!
Admire the skyline and surroundings from different perspectives.
For an unforgettable experience, explore during sunrise or sunset – these are the most beautiful vistas in America!
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Where can I find the best panoramic views of Seattle?
There are many places in Seattle where you can enjoy stunning panoramic views of the city. Some popular spots include the Space Needle, Kerry Park, and the Columbia Center Sky View Observatory.
2. Is there a cost to access these panoramic viewpoints?
Some viewpoints do require a fee, such as the Space Needle and the Sky View Observatory. However, there are also many free options available, including Gas Works Park and Volunteer Park.
3. What is the best time of day to visit these viewpoints?
The best time for panoramic views is during clear weather and near sunset or sunrise. The light is softer during these times and the colors are more vibrant.
4. Can I take photos from these viewpoints?
Yes, photography is allowed at most of these locations. However, be courteous to other visitors and avoid using flash if possible.
5. Are these viewpoints accessible for individuals with disabilities?
Most of these locations are accessible for individuals with disabilities, but it is recommended to check each attraction’s website or call ahead for specific accommodations and accessibility information.
6. Is parking available at these locations?
Parking varies by location and can be limited, especially during peak visitor times. It is recommended to research each attraction’s parking options or consider using public transportation.
