Skip the lines and head straight to the top of Smith Tower for dazzling Seattle sunsets and crafted cocktails. Perfect for after-work skyline views that turn evening into an experience.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
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Difficulty
easy
Duration
Up to 6 hours depending on the day
Fitness Level
No physical exertion required beyond typical urban walking
Wildlife
History
Smith Tower was completed in 1914 and was, at the time, the tallest building west of the Mississippi, symbolizing Seattle’s early 20th-century growth.
Conservation
Smith Tower promotes sustainable urban tourism by encouraging public transit visits and maintaining energy-efficient lighting and ventilation in the Observatory.
Smith Tower
Skip the lines and head straight to the top of Smith Tower for dazzling Seattle sunsets and crafted cocktails. Perfect for after-work skyline views that turn evening into an experience.
Smith Tower stands as one of Seattle’s most iconic landmarks, offering panoramic 360-degree views from its 35th-floor open-air Observatory.
Smith Tower blends historic character with curated visitor experiences, including self-guided Observatory Tickets, the guided 45-minute Talking Tower Tour, hands-on Cocktail Classes, seasonal rooftop pop-ups and private group bookings. Guests ride the historic Otis elevators, explore stories about local history and Prohibition-era lore, and finish visits at the Observatory Bar and Lookout Lounge for food and drinks. Tour formats range from intimate 10-person Talking Tower Tours to group-friendly Observatory and Group Tickets, while special programs include Boozy Afternoon Tea, Sip & Spirits rooftop events, Pride pop-ups and game-day rooftop tailgates. Straight Up to Golden Hour tickets provide express entry for late-afternoon and sunset visits. Ticketing is experience-specific and reservations are recommended for limited-capacity events. Staff follow safety and preservation guidelines to protect both guests and the building’s heritage. Smith Tower works with local spirit brands and culinary partners to create elevated rooftop programming. For history seekers, skyline photographers, date nights and group outings, Smith Tower delivers curated high-elevation experiences rooted in authenticity and local culture. Advanced booking and flexible ticket options make Smith Tower accessible to visitors year-round, with staff on-site to assist with accessibility requests.
Observation Deck
35th Floor
360° views of Seattle and Puget Sound
Tour Length
45 minutes
Talking Tower guided tour duration
Group Options
Group & Private
Tickets for families and groups
Event Variety
Cocktails & Pop-ups
Classes, tea, Pride and tailgates
Reserve Observatory access, cocktail classes or private group experiences now — limited capacity and popular weekend events.
Arrive Early for Best View Spots
Express access starts at 4PM, so ensure you arrive on time to secure a prime spot near the glass walls.
Weekday Visits Avoid Weekend Crowds
Sunday through Thursday evenings are less crowded, making it easier to relax and enjoy the sunset atmosphere.
Dress for Layered Comfort
The Observatory is enclosed but can get breezy in the evening; a light jacket is recommended.
Photography: Use the Bar’s Large Windows
Position yourself near the floor-to-ceiling glass for uninterrupted skyline shots and vibrant sunset colors.
Light Jacket or Sweater
Evenings at the Observatory can be cool and breezy, especially after sunset.
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Compact Camera or Smartphone
Capture the panoramic skyline views and sunset moments effortlessly.
Comfortable Shoes
Walk and stand comfortably inside the venue and around downtown Seattle.
Umbrella
Rain can be common in Seattle spring evenings, so good to have on hand.
spring