Smith Tower Experience: 360° Seattle Views
4.2
84 Ratings
Seattle

Experience unforgettable 360-degree views of Seattle from the Smith Tower Observatory. Immerse yourself in exhibits, enjoy craft cocktails, and make a wish in the Wishing Chair.

Duration: 1 hour
Cancellation: 24 hours
Highlights
  • Smith Tower Visitor Experience - The renowned observatory and speakeasy-themed bar continue to welcome guests, offering direct access via the historic Otis elevators. Upon reaching the 35th floor, visitors are greeted with breathtaking views and the thrilling chance to enjoy a 360-degree panorama of Seattle and Puget Sound from the open-air…
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What's Included
  • Local taxes included
What's Not Included
  • Food, Drinks, and Retail (Available for Purchase)
Additional Information

Explore the past with newly updated historical exhibits, now showcasing an intriguing collection of Smith Typewriters—a tribute to the Tower’s namesake heritage. Follow beloved characters through engaging audio/visual displays and interactive features as you traverse over a century of history.
Ascend to the 35th Floor Observatory, where breathtaking…

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Location
Smith Tower Visitor Experience
500 2nd Ave
Cancellation Policy

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Customer Ratings
4.2
(84 Ratings)
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Nyormirror
Jun 28, 2025
Truly a hidden gem! - After much reflection, I decided to review this hidden gem in Seattle. My son and I made Same day online reservations for a Monday afternoon viewing while dining at a nearby Irish bar. When you enter the lobby before the elevator, you will go back in time to see and hear how Smith Tower came to be, with photos, exhibits, and interactive items. You then take the classic gilded elevator with an operator to the 35th floor, where a beautiful Speak Easy bar and restaurant await you. You then walk to the open but gated 360-degree observation deck of the city and bay. My son and I were the only two tourists there for almost 30 minutes. It's windy, so watch your hat and your phone. I had superbly made cocktail and enjoyed conversation with our server. He said the venue is busier during the summer season, when many cruisers come. I wanted to keep it a secret because other locals had mentioned how much nicer it was than the needle. It is historical, classy, and it was a great experience so I had to share. I recommend a weekday afternoon visit, giving yourself 1-2 hours. The tickets were $25 each.
Review provided by Tripadvisor
Conniebseattle
Jun 13, 2025
Smith Tower is a hidden secret GEM - If you are in Seattle and want a treat....the Smith Tower is filled with history and has a great view. Grab a drink, some tasty food (Love the menu) and enjoy a 360 view of the area. MUCH less expensive than the Space Needle and way more cozy. Even has a wishing chair that REALLY WORKS! Yes, I have had several wishes come true after sitting there. Don't miss this treasure.
Review provided by Tripadvisor
Roybo67
Jun 4, 2025
Neat history, stunning views, great bar and snacks up top. - We went to Smith Tower as a bit of an afterthought, our day's activities didn't take as long as we planned so we had some time left over, and what a stroke of luck. This was the highlight of the day. So much fun. A neat look back at Seattle's past as you tour the switchboard and radio rooms on your way up, and such a stunning view of Seattle from the observation deck. You're not as high as the Space Needle, but a much better view of downtown Seattle. The bar is beautiful with a fantastic cocktail selection. The small plates menu has something for everyone, and the bar decor is so cool. Unfortunately we had reservations for later, otherwise we'd have loved to take in the sunset at Smith Tower. Don't miss this.
Review provided by Tripadvisor
Thekryptonitekid
Jun 29, 2025
Historical and fun - Very cool look into history. The self guided tour and views were amazing. The speakeasy area was really busy (probably common for a weekend day) so expect a wait. The staff was super friendly even with all the crowds (not something your normally get from stressed staff). The food and drinks were great.
Review provided by Viator
Laura_w
Jun 20, 2025
Observatory and museum... - Observatory and museum very well. Bar and restaurant had terrible service and mediocre food. Eat before or after going
Review provided by Viator
Stewartjemma1
Apr 23, 2025
A must see - A great location and view, staff were friendly and the drinks were amazing. Building is beautiful and clean, we had a great couple of hours
Review provided by Tripadvisor
Beyondborderstravelc
Apr 8, 2025
Skyline Sips & Stunning Views! - Our visit to the Smith Tower Observatory was an absolute treat! From the moment we stepped into the historic elevators, there was a buzz of excitement as we climbed to the top of one of Seattle’s most iconic landmarks. Once at the observatory, we were greeted by breathtaking, unobstructed views of the city skyline from the sparkling waters of Puget Sound to the towering silhouette of Mount Rainier in the distance. The atmosphere is casual yet charming, with vintage decor that nods to the tower’s rich history. We made the most of it by grabbing a couple of drinks and some light bites from the bar both were pleasantly good and paired perfectly with the view. The cocktails especially felt like a little luxury as we sipped them with the city sprawling below us. It’s not just a pretty view either; the informational displays around the observatory offer fun historical tidbits about Seattle and the tower itself, adding depth to the experience. We ended up lingering longer than planned, soaking in the sunshine and city sounds from above. Only small note: it can get a little crowded at peak times, so plan ahead if you want a quieter experience. But overall, a fantastic way to see Seattle from a new perspective!
Review provided by Tripadvisor
Timpb3931az
Jun 24, 2025
Many drinks and meals unavailable, food very bland and boring. Great view though! - We ordered a drink and waited a good 15 minutes before they told us they were out of the ingredients for it. We ordered a different drink and again they told us they were out of those ingredients as well. A third drink was ordered and it was pretty good, to be fair. Then we ordered dinner and they didn't have the ingredients for that either! It had become comical at that point how many things on the food and drink menu weren't available (and it's a VERY SMALL menu). After finally picking a dinner option they could actually make, it took a long time and to be honest it was really bland (I didn't finish it). My date's dinner was also pretty boring (she didn't finish it either). If you go to the Smith tower, go for the spectacular view, but don't bother with the food. The drinks are good if you can get them, but don't count on it. All in all it was a very sub-par experience and we won't be going back - once was enough.
Review provided by Tripadvisor
Brad_t
Jun 18, 2025
Wont refund you even... - Wont refund you even though they are happy to sell a ticket online during a time and day they are closed for a private event.
Review provided by Viator
Donna_p
Apr 5, 2025
Please call and check on your tours - Call ahead of time. I booked this tour and it was cancelled. Us four sisters flew into Seattle as a reunion from all parts of the world. It was disappointing to be told our tour was cancelled, if we wait an hour and pay more money we may attend another group. Out of all the viator tours I have done, this was the only one that let us down.
Review provided by Viator
Check Availability
From $25
From $25
up to 10 guests
1 - Adult
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Cancellation: Free cancellation up to 24 hours before the start of your experience (local time).