10 Best Views in Seattle (Instagram-Worthy Viewpoints!)

As a city that’s constantly reinventing itself as it grows, Seattle has plenty of fresh, exciting sights to show off. It’s not just the downtown Seattle skyline; it’s also the gorgeous views that put the city on the map.

And the best part is, you can go for a walk and enjoy some of the best vistas in the city without even leaving the city. Here are the 10 best views in Seattle you wouldn’t want to miss.

1. Kerry Park

Kerry Park is a small park located in the Queen Anne neighborhood of Seattle. It’s one of the best places to get a view of downtown Seattle and Mount Rainier; the perfect location to watch the sunset and enjoy panoramic views of the city.

The views from Kerry Park are especially stunning at night when the city lights are shining. From restaurants to skyscrapers, you can see it all from Kerry Park. If you’re looking for a romantic spot to watch the sunset, Kerry Park is definitely the place for you!

Space Needle Seattle WA
space needle aerial view

2. The Space Needle

The Space Needle is an iconic Seattle landmark and one of the most popular tourist attractions in the city. It’s also one of the best places to get a birds-eye view of Seattle.

What makes this view so special is that you can see all of downtown Seattle from the top of the Space Needle. In addition to this, on a clear day, you can also see Mount Rainier in the distance.

So next time you are in Seattle, make your way up this 184-meter tower that was renovated just a few years ago in 2018!

Pro Tip: This CityPass gives you access to 5 of the most famous attractions in Seattle, including the Space Needle. The best part is, it’ll save you a whopping 44% off the retail price!

3. Mount Rainier

Mount Rainier is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Washington State and for good reason. A towering, massive mountain that dominates Seattle’s skyline, the views from Mount Rainier are absolutely breathtaking.

On a clear day, you can see all the way to Canada! If you want to experience something truly awe-inspiring, head up to this peak and enjoy 360-degree views of both Seattle and Tacoma.

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4. Seattle’s Waterfront

Continuing our tour of the best views in Seattle, we come to the Seattle waterfront. This is a great place to take a walk and enjoy the fresh air.

The views from the waterfront are stunning, especially of Elliott Bay and Puget Sound. You can also see the Space Needle and downtown Seattle from here.

Sky View Observatory Seattle
view from sky view observatory photo by Maarten Brinkerink

5. Sky View Observatory

Up next on our list of the best views in Seattle is the Sky View Observatory. This is a great place to get a 360-degree view of the city.

The observatory is located on the 73rd floor of the Columbia Center, which is the tallest building in Seattle. From here, you can see all of downtown Seattle, Elliott Bay, and even Mount Rainier!

If you’re looking for a place to get away from it all and take in some stunning views, the Sky View Observatory is one sightseeing destination you should not overlook.

6. Smith Tower

The Smith Tower is one of the oldest skyscrapers in Seattle and was once the tallest building west of the Mississippi River. The views here are incredible, as they allow you to lay eyes on almost the entire city.

You can see downtown Seattle, Elliott Bay, Mount Rainier, and much more. If you’re looking for a place to get a taste of old-school Seattle, be sure to visit Smith Tower on your next trip to the city.

7. Dr. Jose Rizal Park

This is one of Seattle’s newest parks, and it offers some of the best views in the city. The park is located on top of a hill in the Chinatown-International District, and from here, you can see all of downtown Seattle, Elliott Bay, Mount Rainier, and more!

If you’re looking for a place to get away from the hustle and bustle of city life and enjoy some stunning views, Dr. Jose Rizal Park is one destination to add to your viewpoint bucket list.

Volunteer Park
Volunteer Park by Wil Taylor

8. Volunteer Park

For people who want to enjoy a more urban setting, Volunteer Park is the perfect place to visit. This park is located in Seattle’s Capitol Hill neighborhood and offers some of the best views of downtown Seattle.

Unlike other destinations on our list, Volunteer Park is home to a number of different attractions; check out the Seattle Asian Art Museum and the Volunteer Park Conservatory.

If you’re looking for a place to take in the beauty of Seattle while also enjoying some other activities, Volunteer Park should be at the top of your list.

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9. Discovery Park

While on the theme of parks, it would be remiss of us not to mention Discovery ParkThis is the largest park in Seattle and offers some of the most breathtaking views of Puget Sound, Elliott Bay, and the Olympic Mountains.

If you want to immerse yourself in nature for the day, Discovery Park is one destination you won’t want to miss! Even better, this park has something for people of all ages, from hiking trails to beaches.

10. Gas Works Park

Situated on an old gasification plant site, Gas Works Park offers a post-industrial landscape with spectacular views of downtown Seattle and Mount Rainier, not to mention its close proximity to Lake Union.

This park is located in the north part of Seattle and a great place to watch the Fourth of July fireworks. Besides this, the park is also home to a variety of birds and wildlife.