10 Spots for the Best Views in Seattle
Seattle views don’t have to mean fighting through tourist crowds just to catch a glimpse of the skyline. Some of the most jaw-dropping panoramas in this city are hiding in plain sight.
These 10 spots for the best views in Seattle are the ones worth going out of your way for.
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!
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 47% 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 an awe-inspiring mountain experience, visit Mount Rainier National Park for scenic viewpoints, alpine landscapes, and sweeping views of the surrounding region.
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.
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 Seattle’s original skyscraper 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 most rewarding lookout spots, with some of the best views in the city. The park is located on top of a hill in the Beacon Hill 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.
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.
9. Discovery Park
While on the theme of parks, it would be remiss of us not to mention Discovery Park. This 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.
