Standing in the bustling heart of Seattle, the Columbia Center is a massive modern-day monolith that seemed to touch the sky. We heard great things about the Sky View Observatory and were excited to go to the top of the world. It’s the perfect activity during the day and is family-friendly. First off, let’s talk about the height. We’re not just talking about any tall building; we’re talking about climbing to the 73rd floor, which is a whopping 902 feet above sea level. Imagine stacking 73 of your average Joes on top of each other. As the elevator shot us up, our stomachs did a little dance, probably wondering if we were heading to space.
If you’re debating between the Space Needle and Sky View, go for Sky View for a less crowded, more serene experience. The height gives you an unparalleled perspective of Seattle’s skyline, and the indoor setting makes it comfortable for all weather conditions. Emerging from the elevator, we were greeted with a view that could only be described as “holy cow, look at all that!” From this lofty perch, we could see the entire city of Seattle laid out like a giant’s playmat. To the south, there’s Mount Rainier, looking like a giant ice cream cone someone forgot to eat. To the west, the Puget Sound glistens like a million tiny mirrors reflecting the sun peaking through the clouds. And if we were lucky, we might’ve spotted a ferry doing its slow dance across the water.
Now, let’s chat about the Sky View Observatory itself. It’s not just a place to gawk at the view; it’s an experience. There’s this 360-degree panoramic view that makes you feel like you’re in a giant fishbowl, but in a good way. The glass is so clean you might think you’re floating in mid-air, which, let’s be honest, is both thrilling and slightly terrifying. But here’s the kicker – they’ve got a full-service bar up there. Yes, you read that right. While we were busy picking our jaws up off the floor from the view, we also sipped on cocktails that were as smooth as the skyline. Imagine enjoying a craft beer or a signature cocktail named after the city’s landmarks while watching the world go by. It’s like having a drink with the city itself. The mixologist was professional, funny, and attentive. We purchased a package that allowed us to take our own “Sky View” branded wine glasses to bring home!
If you’re ever in Seattle and you’re looking for something that’s part thrill, part chill, head to the Sky View Observatory at Columbia Center. It’s not just about seeing the city; it’s about feeling it, experiencing it from a perspective that’s both literally and figuratively high. So, next time you’re in the Emerald City, don’t just look up at the skyscrapers; go up one. Trust us, your Instagram will thank you, and you might just end up with a story or two to tell.
