FAQs

What is Sky View Observatory?

Sky View Observatory is the tallest public observatory in the Pacific Northwest and the perfect place to begin your Seattle experience. Guests ascend 73 floors in 70 seconds in an immersive elevator ride that whisks them to the observatory, where stunning 360-degree views await. From Mt. Rainier to Mt. Baker, the Space Needle to T-Mobile Park, all of the region’s iconic structures and magnificent scenery are on display.

Make Sky View your first stop so you can plan your ideal adventure, whether it’s taking a whirl on the Great Wheel, catching a fish at Pike Place Market, trekking through the rainforest or journeying to the San Juan Islands. It all starts at Sky View.

How do I purchase tickets?

The best way to secure your dedicated date and time, tickets should be purchased on our ‘Tickets’ webpage. You can purchase tickets at the Sky View Observatory box office ticket kiosk, located at 700 4th Avenue, Seattle, WA 98104. The box office is located in the atrium at the 4th Avenue entrance.

How do I get to Sky View Observatory?

Sky View Observatory is located on the 73rd floor of the Columbia Center at 700 4th Avenue, Seattle WA 98104. For transportation and directions to Sky View Observatory, please click here.

What are the hours of operation?

Sky View Observatory is open daily.

Hours may vary and the observatory may be closed for private events. Please check our Hours & Directions page for the most up to date hours. Dates and times are subject to change without notice.

Where are the box office and entrance located?

The box office and entrance for the Sky View Observatory is located in the atrium at the 4th Avenue entrance of the Columbia Center, 700 4th Avenue, Seattle WA 98104.                                                          

How much time do I need to visit Sky View Observatory?

Time will vary by visitor. Your timed ticket is based on a 30 minute entry window (e.g. an 11am ticket garners admission between 11-11:30am). Upon arrival to the observatory itself, we recommend planning for 45-90 minutes to complete your visit.

Is my ticket good for a return visit to Sky View Observatory?

All admission type tickets are valid for one admission.

What if there’s zero visibility on the day I plan to visit?

The visibility from Sky View Observatory varies with Seattle’s weather conditions. On days when visibility may be poor, we’ll post signage saying so at the box office.On the rare occasion of zero visibility, and at the discretion of Sky View Observatory, a voucher may be issued for each unused ticket, allowing for re-entry on another date and time within 14 days.

What if I arrive later than my entry time?

Late arrivals will be accommodated based on capacity, so you might be asked to wait until the next open time slot. We strongly encourage you to arrive earlier than your scheduled time to avoid any delays.

Can I bring my kids to Sky View Observatory?

Yes, Sky View Observatory is great for kids and guests of all ages.  Children 4 and under are free but do require a ticket.

Are strollers allowed?

Yes, strollers are allowed. You may be asked to remove your child from your stroller and fold it up when entering the elevator if extra space is needed.

Can I take pictures?

Yes, we encourage all guests to take as many personal photos or videos with handheld devices as they’d like. Please share it with us!  We encourage you to share your pictures with the tag @skyviewobservatory or #skyviewobservatory.

Are tripods and other professional equipment allowed?

Personal use of tripods and selfie sticks are permitted at Sky View Observatory. We ask you to please remember to be respectful of fellow Guests and not block pathways or obstruct views. For professional photo and video shoots, you must contact our Marketing Department.

Can I bring food or drinks?

Outside food and beverages are not permitted in Sky View Observatory. Delectable food and specialty cocktails and mocktails are available at Sky View Cafe.

What forms of payment are accepted?

Credit Cards (American Express, Visa, Master Card, Discover, UnionPay) are accepted for individual purchases. School and tour groups are allowed to pay by check. Cash is no longer an accepted tender for payment.

What is the refund policy if I don’t use my tickets?

Tickets must be used on the date and time of what was chosen. We do not offer refunds or rainchecks. On the rare occasion of zero visibility, and at the discretion of Sky View Observatory, a voucher may be issued for each unused ticket, allowing re-entry on another date and time within 14 days.

Can I arrange a group reservation in advance?

Sky View Observatory accepts and encourages advance reservations for groups. Groups of 10 or more are eligible for special group rates.  For more information, please contact groups@skyviewobservatory.com

Are dining and concessions available at Sky View Observatory?

Food and beverages are available at Sky View Café.

Can I have my special event at Sky View Observatory?

Yes, Sky View Observatory is a premier host of special events. To inquire about special events, please email events@skyviewobservatory.com

Are there public restrooms at Sky View Observatory?

Restrooms are available inside Sky View Observatory. They are located in the central part of the observatory.

Is there a gift shop at Sky View Observatory? 

Yes, the gift shop is located on the 73rd Floor.

Can I visit Sky View using Seattle C3® by CityPASS®? 

Yes, Sky View Observatory is proud to be a Seattle C3® attraction! It’s easy to save up to 31% off admission to Seattle’s top 3 attractions. First, purchase Seattle C3® online for instant mobile ticket delivery. Next, present your C3® ticket to Guest Services, located on the first floor atrium of Columbia Center – no advanced reservations are required.

Are pets allowed?

Service Animals are welcome.  All other animals are not permitted in Sky View Observatory. This policy is in effect at all times, including when the facilities are not open to the public.

Can I bring my licensed firearm?

Firearms are not permitted at Sky View Observatory or Columbia Center.

Is smoking permitted at Sky View Observatory?

Smoking and vaping are not permitted anywhere within the observatory or Columbia Center.

I am uncomfortable in an elevator. Can I use the stairs to go up and down?

The stairs can only be used in case of an emergency. All guests must access the observatory by elevator.

Can children visit Sky View Observatory by themselves?

To gain independent admission, guests must be at least 16 years of age. Younger children must be escorted by an adult. School, scout and other youth groups can get more information about advance reservations through our Group Sales Department.  Contact groups@skyviewobservatory.com

Who should I contact if I lost something during my visit?

Items found inside the observatory will be safely secured. To inquire about your lost item, please email guestservices@skyviewobservatory.com. Upon giving a description of your lost item our staff will check to see if it’s in our possession.

We would like to visit Sky View Observatory on our way to the airport. Can we bring our luggage with us?

Luggage cannot be accommodated in the observatory. Bags, backpacks and packages should be no larger than 25” high, 17” wide and 9″ deep. We do not have lockers or storage facilities for your personal items. Sky View Observatory reserves the right to refuse entry at our discretion.

How do I request a donation for a charitable event?

Donation requests will be open for submission beginning in Fall 2023.

What are your terms and conditions?

Please click here for our terms and conditions.

What is your privacy policy?

Please click here for our privacy policy.

For additional questions, inquiries, comments, and suggestions:

Please email guestservices@skyviewobservatory.com.