Are you planning a Seattle family vacation but unsure if the Seattle Space Needle is kid-friendly? As a local Seattle mom, Iāll share my experience visiting the Space Needle with kids!
This guide to visiting the Space Needle with kids was written by Seattle family travel expert Marcie Cheung. It contains affiliate links, which means that if you purchase something from one of my affiliate links, I may earn a small commission that goes back into maintaining this blog.
I’ve lived in Seattle my whole life, but the Space Needle never gets old. Whenever we drive past it, I feel proud of my city. So, when my 6-year-old asked if we could go up to the top of the Space Needle, I was thrilled.
We hadn’t visited there since the renovation with the revolving glass floor. So we decided to play hooky from school on a sunny Friday to check it out!
Brief History of the Space Needle and the 1962 World’s Fair
The Space Needle was built for the 1962 World’s Fair in Seattle, Washington, by the Space Needle Corporation. The fair was an opportunity to showcase the city’s growth and development, and the Space Needle was intended to be the event’s centerpiece.
My mom grew up in Seattle with her family, and they remember all the hoopla surrounding the Space Needle and the 1962 World’s Fair, which they attended.
It was designed by architects Edward E. Carlson and John Graham Jr. and was inspired by the Futurist movement and the design of a flying saucer.
The tower was an instant hit, attracting thousands of visitors and becoming one of Seattle’s most recognizable landmarks.
The Space Needle was originally built as a temporary structure, but its popularity led to its permanent installation and continued use as an observation tower and tourist attraction.
How to Get to the Space Needle
The Space Needle is located at Seattle Center, and there are a few ways to get there.
Driving/Parking
Since we are Seattle locals, we usually drive and find parking near Seattle Center (which can be tricky and expensive).
Street parking is the cheapest, and sometimes, you can find spots on the backside of Seattle Center near the Seattle Children’s Theatre.
The easiest parking is at the Seattle Center 5th Ave N Garage. However, the cost of parking there varies greatly depending on what is going on at Seattle Center.
Seattle Center Monorail
If you have some flexibility in your schedule or you’re planning on visiting downtown Seattle, I highly recommend taking the Seattle Monorail.
It’s a quick ride (less than 3 minutes), and it only goes between Seattle Center and Westlake Center (near Pike Place Market). Check out my Seattle Monorail tips for families!
Bus
You can always take the bus to Seattle Center. It has frequent stops and goes all over the city.
Rideshares
If you want to take an Uber or Lyft, there’s a convenient circular driveway right in front of the Space Needle where you can get dropped off.
How to Get Space Needle Tickets
When you arrive at the Space Needle, there are ticket kiosks where you can purchase timed tickets. You can also combine a timed ticket with the Chihuly Garden and Glass Museum.
We purchased our tickets at the kiosk for the next timed ticket slot only 5 minutes later.
You can also purchase your tickets beforehand to avoid the hassle of buying them on-site.
What to Expect at the Space Needle with Kids
When You Arrive
Once you have your tickets, you’ll head into the line to enter the Space Needle. There is stroller parking off to the side.
You’ll go through security and slowly walk up a long ramp with tons of cool exhibits about the 1962 World’s Fair and how the Space Needle was built.
We only stood in line for about 15 minutes on our most recent trip. However, we’ve spent nearly an hour in line on previous trips.
Photo Op
Everyone gets a free digital photo as part of their Space Needle timed ticket. It’s with a green screen and you can choose your background later.
They will scan the QR code on your ticket, and you can choose your background later. There are a ton of cute backdrops to choose from.
Elevator Ride
After the photo spot, you’ll enter another line to enter the elevator. There are actually two lines, so jump in the shortest one.
The elevator ride itself is a wonderful experience! It’s pretty quick, and there’s just enough time for your guide to give a quick “elevator pitch” about what makes the Space Needle so awesome.
Observation Deck
You’ll get off the elevator at the Observation Deck level. There’s an indoor area with food and drink options and some seating.
But you’ll want to go outside to walk around and take in the gorgeous panoramic views of the Cascade Mountains, Mount Rainier, Elliott Bay, and downtown Seattle.
There are a bunch of glass benches where you can sit for photos.
My 6-year-old was a bit nervous to actually sit down on the benches because they are angled, and he thought he might slide backward.
Photo Selife Spots
There are also a few selfie spots set up with kiosks where you can scan your QR code, and a camera will take a photo of you. We’ve done similar things in NYC.
We tried this twice, but I don’t think the photos actually took because they weren’t in my account when I logged in. Other visitors were saying that they didn’t know whether or not their photos worked, either.
Book a Family Photo Shoot
Whenever we travel, we almost always book a family photo shoot with Flytographer. They are super easy and affordable AND guarantee that I’ll be in some photos. You can get $25 off if you book through this link.
Revolving Glass Floor
After thoroughly enjoying the Observation Deck, you’ll head down a winding staircase to the Revolving Glass Floor level. The staircase might be tricky for toddlers and preschoolers, so make sure to hold their hands.
When you get there, a sign explains that the floor is moving, and you’ll carefully step onto the revolving glass floor.
It moves very slowly (so slowly that some tourists next to us weren’t sure IF we were moving). I personally think this is one of the best indoor activities in Seattle for families!
Most people sit or lie down to take photos on the glass floor. My son was nervous about standing on the glass floor, and it took some coaxing to realize it was safe. I only mention it because other kids might have the same worry.
Space Needle Food Options
Loupe Lounge
For those who remember the old revolving Sky City restaurant at the Space Needle, this is like a mini version. It only serves cocktails/wine and small bites, but you’ll still enjoy the rotating view of Seattle.
This is on the Revolving Glass Floor level, and it’s only for people 21 and older. So, it makes a great date night spot if someone can watch your kids. But it’s not somewhere to eat with kids.
Atmos CafƩ
When visiting the Space Needle with kids, you’ll probably end up stopping at the Atmos Cafe. It’s on the Observation Level, and it has Pinkabella Cupcakes and Whidbey Island Ice Cream for kids and an espresso bar, beer, and wine for the grown-ups.
We grabbed an apple juice here, and I think it was $6, so be prepared.
Atmos Wine Bar
Another option on the Observation Level is the Atmos Wine Bar. It has beer, wine, soft drinks, coffee, and grab-and-go snacks.
Seattle Center Gift Shop
Of course, like any tourist attraction, the exit was through the gift shop. I find that a bit irritating when I’m traveling, as my family tends to linger in the gift shop.
However, this gift shop is one of my favorites. Not only is it enormous (it takes up the whole base of the Space Needle.) But it offers locally-made items with a Pacific Northwest flair.
I was really impressed with the children’s section. There were tons of children’s books, toys, and clothing that didn’t scream āsouvenirs.ā I will probably swing by next time I’m at Seattle Center just to shop for gifts.
6 Tips for Seattle Space Needle with Kids
Park Your Stroller
There is handy stroller parking to the left of the Will Call booth. Take your valuables with you, just in case.
Be Prepared for a Long Wait
In the past, we’ve spent about 45 minutes in line to get our photo taken before waiting another 5-10 minutes to get on the elevator.
Tour groups may also cut in front of you, slowing the line. Videos on the iPhone may be your saving grace.
Scoot Kids to the Front of the Elevator
Normally, I’m not a fan of giving kids special treatment. But this glass elevator has a pretty cool view.
It’s a short elevator ride, and little kids can really only see if they go right up against the glass.
Skip the Photo Kiosks
We made the mistake of waiting in line to choose our photo backdrop and get it emailed to ourselves. The kiosks were painfully slow and frustrating.
My photos never actually got emailed to me. Thankfully, I was able to log in with my photo ticket number to get them. It’s MUCH faster to do it on your phone or computer vs. the kiosk.
Bring Your Lunch
There are lots of bar tables and chairs that overlook the observation deck. This is a great opportunity to relax and enjoy lunch with a view! You can also get limited food there.
Visit the Gift Shop
Like most tourist attractions, the elevator lets you off inside the gift shop. Normally, I find that annoying.
However, the gift shop here has a wide selection of high-quality Seattle items for kids. They also sell souvenir penny and wax Space Needle machines.
Seattle Center Space Needle FAQs
The Seattle Space Needle is a landmark tower located in Seattle, Washington. It was built in 1962 for the World’s Fair and is now a popular tourist attraction that offers stunning views of the city, Puget Sound, and the surrounding mountains.
The Seattle Space Needle is 605 feet tall, including its observation deck and antenna.
The Seattle Space Needle is located in the heart of Seattle and is easily accessible by car, bus, and light rail. There is also a paid parking lot available for visitors.
The cost of admission to the Seattle Space Needle varies depending on the time of year and the type of ticket you purchase. Prices range from $22 to $36 for adults and $16 to $30 for children.
The best time to visit the Seattle Space Needle depends on your personal preferences and the weather. However, it is generally recommended to visit early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid crowds and to take advantage of the best lighting conditions for photography.
Yes, the Space Needle is wheelchair accessible. The tower has elevators equipped with accessibility features, including braille buttons and audio announcements. Ramps and wheelchair-accessible restrooms are also available. Visitors with mobility impairments are welcome to visit the Space Needle and enjoy the stunning views from the observation deck.
Kids under five years old are free. Kids 5 years old and older do need a ticket.
Visitors can enjoy breathtaking 360-degree views of the city, Puget Sound, and the surrounding mountains from the Seattle Space Needle. On a clear day, you can see for miles in every direction.
Yes, and it’s a great way to save money! First, purchase CityPASS online for immediate, paperless delivery to your mobile device. Next, use the Space Needle Ticket Exchange module to make your timed entry reservation. Finally, bring your CityPASS and timed-entry ticket to Space Needle for admission.
Visiting the Space Needle with Kids Wrap-Up
Visiting the Space Needle with kids is an exciting and unforgettable experience that offers stunning views of downtown Seattle and the Seattle skyline.
The outdoor deck is the perfect place for families to take in the beauty of the Pacific Northwest, and the glass floor provides a unique and thrilling perspective for kids.
Whether you are a local or a tourist, the Space Needle is a must-see attraction that offers a memorable and educational experience for families of all ages.
So make sure to add it to your list of things to do in Seattle and enjoy the breathtaking views from the top of this iconic tower.
I like how Space Needle are very kids-friendly and offers learning opportunities and exhibitions for kids. I did not visit gift shop there and so much like you, I dislike to be in a gift shop while travel. I can imagine how happy the kids are when they enter the gift shop and found out there is a children’s section.
The children’s section of the gift shop was amazing!
I have never been to Seattle, but we did the CN Tower in Toronto, which is similar to this. It was a great view of the city from up there š
Oh! What a fun trip! I have always wanted to go there!
This is a great time to visit!
How fun! The kids look like they had a blast!
xoxo Christie
http://icanstyleu.com/blog/
They had a really fun time!
I had dinner at the revolving restaurant and it was amazing! I wish I could’ve also seen the view by day! Glad you enjoyed it!
How awesome! I still haven’t eaten at the revolving restaurant! It’s on my bucket list!
I’ve always wanted to visit Seattle and I have two kiddos so this looks like it would be a perfect place to add to our itinerary once we actually plan a trip. Great tips at the end, nothing like being a tourist + not knowing the ins and outs.
If you do visit, I can help you with your itinerary!
This is so cool. I’ve always wanted to go myself after seeing it in so many tv shows. I don’t have kids myself but this seems like fun as well. Thanks for sharing and giving this information.
It’s perfect for adults! They have a great revolving restaurant with an unbelievable view!
This looks like such a blast!! I kind of want to plan this as a date without kids it sounds so fun! haha!
I grew up in Seattle and never tire of the Space Needle either!! It’s such a great gem. Good thing they offered you free tickets though because it’s a bit overpriced for locals, I must say. But for people visiting or first time visitors of the needle it’s definitely worth the price, I’d say. How fun to go with a friend and your kids! Thanks for sharing
Yes, I tend to get sticker shock nowadays. But, I think it’s a must-do for visitors (and locals) at least once.
It sounds like the experience of visiting the Space Needle with children could have been better if there were enough facilities for kids as well. I guess they might not have stools as a security measure? I like the idea that you can have lunch at the observation deck and the souvenir store looks really nice. I love this kind of stores, even if I usually don’t buy anything more than a fridge magnet.
I never thought that having stools might be a security issue. That’s an interesting idea! I was just surprised that it wasn’t very accommodating in certain areas.
I have never been to Seattle, but this landmark is on my bucket list to visit! i have no fear of heights, so I can’t wait to see the observation deck!
It really doesn’t even feel that high when you get up there. Please come visit!
I have never been to Seattle!! I do hope that I can head over there with the kids one day and discover this great city together.
Seattle is one of the places on my bucket list! It’s all the way on the other side of the country for us (we are in Florida), but there are so many beautiful places to see, and great things to do!
I haven’t been to Seattle in probably 18 years. I didn’t know there was so many kid friendly activities to do there.
Despite the limitations of the place for kids, it appears that your children still had a fab time from their smiles! I’ve never been to Seattle, but the space needle would be a place I’d love to see when I do visit!
How fun! We visited in November but didn’t go up! We just hung out at the bottom and played at the park for like 2 hours and ended up falling asleep on the swings! LOL
I wish we went to the top though, this seems fun!
Hahaha! There’s always next time! That park is pretty awesome!
That looks so fun, the views would be amazing! As long as there are no clouds!
Yes on a clear day, the view can’t be beat!
I may come to Seattle with my husband for work one day so thank you for preparing me for a visit to the Space Needle. Sounds like I need to make sure to bring snacks!
It is fun to stay in your hometown and play tourist every once in a while. It looks like you had a good time despite the weather and the lack of child focused activities. You are braver than I am to withstand those waits in line with small children.
This looks like an awesome day out! And doing it with kids must be tougher, but we love the challenge that brings! We travel with a little one too. Thanks for sharing this place. Added it to my USA bucketlist
I’ve never been to the Seattle Space Needle before so it’s nice that you shared your experience with us. I’m sure it’s a fun experience for the kids, I just wish it was more kid-friendly though. I would still love to experience it in person.
And this says time to visit seattle, Lets see when that will happen.
I hope you are able to visit!
I haven’t been to Seattle, but this sounds almost exactly like my experience going up the CN Tower in Toronto, Canada! This would be such a great play date idea though, even though you and your friend had to lift your toddlers to see out the windows. You and your friend were entertained by incredible views, and your kids looked like they were having a blast just running around the Space Needle! Hopefully you’ll be able to visit again on a less rainy day- sunny days always make the best views!
How fun! Would love to visit the Space Needle! My kids would love it, we do the CN tower here in Toronto and they just love it.
My boys would definitely like Seattle Needle. I will also ride through Monorail. I hope view from top must be stunning.
Looks like so much fun even on a rainy day. I’m surprised there aren’t more kid-oriented activities, but I guess the view and the telescopes are enough to keep them entertained.
This looks like such a great and fun adventure to have! Your boys look like that truly had a blast – and so do you š
I like that your kid and his friend were eager to explore the Space Needle. The staff should provide step stools/ladders for the little ones so they can get a better view of the deck.
Your kid’s red rain boots look adorable. It’s Lightning Mcqueen, right?
This looks like a really neat experience! I’ve never been, but I would love to take my children!
I love Seattle. We took our daughter there when she was 15 months old and while she didn’t get it, it was a fun family experience for us.
I used to live a few hours from there. I’ve been so many times on my own, but I’ve never taken my kids. I think they would have a lot of fun I just have so many little ones ha!
Ohhh what fun! I’ve been wanting to plan a family trip to Seattle and we’ll have to stop at the Space Needle!
I hear so many great things about this! I can’t wait to take my kids there someday! It’s definitely on our bucket list š
Omg how fun!!! I have driven by the space needle before in a road trip, but never got to go inside!!! Must have been one fun experience