Traveling to Washington without staying for a couple of days in Seattle is just not the right way to enjoy your vacation. Mountainous landscapes, forests, and parks throughout the city are already a major factor that has successfully attracted tourists from all around the world, not to mention the contemporary buildings and skyscrapers that will stun you. With a myriad of famous buildings across Seattle, it will be hard to choose which ones to visit, especially if you are short on time. But no worries as we have carefully selected the top 10 famous buildings that you must visit while in Seattle. You cannot leave the city without dropping by those buildings. Keep reading to find out. To make the most of your tour, check out the kid-friendly hotels and hotels with kitchens in Seattle for your accommodation needs.
1. Space Needle
Perching high above makes Space Needle stand out from the rest of the buildings in Seattle. 24 hours in Seattle will not be complete without visiting this spectacular landmark. Enjoy the sweeping views of Seattle from this observation tower that boasts its floor-to-forever glass windows for a whole new level of your vacation. Drop by The Loupe to feel how amazing it is when you see Seattle under your feet.
Space Needle
Address: 400 Broad St, Seattle, WA 98109, USA
Opening Hours: 10AM-8PM
Website: Space Needle
2. Suzzallo Library
One fun thing to do in Seattle on a weekend is to visit the Suzzallo Library. Nestled in the surrounding of the University of Washington, Suzzallo Library is the most impressive library in Seattle. It is absolutely amazing from the outside but what steals the show is the inside interior design, which is beyond comparison to anything. The library is the best place to get inspiration with over two million book collections from a range of disciplines. Read books in a library like this and you will never feel bored.
Suzzallo Library
Address: 4000 15th Ave NE, Seattle, WA 98195, USA
Opening Hours: 1PM-6PM (Mon), 7.30AM-10PM (Tue-Thu), 7.30AM-6PM (Fri), 1PM-5PM (Sat), 1PM-10PM (Sun)
Website: Suzzallo Library
3. Museum of Pop Culture
If you are a fan of contemporary popular culture, this museum is definitely your place. As a non-profit museum, Museum of Pop Culture has hosted dozens of exhibits since its establishment in 2000. Permanent exhibits of the museum include artifacts of the most popular pop culture on earth and character statues of legendary icons.
Museum of Pop Culture
Address: 325 5th Ave N, Seattle, WA 98109, USA
Opening Hours: 10AM-5PM
Website: Museum of Pop Culture
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4. Rainier Tower
Consisting of 41 floors, Rainier Tower is the second tallest building in Seattle and definitely, a must visit. Designed by the same designer who designed the World Trade Center in New York City, this tower makes an excellent spot to marvel at the views of Seattle skyline. Afterward, you can also enjoy a pleasant stroll in Rainier Square, the urban core of Seattle. There are plenty of other buildings and open spaces that are worth visiting or looking at.
Rainier Tower
Address: 1301 5th Ave, Seattle, WA 98101, USA
Opening Hours: 7AM-6PM (weekdays), closed on weekends
Website: Rainier Tower
5. King Street Station
King Street Station is more than just a train station. Its spectacular architecture has made this station one of the popular landmarks in the city, which is why even though you are not planning to travel by train, you will still need to drop by the station for the view. Nearby the station, there are some restaurants and coffee shops where you can relax and grab a bite or two before continuing your adventure.
King Street Station
Address: 303 S Jackson St, Seattle, WA 98104, USA
Website: King Street Statio
6. Starbucks Center
If you ever wanted to see how the headquarters of the world’s most famous coffee shop looks like, drop by Starbucks Center. At the headquarters, you can enjoy exploring their premium shop, order your favorite coffee and sit back inside the huge building that displays a combination of brique and modern styles.
Starbucks Center
Address: 305 Harrison St #220, Seattle, WA 98109, USA
Opening Hours: 7AM-7.30PM (Mon-Thu), 7AM-8.30PM (Fri-Sat), 7AM-7PM (Sun)
7. Seattle Public Library
If you are not a big fan of the library, you will change your mind after visiting the Seattle Public Library. Currently, there are 26 branches of this library across the city. But, for the most delightful experience, you should head to the central library. The unique design of the building makes this library look futuristic. When you come inside, you will see such a spacious space equipped with cozy couches and chairs trying to persuade you to read as many books as you can in one day.
Seattle Public Library
Address: 1000 Fourth Ave., Seattle, WA 98104, USA
Opening Hours: 10AM-8PM (Mon-Thu), 10AM-6PM (Fri-Sat), 12PM-6PM (Sun)
Website: Seattle Public Library
8. Pacific Science Center
Sometimes you need brain stimulation even when you are on a vacation, and the best place in Seattle for this is Pacific Science Center. Discover many interesting things related to science here. With abundant engaging experiments and exhibits, this science center is for visitors of all ages. Visiting this place will make a great addition to your list of things to do with kids in Seattle!
Pacific Science Center
Address: 200 2nd Ave N, Seattle, WA 98109, USA
Opening Hours: 10AM-5PM (Mon-Fri), 10AM-6PM (Sat-Sun)
Website: Pacific Science Center
9. Smith Tower
If the other two skyscrapers we mentioned earlier are not enough, you can go to another famous skyscraper named Smith Tower. The magnificent views of Seattle can be enjoyed from the Observatory that is located on the top of the tower. Before you go down, make sure to drop by Wishing Chair, make some wishes in hope that they will come true.
Smith Tower
Address: 506 2nd Ave, Seattle, WA 98104, USA
Opening Hours: 10AM-11PM (Sun-Wed), 10AM-12AM (Thu-Sat)
Website: Smith Tower
10. Orient Express Restaurant and Lounge
Yes, the last building on the list is a restaurant. And this restaurant is famous because it offers a unique dining experience. You can enjoy both Chinese and Thai food inside what used to be railroad cars. But these railroad cars have been refurbished and now provide a cozy atmosphere.
Orient Express Restaurant and Lounge
Address: 2963 4th Ave S, Seattle, WA 98134, USA
Opening Hours: 10.30AM-11PM (Mon-Fri), 11AM-1PM (Sat), 12PM-11PM (Sun)
Website: Orient Express Restaurant and Lounge
Seattle awaits your embrace
After reading through all the iconic buildings mentioned above, the only thing that makes sense is to visit Seattle on your next vacation. This place has a full range of things to see and to discover, from incredible waterfall hikes to the best Airbnb experiences. Book your flight, drive a car or arrive by train, it really is up to you. One thing for sure, the largest city in Washington awaits your embrace!