S One of the most photographed and recognized structures in the world, the Space Needle was built as a cultural centerpiece for the 1962 World’s Fair, whose theme was “The Age of Space.”
At 605 feet tall, the landmark was constructed to symbolize humanity’s Space Age aspirations, and since its grand opening on April 21, 1962, continues to represent the innovative and forward-thinking spirit of Seattle.
The tower’s 520’ saucer-shaped “top house” offers visitors Seattle’s only 360-degree indoor and outdoor panoramic views of downtown, Mount Rainier, Puget Sound, and the Cascades and Olympic mountain ranges.
The Loupe is the world’s first and only revolving glass floor. Located 500 feet above the ground, the glass floor offers visitors thrilling views of the city below and never-before-seen views of the structure. The 500-foot level’s new, glass floor allows visitors to see the tower’s elevators glide up and down the structure as well as watch the mechanical apparatus that drives the floor’s rotation.
Located 520 feet above ground, the Space Needle’s outdoor observation level’s original pony walls and security caging have been completely removed and replaced with tilted open-air glass walls and 24 glass benches called Skyrisers. Affixed to every other slanted glass wall, the seven foot-long Skyrisers allow visitors to lean back and experience the intense feeling of floating over the Seattle skyline.
Two half-moon shaped steel, wood, and glass staircases connect guests to the Atmos’ three levels (500- and 520-foot observation levels and the 510-foot services level, called the Ring Level). From the top of the stairs, located on the 520-foot indoor observation level, guests will enjoy a sneak peak of the Oculus. The Oculus is a 19 feet by 11 feet piece of floored glass at the base of the stairs that brings in natural light and offers a sneak peek of the downward views of the city below. This unique glass feature reveals the landmarks elevators and counterweights as they ascend and descend from the top of the tower.
