Columbia Center: Seattle's Skyscraper Viewpoint
Experience Seattle from above at the Columbia Center's Sky View Observatory, the tallest public viewpoint in the Pacific Northwest.
The Columbia Center, located in the heart of downtown Seattle, is a towering landmark and the tallest building in Washington State [6, 18]. Completed in 1985, the 76-story skyscraper reaches a height of 933 feet (284 meters) and offers unparalleled views of the city and surrounding landscape [4, 9, 6]. Originally named the Columbia Seafirst Center and later the Bank of America Tower, the building was designed by Chester Lindsey Architects and developed by Martin Selig [5, 4, 6]. Its sleek, modern design features a distinctive black glass exterior and a unique three-part cylindrical structure [4]. The building's construction required innovative engineering techniques to withstand earthquakes and hurricane-force winds [23]. The Sky View Observatory, located on the 73rd floor, is the highest public viewing area in the Pacific Northwest [23, 18]. Visitors can enjoy 360-degree panoramic views of Seattle, including iconic landmarks like the Space Needle, as well as Mount Rainier, the Olympic Mountains, and Puget Sound [4, 23]. The observatory also features the Sky View Café and Bar, where visitors can relax and enjoy refreshments while taking in the scenery [18, 24]. An underground concourse connects the Columbia Center to nearby buildings, including the Seattle Municipal Tower [9]. The building's lower floors feature retail spaces and restaurants, while the upper floors are primarily leased as office space [3, 9].
Local tips
- Visit on a clear day for the best views of Mount Rainier and the surrounding mountains [4].
- Purchase tickets online in advance to save time and avoid potential lines [4].
- Take advantage of the Sky View Café and Bar for a relaxing break with stunning views [18].
- Explore the interactive touch-screens at the observatory to learn more about Seattle's landmarks [15].
A brief summary to Columbia Center
- 701 5th Ave, Seattle, Central Business District, Washington, 98104, US
- +1206-386-5151
- Visit website
Getting There
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Public Transport
Several bus routes and the Link Light Rail provide access to the Columbia Center. From the Pioneer Square Station, walk approximately 5 minutes [2, 8]. Numerous bus lines stop near the building, including the 113, 17, 545, and 550 [8]. A single bus or light rail fare costs $3 [11, 16].
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Walking
The Columbia Center is located in downtown Seattle and is easily accessible by foot from many nearby attractions. From Pike Place Market, walk south on 1st Avenue, then east on Columbia Street for approximately 15 minutes [17]. From the Seattle Public Library, walk south on 4th Avenue to Columbia Street [17]. The entrance to the Sky View Observatory is located on 4th Avenue [24].
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Taxi/Ride-share
Taxis and ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are readily available in Seattle. A taxi ride from Seattle-Tacoma International Airport (SEA) to the Columbia Center takes approximately 20 minutes and costs $40-$50 [11]. A ride from Columbia City to the Columbia Center will cost around $17-$21 [16].
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Driving
If driving, parking is available at the Columbia Center Garage [4, 12]. The entrance to the garage is on Columbia Street, mid-block between 5th and 6th Avenue [12, 20]. All-day parking at the Columbia Center Garage costs $36 [12]. Nearby parking options include 800 Fifth Avenue Garage, with hourly rates ranging from $7 to $34, and evening/weekend specials [20]. Other parking lots are available in the area, with varying rates [10, 13].
