Columbia Center: Seattle's Skyward Icon
Experience breathtaking views of Seattle from the Columbia Center, the city's tallest building, a must-visit for tourists exploring the Pacific Northwest.
Discover the Columbia Center, Seattle's tallest building, offering breathtaking views of the city and beyond. Perfect for tourists seeking a unique perspective of the Pacific Northwest, this iconic structure stands tall in the heart of Seattle's Central Business District. Enjoy panoramic vistas, learn about the area's history, and capture unforgettable moments at this must-visit attraction.
A brief summary to Columbia Center
- 701 5th Ave, Seattle, Central Business District, Washington, 98104, US
- +1206-386-5151
- Visit website
Local tips
- Visit during sunset for stunning views as the city lights up.
- Check for special events or exhibitions on the observation deck.
- Consider visiting during the week to avoid larger weekend crowds.
- Bring a camera to capture the breathtaking panoramas.
- Visit nearby attractions like Pioneer Square and the Seattle Art Museum for a full day of exploration.
Getting There
-
Light Rail
If you're starting at Seattle-Tacoma International Airport, take the Link Light Rail from the airport station towards Northgate. Ride for about 30 minutes and get off at the Pioneer Square Station. From there, walk north on 1st Avenue for about 5 minutes until you reach Columbia Center at 701 5th Ave.
-
Bus
From the Seattle Center (Space Needle area), take Metro Bus Route 2 or 3 heading towards the Central District. Get off at the 5th Avenue & Columbia Street stop. From there, walk two blocks south on 5th Avenue directly to Columbia Center located at 701 5th Ave.
-
Walking
If you're in the Pike Place Market area, head east on Pike Street until you reach 1st Avenue. Turn left on 1st Avenue and walk north for about 10 minutes until you reach Columbia Center at 701 5th Ave. This route offers a nice view of the waterfront.
-
Taxi or Rideshare
You can easily request a taxi or rideshare service (like Uber or Lyft) from anywhere in Seattle. Just enter 'Columbia Center' or '701 5th Ave, Seattle, WA 98104' as your destination, and the driver will take you directly to the entrance.
-
Streetcar
From Capitol Hill, take the South Lake Union Streetcar towards Westlake Station. Transfer to the Monorail at Westlake and ride it to the Seattle Center. From there, take a short walk to the bus stop or catch a taxi to Columbia Center at 701 5th Ave.
Discover more about Columbia Center
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Central Building
0.2 km
Explore the architectural gem of Central Building in Seattle's Central Business District, a symbol of the city's rich historical tapestry and urban evolution.
Bill Speidel’s Underground Tour
0.4 km
Uncover Seattle’s hidden history with Bill Speidel’s Underground Tour, a unique journey through the city’s fascinating subterranean paths.
Pioneer Square Totem Pole
0.4 km
Explore the Pioneer Square Totem Pole, a historical landmark in Seattle that showcases the rich indigenous culture and artistry of the Pacific Northwest.
Pioneer Square
0.4 km
Explore Seattle's Pioneer Square: A historic park blending stunning architecture, local art, and vibrant culture in the heart of the city.
Pioneer Square Pergola
0.4 km
Discover the architectural beauty and historical significance of Pioneer Square Pergola in the heart of Seattle, a must-visit landmark for all tourists.
Globe Building
0.5 km
Experience the architectural beauty and historical significance of Seattle's Globe Building, a must-visit landmark in the heart of the city.
Seattle South Portal
0.5 km
Explore the historical essence of Seattle at the South Portal, a landmark that connects the past with the vibrant present of Pioneer Square.
Seattle Tower
0.5 km
Explore Seattle Tower, a historical landmark in the heart of Seattle with captivating views and rich urban culture.
City Map Hatchcover
0.5 km
Explore Seattle's City Map Hatchcover in Pioneer Square - a unique artistic tribute to the city's rich history and geography, perfect for photography and exploration.
National Building
0.5 km
Explore the National Building, a stunning historical landmark in the heart of Seattle's Central Business District, rich in architectural beauty and history.
Frye Art Museum
0.5 km
Discover the Frye Art Museum in Seattle - a free gem showcasing European art and vibrant community programs in a stunning architectural setting.
Memorial To Fallen Firefighters
0.6 km
Explore the Memorial To Fallen Firefighters in Seattle, a touching tribute to the heroes who sacrificed their lives for the safety of the community, set in Pioneer Square.
Seattle Art Museum
0.6 km
Explore a cultural treasure in Seattle, the Seattle Art Museum, where global art and local creativity converge in a stunning architectural setting.
Ballast Island Historic Site
0.6 km
Explore Ballast Island Historic Site in Seattle, a hidden gem that showcases the city's maritime history amidst breathtaking waterfront views.
Klondike Gold Rush National Historical Park
0.6 km
Explore the rich history of the Klondike Gold Rush at this captivating National Historical Park in Seattle, home to engaging exhibits and remarkable stories.
Unmissable attractions to see
Sky View Observatory - Columbia Center
0.1 km
Experience stunning panoramic views of Seattle from the Sky View Observatory, the city's highest public viewing platform located in the Columbia Center.
Seattle Public Library - Central Library
0.2 km
Discover the Seattle Public Library's Central Library, an architectural wonder and cultural hub in the heart of the city.
Beneath the Streets
0.4 km
Explore Seattle's underground history at Beneath the Streets, where captivating tales and remnants of the past await your discovery.
Smith Tower
0.4 km
Explore Seattle's iconic Smith Tower, a historical landmark offering stunning views, a vibrant bar, and a rich cultural experience in the heart of the city.
Chief Seattle Fountain
0.4 km
Explore the Chief Seattle Fountain in Pioneer Square, a beautiful tribute to the city's legacy surrounded by vibrant art and history.
Freeway Park
0.5 km
Experience tranquility in the heart of Seattle at Freeway Park, a unique urban oasis built over Interstate 5 featuring lush greenery and inviting pathways.
117 S Washington St
0.5 km
Discover the enchanting Pioneer Square Park in Seattle, a tranquil escape filled with lush greenery, art, and local culture in the heart of the city.
Occidental Square
0.5 km
Explore Occidental Square, a vibrant park in Pioneer Square, Seattle, featuring lush greenery, historic architecture, and engaging community events.
The 5th Avenue Theatre
0.5 km
Discover the enchanting world of theater at Seattle's 5th Avenue Theatre, where captivating performances and historic charm come together.
Waterfall Garden
0.5 km
Discover tranquility at Waterfall Garden Park in Seattle's Pioneer Square, where cascading waters and lush greenery create a peaceful escape.
Central Saloon
0.6 km
Discover the lively atmosphere, delicious food, and vibrant live music at Central Saloon in Seattle's historic Pioneer Square.
Essential places to dine
Tulio
0.3 km
Experience authentic Italian flavors at Tulio in Seattle's Central Business District; perfect for breakfast, brunch or dinner in a warm setting.
The George
0.4 km
Experience the finest Pacific Northwestern cuisine at The George, where fresh ingredients meet innovative culinary artistry in Seattle's vibrant heart.
84 Yesler
0.5 km
Experience modern American cuisine in a vibrant setting at 84 Yesler, located in Seattle's historic Pioneer Square.
Purple Cafe and Wine Bar
0.5 km
Experience the best of American cuisine at Purple Cafe and Wine Bar in Seattle – where fine dining meets an extensive wine selection.
Damn the Weather
0.5 km
Discover Damn the Weather: A culinary haven in Seattle's Pioneer Square serving innovative New American cuisine and exquisite cocktails.
The Capital Grille
0.5 km
Experience exquisite fine dining at The Capital Grille in Seattle, offering prime steaks, fresh seafood, and an extensive wine selection.
Cortina
0.6 km
Discover authentic Italian cuisine at Cortina in Seattle's Central Business District - where flavor meets charm.
Mason's Famous Lobster Rolls
0.7 km
Experience authentic New England seafood at Mason's Famous Lobster Rolls in Seattle - home of mouthwatering lobster rolls and more!
Elephant & Castle
0.7 km
Experience Seattle's vibrant dining scene at Elephant & Castle – where local flavors meet international flair in a cozy atmosphere.
Premier Meat Pies
0.7 km
Experience the authentic flavors of Australia and Britain at Premier Meat Pies in Seattle – where every bite tells a story.
Il Terrazzo Carmine
0.7 km
Experience authentic Italian cuisine at Il Terrazzo Carmine in Pioneer Square, where every dish tells a story of Italy's rich culinary heritage.
13 Coins Seattle
0.8 km
Experience the vibrant flavors of America and Italy at 13 Coins Seattle, where great food meets lively atmosphere.
Elliott's Oyster House
0.8 km
Experience the finest oysters and Pacific Northwest seafood at Elliott's Oyster House in Seattle - where flavor meets waterfront views.
Pasta Casalinga
0.8 km
Experience the essence of Italy at Pasta Casalinga in Seattle's Waterfront - where every dish tells a story.
Ben Paris
0.8 km
Experience exquisite dining at Ben Paris, where local flavors meet modern cuisine in Seattle's bustling Pike Pine Retail Core.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Diva Dollz
0.4 km
Explore Diva Dollz in Seattle for unique women's clothing, vintage treasures, and stylish accessories in the heart of Pioneer Square.
Bon Voyage Vintage
0.5 km
Explore Bon Voyage Vintage in Pioneer Square, Seattle - a charming gift shop and vintage clothing store filled with unique treasures and timeless fashion.
Simply Seattle
0.6 km
Discover the heart of Seattle shopping at Simply Seattle, your go-to gift shop for local crafts, clothing, and unique souvenirs.
Kobo Shop & Gallery (at Higo)
0.7 km
Explore Kobo Shop & Gallery - a unique blend of art gallery and gift shop in Seattle's Chinatown, showcasing local artists and handcrafted treasures.
Ye Olde Curiosity Shop
0.7 km
Explore the unique treasures of Ye Olde Curiosity Shop, a Seattle gem filled with eclectic gifts, Native American artifacts, and fascinating memorabilia.
The Seattle Shop at 56
0.7 km
Discover the essence of Seattle at The Seattle Shop, where local crafts and unique souvenirs await every visitor.
Eighth Generation
0.7 km
Explore Eighth Generation in Seattle for unique Native American gifts, art, and home goods that celebrate cultural heritage.
Seattle Shirt Company
0.8 km
Explore the Seattle Shirt Company for unique T-shirts and souvenirs that capture the vibrant spirit of Seattle's culture and landmarks.
Seattle Antiques Market
0.8 km
Explore the Seattle Antiques Market for a unique collection of vintage treasures, antique furniture, and collectibles in the heart of the city.
Bite Society at Pike Place Market
0.8 km
Explore the vibrant gift shop at Pike Place Market, offering unique Seattle souvenirs and local artisan treasures.
Ugly Baby
0.9 km
Explore Ugly Baby, a unique Seattle gift shop where art meets craft, offering one-of-a-kind souvenirs and local artisan treasures.
F & J Great Western Trading Co
0.9 km
Explore F & J Great Western Trading Co in Pike Place Market for unique gifts and local treasures reflecting the charm of Seattle.
Hands of the World, in Pike Place Market
0.9 km
Explore the cultural diversity of the world at Hands of the World in Pike Place Market, Seattle's premier gift shop for unique imported treasures.
Ventures Marketplace
0.9 km
Explore Ventures Marketplace: a unique gift shop in Seattle's Pike Place Market, showcasing local artisanal crafts and unforgettable souvenirs.
Pike Place Gifts
0.9 km
Explore unique gifts and local artisan treasures at Pike Place Gifts, a charming shop in Seattle's iconic Pike Place Market.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Bad Bishop
0.4 km
Discover Bad Bishop in Seattle, a vibrant bar offering a unique drink menu, live entertainment, and a relaxed atmosphere perfect for unwinding.
Good Bar
0.5 km
Experience the lively atmosphere and diverse drink offerings at Good Bar in Seattle's historic Pioneer Square, a perfect retreat for tourists.
Diller Room
0.6 km
Experience Seattle's nightlife at Diller Room, a lively bar offering creative cocktails and a vibrant atmosphere in the heart of the city.
The Hideout
0.6 km
Discover The Hideout, a cozy bar in Downtown Seattle, known for its craft cocktails and vibrant nightlife, perfect for unwinding after a day of exploration.
The Pike Brewing Company
0.8 km
Discover the best of Seattle's craft beer scene at The Pike Brewing Company, where family-friendly dining meets exceptional brewing.
Alibi Room
0.8 km
Experience the perfect blend of artisanal pizza and craft beer at Alibi Room, a culinary gem in Seattle's vibrant Waterfront.
JarrBar
0.9 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife at JarrBar, a top bar in Seattle Waterfront, known for its craft cocktails and stunning skyline views.
The Rabbit Box
0.9 km
Discover Seattle's vibrant cocktail scene at The Rabbit Box, a stylish bar known for its innovative drinks and welcoming atmosphere.
Lonely Siren
0.9 km
Experience the vibrant flavors of Seattle at Lonely Siren, where unique cocktails meet exquisite tapas in a stunning waterfront setting.
Pike Place Bar & Grill
0.9 km
Experience the flavors of Seattle at Pike Place Bar & Grill, where local ingredients meet a vibrant market atmosphere.
Radiator Whiskey
0.9 km
Discover the lively atmosphere of Radiator Whiskey, where exceptional drinks and innovative American cuisine come together in the heart of Seattle.
Zig Zag Cafe
0.9 km
Experience the best of Seattle's cocktail culture at Zig Zag Cafe, a beloved Waterfront gem offering craft cocktails and delectable bites.
The Taproom at Pike Place
0.9 km
Experience the best of Seattle's craft beer culture at The Taproom at Pike Place, where local brews and delicious bites await.
Inside Passage
1.0 km
Discover the tropical vibes of Inside Passage, Seattle's vibrant tiki and cocktail bar offering unforgettable drinks and lively atmosphere.
White Horse Tavern
1.0 km
Discover the White Horse Tavern, a historic pub in Seattle's Waterfront, offering a cozy ambiance, diverse drinks, and a taste of local culture.
