Seattle Center

The Space Needle, a 605 foot high tower located in the city's downtown, has become the great landmark and emblem of Seattle. It was built for the 1962 World's Fair and served as the Fair's symbol. The Space Needle is the city's biggest attraction and a must see for most visitors. Views extend across the city, out over the ocean, and beyond to the mountains, including the snow covered peaks of Mount Rainier and Mount Baker.

There are a few options for visiting the Space Needle. To begin with, it is all about the view so if you are spending a number of days in the city, try to wait for a day with clear skies. Late afternoon and evening can be a great time for a trip to the top to enjoy the sunset and city lights.

Most people simply opt for a quick trip to the top and spend some of time on the observation deck. If you are part of group you can get a discount on tickets.

Another, more relaxing way to enjoy the overwhelming panoramic views is from the revolving Skycity Restaurant. Dinners are offered every day of the week, lunch is served on weekdays, and a brunch is available on weekends only.

The Seattle Central Public Library is a modern master piece designed by architect Rem Koolhaas. The 11 story structure is a unique sight. Made of glass and steel, the building features odd angles and shapes, with areas protruding or recessed, making it seem almost gravity defying. The effect created inside by the excessive use of glass is also impressive, with angled walls that flood areas with natural light. The building is a stark contrast to the surrounding traditional office buildings.

Highlights of the interior include a "books spiral" that holds all of the library's non-fiction volumes in one solid, connected row, the bronze sculpture "The Fountain of Wisdom" by George Tsutakawa, and the ever present soaring open ceilings.

The Seattle Central Public Library opened in May, 2004 and was generally well received. Visitors passing by cannot help but notice the building, but anyone with an interest in architecture may want to go out of their way to see the building.

In Center House are a Children's Museum (many "hands-on" exhibits), the Food Circus and an International Bazaar selling culinary delights and other products from many different countries.

The Children's Museum in Seattle is a fun place for kids with educational and interesting displays. Children can learn about other cultures, industries such as the "construction zone" where kids can build and create, art, technology, and more. The museum also offers Summer Camp programs.

Denny Park is like an oasis in Seattle. The park is frequented by workers in the area who come here on their breaks to enjoy the green space and the beautiful gardens.

The land for Denny Park was donated by David T. Denny in the late 1800s and it was the first public park in Seattle.

Seattle's Experience Music Project is a wonderful place for music buffs. This museum of music features exhibits on classic bands, musical instruments, costumes, and everything else related to music. Visitors to the Experience Music Project are invited to do just that, by picking up an instrument or microphone and trying it out. In addition to a permanent collection the museum also present temporary exhibits.

ATTRACTION IS CLOSED.

Fun Forest is located at the Seattle Center and features all kinds of fun activities for kids. Some of the attractions include amusement rides, climbing wall, Lazer Tag area, Mini-golf, and more. There is also an area for smaller children in Fun Forest.

To the south-west are the six buildings of the Pacific Science Center, designed by Minoru Yamasaki, with excellent presentations of various fields of science and mathematics (including astronomy and space travel). The facilities include an IMAX cinema with a giant screen.