13 Places in Seattle With the Best Views All Year Round

Seattle knows how to impress every season.

It’s a city that pulls you in with its mountain views and waterfront charm.

From towering skyscrapers to quiet, tucked-away spots, it’s got some of the best views. The Space Needle, sure, it’s the obvious pick.

But there are plenty of hidden gems where the city and nature just click. Here are 13 places in Seattle that’ll make you stop and stare, no matter the time of year.

Space Needle

The Space Needle’s been around since the 1962 World’s Fair. This giant is built to take on 200 mph winds and shake off a 9.0 earthquake like it’s nothing.

At 605 feet, you get that perfect bird’s-eye view of everything — Mount Rainier, the Sound, and Seattle’s downtown buzzing.

The real kicker? The world’s first revolving glass floor. Step onto it, and suddenly, you’re floating. But it’s not for the faint of heart.

Kerry Park

Small park with big views. Kerry Park on Queen Anne Hill.

The kind of place that stretches 1.26 acres of green and screams “Seattle” with the skyline, Mount Rainier in the background, and Elliott Bay shimmering to the side.

Locals say: come for the view, stay for the sunset. You’ll thank yourself later.

Alki Beach

Located on the west side, Alki Beach is like Seattle’s version of California’s Venice Beach — but with better views.

It is a popular spot for beach strolls and volleyball. Grab a spot in the sand, look out across the water, and what do you get?

Downtown Seattle rising across the bay. Sunsets here are next-level. Or you just enjoy their bonfires against the city skyline.

Smith Tower

Old-school Seattle at its finest. Smith Tower is one of those places that doesn’t get as much love as it deserves.

Back in 1914, it was the tallest building west of the Mississippi. The brass elevators? Still operated by humans. Head up to the observation deck and you’ll get a killer view of the waterfront, the mountains, and a little slice of Seattle history.

The speakeasy-style bar? Perfect for a cocktail with a view.

Discovery Park

Discovery Park is Seattle’s wild side. From here, you can see Puget Sound stretch out forever and the Olympic Mountains in the distance.

It’s the city’s largest green space, tucked away on the Magnolia Bluff. Forests, meadows, beaches—it’s 534 acres of pure, untamed beauty.

Bring binoculars; the birdwatching is top-tier. Bald eagles, herons, maybe even an owl if you’re lucky. And if you’re feeling lazy? Pack a picnic and just let the city fade away.

Washington Park Arboretum

If Seattle ever feels too loud, this is where you go to hit reset. This park is quiet, peaceful, and smells incredible.

Enter a living, breathing museum of trees, shrubs, and flowers from all over the world. Spring hits with a riot of cherry blossoms and magnolias. Fall? A full-on explosion of reds, oranges, and golds.

The view from the Arboretum, looking over Union Bay and Lake Washington, feels like you’re a million miles away from the city.

Sky View Observatory

If you want a view of Seattle that stretches from horizon to horizon, this is your place. On a clear day, you can see straight out to Mount Rainier.

Sitting 73 floors up in the Columbia Center, Sky View Observatory gives you a full 360-degree look at Seattle—mountains, water, and skyline, all in one breathtaking sweep.

Show up at sunset. Watch the sky go from blue to orange to deep purple as the city lights flicker on below. It’s Seattle at its most cinematic.

Mount Si

Hard-earned views always hit differently.

Mount Si isn’t some easy weekend stroll—it’s a grind. Four miles up, 3,100 feet of elevation gain, and plenty of moments where you’ll question your life choices.

From the summit, you get a full panoramic view of the Snoqualmie Valley, the Cascade Range, and if the clouds play nice, Mount Rainier standing tall in the distance.

The Seattle Great Wheel

The Seattle Great Wheel sits right on Pier 57, lifting you 175 feet above the waterfront in a cozy, enclosed gondola.

From here, you’ll look out over Elliott Bay, the waterfront, and all the city lights twinkling in the distance. After your ride, wander the waterfront—grab some fresh seafood, check out the shops, and maybe just sit and watch the ferries roll in.

At night, with the city lights reflecting off the water? Pure magic.

Volunteer Park

Volunteer Park has gardens, a conservatory, and the Asian Art Museum. No ticket is required, just a little legwork.

Stroll through lush botanical gardens as you witness cherry blossoms in spring and fiery leaves in fall. But the water tower is your go-to for some (me) time.

Climb up for a panoramic view of Seattle’s downtown, Puget Sound, and on a clear day, you might even spot Mount Rainier way off in the distance. a

Lake Washington Loop

For the casual sightseer, the Lake Washington Loop is the way to go. Hop on a boat tour. Calm waters, fresh air, and Mount Rainier looming in the distance.

The loop stretches along Seattle’s east side, lined with waterfront mansions, peaceful parks, and views at every turn. Prefer two wheels? The Burke-Gilman Trail hugs the shoreline, perfect for a laid-back bike ride.

West Point Lighthouse

Wrap yourself in salty sea air and sweeping coastal views. This little lighthouse has been standing watch over Puget Sound since the 1880s. A regular day here would be boats, birds, and the occasional ferry.

Walk the trails down to the beach, where driftwood piles up like nature’s artwork. At sunset, catch the Olympics silhouette against the horizon, and for a moment, it feels like time slows down.

Gas Works Park

Gas Works Park is built on the site of an old gas plant.

The rusted remnants of machinery still stand, giving the park this industrial vibe. But don’t let that fool you. It’s a chill spot for picnics, kite flying, and just hanging out.

The grassy hill in the park gives you the best view of the Seattle skyline, Mount Rainier, and the surrounding water. And those old structures? They’re part of the park’s charm.