Is there a restaurant at the top of the Space Needle in Seattle?

Seattle’s Space Needle: Dining with a View…But What’s Up There Now?

The Space Needle. Just the name conjures up images of Seattle, doesn’t it? For decades, it’s been the symbol of the Emerald City, and right from the start, it wasn’t just about the view – it was about the experience, including grabbing a bite way up high. So, what’s the story with restaurants at the top these days? Let’s take a look.

A Restaurant in the Sky: A Trip Down Memory Lane

Back in 1962, when the Space Needle debuted at the World’s Fair, the restaurant was called “Eye of the Needle”. Catchy, right? Fast forward to 1979, and new management decided a new name was in order: “Space Needle Restaurant”. Simple, to the point. Then, in 2000, things got a major facelift, and the restaurant became “SkyCity”. I remember going there once; it felt pretty swanky at the time. But, like all good things, it eventually closed for a massive renovation back in September 2017. So, what replaced it?

The Loupe Lounge: Cocktails and a Revolving Glass Floor!

Get this: the Space Needle now features the Loupe Lounge, and it’s something else! Imagine sipping a cocktail 500 feet above Seattle, with the city lights twinkling below. Now, picture doing it on the world’s first and only revolving glass floor! Seriously, how cool is that? You get a full rotation every 30 minutes. It’s definitely a glamorous experience, with killer views of the city, Elliott Bay, and those gorgeous mountains.

Keep in mind, though, the Loupe Lounge is a 21+ venue. You’ll also need reservations, and you’ll want to book those online. They even have these multi-course culinary “Towers” and craft cocktails you can pre-pay for. Sounds fancy, right? Unfortunately, the Loupe Lounge is closed for the season and will return in Fall 2025.

Casual Bites: TipTop Cafe and The Sunset Bar

If you’re looking for something a bit more laid-back, don’t worry, the Space Needle has you covered! Head to the upper observation level, and you’ll find the TipTop Cafe and The Sunset Bar. Pie and ice cream at the TipTop Cafe? Yes, please! Or, if you’re feeling something stronger, The Sunset Bar offers specialty cocktails, local wines, beers, and snacks. Perfect for enjoying that sunset view.

Planning Your Visit: Hours and Tickets

The Space Needle is generally open from morning until late in the evening. But, and this is a big but, those hours can change depending on the time of year, holidays, or if they’re hosting a special event. So, do yourself a favor and check their official website before you go – trust me, you don’t want to get stuck waiting in line only to find out it’s closed. Speaking of lines, you can buy tickets online, which I highly recommend. And if you’re visiting during peak season, those skip-the-line tickets are worth every penny.

So, there you have it! Dining at the Space Needle has evolved over the years, but the tradition of enjoying amazing views with good food and drinks is still going strong. Whether you’re after a fancy cocktail on a revolving glass floor or a simple slice of pie, the Space Needle offers something for everyone. Just remember to plan ahead and book those tickets!