Seattle’s skyline is famous for its Space Needle, but even though this grandeur building garners the attention of several tourists, it’s not even the tallest building in Seattle. Many of the state’s skyscrapers have outshadowed it in terms of height and design. Still, they all follow the same maintenance routine that ensures each iconic building’s condition is kept. In Seattle, you will see old-fashioned window cleaners and pros with their pressure washers, going about their day to keep these treasures intact.
Seattle’s tallest buildings come in various forms. It includes a perfect mix of classic historical structures like Smith tower, contemporary office buildings, and unique Art Deco masterpieces. Some of these gigantic structures are included in the tallest man-made structures in the world, allowing you to marvel in record-breaking architectural beauty.
If you’re going to Seattle for your next vacation destination, here are six of the tallest buildings in the state that you should visit to experience Seattle’s beautiful skyline fully.
Space Needle
This iconic building is the state’s landmark buildings, and with its popularity, the local government and residents in Seattle made Space Needle a symbol of the city. It’s a major crowd drawer because of an observation deck, and its unique restaurant called SkyCity. The place lets you indulge in good food and amazing vistas from Lake Washington to Puget Sound. The distinctive landmark stands at a staggering 605 feet (184 meters) and situated at 400 Broad St. in the bustling Seattle center.
Safeco Plaza
This building dedicates itself to holding some significant tenants that include Bank of America and has been the headquarters of the Safeco Insurance Company of America since 2006. The iconic landmark was built in 1969 and was first known as the Seattle-First National Bank Building, standing at 630 feet (192 meters).
Seattle Municipal Tower
This multi-functional building is home to several government offices, hence its name. Although it mostly holds offices, there are several restaurants on its upper floors that allow you to enjoy magnificent views and food. You can find this landmark on 700 5th Avenue, Seattle, standing at 722 feet (220 meters).
Two Union Square
This iconic building is Seattle’s premier business address and was designed by the NBBJ firm. It was built in 1989 and is currently Seattle’s most prestigious and inviting place for all kinds of businesses in Seattle. It’s also an award-winning icon of environmental sustainability and boasts a Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) platinum certification. It features underground passages that lead to nearby buildings like the Rainier Square and stands at 740 feet (226 meters).
1201 3rd Avenue
This classic tower is one of the more distinctive buildings in the state, resembling the iconic Empire State Building. It’s the 97th tallest building in the United States, standing at 772 feet (235 meters) and designed by The McKinley Architects and Kohn Pedersen Fox Associates.
Columbia Center
This towering modern office building is the tallest in the state and situated at 701 5th Avenue, Seattle. Standing at an impressive 937 feet (286 meters), it’s the 20th tallest building in America and the tallest in all of Washington. You can immerse yourself with the real Columbia Center experience by enjoying the view from its sky view observatory on the 73rd floor that’s open to the public.
If you appreciate the art of building structures or want to marvel in fantastic views, adding this to your Seattle bucket list is a great choice, giving you a one-of-a-kind experience and memories that will last.
