THE Best All-Around View of Seattle

by Pa Rock

Traveling Fool

 

Yesterday we ascended Seattle's iconic "Space Needle" where we were able to enjoy a magnificent, 360-degree view of the amazing city and its environs as well as Puget Sound and some of it's many islands.  Seattle is an amazing place and so is the Space Needle, a six-hundred-and -five-foot structure  that has come to symbolize the city  and its strong ties to science and the future.  The observation deck is at the 520-foot level, and a commercial area that includes a revolving glass floor is located one level below that.  We spent an hour or more exploring both levels.

There are lines to get into the Space Needle, lines to ride the elevator up, and lines to ride it down.  The descending elevators pour passengers into a gift shop, of course they do, where there are also lines for anyone wishing to purchase trinkets or clothing related to the Space Needle and Seattle experience.

There are lots of hassles in getting around Seattle, but the views from atop the Space Needle make it worth a visit on even the most rushed itinerary.   Seattle has plenty of transportation alternatives which, I am sure, work well for locals, but for tourists who don't know how to access the many public transport options, driving makes the most sense - except, of course, for the fact that there are steep parking fees absolutely everywhere.  Our mediocre hotel charges $20 a night to park (inside or outside), and the spot we found close to the Space Needle was $11 an hour for a three-hour stay.

But again, it was worth it.  It's the best, all-around view of Seattle.

Today we are headed to the "Pike Place Market" to watch people throw fish.  I'm from Missouri, and  it doesn't tke much to entertain me!

Tomorrow we will get on a train headed back to Oregon.