What is interesting about the tower

The tower is 605 feet high, 138 feet wide and weighs 9,550 tons. The Space Needle was the tallest building west of the Mississippi River at the time of construction. It was designed to withstand up to 200 mph winds, 9.1 magnitude earthquakes and lightning strikes.

The tower boasts an observation deck 520 feet above ground level with stunning views of the city center, mountains and bay. Space Needle also has a restaurant and gift shop.

The concrete base of the building weighs the same as the overhead structure, so the Space Needle's center of gravity is five feet above ground level. This delicate balancing allowed one very interesting solution to be implemented.

The upper dome, containing five floors of the building, including restaurants and an observation deck, was perfectly balanced, allowing it to be rotated with a single tiny 1.5 horsepower electric motor.

History

The world exhibition began in the 19th century. Its goal was to showcase the best achievements of humanity from around the world. Decades later, the event shifted its focus from trade to technology that worked for the good of society. And in 1962, Seattle finally had the opportunity to demonstrate what he was capable of.

The Space Needle was designed by Edward Carlson and John Graham. Carlson, president of Western International Hotels at the time, was inspired by his visit to the Stuttgart Tower. In the first sketches, he drew a giant balloon tied to the ground. Architect John Graham proposed the concept of a flying saucer instead of a hot air balloon. The final compromise was reached only 18 months before the opening of the fair.

Since the officials decided not to allocate money for the construction, the creators had to find and buy a piece of land on the fairground themselves. They found a plot measuring 120 feet by 120 feet and costing $75,000.

When construction began, there was only a year left before the opening of the World Expo. The construction crew worked around the clock and the Space Needle was completed just in time, on April 21, 1962.

The Space Needle isn't the only structure built for this year's fair. The entire Seattle Center, from the science pavilion to the monorail, opened at the same time. Residents of the city are deservedly proud of the landmark.

In 2000, the building was reconstructed at a cost of $4.5 million.

Things to do

First of all, look at the Space Needle from the side. You can do it completely free of charge or call us — we will equip a professional guide to help you find your way, suggest angles for beautiful photos and tell the history of the building.

Then go upstairs and take a look at the rotating glass floor. Watch people pass under your feet and enjoy a little dizziness. The top floor offers magnificent views of the city, Union Lake and mountains.

You can also grab a bite to eat at Café Atmos, which serves burgers, sandwiches, local beer, wine and coffee.

The Space Needle's location in Seattle Center means there is plenty to do nearby. You can easily combine your visit with the Pacific Science Center, Seattle Children's Museum, Chihuly Garden and Glass. Nearby are Pike Place Market, Seattle Museum of Art, Paramount Theaters and 5th Avenue.