Seattle Center is a 74-acre urban campus located in the heart of downtown Seattle, Washington. Originally constructed for the 1962 World’s Fair, the Seattle Center has since evolved into a diverse and vibrant community hub, offering a wide range of attractions, cultural institutions, and entertainment options for both locals and visitors.
Key features and offerings of Seattle Center include:
Iconic Landmarks: The campus is home to several renowned landmarks, including the iconic Space Needle, the futuristic-looking Chihuly Garden and Glass exhibit, and the Museum of Pop Culture (MoPOP) – a striking, guitar-shaped building that celebrates music, sci-fi, and popular culture.
Cultural Institutions: Seattle Center houses a variety of world-class cultural institutions, such as the Pacific Science Center, Seattle Repertory Theatre, and the Seattle Opera. These venues host a diverse array of performances, exhibits, and educational programs throughout the year.
Entertainment & Events: The campus features a variety of performance spaces, including the KeyArena, which hosts concerts, sporting events, and other large-scale productions. Seattle Center also organizes and hosts numerous festivals, fairs, and community events, such as the Bumbershoot Music Festival and the Bite of Seattle Food Festival.
Outdoor Spaces: The grounds of Seattle Center include lush green spaces, fountains, and public art installations, providing ample opportunities for relaxation, recreation, and outdoor enjoyment. The Seattle Center Monorail also connects the campus to downtown Seattle, offering a unique and convenient mode of transportation.
Dining & Retail: Visitors can explore a variety of dining options, from casual eateries to upscale restaurants, as well as a range of retail shops and specialty stores, catering to diverse tastes and interests.
As a vibrant hub of culture, entertainment, and community engagement, Seattle Center continues to evolve and attract both locals and tourists, serving as a testament to the city’s rich history and dynamic spirit. It remains a beloved and integral part of the Seattle experience.
Seattle Center Prices
Seattle Center is a public space, so there is no general admission fee. However, there are fees associated with some of the attractions and events that take place on the grounds. Here is a breakdown of some of the most common costs:
Attractions
- Space Needle:Â $35 for adults, $25 for children (ages 5-12), free for children under 5
- Museum of Pop Culture (MoPOP):Â $32 for adults, $25 for children (ages 5-12), free for children under 5
- Chihuly Garden and Glass:Â $32 for adults, $25 for children (ages 5-12), free for children under 5
- Pacific Science Center:Â $25 for adults, $19 for children (ages 6-15), free for children under 5
- Woodland Park Zoo:Â $29.95 for adults, $24.95 for children (ages 3-12), free for children under 3
- Seattle Children’s Museum:Â $14.95 for adults and children (ages 1 and up), free for children under 1
- Seattle Aquarium:Â $32 for adults, $25 for children (ages 4-12), free for children under 4
Events
- Seattle International Film Festival (SIFF):Â Ticket prices vary depending on the film and screening time.
- Bumbershoot:Â Ticket prices vary depending on the day and type of ticket.
- Seattle PrideFest:Â Free admission.
- Day In Day Out:Â Ticket prices vary depending on the day and artist.
Parking
- Hourly Parking:Â $3 per hour
- Daily Parking:Â $15 per day
- Valet Parking: $40 per day