Best View of
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Best View of Seattle

Best View of Seattle

The best view of Seattle undoubtedly incorporates the skyline of the downtown area. It's often nice to have the skyline rising above a body of water, which is typically the Puget Sound, but can be Lake Union. There are a number of different locations throughout the city that provide the vantage point to get the best view of Seattle, whether that be on a ferry ride out to one of the islands in the Puget Sound, or one of the various Seattle Parks on the waterfront.

Best View of Seattle

Kerry Park

Kerry Park is by far the most popular spot to capture a view of Seattle. It's conveniently located in the Queen Anne neighborhood of Seattle, a short distance from downtown, and in addition to the skyline, provides front and center views of the Space Needle. It's the perfect place to snap a selfie, and expect to find a large number of tourists doing the same, as this is a popular stop in Seattle. While I would argue it's not the best view of Seattle, as it's difficult to capture the Puget Sound and the skyline together in a photo, the convenience more than makes up for it, and it's a very scenic view.

Jack Block Park

Jack Block Park is located in the Alki neighborhood which is situated southwest of downtown Seattle, and hands down provides the best view of Seattle. There is a viewing platform at the water's edge which provides an elevated view over Puget Sound. Reaching the viewing platform requires a little bit of a walk, including some stairs, however the small trek is worth it for the astounding views of Seattle and the space needle. And if the timing is right, you can also catch a ferry coming into port.

Columbia Tower

While everyone thinks of the Space Needle for views looking down on the city, the Columbia Tower is taller than the Space Needle, has less crowds and arguably better views of Seattle, Puget Sound, the Cascade and Olympic Mountains. The tower's Sky View Observatory is on the 73rd floor, and provides 360 degree view.

Ferry

Riding on one of the ferries from The Seattle Ferry Terminal on Pier 50 affords great views of the Puget Sound and the Seattle Skyline. All ferries have a large outdoor space on multiple decks, ensuring you will never lack for a view. While you may not board a ferry just for the view, combine it with a trip to Bainbridge Island or onto the peninsula on your way to Olympic National Park.

Ella Bailey Park

Ella Bailey Park isn't the top spot for best view of Seattle, but if you are in the Magnolia neighborhood and looking for views of Seattle, it's a fine location. Throw in the fact that there is a nice playground as well as grass and picnic tables, and it makes the perfect spot to spend the afternoon.

Ursula Judkins Viewpoint

Ursula Judkins Viewpoint used to be one of the best views of Seattle, however the views are now mostly obstructed with vegetation and a large fence. Not to mention docking cruise ships can take up a large portion of the photo. While it's possible to grab a shot of the skyline, unless you happen to be in the area, this location isn't worth going out of your way.