The refurbished lobby and observatory will open to the public from today (August 25, 2016) for all to enjoy. Tickets range from $10-$19.14 for the “Legends of Smith Tower Interactive Tour” This self-guided tour combines factual history and local legends and adds some humorous entertaining value. It focuses on early prohibition and technology in Seattle.
For those who just want to straight to the top just for the observatory view, there is “Straight Up” ticket for just $10. This gives you amazing 360-degree views of Seattle from the Observatory's interior room and open air viewing deck. And you also get access to the speakeasy-inspired Smith Tower Temperance café and bar along with historical exhibits.
On the ground level at the corner of 2nd Ave and Yesler Way, is a new gift shop and deli named Provisions, complete with a soda counter. This where you purchase your interactive tour tickets that will wind you up through the building and uses the second-floor elevators. The regular ground-floor tenant entrance remains on 2nd Ave with its original brass-gated Otis elevators. You can also buy your tickets online at SmithTower.com
I'm sure this will be a huge success and a “must see” attraction for those visiting Seattle, as well as us native Seattleites. The Temperance Café and Bar will be an ideal location for those who want to host a party or are looking for a venue that offers exceptional views of Seattle in the heart of teeming Pioneer Square.
For more information about leasing office space in this amazing piece of Seattle history, read this brochure or visit their website for contact info.
Historical Reference
Smith Tower was completed in 1914. The 38-story tower is the oldest skyscraper in the city and was the tallest office building west of the Mississippi River until 1931. And it remained the tallest building on the West Coast until the Space Needle overtook it in 1962.