Seattle’s Skyline: Best Spots for Panoramic Views
1. Kerry Park
Location: 211 W Highland Dr
Kerry Park is arguably the most famous spot for capturing Seattle’s skyline. From here, you get a perfect view of the Space Needle with downtown Seattle and Mount Rainier in the background. This location is especially popular at sunset and during the blue hour when the city lights start to twinkle.
Photography Tips:
Arrive early to secure a good spot, especially during peak times.
Use a wide-angle lens to capture the entire scene.
Bring a tripod for stable long-exposure shots at night.
2. Gas Works Park
Location: 2101 N Northlake Way
Gas Works Park offers a unique perspective of Seattle’s skyline from the north. This park, set on the site of a former gasification plant, combines industrial remnants with lush green spaces, providing an interesting foreground for your shots.
Photography Tips:
Capture the skyline reflected in Lake Union for a stunning effect.
Visit during the Fourth of July for an incredible fireworks display over the city.
3. West Seattle (Alki Beach)
Location: 2665 Alki Ave SW
Alki Beach in West Seattle offers a panoramic view of the downtown skyline across Elliott Bay. This spot is perfect for sunset photography, where you can capture the city silhouetted against the colorful sky.
Photography Tips:
Use a telephoto lens to bring the distant skyline closer.
Experiment with long exposures to capture smooth water and light trails from boats.
4. Smith Tower Observatory
Location: 506 2nd Ave
For a historical perspective, head to the Smith Tower Observatory. This iconic building, once the tallest on the West Coast, offers an observation deck with stunning views of the city from a lower vantage point compared to the Space Needle.
Photography Tips:
Capture the intricate details of the building's architecture along with the skyline.
Visit during the golden hour for the best lighting conditions.
5. The Space Needle
Location: 400 Broad St
While the Space Needle is often the subject of skyline photos, it also offers a fantastic vantage point for capturing panoramic views of Seattle. From the observation deck, you can see 360-degree views of the city, Puget Sound, and beyond.
Photography Tips:
Take advantage of the rotating glass floor for unique shots.
Use a polarizing filter to reduce glare and enhance colors.
6. Dr. Jose Rizal Park
Location: 1007 12th Ave S
Dr. Jose Rizal Park is a lesser-known gem that provides an excellent view of the skyline from the south. This spot is perfect for capturing the city with the I-5 freeway in the foreground, adding a dynamic element to your shots.
Photography Tips:
Capture light trails from the freeway during dusk or dawn.
Use HDR techniques to balance the exposure between the bright city lights and the darkening sky.
7. Columbia Center Sky View Observatory
Location: 701 5th Ave
For the highest public viewpoint in Seattle, head to the Sky View Observatory on the 73rd floor of the Columbia Center. This observatory offers an unparalleled 360-degree view of the city and surrounding areas.
Photography Tips:
Visit on a clear day for views extending to Mount Rainier and the Olympic Mountains.
Use a panoramic stitching technique to create ultra-wide images.
Conclusion
Seattle’s skyline is a photographer’s dream, offering a mix of natural beauty and urban architecture. Whether you’re a professional photographer or an amateur enthusiast, these locations provide the perfect settings to capture stunning panoramic views of the city. So grab your camera, head to these spots, and start shooting the breathtaking vistas that Seattle has to offer.
