If you want the perfect end to a busy day of sightseeing or you just want the night started, watching the sunset in Seattle is a brilliant idea. Relax in an open park and take in the sunset and its warm glowing hues, or go to a rooftop or deck and watch the sunset over the Seattle skyline while enjoying a hot beverage! Here are the 8 places that offer the most breathtaking views of the Sunset in Seattle.
Best time to Watch the Sunset in Seattle
The best time to catch the sunset in Seattle is between late June and early September. The weather is warm and pleasant and the skies are clear, offering a spectacular view.Sunset in Winter (November- March): Seattle winters are cold, wet, and severe. On most days the skies are grey and cloudy with heavy rain. The sun sets very early between 4:30 PM - 5:00 PM. Since the winters are chilly and the temperature drops to 36 degrees F, you can watch the sunset from a rooftop or observation deck.
Sunset in Spring (April-May): Even though Spring is short in Seattle with an occasional downpour, there are gorgeous cherry blossom trees and festivals in the city. The sun sets late in the evening at 7:30 PM due to daylight savings.
Sunset in Summer(June-August): Summer is the best time to watch the sunset in Seattle. The weather is warm but not humid and the clear skies make for the most vivid sunset colors. The temperature is at a moderate 75 degrees F and there is ample daylight as the sun sets between 8:30 PM to 9:15 PM.
Sunset in Fall(September-October): Fall is also a great time for visiting Seattle and staying outdoors. You can relax in a park and watch the sunset at approximately 6:30 PM. The temperature dips to around 50 degrees F but the trees are a brilliant shade of orange and red, complementing the bright sunset colors.
Best Places to Watch the Breathtaking Sunset in Seattle.
1. Discovery Park
With big maple leaf trees and coniferous forests, the Discovery Park in Seattle is the city’s largest park. It has over 12 miles of walking trails and is located on the shores of Puget Sound. It is also home to a variety of wildlife and marine life. It also has a magnificent view of the Olympic Mountains, downtown Seattle, and the ferries. If you want a quiet, tranquil evening on the beach to watch the sunset over the horizon, this is the perfect place.
Address: 3801 Discovery Park Blvd, Seattle, WA 98199
Timings: Closes at 8:00 PM
2. Sunset Hill Park
Located in one of the oldest neighborhoods in the city, Sunset Hill Park, as the name suggests, is a popular place to watch the sunset in Seattle. The park overlooks the Shilshole and Elliott bays against the backdrop of the Olympic Mountains. It is a popular area for weddings, yoga classes, and photography enthusiasts.
Address: 7531 34th Ave. NW, Seattle, WA 98117
Timings: 4:00 AM to 11:30 PM
3. Kerry Park
Kerry park overlooks downtown Seattle and flocks of people head over to see the Seattle skyline. One of the city’s most iconic parks, the Space Needle is right at the center and Elliot Bay to the west. Featured in several media productions and movies, the sunset view is picturesque and Instagram worthy in Kerry Park.
Address: 211 W Highland Dr, Seattle, WA 98119, United States
Timings: 6:00 AM to 10:00 PM
4. Gas Works Park
Built on the remnants of the former Seattle Gas Light Company the Gas Works Park is now a place of historical significance. The park is of great importance to locals with numerous events that happen throughout the year like the July 4th fireworks, rallies, festivals, and concerts. However, the rustic remains of the coal plant are still the main attraction. The park offers a panoramic view of Seattle and the sunset is magnificent.
Address: 2101 N Northlake Way, Seattle, WA 98103, United States
Timings: 6:00 AM to 10:00 PM
5. Alki Beach Park
Another park to view the beautiful sunset in Seattle, Alki Beach Park is a popular spot among locals and tourists alike to spend sunny summer days outside. With numerous bars and restaurants, this beach sees hikers, skaters, cyclists, and kayakers. Spend a relaxing day sunbathing under the warm sun and catch the beautiful sunset on the backdrop of the Pacific Northwestern Ocean.
Address: 2665 Alki Ave SW, Seattle, WA 98116, United States
Timings: 4:00 AM to 11:30 PM
6. Space Needle: Observation Deck
One of the tallest structures in the US, the Space Needle is an observation deck that has a brilliant panoramic view of the Seattle skyline, the Olympic Mountains, Mount Rainier, Elliott Bay, and the isles of Puget Sound. With a rotating restaurant, you can get a 360-degree view of the sunset while eating your favorite food! Make sure you buy a ticket or make a reservation online because the Space Needle can get crowded.
Address: 400 Broad St, Seattle, WA 98109, United States
Timings: 11:00 AM to 5:00 PM
7. Golden Gardens Park
The Golden Gardens Park is a public park in Seattle with a beautiful coastline. You can huddle around a campfire, take a stroll on the beach, play volleyball or go sailing! The sunset is spectacular, drawing crowds with a view of the Olympic Mountains.
Address: 8498 Seaview Pl NW, Seattle, WA 98117, United States
Timings: 6:00 AM to 11:30 PM
8. Columbia Tower: Sky View Observatory
The Sky View Observatory is one of the tallest buildings on the West Coast. With bars, restaurants, and a private viewing area, this observatory is a popular area among locals and tourists. Sunset in Seattle cannot be more iconic than from the 73rd floor of this building. You can see most of the city and far into the sea and the vivid colors of the evening sky. Tickets cost between USD 20 and USD 40.
Address: 700 4th Ave, Seattle, WA 98104, United StatesIf you just want to unwind at the end of the day and are looking for a pocket-friendly way to spend the evening, watching the Sunset in Seattle while picnicking in a park is the perfect option. So, make sure to add it to your itinerary!