Visiting 1600 Seventh Avenue Seattle: Comprehensive Guide to History, Hours, Tickets, and Travel Tips
Date: 04/07/2025
Introduction: History and Significance
Located at the intersection of Seventh Avenue and Olive Way, 1600 Seventh Avenue is a striking testament to Seattle’s evolution from a regional hub to a global city. Completed in 1976 by John Graham & Company, this 32-story skyscraper is a prominent late-modernist icon, recognized for its sleek glass-and-steel façade. The building has played a pivotal role in the city’s telecommunications and business history, serving as headquarters for companies such as Pacific Northwest Bell, Nordstrom, and CenturyLink (Emporis, Seattle Times).
While primarily an active office building, 1600 Seventh Avenue anchors Seattle’s dynamic downtown. Its accessible lobby, proximity to major attractions, and integration into Seattle’s public transit network make it a convenient starting point for visitors interested in architecture, history, or efficient urban exploration (Seattle 2035 Comprehensive Plan, Seattle Equitable Development Initiative). For additional information on Seattle’s urban planning, visit the City of Seattle Office of Planning and Community Development.
Quick Facts
- Year Completed: 1976
- Height: 498 ft (152 m)
- Floors: 32 above ground, 1 below
- Architect: John Graham & Company
- Major Tenants: Nordstrom (historical), CenturyLink, WeWork
- Current Owner: Clarion Partners (since 2012)
- Lobby Hours: Weekdays, 8:00 AM – 6:00 PM
- Accessibility: Fully ADA-compliant
Visiting 1600 Seventh Avenue: What To Know
Visiting Hours and Accessibility
1600 Seventh Avenue functions mainly as an office tower. The public is welcome to enter the ground-floor lobby during business hours (Monday–Friday, 8:00 AM–6:00 PM). There are no observation decks, ticketed entry, or public tours available. The building offers full accessibility, with ADA-compliant entrances, elevators, and restrooms.
Getting There: Location and Transportation
Located in Seattle’s Denny Triangle, the building is easily accessible by:
- Link Light Rail: Westlake Station is two blocks away.
- Bus: Multiple King County Metro lines stop nearby.
- Monorail: Westlake Center station connects to Seattle Center.
- Car: Underground parking is available (entrances on Olive Way).
- Bike/Walk: Dedicated bike lanes and pedestrian-friendly sidewalks.
For public transit information, see Seattle Transit.
Nearby Attractions
1600 Seventh Avenue’s central location puts Seattle’s top attractions within easy reach:
- Pike Place Market: Iconic food and craft market (10-minute walk) (Visit Seattle)
- Seattle Art Museum: Major art collections and exhibitions (15-minute walk)
- Westlake Center: Transit hub, shopping, and dining (2 blocks away)
- Space Needle & Seattle Center: Accessible via monorail from Westlake Center
- Paramount Theatre: Historic performing arts venue nearby
More recommendations available at Visit Seattle.
History & Architectural Highlights
Commissioned as headquarters for Pacific Northwest Bell, 1600 Seventh Avenue’s streamlined design emphasized flexibility, advanced infrastructure, and economic efficiency. The building’s late-modernist aesthetic—hallmarked by glass curtain walls and steel framing—reflects the urban ambitions of 1970s Seattle. It was one of the tallest structures in the city upon completion and has since adapted to house a diverse mix of corporate tenants (Emporis).
Cultural Significance & Urban Role
1600 Seventh Avenue is a touchstone of postwar modernization and a symbol of Seattle’s economic transition from retail and shipping to technology and communications. The building’s location within a transit-rich, walkable district aligns with the city’s sustainable growth and equitable development goals (Seattle 2035 Comprehensive Plan, Seattle Equitable Development Initiative). Local initiatives foster vibrant public spaces, support inclusivity, and celebrate the area’s Indigenous and multicultural heritage.
Dining & Refreshment
The neighborhood offers a wide selection of dining options:
- Serious Pie: Artisanal pizza
- Wild Ginger: Pan-Asian cuisine
- The Capital Grille: Upscale steakhouse
- Numerous coffee shops (including several Starbucks), food halls, and casual eateries in Westlake Center and Pacific Place
Events & Seasonal Highlights
Downtown Seattle hosts frequent public events:
- Fourth of July Fireworks: Seen from downtown parks (Secret Seattle)
- Seattle Art Fair: Major summer event at Lumen Field Event Center
- Museum Free First Thursdays: Free access to local museums each month
Check Visit Seattle for current event listings.
Accommodation
Nearby neighborhoods, including Belltown and Downtown, provide a spectrum of hotel options—from luxury to budget-friendly—within walking distance of 1600 Seventh Avenue. For recommendations, see Travel Hotel Expert.
Photography & Photo Tips
While 1600 Seventh Avenue lacks an observation deck, the building’s exterior can be photographed from Olive Way, Seventh Avenue, and surrounding streets. For skyline shots, visit Kerry Park or the Sky View Observatory at Columbia Center (Visit Seattle).
Practical Travel Tips
- Footwear: Wear comfortable shoes for hilly streets.
- Weather: Bring rain gear; Seattle weather is unpredictable year-round.
- Transit: Use public transportation or rideshare—parking is limited and expensive.
- Accessibility: The building and neighboring sidewalks are ADA-compliant.
- Wi-Fi: Available in most area cafes and shopping centers.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: Can I tour 1600 Seventh Avenue?
A: No public tours or observation decks are available; the lobby is open during business hours.
Q: Are tickets needed for entry?
A: No. The lobby is free to enter; there are no ticketed attractions.
Q: Is the building accessible?
A: Yes, entrances, elevators, and public spaces meet ADA standards.
Q: Are guided tours available?
A: Some city walking tours may discuss the building from the exterior; check with local tour operators.
Q: What are the best nearby landmarks?
A: Pike Place Market, Seattle Art Museum, Space Needle, and Westlake Center are all nearby.
Final Tips & Summary
1600 Seventh Avenue is a key landmark illustrating Seattle’s architectural heritage, economic growth, and commitment to sustainable, inclusive urban development. While not a traditional tourist attraction, its location, history, and proximity to downtown highlights make it a worthwhile stop for visitors interested in the city’s evolution.
For more details on Seattle’s planning, equitable development, and cultural attractions, consult the City of Seattle Office of Planning and Community Development and Visit Seattle.
Sources
- 1600 Seventh Avenue Seattle: Visitor’s Guide to History, Architecture, and Exploring Downtown, 2025 (Emporis)
- 1600 Seventh Avenue Seattle: Visitor Guide, History, and Urban Significance, 2025 (Seattle Transit)
- Visiting 1600 Seventh Avenue Seattle: History, Nearby Attractions & Visitor Tips, 2025 (Visit Seattle)
- Visiting 1600 Seventh Avenue Seattle: Cultural Insights, Attractions & Tips, 2025 (Visit Seattle Events)
- Seattle 2035 Comprehensive Plan, 2025 (Seattle Comprehensive Plan PDF)
- Seattle Equitable Development Initiative Impact Report, 2025 (EDI Impact Report PDF)
- Seattle Times Business Real Estate Articles, 2025 (Seattle Times)
- Visit Seattle Official Tourism Site, 2025 (Visit Seattle Homepage)
