Times Square Building

Times Square Building Seattle: Visiting Hours, Tickets, and Historical Sites Guide

Date: 04/07/2025

Introduction

Nestled in the heart of downtown Seattle, the Times Square Building stands as a prominent testament to the city’s early 20th-century growth, architectural ambition, and enduring cultural heritage. Completed in 1916 as the original headquarters for The Seattle Times newspaper, this iconic flatiron-shaped structure showcases the Beaux-Arts style and remains a cherished landmark within the city’s vibrant urban landscape (PCAD; Wikipedia). While its primary function today is as an office building, the Times Square Building’s remarkable design, historical significance, and central location make it a must-see for architecture buffs, history enthusiasts, and curious travelers alike.

This comprehensive guide details the building’s history, architectural features, visitor information, accessibility, and travel tips, ensuring you make the most of your visit to this Seattle architectural gem.

The 1917 Westlake Square comfort station building in Seattle with historic architecture

Historic Seattle Times Building at Times Square in 1916 with adjacent Securities Building and New Washington Hotel

Architectural sketch of the historic Seattle Times building in downtown Seattle

World War I soldier on a Harley-Davidson motorcycle in downtown Seattle circa 1918

Early 20th century soldier with pipe window shopping with woman and two children at toy store

Bronze relief memorial of Colonel Alden Blethen at the Times Square Building in Seattle

Historical Overview

Early 20th Century Context and Conception

The Times Square Building (originally the Times Building) was conceived during a period of rapid urban expansion in Seattle. Commissioned by Alden J. Blethen, publisher of The Seattle Times, it was intended as a headquarters that would symbolize both the newspaper’s growing influence and Seattle’s emergence as a regional hub. Construction began in 1914 and was completed in 1916, coinciding with a broader push toward modern, fire-resistant commercial architecture in the aftermath of the Great Seattle Fire of 1889 (PCAD).

Architectural Design and Influences

Designed by Charles Bebb and Carl Gould, two of Seattle’s leading architects, the Times Square Building is a masterwork of the Beaux-Arts style. Its wedge-shaped footprint, reminiscent of New York City’s Flatiron Building, was adapted to fit the triangular parcel at 414 Olive Way—an area shaped by the convergence of Seattle’s downtown street grids (Wikipedia). The steel-frame construction, clad in white terra cotta, allowed for both structural innovation and elegant ornamentation.

Key Beaux-Arts features include:

Symmetrical facades
Arched windows and classical columns
Ornamental cornices and decorative terra cotta details (Duende by Madam Zozo)

Historical Significance and Preservation

Serving as the editorial home of The Seattle Times until 1930, the building embodied the ascendancy of mass media and Seattle’s civic aspirations. After the newspaper relocated, the building continued to serve commercial purposes and was referenced as the “Blethen Building” in city directories during the 1940s (PCAD). Recognized for its architectural and cultural value, it earned a place on the National Register of Historic Places in 1983 and was designated a Seattle City Landmark in 1984 (Wikipedia).

Architectural Features

Beaux-Arts Style and Terra Cotta Detailing

The Times Square Building epitomizes the Beaux-Arts tradition with its:

White-glazed terra cotta facade, chosen for both durability and decorative potential
Classical pilasters, arched windows, and ornate cornices
Distinctive flatiron shape maximizing the triangular plot’s use

This style was popular in the United States for major civic and commercial buildings in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, conveying both stability and prestige (Wikipedia: Architecture of Seattle).

Structural Innovations

Constructed with a steel frame and reinforced concrete floors, the building offered fireproofing and the open-plan spaces required for newspaper operations. Its structural system was advanced for its time, enabling larger floor plates and greater flexibility for interior layouts (Wikipedia: Architecture of Seattle).

Urban Presence

Located at a key downtown intersection, the building’s two prominent facades address Olive Way and 4th Avenue, making it a visual anchor in the neighborhood. Its curved and angular bays enhance both the exterior’s dynamism and the interior’s panoramic views.

Visiting Information

Hours and Admission

Visiting Hours: The Times Square Building functions primarily as an office building and does not maintain regular public hours for interior tours. The exterior can be viewed from public sidewalks at any time.
Admission: There is no admission fee for viewing or photographing the exterior. Guided tours of the building’s interior are rare and typically only available during special events or as part of select architectural walking tours.

Accessibility

Wheelchair Access: Public sidewalks around the building are wheelchair accessible. The building’s ground-floor retail and lobby spaces have accessible entrances and elevators.
Public Transit: The building is easily reached via multiple King County Metro lines and the Westlake light rail station (Visit Seattle: Getting Around).

Location and Directions

Address: 414 Olive Way, Seattle, WA 98101
Getting There: Located in the heart of downtown, the Times Square Building is within walking distance of Westlake Center, Pike Place Market, and other major attractions. Ample public transportation options are available, and several public parking garages are nearby (Mapcarta).

Guided Tours & Special Events

While the Times Square Building does not offer regular public tours, it is occasionally featured in guided walking tours focused on Seattle’s architectural history. Check with local organizations or the Visit Seattle website for upcoming opportunities.

Nearby Attractions

Enhance your visit by exploring these nearby Seattle landmarks:

Pike Place Market: Seattle’s famous public market, brimming with local produce, crafts, and the original Starbucks (DestGuides: Pike Place Market).
Seattle Art Museum: A world-class collection of art just a few blocks away (DestGuides: Seattle Art Museum).
Smith Tower: One of Seattle’s earliest skyscrapers, featuring an observation deck (The Family Vacation Guide: Smith Tower).
Westlake Center & Park: A vibrant shopping and gathering space at the heart of downtown.

Visitor Tips

Best Time to Visit: Late afternoon offers beautiful lighting for photographs of the terra cotta façade.
Photography: The building’s unique angles and details are best captured from the corners of Olive Way, Stewart Street, and 4th Avenue.
Combining Visits: Plan to visit other nearby landmarks for a comprehensive downtown Seattle experience.
Respect Private Property: Interior access is restricted. Please enjoy and photograph the building from public areas only.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: Can I tour the interior of the Times Square Building?
A: No regular public interior tours are available, but the exterior can be admired at any time. Special events or guided tours may offer limited access.

Q: Are there any tickets or fees required?
A: No fee or ticket is required to view the building’s exterior.

Q: Is the building accessible to those with disabilities?
A: Yes, public sidewalks and building entrances are accessible.

Q: What are some nearby attractions?
A: Pike Place Market, Seattle Art Museum, Smith Tower, and Westlake Center are all within walking distance.

Cultural & Community Impact

The Times Square Building exemplifies Seattle’s resilience and ambition, standing as a reminder of the city’s transition from timber to terra cotta and steel. Its preservation reflects a broader commitment to safeguarding Seattle’s unique architectural legacy amid ongoing urban development (Seattle Times).

Visuals and Map

Alt text: Times Square Building Seattle exterior view showcasing its flatiron shape and Beaux-Arts terra cotta façade.

Find the building’s precise location and plan your route using Mapcarta.

Further Exploration

Continue your architectural journey through Seattle by visiting other historic buildings such as Smith Tower, the Arctic Club Building, and Pioneer Building (EAA Architecture Guide). Guided walking tours provide deeper context for understanding the city’s evolving skyline.

Summary & Final Tips

The Times Square Building is a striking blend of history, architecture, and urban vitality. Its Beaux-Arts design, storied past as a media headquarters, and landmark status make it a key stop for exploring Seattle’s downtown. While interior access is limited, the building’s exterior and central location provide ample opportunities for photography and cultural exploration. For up-to-date information on events and architectural tours, consult official Seattle tourism resources, download the Audiala app, and follow related social media channels.