Seattle Public Library

Top 1% of attractions in Seattle

8/10

“It isn't often that the library is considered one of the coolest joints in town, but Seattle's downtown library is such an architectural wonder that it is one of the city's highlights.”

– Frommer's

Fodor's

"The hub of Seattle's 25-branch library system, the Central Library, is a stunning jewel of a building that stands out against the concrete jungle of Downtown." Full review

Concierge

"Dutch architect Rem Koolhaas and Seattle-area native Joshua Ramus's groundbreaking design for the Central Library has turned what is often a utilitarian building into an architectural mecca."

Condé Nast Traveler

"The inside pops thanks to a poisonous green color used as a decorative touch." Full review

Not For Tourists

"Koolhaas designed. Stunning inside and out. Free tours."

Travel + Leisure

"Famed architect Rem Koolhaas designed Seattle's spectacular flagship library with bent glass panels that make it resemble a slightly off-kilter Rubic's Cube." Full review

On the Grid

"You can get books at any of Seattle’s 30-or-so neighborhood branches, but the Central Library is a must-see for first-time Seattle visitors, literate or not." Full review

Where

"The library hosts numerous events and talks by national authors." Full review

Afar Magazine

"One of Seattle's landmark buildings, the downtown public library is a dramatically asymmetrical, 11 story glass-and-steel 'sculpture' that takes up an entire city block." Full review

Lonely Planet