The base of the Space Needle is a popular place to view the fireworks display. More than 10,000 people gather at the Seattle Center and many more view the fireworks from across Lake Union. Traffic is congested during the fireworks show, and the city closes much of 5th Avenue from 11:45 pm to 12:30 am, according to the Seattle City Council website.
Many people watch the fireworks from the rooftops of Lake Union houseboats and from various crafts anchored in Lake Union. From kayaks to sailboats to motor boats and yachts, the area in the center of the lake is filled with various floating crafts. Tourists can rent kayaks or electric boats to join the locals.
The streets on top of Queen Anne overlook the Space Needle and downtown. Rising a few hundred feet above downtown's sea level, the view of the Seattle Center and the waterfront is popular during other times of year, as well. Many people gather in Kerry Park and the streets around it for a view to the south of the fireworks.
Buildings that face north are popular viewing areas for the fireworks display and for parties celebrating the new year. Rooftops in Belltown and Capital Hill are also good viewing spots.
