Seattle's iconic Space Needle will open the world's first and only revolving glass floor to the public Friday.
The Loupe, which visitors can walk, stand or sit on and be suspended 500 feet above the ground, is one of several upgrades and firsts as part of a $100 million multi-year preservation project.
Visitors will now have an enhanced 360-degree view of the Emerald City as the see-through floor rotates slowly once every 45 minutes.
What's more, the upper and lower levels are now connected by a cantilever grand staircase known as the Oculus Stairs. The indoor observation deck now features expanded views thanks to floor-to-ceiling seamless glass panels and the outer observation deck has been upgraded as well with open-air glass panels replacing wire caging and partial walls.
Visitors can also look forward to a new Atmos Wine Bar and Atmos Cafe. The former will serve regional wines with one-of-a-kind views while the latter will provide light bites and refreshment.
"This reinvestment ensures the long-term viability of the Space Needle," said the landmark's CEO, Ron Sevart, in a statement. "We have a commitment to our team members, our guests, and to the community to preserve the Space Needle as a civic and cultural icon for future generations."
"With glass walls, glass barriers, glass benches, and even glass floors, visitors can feel like they're floating over the city," added Karen Olson, CMO, Space Needle. "The Space Needle has always featured some of the best views of the Pacific Northwest. Now it offers some of the most thrilling."
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