Amazon Spheres

The Amazon Spheres are three interconnected glass-and-steel domes at Amazon’s headquarters in downtown Seattle, Washington. Completed in 2018 and designed by NBBJ with landscape architecture by Site Workshop, the Spheres bring nature directly into the corporate workspace. They are an innovative example of biophilic design, intended to foster creativity, collaboration, and well-being by immersing employees in a lush, plant-filled environment.

Their organic, spherical structure is supported by a geometric steel framework and clad in 2,643 individual glass panels, allowing abundant natural light to flood the interior. The Spheres serve primarily as an Amazon employee workspace but also function as an urban botanical conservatory with limited public access.

Interesting Facts

• Completion & Opening: Dedicated on January 29, 2018 and opened to employees and limited public visitors on January 30, 2018.
• Number of Spheres: Three domes, the largest measuring about 90 feet tall and 130 feet in diameter.
• Plant Collection: Home to over 40,000 plants representing more than 1,000 species from over 30 countries, including rare tropical and subtropical specimens.
• Centerpiece Tree: Features a 55-foot-tall Ficus rubiginosa nicknamed Rubi, installed as a central focal point inside the largest sphere.
• Design Inspiration: A modern interpretation of greenhouse and conservatory traditions, integrating diverse ecosystems within a futuristic urban setting.
• Public Access: Limited public tours and visits to the Understory exhibit space, available by reservation—often scheduled only a couple of Saturdays each month.

Best Time of Year to Visit

• Spring (March–May): Peak plant vitality and pleasant weather for exploring nearby Seattle attractions.
• Fall (September–November): Comfortable temperatures and smaller crowds make reservations easier to secure.
• Winter (December–February): A lush indoor escape from Seattle’s gray, rainy season.
• Summer (June–August): High tourism period—book tours well in advance.

Other Attractions in the Area

• Pike Place Market – Seattle’s iconic waterfront marketplace.
• Seattle Art Museum – Showcasing global and contemporary art collections.
• Museum of Pop Culture (MoPOP) – Interactive exhibits on music, film, and pop culture.
• Space Needle – Panoramic views of the city and Puget Sound.
• Olympic Sculpture Park – Waterfront park with large-scale art installations.

Considerations for Travel

• Public Access: Reservations required; book early, as tour slots fill quickly. Some access available during First Thursday Art Walks.
• Parking: Limited street parking; multiple paid parking garages nearby.
• Accessibility: Fully ADA-compliant with ramps, elevators, and accessible restrooms.
• Photography: Personal, non-commercial photography permitted; tripods and commercial shoots require prior approval.

Top Accommodations Nearby

• Thompson Seattle – Upscale boutique hotel with city and waterfront views. From ~$300–$450/night.
• The Edgewater Hotel – Luxury waterfront property with rustic-modern design. From ~$350–$550/night.
• Grand Hyatt Seattle – Centrally located upscale hotel with modern amenities. From ~$280–$400/night.
• Vacation Rentals – Wide selection of downtown apartments via Airbnb/Vrbo; prices vary by location and season.