I would like to visit the Space Needle ,at night, the evening before I depart for a cruise. We are 3 couples meeting in Seattle for dinner. Dinner at the Space Needle Restaurant might be over our budget, but, is there a bar/lounge where we can meet for a drink? If so, is there an additional admission cost?

Any suggestions would be gratefully received.

It's been a few years since I was up there, but as I recall unless you're having dinner there is a admission cost, about $10 at that time. Don't go if you expect exceptional food, The food is just OK, not as good as the view.

Unfortunately, they don't have a bar area where you can just have a drink (otherwise everyone would do that and not buy dinner). There is a minimum food charge of $35 per guest, so you can't just go up and eat lightly either. . .

And the elevator now costs $16 per person.

There is no bar, and I found this on the menu: Minimum food charge $35 per guest.
For parties of six or more we suggest a 17% gratuity.

It's $16 to go up the elevator.

Last time I was there with out-of-town friends (last fall) there was a wine tasting, so we were able to buy a glass of wine on the Observation Deck level.

I'd suggest just pay the admission, go up for the view, walk around at least once. then come back down and head to a bar or restaurant somewhere on Queen Anne or in Belltown (downtown Seattle). There literally hundreds of good choices in the area.

We ate at the space needle restaurant several years ago and it was a great experience. You will not have to pay an additional charge to go to the restaurant like you will if you just ride the elevator to the top. So you can just spend what you would have on the ride on your dinner. We called and made reservations ahead of time and didn't have to wait for a table. I think you will enjoy the experience.

We did dinner at the Needle for the 4th of July several years ago. . . got to see 2 fireworks shows (one over Elliot Bay and one over the lake) and a MIG flyby. Don't have a clue of what I eat that evening but a very, very memorable evening. Had to have reservations in advance made by a travel agent. Not sure what is the current policy. PBB