Today I am bringing you something different. I am bringing you to visit the University of Washington Suzzallo and Allen Libraries. Otherwise known as Harry Potter Library to some in internet.
The iconic Suzzallo Library, which originally opened in 1926, immediately commands attention with its stunning Collegiate Gothic facade overlooking Red Square. Seamlessly bridging the past and present, the modern, light-filled Allen Library wing was added as an extension in 1990.
Together, these connected structures offer visitors a breathtaking journey through time, blending soaring, cathedral-like reading rooms with collaborative, contemporary spaces.
It has been a while since I visited Seattle and again, I took the direct SQ28 flight from Singapore to Seattle. I love Seattle as it is a peaceful and safe (safer) city than the rest of America.
How to get to University of Washington Suzzallo and Allen Libraries
It is very easy to get to the University of Washington Suzzallo and Allen Libraries. Just take the “subway” (actually it is a light rail line… Seattle operates a fast, high-capacity Link light rail system operated by Sound Transit that functions much like a metro).
Depending on where you stay, you can take the Line 1 or Line 2 to University of Washington station.
For your information, you can also take the Link Light Rail from the Seattle-Tacoma International Airport to your hotel too. Very cheap and easy.
The Station is right next to the Husky Stadium, so there is a souvenir shop there if you are a Husky fan. I am a EPL fan 🙂
Also, if you want to have breakfast, take a walk (about 15 mins) to this place called Saint Bread for breakfast. Having said that, it is in the opposite direction to the University of Washington Suzzallo and Allen Libraries so be aware. But the food is good.
Use Google Map to guide you from the station to the libraries.
Suzzallo and Allen Libraries
Even outside the libraries, you can see how beautiful the architecture is.
Approaching the Libraries
Of course the whole point is to visit the Reading Room or Harry Potter Library. Be very quiet when you are there as it is a REAL LIBRARY and PEOPLE ARE STUDYING ! The ends of the reading room is very nice as there are seats there and you can sit and take the right time to take the best photos.
The Reading Room is on the 2nd floor. The first floor has a Starbucks which is pretty cool but very busy with the students.
Welcome to the Reading Room !
And at the other end…
Beautiful !!
Other beautiful sites at the University of Washington
There are a few other places in the University of Washington to visit too.
There is the Quad…
And its beautiful buildings next to it.
Another one is the Drumheller Fountain.
A very calming location to spend a few minutes at.
Conclusion
If you have an hour or two to spare, it will be a nice place to visit. Or if you are doing the famous university tours like how parents do with their kids 😁
