Revolving restaurantIn 1961, the Top Of The Needle restauraunt in the Space Needle in Seattle, Wash., was dedicated. It was the first revolving restaurant in the U.S., 500 feet above the ground. A 14-foot ring next to the windows carrying 260 seats rotated 360 degrees in one hour on a track and wheel system driven by a 1 horsepower motor. Dinners averaged $7.50, including a cocktail. The Space Needle itself is a 600 foot high steel and glass tower with an observation deck above the restaurant, topped by a beacon. A ride up the elevator cost only one dollar. |