10L/28R, 10R/28L
Offers a full view of the north runway with a Columbia River backdrop, ramp views of Concourse E, and partial views of the south runway, ANG base, and Alaska/Horizon ramp at Concourses A & B; the south side of the 7th floor now only has a partial southwest view due to a 2021 building blocking sightlines. It's a paid garage (~$3/hour), no boarding pass needed, and spotters are generally not bothered by staff or law enforcement.
10L
A public road with a pedestrian/bike lane along the airport's northern perimeter and the Columbia River; near the Runway 10L threshold the path rises onto a berm giving a view over the fence of arriving and departing aircraft. Free access, with good vantage points near the beginning, middle, and end of the runway; best light from sunrise to ~10:30 AM and 7:30 PM till sundown.
28L
A free public cell-phone waiting lot on NE Air Cargo Road, separate from the main lot, with parking spots facing the runway; sits right behind 28L so arrivals pass close overhead while departures are farther away.
28R, 28L
Three hotels east of the airport near these runways might offer spotter-friendly rooms, but specific hotels and views are unconfirmed; avoid using their parking lots unless a guest.
Some of these are AI-generated from published spotting guides and not verified by us. Check access and local rules before you travel.
