A while back I started a series entitled “Rīga from Above” on various towers, rooftops and viewing decks that give visitors a bird’s-eye perspective of Rīga. One option that I neglected to include is the Latvian Aademy of Sciences. While it is close enough to Vecrīga to showcase the tile roofs and church spires of the 800-year-old city, it has a unique location that allows for a view of Daugava and the opposite shore including the National Library, and the city to the south.
If you plan to visit, know that there is a fee (reduced for students & seniors), and that the elevator will only take you to the 15th floor… To get to the observation deck on the 17th you’ll have to climb a few flights of stairs.
Other articles in the "Rīga from Above" series include:
