Lois Larson
If you're facing a long layover at Seattle-Tacoma International Airport (SEA), you might be wondering if you can leave the airport and explore the city. The answer is yes! There are plenty of options for things to do and see near the airport and in downtown Seattle. If you're looking for a quick and easy option, the Highline SeaTac Botanical Garden is a perfect escape from busy airport corridors, and it's free to access. If you want to head into the city, you can take the LINK light rail from the airport to downtown Seattle for around $4. Once you're in the city, you can check out Pike Place Market, the Space Needle, the Museum of Pop Culture, or the Chihuly Glass Garden. Just keep in mind that security at SEA can be slow, so make sure you leave enough time to get back to the airport and through security before your flight.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Leaving the airport during a layover | Possible |
| Transportation to the city | Taxi, train, Uber, light rail |
| Time required for transportation | 10 minutes by train |
| Time required for security | Long |
| Attractions | Pike Place Market, Space Needle, Chihuly Museum, MoPop, Waterfront Park, Pier 62, Pier 66, SEA Pups, Highline SeaTac Botanical Garden, Des Moines Beach Park, Museum of Flight |
| Restaurants | Lowell's, 13 Coins, Sake Nomi, Tyger Tyger, Taylor Shellfish, Pink Door, Maximilien, Place Pigalle, Matt's at the Market, Campagne, Alibi Room, Beecher's, D'Laurenti, Piroshky Piroshky, Michou Deli, JarrBarr, Zig Zag, Diller Room, Auntie Irene's Coffee Shop, Anthony's HomePort, Din Tai Fung, Arashi Ramen |
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What You'll Learn
How far is Seattle city from the airport?
Yes, it is possible to leave Seattle-Tacoma (Sea-Tac) International Airport during a layover. The airport is approximately 15 miles (24 kilometres) south of Seattle's city centre, and it takes around 38 minutes to travel between the two.
There are several transport options available to get from the airport to the city. You can take the Link light rail, which costs around $4 and takes 38 minutes to reach Westlake Station in the heart of downtown Seattle. The light rail trains depart every 8-10 minutes for most of the day. From baggage claim, follow the signs to the Link light rail, which is located off the main parking garage on Level 4. A free electric shuttle service operates between the light rail station and the airport skybridge from 5 am to 12 am daily.
Alternatively, you can take a bus or taxi to the city centre. If you plan to drive, you can rent a car at the airport, but you will need an international driver's license.
If you have a long layover, there are several attractions in the city that you can visit. Pike Place Market is a popular destination, offering a variety of food options and shopping opportunities. The Space Needle, Chihuly Garden and Glass, and the Museum of Pop Culture (MoPop) are also recommended attractions. For meals, Tyger Tyger and Taylor Shellfish are suggested restaurants in the area.
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What are the best restaurants near Seattle airport?
If you have a long layover at Seattle Airport and are looking for a place to eat, there are a few options both in and outside the airport.
Inside the Airport
Cafe Flora, located next to Gate A1, serves coffee and breakfast. Qdoba, in Terminal C, is also recommended for its options and pricing.
Near the Airport
If you're looking for a restaurant very close to the airport, there are a few options. El Catrin in White Center is "not that far from the airport" and serves excellent food. Another option is Sharp's RoastHouse, a local restaurant and bar next door to the airport, which offers American cuisine, cocktails, and Northwest wine and beer.
Downtown Seattle
If you have enough time and want to head into downtown Seattle, there are plenty of restaurants to choose from. Pike Place Market is a popular choice, with many recommending Lowell's for its seafood and view of the harbor. Other recommended restaurants in the market include Pasta Casalinga, Market Grill, Jack's Fish Spot, and Pike Place Chowder. If you're looking for a charming restaurant outside of the market, check out Copperleaf, a secluded restaurant in a resort called Cedar Brook Lodge.
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What are the best free things to do near Seattle airport?
If you have a long layover at Seattle Airport, you can leave the airport and explore the city. Here are some of the best free things to do near Seattle Airport:
Highline SeaTac Botanical Garden
The Highline SeaTac Botanical Garden is a peaceful escape from the busy airport. This free, tranquil spot is just minutes north of the terminal and features a collection of community-growing spaces. Wander through the Seike Japanese Garden, which has a fascinating history, and the Elda Behm Paradise Garden.
Des Moines Beach Park and Waterfront
For a less crowded alternative to Seattle, head to the Des Moines waterfront, just south of the airport. Enjoy a stroll along the dock and take in the view of the boats. You can also visit local shops and restaurants, including Auntie Irene's Coffee Shop for coffee and ice cream, or Anthony's HomePort for seafood.
Pike Place Market
Pike Place Market is a popular destination for those with a layover in Seattle. It opens early at 07:00, so you can beat the crowds and enjoy breakfast at one of the many restaurants, such as Lowell's, which offers traditional diner food and great views of the harbour. From there, you can walk down to the central waterfront and Waterfront Park, and even on to Pier 66, where you can find taxis to the airport.
Westfield Southcenter Mall
If you're looking for a bright, open space to relax and decompress, the Westfield Southcenter Mall is just a 10-minute ride from the airport. It offers a range of services, including the Gene Juarez Salon & Spa, as well as plenty of stores and restaurants for the whole family to enjoy.
Inside the Airport
If you don't want to leave the airport, there are still plenty of free things to do. Enjoy live music from up-and-coming artists, or listen out for celebrity announcements. Visit the Museum of Pop Culture for music-themed art exhibits, or relax in the quiet sensory room. You can also keep the kids entertained with the Little Free Libraries and the children's play area.
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What are the best things to do with kids near Seattle airport?
If you're travelling with kids and have a long layover at Seattle Airport, there are plenty of ways to keep them entertained. Firstly, the airport itself has a children's play area near Gates A1 and D25, with a family bathroom and nursing room attached. There are also plenty of shops, including candy and cookie shops, and restaurants with kids' menus and healthy options. You can also find diapers, medicine, clothing, and other fun souvenirs at the many Hudson stores.
If you want to leave the airport, Seattle has plenty of attractions to keep kids entertained. The city is easily accessible via the LINK light rail from the airport, which costs around $4. Once you're in the city, there are several family-friendly attractions to choose from, including:
- Pike Place Market: A charming and popular tourist spot with plenty of restaurants and grab-and-go food options.
- Space Needle: Offering amazing views, this is a great attraction for kids.
- Chihuly Garden and Glass: A stunning museum that's perfect for a family visit.
- MoPop (Museum of Pop Culture): A fun museum with music-themed art exhibits, including a popular Pearl Jam display.
- Woodland Park Zoo: A great outdoor attraction for kids to enjoy and learn about animals.
- Seattle Center: An area with several family-friendly restaurants, including Tyger Tyger and Taylor Shellfish.
If you're looking for a place to stay, the Hyatt Regency Lake Washington is less than 10 miles from the airport and offers an indoor pool and family-friendly dining. The hotel is also close to Gene Coulon Memorial Beach Park, which has a playground for families.
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What are the best hotels near Seattle airport?
If you have a long layover at Seattle Airport, you might want to consider staying at a nearby hotel to relax and unwind. Here are some of the best hotels near Seattle Airport:
Cedarbrook Lodge
Cedarbrook Lodge is located just five minutes away from Seattle Airport and offers a complimentary airport shuttle service for guests. The lodge is situated amidst 18 acres of protected wetlands, providing a tranquil and relaxing atmosphere. Cedarbrook Lodge features Pacific Northwest-inspired guest rooms with comfortable furnishings and large windows offering spectacular views of the natural setting. Guests can also enjoy the on-site spa and dining at Copperleaf Restaurant & Bar.
Red Lion Hotel
The Red Lion Hotel is a convenient option if you're looking for something simple and affordable. While it may not be fancy, it offers comfortable accommodations and is located close to the airport. The hotel also has a partnership with Masterpark, providing a shuttle service to and from the airport, making it a convenient choice for travellers.
Hilton Hotel
The Hilton Hotel is another great choice near Seattle Airport. It is conveniently located close to the light rail and the pedestrian overpass, providing easy access to transportation. The hotel also offers dining options, either on-site or just a block away at 13 Coins.
Hyatt Regency Lake Washington
Hyatt Regency Lake Washington is a fantastic option for families travelling with children. Located less than 10 miles from the airport, the hotel offers an indoor pool and family-friendly dining at Dock and Drink. They also offer a "Glamping Package," which includes a faux campfire, tent, s'mores kit, and a scavenger hunt, making it a unique and memorable experience for kids.
Red Roof Inn
Red Roof Inn is a convenient and comfortable hotel choice near Seattle Airport. It offers clean and basic rooms at a reasonable price. The hotel provides shuttle service and is also close to dining options, including a 24-hour diner and a convenience store.
When considering a layover in Seattle, it's important to keep in mind that security and check-in wait times can vary, and you may need to allow for extra time. However, if you have a longer layover, you might be able to explore the city, visit Pike Place Market, or even check out the Space Needle.
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Frequently asked questions
Yes, you can leave the airport during your layover in Seattle. However, be sure to give yourself enough time to get through security and make it to your next flight.
Security at Seattle Airport can be slow, so it is recommended that you arrive at the airport at least 90 minutes before your flight.
There are many things to do during a layover in Seattle, including:
- Visiting Pike Place Market
- Going to the Space Needle
- Checking out the Chihuly Museum
- Exploring the Museum of Pop Culture
- Visiting the Highline SeaTac Botanical Garden
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