Roberta Aguirre
If you're wondering what to do around Seattle Airport, you're in luck! Seattle-Tacoma International Airport (SEA) is located in a region called Seattle Southside, which is made up of three unique cities. Seattle Southside offers world-class shopping, engaging museums, miles of beautiful coastline, unique dining options, family-friendly activities, and art and cultural attractions. The airport itself also has plenty to offer, including live music, local artisan shops, an art walk, and a variety of dining options. If you're looking for a quick bite or a cup of coffee, there are plenty of options just a short walk or ride away. For those with a longer layover who want to explore further, downtown Seattle is easily accessible by taxi or rideshare, and offers attractions such as the Space Needle, Pike Place Market, and the Museum of Flight.
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What You'll Learn
Explore the Seattle Waterfront
Seattle's Emerald City is a popular tourist destination, and its airport is conveniently located for visitors to explore the city's many attractions. One of the most popular areas to explore is the Seattle Waterfront, a 20-acre park with stunning views of the skyline and Mount Rainier. Here are some ideas to make the most of your time there:
Get Active
The Waterfront Park offers a range of activities for visitors. You can walk, jog, or even rent a bike to explore the area. The bike lanes from Pier 50 to Pier 62 provide a smooth and scenic ride, and you can even ride all the way to Alki Beach in West Seattle. If you're feeling adventurous, try stand-up paddleboarding or jetskiing, or take a sailing trip on Seattle's Tall Ship for an unforgettable experience on Elliott Bay.
Dining and Drinks
The Seattle Waterfront is known for its fresh seafood and vibrant dining scene. Elliott's Oyster House has been a favourite since the 1970s for its chowder and bivalves. For happy hour drinks, head to Six Seven Restaurant inside the Edgewater Hotel for stunning views of Elliott Bay. Other great options include the festive gastropub Hook & Plow and the family-friendly Crab Pot at Miner's Landing.
Shopping
Stroll along the piers and browse the eclectic mix of shops offering Seattle souvenirs, sports apparel, and unique items. Pirate's Plunder and Seattle Shop at 56 are great places to start your search for the perfect memento of your trip.
Attractions
The Seattle Great Wheel is a must-visit attraction, offering cosy gondolas and breathtaking sunset views. For a different perspective, take a narrated excursion with Argosy Cruises and keep an eye out for resident orcas. If you're an aviation enthusiast, the Museum of Flight is a great choice, easily accessible via Uber.
Seasonal Activities
May is a particularly vibrant month on the Seattle Waterfront, with the return of cruise ships and the opening of patios. It's also a great time to spot whales and marine wildlife. The Waterfront Shuttle, which runs from May 2nd, offers a convenient and car-free way to explore the area.
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Visit the Museum of Flight
The Museum of Flight is a private non-profit air and space museum in Seattle. It is the largest private air and space museum in the world, attracting over 500,000 visitors annually. The museum is located at the southern end of King County International Airport (Boeing Field) in the city of Tukwila, immediately south of Seattle. It is just 7-8 miles from Seattle Airport, and visitors report that it is easy to kill 6 hours there.
The Museum of Flight was established in 1965 and is fully accredited by the American Alliance of Museums. It was built around Boeing's original factory and is home to more than 150 aircraft. The museum's roots can be traced back to the Pacific Northwest Aviation Historical Foundation, which was founded in 1965 to restore a 1929 Boeing 80A-1. The restoration took 16 years and, in 1975, The William E. Boeing Red Barn was acquired to house the aircraft. The Red Barn is an all-wooden structure, built in 1909, and was barged up the Duwamish River to its current location at the end of Boeing Field.
The museum has a variety of exhibits, displays, and experiences. Visitors can learn about the history of aviation, from the Wright Brothers to the present day, and even the future of commercial space flight. There are flight simulators, including one where you can land on the moon, and another where you can soar over Puget Sound. You can also try your hand at barrel-rolling a Mustang or sit in the cockpit of the fastest jet on Earth. The museum also has an Aviation Learning Centre, a Challenger Learning Centre, and a summer camp.
The Museum of Flight has an array of unique event venues, exciting experiences, exquisite catering, and experienced staff. It also has a gift shop with an assortment of air and space-themed gifts. Certain days of the month have free entry, so be sure to check before you go.
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Check out Westfield Southcenter Mall
If you're looking for a quick, easy-to-reach destination during a layover at Seattle Airport, look no further than Westfield Southcenter Mall. Located just 10-15 minutes away from the airport by taxi or rideshare, this mall is the largest shopping centre in Washington state and the Pacific Northwest. With its bright and open spaces, it's the perfect place to unwind, indulge in some retail therapy, or enjoy a variety of entertainment options.
For shoppers, Westfield Southcenter offers a diverse range of stores, from popular brands like Abercrombie & Fitch, Apple, Aveda, Coach, Disney Store, H&M, and many more. You'll also find a mix of well-known restaurants, including Bahama Breeze, The Cheesecake Factory, and Olive Garden, as well as regional favourites like Blue C Sushi and Duke's Chowder House. If you're short on time or simply prefer a quick bite, the dining terrace provides stunning views of Mt. Rainier while offering fast-casual dining options such as Chipotle and Panda Express.
Beyond shopping and dining, the mall also caters to those seeking relaxation or entertainment. Gene Juarez Salon & Spa, a Pacific Northwest icon, offers a full range of beauty and wellness services, including facials, massages, hair, and nail treatments. For family fun, you can catch the latest blockbusters at the AMC Theatres IMAX or enjoy activities like bowling, karaoke, billiards, and arcades at Round1 Entertainment's massive 40,000-square-foot venue.
Additionally, the mall provides convenient services for travellers, such as tour bookings, hotel shuttle and taxi services, currency exchange, complimentary Wi-Fi, and a family lounge. Don't forget to pick up your complimentary Traveler Privileges Card at the Seattle Southside Visitor Center to take advantage of exclusive shopping and dining discounts. With its proximity to the airport and array of attractions, Westfield Southcenter Mall is an excellent choice for a relaxing and enjoyable layover experience.
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Enjoy the Des Moines waterfront
If you're looking for a peaceful escape from the bustling airport, the Des Moines waterfront is a mere 15-minute drive away and offers a serene oasis to unwind and reconnect with nature. This beach community, nestled on the eastern shore of Puget Sound, boasts stunning views of the Olympic Mountains and gorgeous sunsets on the Des Moines pier.
Des Moines Beach Park, with its rich history and majestic vistas, is a highlight of the area. Spanning 19.6 acres, the park caters to all ages and interests, offering leisurely trails, beachside picnics, and immersive water play. The vibrant ecosystem and tranquil sounds of the sea create a peaceful yet engaging atmosphere for visitors seeking solace or adventure.
The Des Moines waterfront also boasts a diverse array of dining and shopping options. From unique eateries serving fresh seafood to quaint cafes and fine dining establishments, there's something to satisfy every taste. The area is known for its top-notch restaurants, including Auntie Irene's Coffee Shop and Anthony's HomePort, where you can savour a snack while watching boats sail by.
For those seeking cultural experiences, Des Moines delivers with museums, symphonies, opera, and theatre companies all within a 30-minute radius. The area also offers a range of outdoor activities, including paddleboarding, trail walking, beachcombing, and scuba diving. With its convenient access to both urban attractions and natural wonders, Des Moines is a happening hub that promises an unforgettable experience.
Whether you're a local or a visitor, a day spent at the Des Moines waterfront is a day of refreshment and enjoyment. With its scenic beauty, engaging activities, and vibrant culture, it's the perfect place to relax and savour life's simple pleasures. So, if you find yourself with a long layover at Seattle Airport, consider exploring the charming waterfront of Des Moines.
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Discover the Space Needle
If you're looking for something to do around Seattle Airport, the Space Needle is a must-see. This iconic structure is one of the most famous landmarks in Seattle and offers breathtaking views of the city. Here's everything you need to know about discovering the Space Needle.
The Space Needle is an observation tower located in the Lower Queen Anne neighbourhood of Seattle, Washington. It was built in 1962 for the World's Fair, which drew over 2.3 million visitors. Standing at 605 feet (184 meters) tall, it was once the tallest structure west of the Mississippi River. The tower is an impressive 138 feet (42 meters) wide and weighs a whopping 9,550 short tons (8,660 metric tons). It is designed to withstand winds of up to 200 mph (320 km/h) and earthquakes of up to a 9.0 magnitude, demonstrating the engineering marvel behind it.
When you visit the Space Needle, you can take a high-speed elevator that will whisk you up to the observation deck in just 41 seconds. From there, you'll be greeted by panoramic views of the city and beyond. You'll be able to see the downtown Seattle skyline, the Olympic and Cascade Mountains, Mount Rainier, Mount Baker, Elliott Bay, and the islands in Puget Sound. The floor-to-ceiling glass windows provide an uninterrupted view, giving you the feeling of floating above the city.
The Space Needle also has a unique history and design. It was the result of a collaboration between businessman Edward E. Carlson and architect John Graham, Jr., combining their ideas of a giant balloon and a flying saucer, respectively. The tower's hourglass profile and tripod design were introduced by Victor Steinbrueck, reflecting the isthmus that Seattle sits on. The Space Needle even has its own mascot, the Wheedle, a furry creature from a children's book who lives on top of the tower and causes its light to flash.
In addition to the observation deck, the Space Needle also features a restaurant, offering a dining experience like no other. You can enjoy a meal with a view, taking in the cityscape and the surrounding natural beauty. The Space Needle is easily accessible from Seattle Airport, and it is a popular tourist destination, providing a memorable and iconic experience of Seattle.
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Frequently asked questions
Seattle-Tacoma International Airport (SEA) is located in a region called Seattle Southside, which offers world-class shopping, engaging museums, miles of beautiful coastline, unique dining options, family-friendly activities, and art and cultural attractions. Here are some specific suggestions:
- Chihuly Garden and Glass
- The Museum of Flight
- Pike Place Market
- Des Moines Beach Park and the waterfront area
- Seattle Indoor Skydiving Experience
The Children's Play Area located near gates A1 and D25 is a great option for families travelling with kids. The Children's Play Area can be easily located using the airport's interactive map.
There are plenty of dining options near the Seattle airport. Denny's offers around-the-clock breakfast and casual family dining. Auntie Irene’s Coffee Shop is a local favourite for both coffee and ice cream. For seafood lovers, Anthony’s HomePort is a great choice. Tyger Tyger and Taylor Shellfish are also recommended for meals closer to the Seattle Center.
There are more than 60 hotels within a 10-mile radius of Sea-Tac Airport. Some options include:
- Hilton Garden Inn Seattle Airport
- Cedarbrook Lodge
- Red Roof Inn Seattle Airport
- Ramada SeaTac
- SureStay by Best Western Hotel
Some popular tourist attractions near the Seattle airport include:
- Space Needle
- Museum of Pop Culture (MoPop)
- Chihuly Museum
- Pioneer Square
- Washington State Ferries
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