Exploring Seattle: Airport Layover Attractions

what to see around seattle airport

If you're looking for things to do near Seattle Airport, you're in luck! The airport itself has plenty to offer, from live music to local artisan shops, an art walk, and good food. If you're looking to venture further, you can take the light rail into downtown Seattle for around $4. There, you can visit Pike Place Market, the Space Needle, Chihuly Glass Garden, and MoPop (the Museum of Pop Culture). If you're looking to stay closer to the airport, you can visit the Museum of Flight, or head to Seahurst Park to dip your toes in the waters of Puget Sound and take in the views of the Olympic Mountains.

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Pike Place Market

In addition to its vast array of shopping options, Pike Place Market provides easy access to the waterfront and attractions like Pier 57 and the Great Wheel. The market's parking garage has three entrances/exits and offers daily and monthly parking options. The garage has a height clearance of 6'8" and charges $15 for an early bird special if you enter before 9 am and exit by 9 pm.

With its proximity to the airport and wealth of offerings, Pike Place Market is an excellent choice for travellers looking to explore the local culture and crafts of Seattle during a layover or before their flight. It is a must-visit destination, showcasing the best of Seattle's markets and providing a glimpse into the city's vibrant artisanal community.

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Chihuly Glass Garden

If you're looking for things to see around Seattle Airport, the Chihuly Glass Garden is a must-see. Located just 16 to 17 miles from the airport, it is a unique setting that combines art and nature in a stunning display of glass sculptures and lush landscaping. The driving distance is approximately 15.9 miles and will take around 22 minutes, costing between $2 and $5. Alternatively, you can take a 47-minute bus ride or a 22-minute taxi ride for $50 to $60.

The Chihuly Glass Garden features eight indoor galleries showcasing the creative and colourful blown glass sculptures of renowned artist Dale Chihuly. The galleries are well laid out, with glassworks displayed beautifully in the open, without any protective casing. The highlight of the exhibition is a 100-foot-long glass sculpture, one of the artist's largest, suspended in a glass conservatory or centrepiece glasshouse. The sculpture's colour palette includes reds, oranges, yellows, and ambers, creating a visually stunning effect.

The outdoor gardens are just as impressive, with glassworks thoughtfully presented amid lush landscaping. The artwork is twisted and turned into delicate, complex structures of beauty, creating a unique and memorable experience. Visitors can also watch live demonstrations of glass-blowing techniques, providing a deeper understanding of the artistic process. The Persian Ceiling, in particular, has been described as an amazing experience and well worth the entrance fee.

The Chihuly Glass Garden is located at the base of the iconic Space Needle, offering a combined ticket option for cost savings or a Seattle City Pass. Visitors can easily spend 90 minutes to two hours exploring the galleries and gardens, making it an excellent attraction to visit during a layover or when looking for things to see near Seattle Airport. The museum has received numerous positive reviews, with many recommending it as a rewarding cultural experience.

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Museum of Flight

The Museum of Flight is a private non-profit air and space museum in the Seattle metropolitan area. It is the largest private air and space museum in the world, attracting over 500,000 visitors annually. The museum was established in 1965 and is fully accredited by the American Alliance of Museums.

The Museum of Flight is located at the southern end of King County International Airport (Boeing Field) in the city of Tukwila, immediately south of Seattle. It is built around Boeing's original factory and is about 7-8 miles from the Seattle-Tacoma International Airport.

The museum offers a wide range of exciting and interactive tours and experiences. It has more than 150 aircraft in its collection, including the first flight-worthy B747, the first presidential jet, and the Concorde. Visitors can walk the aisle of JFK's Air Force One, learn about the history of aviation, from the Wright Brothers to revolutionary aircraft and spy planes, and even experience flying through simulators. The museum also has a space gallery, with an exhibit called "Space: Exploring the New Frontier", which traces the evolution of space flight from the times of Robert Goddard to the present and future commercial spaceflight.

The Museum of Flight also has a gift shop with air and space-themed gifts, as well as an on-site restaurant and cafe. On the first Thursday of each month, the museum stays open late, and admission is free from 5:00 PM to 9:00 PM.

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Local restaurants and shops

If you're looking for local restaurants and shops near Seattle Airport, you're in luck! The area offers a variety of dining and shopping options to explore and keep yourself entertained during a layover.

For foodies, Seattle Airport and its surroundings provide a diverse range of culinary delights. From burgers to BBQ, sushi to salads, and everything in between, there are over 45 eateries within the airport to satisfy your cravings. Some notable spots include Ballard Brew Hall, a full-service bar and restaurant, Bambuza Vietnam Kitchen & Bar, and Caffé D’arte, known for its artisan coffee. If you're feeling adventurous and have a longer layover, you can even venture out to nearby Pike Place Market, which is renowned for its local, homemade offerings, arts and crafts, and unique vendors.

In addition to the restaurants, Seattle Airport also boasts an array of local shops and attractions. You can find local artisan shops and live music within the airport, making your wait more enjoyable. If you're interested in exploring further, the Seattle Chocolate Factory Store, located just 2.7 miles from the airport, might be a sweet destination.

For those who appreciate a good brew, Tap and Pour, and Vyne Washington Tasting Room showcase local and regional independent breweries. These spots offer a unique opportunity to sample the flavours of the region.

With so many options available, you're sure to find something to suit your tastes and interests, whether you're looking for a quick bite, a memorable souvenir, or a fun activity to pass the time during your layover at Seattle Airport.

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Seahurst Park

If you're looking for things to see and do around Seattle Airport, there are plenty of options to keep you entertained. One such option is Seahurst Park, a beach park located in Burien, south of Seattle. The park offers a long stretch of public beach, with trails through the forest and along the beach, providing a great opportunity to enjoy the outdoors and take in the natural scenery.

The beach at Seahurst Park is highly regarded, offering a great place to watch the sunset, beachcomb, or simply enjoy the sea breeze. The park also provides sheltered areas for parties and picnics, as well as restrooms and a store for refreshments. It's a popular spot for families and those looking for an afternoon getaway without having to drive too far from the city.

To get to Seahurst Park, you can drive from Highway 509 in Burien. Exit onto SW 148th Street, turn west, and then right onto Ambaum Boulevard SW. After a few blocks, turn left onto SW 144th Street, and then right onto 13th Avenue SW, which will lead you to the park entrance. The park is open from 8 AM to 9:30 PM, and there is no entrance fee, making it a budget-friendly option for those looking to stretch their legs and get some fresh air during a long layover.

Frequently asked questions

You can take the Link light rail from the airport into downtown Seattle. Once there, you can visit Pike Place Market, the Space Needle, Chihuly Garden and Glass, or the Museum of Pop Culture (MoPop).

Beecher's Cheese, d’laurenti, piroshky piroshky, and Michou deli are all great options for a quick meal. For a sit-down meal, try Tyger Tyger or Taylor Shellfish.

Seahurst Park offers a view of the Olympic Mountains and a chance to walk along the beach. The Highline SeaTac Botanical Gardens is an 11-acre garden open all year with no admission fee.

The Museum of Flight is a great option for those interested in aviation and space. The Seattle Art Museum is another good choice for art enthusiasts.

The Underground Tour in Pioneer Square offers a fun introduction to Seattle's history. The Family Fun Center and Bullwinkle's Restaurant provide indoor games and amusements, including bumper boats, mini-golf, and go-kart racing.

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