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Are you stuck in Seattle with a long layover and want to explore? Don’t waste precious hours at the airport! Seattle has a lot to offer, all close together. This guide will turn your layover into a mini-Seattle adventure, with must-see spots that are super easy to get to! It is ideal with those with at least a six-hour layover. Don’t have that long? Skip to what to do in the Seattle Airport instead!
Getting Into Town From The Airport
Visitors can access downtown Seattle via light rail from the Seattle Tacoma International Airport (Seatac). Signs indicate how to get to the Link light rail station via a pedestrian bridge accessed through the parking garage. Trains generally depart every 8-10 minutes.
The ride to and from Seatac Airport on the light rail line takes about 40 minutes, so plan enough time to return without stressing.
PRO TIP: Luggage storage is available near baggage claim 9/10 for a small fee.
What to Do in Seattle During a Layover
Pike Place Market
Start your Seattle layover at Pike Place Market, a lively marketplace that offers more than just a shopping experience. Here, you’ll find rows of stalls filled with fresh fruits, veggies, and flowers grown nearby. Local artists also sell handmade crafts, making it easy to find unique souvenirs.
And don’t miss the famous Pike Place Fish Market, where you can watch experts toss fish through the air—it’s quite a show! The best time to see this is early in the day.
Take time to try local foods like fresh pastries, cheese, and Seattle’s famous coffee. You can also explore art galleries and shops nearby.
PRO TIP: Around the corner you’ll find the weird attraction of the gum wall. It’s quirky and weird and gross all at the same time!
Seattle Art Museum (SAM)
Love art but short on time? No worries! Right next door to the lively Pike Place Market, you’ll find the Seattle Art Museum (SAM), a hidden gem for art enthusiasts (and even curious visitors!).
SAM’s collection is like a time machine, taking you on a journey through history and cultures. Admire ancient sculptures from Asia, get lost in colorful paintings from Europe, and discover modern masterpieces from all over the world. There’s even a section dedicated to art from the Pacific Northwest, showcasing the creativity of the region!
SAM isn’t just about looking, it’s about experiencing art. They often have special exhibits with interactive features, perfect for sparking your imagination. Plus, they offer free mini-tours throughout the day, giving you a quick insider’s look at some of their most fascinating pieces.
Starbucks Reserve Roastery
Calling all coffee lovers! If you’re a die-hard coffee lover and have some extra time on your layover, ditch the airport coffee and head to the Starbucks Reserve Roastery, also just a short walk from Pike Place Market.
Here, you can witness the entire coffee-making process firsthand, from bean to cup. Watch them roast the beans to perfection in giant copper roasters, learn all about different brewing methods, and maybe even sample a cup (or two!) of unique Reserve coffees you won’t find anywhere else. It’s a truly immersive experience that will have you buzzing with excitement (and maybe a little caffeine!).
Space Needle
Of course, you can’ miss the icon! No Seattle layover is complete without a trip to the legendary Space Needle. This futuristic tower, shaped like a giant needle pointing to the sky, has been a city landmark since the 1962 World’s Fair.
Take a high-speed elevator up to the observation deck and prepare to be amazed. On a clear day, gigantic windows offer breathtaking 360-degree views of Seattle’s stunning skyline, the sparkling waters of Puget Sound, and even the majestic Mount Rainier. Feel like you’re walking on air with the Space Needle’s unique feature – a rotating glass floor! It lets you see the world from a whole new perspective, literally under your feet. Don’t forget to snap some cool photos while you’re at the top!
PRO TIP: Enjoy a cocktail with magnificent views! The Loupe Lounge is open Fall to Spring but there’s a smaller bar available year-round.
Seattle Great Wheel
Love Ferris wheels and fantastic views? You should visit the Seattle Great Wheel, just a short distance from the Space Needle on the scenic waterfront! This giant wheel takes you on a scenic adventure, offering breathtaking views.
Climb into a comfy, climate-controlled gondola (perfect for any weather) and slowly rise above the city. As the Seattle Great Wheel gently spins, you’ll be treated to stunning views of Seattle’s bustling harbor, the sparkling waters of Elliott Bay, and even a glimpse of the majestic Olympic Mountains in the distance. The ride lasts over 15 minutes, giving you plenty of time to take in the best views of Seattle’s seaside and downtown.
Chihuly Garden and Glass
Chihuly Garden and Glass is located just right next to the Space Needle. This must-see exhibit highlights the stunning blown glass sculptures of famous artist Dale Chihuly. Here, you can walk through eight stunning galleries.
The museum houses both established masterpieces and new works, offering a well-rounded look at Chihuly’s artistic journey. Explore galleries overflowing with stunning glass pieces, then step outside into landscaped gardens. Don’t miss the highlight—a massive 100-foot-long glass sculpture floating in a glasshouse, one of Chihuly’s largest creations ever!
While you can get up close to admire the intricate details (just don’t touch!), remember these are delicate works of art, so be respectful.
PRO TIP: To save some cash, consider purchasing a combo ticket for the Space Needle and Chihuly Garden and Glass. The Seattle CityPass might also be a good option if you plan on visiting other attractions. The exhibit is self-guided, so take your time and explore at your own pace.
Museum of Pop Culture (MoPOP)
This is a must-stop for all music lovers, sci-fi fanatics, and pop culture enthusiasts! If you’re looking for something unique and interactive during your Seattle layover, look no further than MoPOP, the Museum of Pop Culture. MoPOP isn’t your typical museum—here, pop culture comes alive! Forget dusty exhibits and step into a world of interactive displays dedicated to your favorite musicians, from legendary bands to groundbreaking solo artists.
Here, you can also unleash your inner rockstar in the Sound Lab, where you can test your DJ skills and create your own music. Get up close and personal with iconic pop culture artifacts that have shaped our world. Explore exhibits on music legends and groundbreaking films, discovering new favorite artists or movies. See legendary pop culture artifacts up close and personal. MoPOP also showcases the best with award-winning exhibits featuring music, literature, film, and television luminaries.
Additionally, the museum itself is a work of art! Designed by Frank Gehry, MoPOP’s stunning architecture itself is breathtaking, making it a must-visit on your Seattle layover.
Seattle Waterfront
Take a leisurely stroll along the scenic Seattle Waterfront. The atmosphere is lively, with people enjoying the beautiful surroundings. As you walk, keep an eye out for the unique shops around the waterfront. These aren’t your typical chain stores – they’re filled with one-of-a-kind treasures made by local artists and artisans. Find the perfect souvenir or gift to remember your Seattle layover.
While exploring, talented street performers and lively musicians might keep you company. The waterfront is a place for local artists, so you never know what kind of entertainment you might stumble upon!
Seattle Aquarium
Next, explore the underwater world at the Seattle Aquarium! This world-renowned attraction is home to an array of marine life native to the Pacific Northwest. Come face-to-face with playful otters, watch jellyfish dance gracefully, admire the majestic giants of the sea, such as salmon, and perhaps catch a glimpse of octopus.
One of the highlights of the aquarium is the Underwater Dome, where you can enjoy a 360-degree view of marine life swimming all around you. The Window on Washington Waters exhibit offers a breathtaking view of a 120,000-gallon tank filled with native marine life, and daily diver shows that provide a deeper understanding of the aquatic environment.
The aquarium also focuses on preservation education, emphasizing the importance of protecting our oceans for future generations. Through interactive displays, educational programs, and engaging presentations, visitors of all ages can learn about the efforts to conserve marine life and habitats in the Pacific Northwest.
Seattle Monorail
Hop on the Seattle Monorail for a quick and unique way to travel between downtown Seattle and the Seattle Center (home to the Space Needle and MoPOP), hop on the Seattle Monorail. This futuristic transportation system offers a fun and efficient way to see the city, combining convenience with a sense of nostalgia.
The Monorail travels directly between Westlake Center (located at 5th and Pine Street) and Seattle Center, making it easy to access some of the city’s most popular attractions. As America’s first full-scale commercial monorail system, the Seattle Monorail has been a beloved part of the city since it opened during the 1962 World’s Fair.
The Monorail, which departs typically every 10 minutes, provides quick and reliable transportation, transporting you above Seattle’s busy streets in just a few minutes.
Chinatown-International District
Don’t miss out on exploring the Chinatown-International District, a culturally interesting neighborhood with delicious cuisine. The lively streets are lined with colorful shops, markets, and historical landmarks.
The district is full of unique stores where you can find traditional Asian goods to modern-day pieces. Make sure to stop by at Uwajimaya, a large Asian supermarket filled with exotic groceries, fresh produce, and unique souvenirs.
Of course, your visit would not be complete without sampling foods! The neighborhood is known for a variety of restaurants serving authentic Asian cuisine. Dim sum, sushi, pho, and bubble tea are some of the must-tries! Perhaps try a meal at one of the area’s iconic eateries, such as Tai Tung, the oldest Chinese restaurant in Seattle, or Phnom Penh Noodle House for delicious Cambodian dishes.
Seattle Public Library
Finally, for book enthusiasts, visit the Seattle Public Library, a modern architectural gem only a short walk from Pike Place Market. The library’s unique design features a striking glass and steel structure that offers breathtaking city views. The open and airy interior, filled with natural light, provides visitors with a welcoming and inspiring space.
Even if you have just 30 minutes to an hour, a visit to the Seattle Public Library is definitely worth your time. Start by admiring the building’s exterior and its unique geometric patterns.
Once inside, take a ride on the escalators to the upper floors, where you’ll find comfortable reading areas, public art installations, and of course, a large collection of books.
You can easily spend hours browsing the shelves, discovering new authors, and diving into different genres. The library also provides a quiet and serene environment, perfect for getting lost in a good book.
What to Do at Sea-Tac Airport During a Shorter Seattle Layover
Don’t have at least six hours to explore downtown? Check out these relatively close Seattle and airport sites during a short layover.
Highline Botanical Garden
A great way to stretch your legs in between flights is to visit the nearby Highline SeaTac Botanical Garden. Open daily from 8 am to 7 pm with free admission, and boasting summer concerts, this community garden is a must-see for nature lovers. The Japanese Garden receives high praise from fans of botanical gardens.
Grab a meal
Unless you’re in business class on an international flight, you probably need a decent meal on your journey. The airport offers a varied food selection. Visit Africa Lounge for a taste of African cocktails and flavors.
Surf the Web
Like many other airports, you can access free wifi at the airport. Maybe this is your chance to catch up on emails or download a Netflix show to watch on your next flight.
Enjoy Live Music
The airport enjoys a lively music scene, so check out where the live music performances will be and pick a seat near the entertainment! It’s like having a free concert.
Or take some quiet time
There’s a sensory room for neurodivergent passengers. And an Interfaith Prayer and Meditation room if you’d like some time to reflect. Guests can visit both of these quieter places for a break.
Relax in one of the lounges
In addition to the airport lounges enjoyed by members with privileges at United, Delta, Alaska Airlines and British Airways, the Seattle-Tacoma International Airport is also home to an American Express Centurion Lounge.
Another option is to buy a day pass for $50 for The Club at Sea, found in Concourse A and South Satellite. Guests enjoy a quieter experience with complimentary snacks and beverages, including bar service.
And military members can enjoy the USO located on the Mezzanine Level above Checkpoint 3. The Center’s open hours are not the same every day and it is not open Tuesdays or Sundays, so check the schedule ahead of time.
Final Thoughts on Things to Do in a Seattle Layover
Don’t miss your opportunity to explore Seattle’s downtown area while you’re on a long Seattle layover! Experience unique viewpoints like the Space Needle, the fish throwing at Pike Place, and so many other places if time permits.
Check out these related posts:
- 12 Top Reasons to Book an Alaska Cruise
- Amazing Things to Do in Vancouver
- A Self-Guided Walking Tour of Skagway, Alaska
Happy travels,
Annick, The Common Traveler
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Raised as a third culture kid living in South America and Europe, Annick caught the travel bug early. As an empty-nester, Annick enjoys sharing her tips for traveling for those with champagne taste and beer budgets.