August 18, 2025
Travel tips provided by the Seattle Southside Regional Tourism Authority
Turn extra time on your hands at Seattle-Tacoma International Airport (SEA) into local adventures with themed itineraries that match your interests. Whether you’re into food, art, nature, or shopping, explore curated experiences only minutes from SEA Airport — a perfect experience for making the most of your time in the area!
Before you leave the airport
SEA Spot Saver — Skip the security line for FREE at SEA. No membership needed. Experience expedited screening from 4:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m. daily. Make your reservation up to five days in advance or at the terminal for same-day service, to check in with ease after your explorations
Baggage storage services by Smarte Carte — Need to store your luggage while you go adventuring? Just drop your bags with Smarte Carte’s Baggage Storage. It’s available on a first come, first serve basis and is located on the Baggage Claim level between Carousels 9 and 10 from 7:00 a.m. to 11:00 p.m. daily. Long and short-term luggage storage runs from $17-35 per piece.
Getting out of the airport
Link light rail — It’s easy to find the Link light rail station at the airport. Head to the terminal’s onsite parking garage on the fourth floor near Alaska Airlines ticketing. Follow the blue and green walkway to the station or enter from the sky bridge on International Boulevard. There are step-by-step instructions on the interactive map.
Rideshare and taxis — The majority of Lyft and Uber pick-up options are on the third floor of the airport parking garage. Premium Uber rides, like Uber Black, meet at the baggage claim level door of your choice. SEA Airport offers both Flat Rate Taxis and Metered Taxis. They are located on the third floor of the parking garage on the north and south curb.
Head outdoors
Get to these spots by rideshare or taxi.
Highline SeaTac Botanical Garden and North SeaTac Park — Stroll through hundreds of plant and flower varietals, a stream and ponds, and a Japanese garden. The park also has a BMX track, frisbee golf track, RC track, playgrounds, and fields where you can watch planes fly overhead.
Des Moines Beach Park and Trail — Take the paved trail from the Angle Lake light rail station and walk 2.2 miles to the park with views of the Olympic mountains, beach combing on the Puget Sound, and lush green space. Also accessible by light rail.
Saltwater State Park — Spot whales, go beachcombing, enjoy easy hikes through the forest, or have a picnic.
Redondo Beach — Enjoy a sandy beach, walk the boardwalk, rent a kayak, or go tidepooling.
Seahurst Park — Explore this saltwater beach park with views of the Olympic Mountains, picnic tables, and a playground.
Angle Lake Park — Check out the sandy beach, dock, playground, splash park, and marvel at views of Mt. Rainier.
Local eats
Hungry for some local fare? Here are a few ideas to try within walking distance of SEA Airport.
Sharps Roast House — Savor slow-roasted meats, scratch-made pasta, and craft cocktails from the restaurant’s in-house distillery in a warm, inviting setting.
Mango Thai Cuisine and Bar — Enjoy authentic Thai flavors in a stylish, welcoming space with beautiful décor to match the food.
13 Coins Restaurant — Dine in retro-glam booths with oversized portions of American and Italian classics at this iconic, late-night favorite.
Seek out delicious dining with these options accessible by rideshare or taxi.
Anthony's HomePort and Lower Deck — Head to the waterfront for fresh-caught seafood and Puget Sound views in a quintessential Pacific Northwest setting.
Westfield Southcenter — Explore a wide variety of dining options — from delicate soup dumplings at the renowned Din Tai Fung, to global comfort food and desserts at The Cheesecake Factory, and interactive grilling at Gen Korean BBQ House. You’ll also find a bustling food court and many other eateries offering everything from quick bites to full sit-down meals.
By light rail, try these delicious choices.
Pancake Chef — Step back in time at this nostalgic diner known for hearty breakfasts and a classic American menu.
Zain Restaurant and Bakery Café — Taste rich East African flavors with traditional dishes and warm hospitality in an unassuming setting.
Check out additional themed options through these links to the Seattle Southside website:
Family dining options — Discover casual, kid-friendly spots with crowd-pleasing menus for all ages.
Outdoor dining options — Enjoy your meal al fresco with scenic or street-side seating options.
Dumpling options — Delight in savory dumplings from various culinary traditions.
Korean BBQ options — Find a full list of grill-your-own meats and traditional Korean sides in lively, interactive settings.
Other Thai restaurants — Explore more Thai favorites for spicy curries and comforting noodles.
Pizza — Grab a slice (or a pie) with toppings ranging from classic to gourmet.
All dining options — Find the full list of local eateries to satisfy any craving.
Trails and passes
Get to these spots by rideshare or taxi.
Use these fun and quirky trails and passes to explore the region and earn prizes and discounts along the way.
Bubble Tea Trail — Sign up for the free trail to explore the bubble tea capital.
UFO Mysteries Trail — Sign up for the free trail visit the locations important to the 1947 UFO reports on Maury Island.
Scenes Trail — Sign up for the free trail, explore art, history, and cultural locations around the Southside.
Savings Pass — Sign up for the free savings pass at businesses around the region.
Overnight stays
If you need a place to stay overnight, there are a variety of hotels nearby. Scroll the listings and search from the airport address (17801 International Blvd, SeaTac, WA 98158) to see which properties are closest.
Find information about Seattle Southside options for cruise travelers.
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Images courtesy of Explore Seattle Southside.
