May 12, 2026
Soccer fans from around the world are headed to Seattle this summer as the city hosts six matches at Lumen Field (called “Seattle Stadium” during the tournament).
The good news is getting from Seattle Tacoma International Airport (SEA) to kickoff is easy thanks to convenient light rail, walkable neighborhoods, and vibrant districts along the way.
Follow this guide to get from gate to game while enjoying all Seattle has to offer.
1. Land at SEA Airport: Welcome to Seattle
- You’ve just landed in Seattle. If you’re flying in domestically and checked a bag, follow the signs to the Baggage Claim
- If you’ve flown from another country, you’ll go through Customs and Immigration and connect with your bags there. Learn about the international arrival process at SEA Airport
Don’t forget to tag @flysea and share your journey with us!
2. Choose your transportation
Whether you’re heading directly to the stadium or to your hotel or Airbnb, you’ve got options. The stadiums are a 20-minute drive from the airport (depending on traffic), but during soccer matches, roadways are sure to be busy.
Or check out these other options:
- Bus that runs all night: Sound Transit’s Night Bus service travels between the airport and downtown Seattle and runs about every 30 minutes, starting about 15 minutes after the last Link light rail train service . Pick up is at International Boulevard and S 176th Street, Bay 1
- Ride share or taxi: (Pick up your ride on the third floor of SEA’s Parking Garage)
- Family and friends pick up: head out the door and check which zone is busiest; you can meet your driver on either the Arrivals or Departures drive
- Hotel shuttle (if you’re staying near the airport): Pick up is on the third floor of the parking garage
Pro tip: Bypass the congestion and take Link light rail, Seattle’s fastest connection to downtown and the stadium.
- Light rail trains run every 8–15 minutes
- The ride from SEA to the stadium area takes about 38 minutes
- One-way adult fares are $3
- It’s easy, just tap to may using your credit card
Learn about transportation options from SEA
3. Best bet: Take Link light rail from SEA → Downtown
- From the terminal, cross the skybridge to the fourth floor of the airport Parking Garage
- Follow signs to the light rail station or hop on the free Train-to-Plane shuttle
- From the airport station, take a northbound train toward downtown Seattle. Take the blue or green lines towards Lynnwood City Center
Refer to the light rail route map
If you have extra time, hop off along the way to explore neighborhoods before heading to the match.
4. Exit Link light rail: Stadium station
As the name suggests, Stadium Station drops you just a short walk from the stadium gates. From the platform, it’s a quick two‑to‑three‑minute walk to the entrances.
Read more about Lumen Field or “Seattle Stadium”
5. Discover Seattle between matches
Before or after the matches, keep exploring the city by train and spend some time in neighborhoods located on or near light rail stations.
Explore the Unity Loop
Explore what makes the city special through the Unity Loop. Discover standout neighborhoods and uncover the small businesses, public art, restaurants, and cultural highlights that make the Emerald City sparkle. The Loop connects the stadiums, waterfront, and downtown with the Central District, Capitol Hill, Chinatown–International District, Pioneer Square, and SODO — helping visitors discover even more of what makes Seattle shine.
Download the SEA&WIN app to navigate the Unity Loop
Get in the Fan Zone
- Join a free Fan Zone celebration, starting June 11! Check out the Fan Zone locations (all located within the Unity Loop).
- Seattle Center — Let’s Play SEA 26
- Pacific Place — Seattle Soccer House
- Victory Hall — Seattle Matchday Live
- Meet Me at Waterfront Park — Pier 62
Don’t miss these iconic neighborhoods while you’re in Seattle, accessible by light rail or short walk or drive. And if you’re flying out to follow your team, no worries! There are plenty of ways to catch all the matches and fan it up at the airport.
SODO
Directions: Walk from the stadium or take Link light rail just one stop south of the Stadium Station to the SODO station.
Steps from the stadium, this historically industrial district offers a mix of specialty shops, winery tasting rooms, and tempting eats.
Don’t miss:
Find more tips and recommendations
Chinatown–International District
Directions: Take Link light rail to the International District/Chinatown station.
Explore Seattle’s historic Asian American neighborhood and enjoy authentic cuisine and unique galleries and boutiques.
Don’t miss:
- Wing Luke Museum of the Asian Pacific Experience
- Uwajimaya Seattle Asian Market and Grocery Store
- Seattle Pinball Museum
Find more tips and recommendations
Pioneer Square
Directions: Take Link light rail to Pioneer Square station.
Head over to Seattle’s oldest neighborhood, known for its historic brick buildings and art galleries. Settle in for a pre-match gathering at one of the many restaurants and bars before walking to the stadiums.
Don’t miss:
Find more tips and recommendations
Waterfront and Downtown
Directions: Take Link light rail to Westlake station. The waterfront is a short walk from the downtown core.
Visit iconic attractions and peruse vibrant restaurants and shops. Wander the city’s stunningly redeveloped waterfront with its family-friendly attractions, unique public art, and bustling seafood eateries.
Don’t miss:
- Pike Place Market
- Seattle Great Wheel
- Seattle Waterfront and Waterfront Park
Find more tips and recommendations:
- Check out these recommendations for “A Perfect Day on Seattle’s Waterfront”
- Read Visit Seattle’s Waterfront Guide
- Read Visit Seattle’s Downtown Seattle Guide
Capitol Hill
Directions: Take Link light rail to Capitol Hill station.
Explore this thriving and diverse district with trendy restaurants, whimsical shops, and LGBTQIA+ night spots.
Don’t miss:
Find more tips and recommendations
Central District
Directions: Easily reach the Central District with a short drive (10–15 minutes) or a 15–20 minute walk from Capitol Hill.
Wander this historically Black neighborhood and business hub offering an eclectic mix of independently- owned cafes, restaurants, shops, and vibrant cultural events and street art.
Don’t miss:
Find more tips and recommendations
Review this Central District Travel Guide
Want more?
- Stay, Explore, Cruise: Discover Seattle in 1–3 Days
- Head to the Seattle Southside:
- Check out Visit Seattle’s guide for global soccer fans
- Venture into other Seattle neighborhoods
- Uncover fantastic foodie finds
- Pacific Northwest Ultimate Road Trip
Subscribe to Fly SEA for airport travel tips and news
