(Newswire.net — July 3, 2019) — Seattle is an amazing tourist destination with a great public transport system. While getting around has its own benefits, you don’t really need to rent a car to experience what Seattle has to offer. In fact, public transportation is sometimes the most economical and efficient way to tour a city or town. You actually get to see more because you’re not focusing on the wheel. Here are a few tips on getting around Seattle without a car.
Getting Around Seattle Without a Car
Getting around Seattle without a car is a lot more doable than it seems. You can take the light rail, travel by bus, take the streetcar, try a segway tour or more.
1. Central Link Light Rail
This is one of the cheapest ways to move from Seattle airport to downtown Seattle. The fares are quite affordable and it accommodates people of all ages. Children under the age of five get to ride for free while adults over 65 years of age and people with disabilities have reduced fares. The link light rail operates all year round but schedules vary for weekdays, weekends and holidays.
2. By Bus
Seattle’s electronic trolley and bus system covers a significant part of Seattle. With well over 200 bus and trolley routes, you can go wherever you want by bus. Fares are based on travel time and zones. Off-peak fares are slightly lower than peak commuter hours but senior and children fares remain the same. If you opt for the bus, consider getting exact change.
3. South Lake Union Streetcar
The South Lake Union Streetcar runs every 15 minutes and operates all year round. It’s a convenient way to move around in Seattle and has specific hours of operation. You can pay the fares using cash, ORCA card or tickets upon boarding.
4. Seattle Center Monorail
The Seattle Monorail is a two-minute ride that takes you above the streets of Seattle. It is without a doubt an easy yet interesting way to get around Seattle. Monorail tickets can be purchased only in cash at the monorail ticket booth. Fares are quite affordable with children under four riding for free while seniors and disabled persons also getting cheaper fares.
5. Walking
Walking allows you to see most of Seattle’s attractions and is also a healthy way to move around. Since most of Seattle’s attractions are centered around the downtown area, you’ll have an easy time walking from one attraction to another. Be sure to invest in a comfy pair of shoes and bear in mind that you can always hop on the bus if you feel exhausted.
6. King County Water Taxi
This water taxi will take you from downtown Seattle to Vashon Island and West Seattle. You can pay your fares by cash, ticket ORCA card when you board the water taxi. Children and bicycle riders get to ride for free while seniors and disabled persons enjoy reduced fares. The King County Water Taxi operates seven days a week during the summer and only on weekdays during winter and doesn’t operate during certain holidays.
7. Segways
Instead of walking around the city, you can opt for a segway tour that’ll take you through all of the places that are on any tourist’s checklist. While you’re on the tour, you can also learn fun facts about the places you visit and about segways.
Bottom Line
Getting around Seattle without a car is easy. There are plenty of public transportation options or you can simply decide to walk. Whichever means of transportation you choose, Seattle has plenty of breathtaking sites and views to enjoy.