Seattle is a great place to visit for those who don’t want to drive because the city is always changing and it’s easy to get around on foot. Getting around the city is easy because it has a good public transportation system, well-designed walkways, and easy-to-use taxi options. Choosing the right neighborhood can make your car-free trip much better, whether you’re here to enjoy local coffee, see the beautiful waterfront, or see famous sights like the Space Needle. This guide will show you the best area to stay in Seattle without a car. That way, you can enjoy everything this exciting city has to offer without worrying about parking or driving.
Top Considerations When Staying in Seattle Without a Car
If you want to live in Seattle without a car, there are a few things you should keep in mind. These will not only make your trip easier, but will also allow you to fully enjoy the city’s unique charm. These are the most important things you should think about to ensure that your experience goes smoothly and is fun.
1. Proximity to Public Transportation
Seattle has a large and efficient public transportation system that can take you to almost any location in the city. As a tourist who doesn’t have a car, you should try to stay in places that are close to the following:
Link Light Train: Seattle’s main rail line, the Link Light Rail connects the city to Sea-Tac International Airport (Sea-Tac), downtown, Capitol Hill, the University District, and other important locations. If you live near a light rail stop, you can get to long distances quickly without worrying about traffic.
Bus Network: King County Metro Transit runs a large bus network that goes to every area of Seattle. Buses run frequently, don’t cost much, and often connect places the light rail doesn’t go to. When choosing a place to stay, find out how far it is from major bus stops and routes. Staying near a bus line can make it much easier for you to get around.
Seattle Streetcar: Another great way to get around the city is by taking the Seattle Streetcar. The South Lake Union line runs from downtown through the South Lake Union area, which is growing rapidly. On the other hand, the First Hill Line connects Capitol Hill to the International District. Staying in places easily accessible by train is a great way to get around.
Ferries: The famous boat system in Seattle is one of the best things about the Pacific Northwest. It’s also a great way to visit islands like Bainbridge and Vashon for a day. If you want to visit more than one island, you’ll want to stay in an area near the water or close to ferry ports. Since the Washington State Ferry terminal is close to downtown, being close to this area can give you more travel options.
If you choose an area with good public transportation, you can see more of Seattle without having to deal with parking, traffic, or streets you don’t know
2. Walkability
Different parts of Seattle are easier to get around than others. If you’re visiting without a car, choosing the right area can make your time there better. In places that are easy to get around on foot, you can reach restaurants, sights, and other important services without having to use public transportation.
Good streets for walking: Downtown, Belltown, Capitol Hill, and Pioneer Square are all great neighborhoods for walking and getting around. These areas have wide sidewalks, well-lit streets, and plenty of places for people to cross the street. If you stay in one of these neighborhoods, you can enjoy the view of the area more and spend less time trying to find ways to get around.
Thoughts on Hilly Ground: It’s important to remember that Seattle is known for its hills, even though many parts of the city are flat and easy to walk. Some neighborhoods have steep slopes, such as Queen Anne or places near the water. These hilly areas have great views of the city and Puget Sound, but they may not be the best places for walking long distances, especially if you have trouble getting around or are carrying a lot of luggage. If getting around is important to you, research the neighborhood’s elevation and terrain.
Walk Score: Seattle is one of the best places to walk in the US, and some neighborhoods have very high walk scores. There’s a point scale from 0 to 100 called the Walk Score that shows how easy it is to live somewhere without a car. The better the score, the better the place is for walking. For example:
- Downtown: Walk Score 98 (Walker’s Paradise)
- Belltown: Walk Score 96 (Walker’s Paradise)
- Capitol Hill: Walk Score 90 (Very Walkable)
Staying in an area that’s easy to get around on foot can make your trip even more enjoyable. You can explore Seattle’s culture, shops, and bars more personally and at your own pace.
3. Nearby Attractions
If you don’t have a car, it’s important to live close to what you want to see in Seattle. That way, you can spend more time enjoying the city and less time walking around. If you live close to major attractions, you can walk or take a bus to most places, saving you time and the hassle of dealing with traffic and parking. Take a look at the following:
Sites: Staying near sites like Pike Place Market, the Space Needle, or the Seattle Art Museum will save you time and money. There are many such sites near Downtown Seattle, Belltown, and Lower Queen Anne. Since they are close by, you can fit more sights into your schedule without worrying about long commutes.
Cultural experiences: If you want to focus on Seattle’s vibrant arts and culture scene, Capitol Hill and Pioneer Square are great places to stay because they are filled with galleries, shows, and music venues. You can enjoy the local culture at these places without taking a bus or train.
Eating and shopping: Different neighborhoods in Seattle are known for their unique restaurants and small shops. Capitol Hill, Ballard, and South Lake Union are known for a variety of restaurants and unique shops. If you stay in or near these places, your trip will be more enjoyable because you don’t have to plan your transportation in advance. You can simply walk to your next meal or unique gifts.
Access to the outdoors: Seattle is known for its parks and beautiful nature. If you prefer to be in green areas, you may want to live in an area near Discovery Park, Volunteer Park, or Lake Union Park. These open spaces are a nice break from the busy city streets, and are easily accessible from areas that are good for walking or taking public transportation.
Being close to major sights not only makes your trip more enjoyable, but it also makes it easier to see all of Seattle’s neighborhoods, giving you more time to enjoy the city’s history, food, and culture.
Best Areas to Stay in Seattle Without a Car
1. Downtown Seattle
The city of Seattle is a great place for tourists to visit due to its proximity to major landmarks and lively atmosphere. The area is full of shops, bars, and cultural sites, making it a great place for tourists to stay.
Why it’s great without a car:-
Walking facilities:
One of the best things about downtown Seattle is that it’s very easy to get around on foot, as many places are just a few blocks away. With wide streets, well-marked crossings, and beautiful pedestrian paths, it’s one of the best places in the city for people to walk.
Pike Place Market: Most downtown hotels are just steps away from this famous market. You can spend hours looking at fresh food, handmade goods, seafood, and crafts. You can also get a closer look at Seattle’s vibrant street culture by walking here.
Seattle Waterfront: The Seattle Waterfront is just a short walk from the market and has some fun things to do, like the Great Wheel and the Seattle Aquarium. It’s a beautiful place to stroll and enjoy the view of Elliott Bay and the Olympic Mountains. The harbor recently had a revitalization project that made it easier for people to walk by improving paths and links.
Shopping district: The retail core has many shops, ranging from high-end department stores to unique shops. You can visit a lot of shops, whether you’re interested in clothing, tech, or gifts, without having to worry about how to get there.
Pioneer Square: Pioneer Square is a 15-minute walk south of Market and features old buildings, art studios, and small shops. It’s a great place to wander around in the afternoon.
Westlake Center and Seattle Center: Westlake Center and Seattle Center are both nearby. Westlake Center is the heart of the shopping district and can be reached on foot or by monorail. You can take the Seattle Center Monorail from there to see the Space Needle, Museum of Pop Culture (MoPOP), and Chihuly Garden & Glass. The train makes it easy to see more of the city without driving.
Public Transportation:
It’s easy to get around downtown Seattle without a car, thanks to its vast public transportation system. You can get to different parts of the city and beyond quickly and inexpensively with a Link of buses, light rail, streetcars, and boats.
Link Light Rail: The Link Light Rail is the main way people get around the city. Westlake, University Street, and Pioneer Square stations are some of the most important stops in downtown. The light rail runs from downtown to Seattle-Tacoma International Airport, Capitol Hill, and the University District. It’s an important service for both locals and visitors. The light rail makes it easy to get to and from the airport. It’s a direct 40-minute ride from downtown.
Buses: King County Metro Transit runs a large bus system with several lines that converge in downtown Seattle. Buses run frequently, and many lines go to famous places like Queen Anne, Capitol Hill, and Ballard. There are also several fast and reliable RapidRide bus lines that run through downtown. This means you’re never far from a fast and easy way to get around on public transportation.
Streetcar: First Hill on the Streetcar The streetcar runs along a scenic route that gives passengers views of both historic and vibrant neighborhoods, connecting downtown to Capitol Hill and the International District. The train is a great way to visit some of the city’s eastern neighborhoods without driving.
Monorail: The Heart of Seattle Monorail is a popular transportation option in the city, connecting downtown (at Westlake Center) to Seattle Center. It’s a fun, quick way to travel to top sites like the Space Needle and MoPOP in less than five minutes.
Ferry: The boat system in Seattle is both a way to get around and a popular spot for tourists. You can take a boat from Colman Dock in downtown Seattle to Bainbridge Island, Bremerton, or West Seattle. The views from these ferries of Puget Sound and the surrounding mountain ranges are beautiful. They’re great for day trips or just to explore the area.
2. Belltown
You can find Belltown just north of downtown. This is a hip area known for its busy restaurants and bars. Despite being close to the city’s main sights, the vibe here is more relaxed.
Why it’s great without a car:-
Walkability:
Belltown has one of the best walkability rates in Seattle, making it a great choice for tourists who like to explore on foot. There’s always something to see or do here as the streets are filled with bars, restaurants, and unique shops. Since it’s small, all the important places from cozy coffee shops to fancy restaurants are just a short walk away. People can easily walk around the area, making it fun to walk around and allowing tourists to enjoy Seattle’s urban life at their own pace.
Bars and Restaurants: Belltown’s food scene is one of the main reasons people come here. There are many places to eat in the area, from quick eats at food trucks to upscale meals at famous restaurants like Tavolata and The Black Bottle. At night the neighborhood comes alive with its many bars, lounges, and music venues, playing everything from craft drinks to live jazz.
Arts and Shopping: Belltown is filled with art halls and workshops for those who love to look at art. The area has a long history of supporting local artists, and there are often pop-up shows or art walks. There are also plenty of unique shops and stores that sell everything from vintage clothing to handmade items.
Public Transportation:
While Belltown’s accessibility by foot is a strong point, the city’s public transportation system also does a good job of serving it. Several King County Metro bus lines run through the area, making it easy to reach other places in Seattle, including Capitol Hill, Ballard, and Fremont. Buses are also a cheap and easy way to reach distant areas like the Space Needle, Seattle Center, or even West Seattle.
There are plenty of cars and rideshare services like Uber and Lyft available, so you can get around quickly if you need to. Since this neighborhood is close to downtown and other central locations, most major sights are only a short walk away.
Nearby Attractions:
Space Needle and Seattle Center: In Seattle, the Space Needle is one of the most famous landmarks. It’s just a short walk from Belltown to the Space Needle. The Museum of Pop Culture (MoPOP) and Chihuly Garden and Glass, as well as the Seattle Center, are also nearby. This makes it a great place for art and history fans.
Olympic Sculpture Park: Olympic Sculpture Park is an outdoor art museum and green area with beautiful views of Puget Sound. It’s located right on the water. It’s a great place to take a stroll, have a picnic, or just enjoy the beauty of the large sculptures along the water.
Read Also: Camano Island day trip
3. Capitol Hill
Capitol Hill is a vibrant, artsy area known for its diverse cultural venues and lively atmosphere. People who love lively nightlife, unique shops, and green areas love to visit there.
Why it’s great without a car:-
Walkability:
Capitol Hill is an easy area to explore on foot in Seattle. You can quickly get to almost anything you need, like coffee shops in the morning, antique shops, or bars late at night. The main streets of Broadway and the Pike/Pine corridor are home to plenty of shops, restaurants, and fun places. You can fully enjoy Capitol Hill’s unique charm by walking and exploring its street art, restaurants, and busy markets.
Parks and Green Spaces: Volunteer Park is a large, beautiful park that’s great for strolling, picnicking, or visiting the Volunteer Park Conservatory and the Seattle Asian Art Museum. Another popular spot is Cal Anderson Park, which has recreational spaces and a place where people from the area get together.
Broadway and Pike/Pine: Broadway and Pike/Pine are Capitol Hill’s busiest streets to go out with friends. They’re filled with small bookstores, coffee shops, bars, and live music venues, like Neumos, which is a great place to see both local and national acts.
Public Transportation:
It’s easy to get around Capitol Hill without a car as there is a good public transportation system. The Capitol Hill Link light rail station provides quick access to Downtown Seattle, the University District, and Seattle-Tacoma International Airport. King County Metro buses also serve the area, with routes connecting to various parts of the city.
You can easily reach the neighborhood’s best sights from the Capitol Hill stop, which also connects you to the rest of Seattle. It’s a fast and efficient way to get around downtown, making it great for day trips or excursions.
Attractions:
Capitol Hill has plenty of cultural sights and things to do. Besides the parks, you can also visit the Seattle Asian Art Museum, a historic building that exhibits both new and old Asian art. Along Pike and Pine Street, there are plenty of bars, clubs, and live music venues that make this area famous for its nightlife.
4. Lower Queen Anne
Lower Queen Anne, located just north of Belltown, has great views of Seattle and is close to the Seattle Center. It’s less noisy than downtown and is still close to all the big sights.
Why it’s great without a car:-
Walkability:
Lower Queen Anne is a great place to visit because the streets are well-maintained and there are plenty of sightseeing spots, cafes, and restaurants nearby. The way it is laid out makes it great for people who want to walk around, whether they are visiting a museum or going out to eat. The commercial areas have plenty of shops, bars, and entertainment venues, while the private streets are lined with lovely old homes and new apartment buildings.
Restaurants and Nightlife: The area is filled with casual restaurants, cozy coffee shops, and hip bars that can suit any taste. Everything from fancy places to neighborhood bakeries and coffee shops can be reached by walking. Toulouse Petite, which serves Creole-style food, and The Sitting Room, a cozy European-style pub, are two popular places to eat in the area.
Seattle Center: One of the best things about living in Lower Queen Anne is how close you are to Seattle Center, a hub of arts and culture. The neighborhood around Seattle Center is great for walking, and there’s plenty of room to relax, wander, and stroll. Famous sights like the Space Needle, MoPOP, Pacific Science Center, and Seattle Opera are all within walking distance for visitors.
Public Transportation:
The public transportation system in Seattle works well in Lower Queen Anne, so it’s easy to get around the city without a car. The area has several King County Metro bus lines that go to downtown, Capitol Hill, and other parts of the city quickly and frequently. For tourists, this means they can easily reach Seattle’s most popular sights without having to park or drive.
Seattle Center Monorail: The easiest way to get around for people living in Lower Queen Anne is to take the Seattle Center Monorail, which runs from Seattle Center to Westlake Center in downtown. The train gets you between these two major centers quickly and inexpensively, making it a great option. It’s also a great way to quickly get to the heart of downtown Seattle – the trip only takes two minutes.
Bus Lines: Popular RapidRide King County Metro bus routes run regularly through Lower Queen Anne, taking you to other major areas including Capitol Hill, South Lake Union, and Ballard. There are plenty of bus stops in the area, which makes getting around Seattle easy and inexpensive.
Attractions:
Some of Seattle’s most famous sites are in Lower Queen Anne, making it a great place for tourists who want to be close to all the action. In addition to Seattle Center, the area has many other interesting landmarks and cultural places that are easily accessible without a car.
Space Needle: The Space Needle is in Seattle Center and is perhaps Seattle’s most famous symbol. It’s just a short walk from most places to stay in Lower Queen Anne and has great views of the city, Puget Sound, and the area’s mountains.
Museum of Pop Culture (MoPOP): MoPOP is another popular attraction at Seattle Center. It’s an interactive museum that celebrates modern pop culture. It’s a must-see for anyone who loves art, music, and entertainment. It has shows on everything from music and movies to science fiction.
Pacific Science Center: Both kids and adults will enjoy the Pacific Science Center, which has IMAX screens, hands-on exhibits, and a tropical butterfly house. It’s just a short walk from anywhere in Lower Queen Anne and people of all ages can have hours of fun and learn new things there.
Kerry Park: If you want to get the best view of the Seattle skyline, you can take a short walk to Kerry Park in Upper Queen Anne. Tourists and locals alike love to visit it because it offers spectacular views of the city, Elliott Bay, and, on clear days, even Mount Rainier.
Where to Stay in Each Neighborhood
Here are some accommodation recommendations for each of the neighborhoods discussed:
Downtown Seattle
- Hotels: The Fairmont Olympic Hotel, Hotel 1000, and Hyatt Regency Seattle offer central locations and luxurious amenities.
- Airbnbs: Look for modern lofts or waterfront-view apartments for a comfortable stay.
Belltown
- Hotels: The Ace Hotel and The Belltown Inn provide budget-friendly options with excellent amenities.
- Airbnbs: Trendy studios and chic apartments are abundant in this lively neighborhood.
Capitol Hill
- Hotels: Hotel Sorrento and the Silver Cloud Hotel are popular choices with good access to local attractions.
- Airbnbs: Find unique and eclectic apartments or cozy rooms in historic homes.
Lower Queen Anne
- Hotels: The Maxwell Hotel and Inn at Queen Anne provide comfortable stays with proximity to the Seattle Center.
- Airbnbs: Charming cottages and rooms in historic homes are available in this quieter neighborhood.
Conclusion
Different areas of Seattle offer great options for guests who don’t like to drive. You can enjoy the lively atmosphere of downtown, the artistic ambiance of Capitol Hill, or the historic charm of Pioneer Square. Each area offers something different and is easy to reach from the city’s sights. With great public transportation, pedestrian-friendly streets, and taxi services, exploring Seattle without a car is both easy and fun. Have fun in this vibrant city and see everything it has to offer.