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Seattle-Tacoma International Airport
Information for Visitors

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Planes at Seattle Tacoma International Airport

Planes at Seattle Tacoma International Airport

Courtesy of Port of Seattle
Nov 17 2008
Large international airports can be busy, noisy, and intimidating. Seattle-Tacoma International Airport, also known as Sea-Tac Airport, falls into that category. Here's some information to help you find your way in and around Sea-Tac, whether you're picking someone up or flying yourself.

Where is Sea-Tac Airport:
Seattle-Tacoma International Airport is located about 13 miles south of downtown Seattle. It can be accessed by taking the Sea-Tac Airport exit from State Route 518.
Main Terminal Building
17801 International Blvd.
Seattle, WA 98158
Phone: (206) 433-5388
Compare Prices on Flights to Seattle-Tacoma International Airport

How to Get to Sea-Tac Airport
If you choose not to drive to Seattle's airport, there are several public and private transportation options.

  • By Bus
    Metro Transit and Sound Transit buses stop at Door 6 on the Baggage Claim level.
  • By Shuttle
    There are several shuttle bus and van services that provide airport transportation for the Seattle metro area and beyond.
    · Gray Line Downtown Airporter 206-626-6088
    · Shuttle Express 425-981-7000
    · More Seattle Ground Transportation
  • By Courtesy Vehicle
    Some hotels offers courtesy transportation to and from the airport. Consult your individual hotel for details.
  • By Light Rail
    Sound Transit Light Rail service to the airport will begin some time in 2009.

Construction at Sea-Tac Airport
Sea-Tac Airport is in a constant state of construction, whether adding new terminal facilities, runways, or roads. Things change from day to day, so it's always a good idea to check the official airport web site for the latest construction status.

Parking at Sea-Tac Airport
Except on the very busiest travel days of the year, there is usually ample parking at Sea-Tac's parking garage. Ample, but expensive. Paying for parking is conducted through automated machines that take cash, debit, or credit cards. For multi-day parking, you can save money by parking at a remote airport parking lot. I have found the Doug Fox parking lot (206-248-2956) to be reasonable and convenient.

Terminals at Sea-Tac Airport
Fortunately, all of the terminals at Sea-Tac Airport can be accessed from one central parking and ticketing area. In addition to the four wings of the central terminal, airline gates are also located at the North and South Satellite terminals. These satellite terminals are connected to the central terminal by continuously-running underground loop trains. If you know that your flight will be departing from one of Sea-Tac's satellite terminals, it's a good idea to add 10-15 minutes to your boarding schedule.

Food at Sea-Tac Airport
You won't lack for opportunities to buy a great meal or a delicious snack at Sea-Tac Airport. Many of the sit-down restaurants and fast food counters are local businesses featuring local foods. I would recommend Anthony's Restaurant in the post-security area of the central terminal for full-service dining; they serve fresh seafood and yummy desserts. You won't be surprised to learn that there are a variety of espresso stands throughout Sea-Tac Airport, from Starbucks and Tully's to Dilletante and Diva.

Spending Time at Sea-Tac Airport
If you find yourself with time on your hands at Sea-Tac Airport, there is plenty to keep yourself entertained.

  • Art at Sea-Tac Airport
    You'll find original art of all kinds throughout Sea-Tac Airport. It's everywhere - hanging from the ceiling, on the windows, even in the bathroom.
  • Shopping
    For magazines and snacks, you'll find Hudson News shops throughout the airport, both pre- and post-security. Several specialty shops are located in the central terminal, including Ex Officio, The Body Shop, and Made in Washington.
  • Spa Treatments
    Get a neck or foot massage at The Massage Bar, which has locations in Concourse C and the North Satellite. Manicures and pedicures are available at butter LONDON.
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