Seattle-Tacoma International Airport (Sea-Tac) is located approximately 20 miles south of the University of Washington and 15 miles south of Downtown Seattle. Below are some of the options that will easily get you to the University District and campus.
Public Transportation From Airport
Public Transit (Link Light Rail from Airport to Downtown)
Utilizing the Light Rail and Seattle Metro system is the most economical means of transportation, but is not recommended if you are arriving late or traveling with a lot of luggage. From the arrivals hall at Sea-Tac Airport, follow the signs for Link Light Rail; the station is a short walk from the terminal on the far side of the parking garage. Tickets must be purchased at the station before boarding. The cost is $2.50 and can be paid in cash or with a credit/debit card. Take the train to any of the transit tunnel stops (International District, Pioneer Square, University Street or Westlake).
Once you disembark the train, take a bus going in the same direction--buses use the same tunnel as the Light Rail. Bus routes serving the University District include the #71, 72 or 73. Buses usually come every 10 minutes for most of the day. Fare is $2.00-2.25 (exact change required) depending on the time of day and the ride takes about 20 minutes. Buses stop along University Way, one block from the UW campus.
For bus schedule and route information call 206-553-3000 or go to METRO's website at http://metro.kingcounty.gov/.
Shuttle Express
Shuttle Express offers frequent operation between the airport and any Seattle destination you request. It is suggested for easy and direct transportation from the airport to the campus, dorms or hotels in the University District. You can reserve trips by calling (425) 981-7000 or you may also make your reservations online at http://www.shuttleexpress.com/webpages/reservations.html
Advance reservations are required for a return trip to the airport 24 hours ahead of your desired pick up time. It is possible to book a round trip when you call for your first ride.
To find Shuttle Express: After you have collected your luggage, follow signs directing you to Ground Transportation which is located on the third floor of the parking garage. The 3rd floor is the same level as the baggage claim. To get to the garage, you must proceed up one floor via escalator or elevator and walk across the sky bridge. Once in the airport garage, take an escalator or elevator back down to 3rd floor. You will find the booth alongside the Sea-Tac Ground Transportation Information Center.
Taxi
All Seattle taxi cabs operate at the same rate, set by King County. The meter drop is $2.50 plus $2.00 per mile. Extra person charges may apply. A ride from the airport to the University District will be $45-$55.
STITA Taxi 206-246-9999 www.stitataxi.com
Yellow Cab 206-622-6500
Orange Cab 206-522-8800
Uber also serves Seattle, use the Uber app on your smart phone for pick-up.