12 Train Adventures for Seattle-Area Kids and Families

Seattle’s Link Light Rail 1 Line connects from north to south with 19 stops, from the Northgate station to the Angle Lake station (just south of Sea-Tac Airport). This train presents many opportunities to design your own adventure.

Traveling from points south, riders can enjoy an outing to the Chinatown-International District, the Central Library (three blocks from the University Street Station) or other downtown-area adventures, such as Pike Place Market. From the Northgate station, head south to Columbia City for window shopping and treats, or ride all the way to SeaTac for airplane viewing.

Tacoma is ripe for Link adventures as well. Park for free at the Tacoma Dome Station and take the Tacoma Link Light Rail to destinations downtown, such as the Washington State History Museum, another spot on this list!

The East Link 2 Line has also opened from Redmond to Bellevue, with plenty of spots along the way to stop and play. There are walking trails, a playground and even a tree house waiting to be discovered.

Getting there: Parking near light rail stations can be limited; you will likely need to park in a pay lot or bus it to a station.

Rides and cost: Trains run daily, every 15 minutes or more often at peak times. Adult fares (ages 19 to 64) are $2–$3.50, depending on route; youth riders age 18 and younger ride free. Purchase tickets prior to boarding the train, or use your ORCA card. 

Next stop: Seattle Center Monorail