12 Train Adventures for Seattle-Area Kids and Families

Get ready for an urban adventure. Board the world-famous and retro-futuristic Seattle Center Monorail for a ride from Seattle Center to Westlake Center. Kids will get a kick out of riding above the city streets. Be sure to tell them that “monorail” means the train runs on one big rail, not two, and was considered the space-age future of transportation when it was built back in 1962. That’s over 60 years of the monorail!

Getting there: Catch the Monorail at the Seattle Center Armory building. Paid parking can be found on the street or in garages or lots nearby, or bus it to Seattle Center to add another transportation element to your journey.

Rides and cost: The Monorail runs daily between Seattle Center and Westlake Center, Monday–Friday 7:30 a.m.–11 p.m.; Saturday and Sunday, 8:30 a.m.–11 p.m. The Monorail runs later on nights when there are special events taking place at Climate Pledge Arena, see the website for details. One-way fares are $3.50 for adults; $1.75 for youths ages 6–18; and kids 5 and younger ride free. Pay with a credit card or an ORCA card, cash is not currently accepted.

Things to do nearby: Seattle Center is loaded with family attractions, including the International Fountain and thrilling Artists at Play playground. Visit MoPOP with your tweens and teens, or ride the lift to the top of the Space Needle for another iconic Seattle experience. 

Next stop: Seattle Streetcar