Your Complete Guide to Traveling from Bellingham, Washington to Seattle
Are you planning a journey from the charming coastal city of Bellingham to the vibrant metropolis of Seattle, Washington?
Whether you're a student at Western Washington University heading to the big city for a weekend, a visitor exploring the Pacific Northwest, or a local looking for the best transportation options. This comprehensive guide will walk you through everything you need to know about traveling from Bellingham, Washington to Seattle.
Chuckanut Drive Image credits: Visit Bellingham Whatcom County/State of Washington Touris
Overview: Understanding the Bellingham to Seattle Route
The distance between Bellingham and Seattle is approximately 90 miles, making it a convenient day trip or an easy relocation route. Located in Washington state's beautiful northwest corner, Bellingham offers a relaxed small-city atmosphere, while Seattle Washington presents the excitement and opportunities of a major metropolitan area.
This guide covers all transportation options, from driving along Interstate 5 to taking public transportation, with special attention to scenic routes, travel times, costs, and seasonal considerations.
We'll also highlight opportunities to enhance your journey with guided tour options from Cheryl's Northwest Tours, a premier Pacific Northwest tour company specializing in personalized experiences throughout Washington state.
Transportation Options: How to Get from Bellingham to Seattle
Driving from Bellingham to Seattle
The most flexible way to travel between these Washington cities is by car, giving you complete control over your schedule and route.
Driving Details:
Distance: Approximately 90 miles (145 kilometers)
Typical driving time: 1.5–2 hours in normal traffic conditions
Main route: Interstate 5 South
Alternative scenic routes: Chuckanut Drive to I-5 or SR-9
Traffic considerations: Expect heavier traffic approaching Seattle, especially during rush hours (7 AM–9 AM and 4 PM–6 PM on weekdays)
Driving from Bellingham to Seattle allows you to stop at interesting locations along the way, such as the outlets at Burlington, the scenic town of Mount Vernon (famous for its spring tulip festival), or the charming riverside community of La Conner.
Bus Services
Scheduled Bus Services:
BoltBus: Offers economical direct service with amenities like Wi-Fi and power outlets
Greyhound: Provides regular service with stops in Mount Vernon and Everett
Amtrak Thruway Bus: Connects with train services at King Street Station in Seattle
Bellair Airporter Shuttle: Offers multiple daily trips with convenient pickup locations
These services typically take 2–2.5 hours depending on traffic and the number of stops. Fares generally range from $15–$40 one way, making this one of the most economical options for traveling from Bellingham to Seattle.
Train Travel
Amtrak's Cascades route connects Bellingham and Seattle with a scenic railway journey.
Amtrak Details:
Journey time: Approximately 2 hours
Daily service: Multiple departures in each direction
Cost: Typically $20–$45 one-way, depending on how far in advance you book
Amenities: Comfortable seating, onboard café, free Wi-Fi, and power outlets
Scenic value: Offers beautiful views of Puget Sound and coastal areas
The train departs from Bellingham's Fairhaven Station and arrives at King Street Station in downtown Seattle, Washington. This historic station is within walking distance of Seattle's Pioneer Square district and offers convenient connections to light rail, bus services, and rideshare options.
Flying Between Bellingham and Seattle
Flight Information:
Available airlines: Alaska Airlines/Horizon Air offers connecting flights (not direct)
Airports: Bellingham International Airport (BLI) to Seattle-Tacoma International Airport (SEA)
Total travel time: When accounting for check-in time, security, and airport transportation, flying typically takes longer than driving or train travel for this route
Cost: Usually more expensive than ground transportation options
(Note: While flying is technically possible, it's generally not practical for this relatively short distance. Given the minimal flights available, there are technically no cheap flights to Seattle Washington from Bellingham)
Flying makes the most sense if you're connecting to another flight at Seattle-Tacoma International Airport rather than traveling simply between Bellingham and Seattle.
Routes: Different Ways to Travel Between Bellingham and Seattle
The Direct I-5 Route
This is the fastest and most straightforward way to travel between these cities follows Interstate 5:
Starting point: Bellingham, Washington
Key points along the way: Mount Vernon, Everett, Lynnwood
End point: Seattle, Washington
Features: Primarily highway driving with some mountain and water views
Best for: Travelers seeking efficiency and the fastest route
The Scenic Chuckanut Drive Route
This route’s tailor-made for travelers with time to enjoy spectacular scenery:
Starting point: Bellingham, Washington
Route: Begin on Chuckanut Drive (SR-11) with stunning coastal views
Connecting point: Rejoin I-5 near Burlington or continue through Skagit Valley backroads
End point: Seattle, Washington
Features: Breathtaking views of Samish Bay, San Juan Islands, and the Olympic Mountains
Best for: Photography enthusiasts, leisure travelers, and those seeking a memorable drive
The Eastern Route via SR-9
An alternative route that showcases more rural Washington landscapes:
Starting point: Bellingham, Washington
Route: State Route 9 South through Sedro-Woolley and Arlington
Connecting point: Join I-5 near Everett or continue SR-9 to Woodinville
End point: Seattle, Washington
Features: Less traffic, rural towns, and mountain views
Best for: Those looking to avoid interstate traffic and explore smaller communities
Tips for Traveling from Bellingham, Washington to Seattle
When to Leave: Timing Your Journey
Traffic between Bellingham and Seattle varies significantly by time and day:
Weekday mornings: Expect southbound congestion approaching Seattle after 7 AM
Weekday afternoons: Northbound traffic from Seattle increases after 3 PM
Weekends: Generally lighter traffic, though summer Saturdays can be busy
Best times to depart Bellingham: Before 6 AM or between 10 AM and 1 PM on weekdays
Best times to depart Seattle: Before 2 PM or after 7 PM on weekdays
Planning your departure time strategically can save up to 45 minutes during peak travel periods.
Cost Comparison
Most economical: Bus services ($15–$40 one-way)
Mid-range: Train ($20–$45 one-way) or driving (approximately $15–$25 in fuel costs plus potential parking fees in Seattle)
Premium options: Private car services or guided tours
Additional costs: Consider parking fees in Seattle, which can range from $20-50 per day in downtown areas
Traveling with Luggage
Luggage considerations for different transportation options:
Driving: Unlimited luggage capacity in your own vehicle
Bus services: Typically allow 1 to 2 bags per passenger (check specific carrier policies)
Train: Generous luggage allowance with overhead and designated luggage areas
Guided tours: Can typically accommodate reasonable luggage requirements (confirm when booking)
How to Reach: Getting To and From Transportation Hubs
In Bellingham
Getting to departure points:
Bellingham Station (train/bus): Located in the Fairhaven district, accessible via Whatcom Transportation Authority (WTA) buses, taxi, or rideshare
Downtown bus stops: Several bus services depart from downtown Bellingham near the Bellingham Transit Center
Bellingham International Airport: Located approximately 5 miles northwest of downtown, accessible via WTA Route 50, taxi, or rideshare
In Seattle
From arrival points to your destination:
King Street Station (train): Located in Pioneer Square, connected to downtown via Link Light Rail, streetcar, bus, taxi, or rideshare
Various bus terminals: Typically located in downtown Seattle with good public transportation connections
Seattle-Tacoma International Airport: Connected to downtown via Link Light Rail (40 minutes) or taxi/rideshare (25–45 minutes depending on traffic)
Seasonal Considerations for Seattle Visits
Each season offers different advantages for visitors to Seattle:
Summer (June-August):
Weather: Typically dry and mild (65°F–80°F) with long daylight hours
Advantages: Outdoor festivals, farmers markets, and water activities on Lake Washington or Puget Sound
Considerations: Peak tourist season with higher accommodation prices and busier attractions at the University of Washington Seattle and downtown
Special events: Seafair Festival, outdoor concerts, and abundant farmers markets
Fall (September-November):
Weather: Gradually cooling with increasing rainfall (50°F–65°F)
Advantages: Beautiful fall colors, fewer tourists, moderate prices
Considerations: Prepare for rain, especially in November
Special events: Film festivals, harvest celebrations, and Seattle Restaurant Week
Winter (December-February):
Weather: Cool and rainy with occasional snow (35°F–45°F)
Advantages: Lowest hotel prices, festive holiday decorations, winter activities in nearby mountains
Considerations: Shorter daylight hours, frequent precipitation
Special events: Holiday lights at the Woodland Park Zoo, winter beer festivals, and comfortable indoor activities
Spring (March-May):
Weather: Gradually warming with decreasing rainfall (45°F–65°F)
Advantages: Spring blooms, cherry blossoms at University of Washington Seattle campus, fewer tourists than summer
Considerations: Prepare for changing weather patterns
Special events: Skagit Valley Tulip Festival (April), Seattle Restaurant Week (April), and increasing outdoor activities
Day Trip vs. Overnight Stay
Considerations for planning your visit duration:
Day trip viability: The relatively short travel time makes day trips entirely feasible
Recommended stay: 2 to 3 days allows for comprehensive exploration of Seattle attractions
Weekend trips: Perfect for Bellingham residents wanting a Seattle getaway without extensive planning
Extended visits: Consider staying 3+ days if you want to include trips to nearby attractions like Mount Rainier, Olympic National Park, or Bainbridge Island
Exploring Seattle Washington: Essential Experiences
Once you arrive in Seattle, numerous attractions await you. Here are some essential experiences organized by interest:
Iconic Seattle Attractions
Must-see destinations for first-time visitors:
Pike Place Market: Historic farmers market with the original Starbucks, flying fish, and local crafts
Space Needle: Offering 360-degree views of the city, Puget Sound, and surrounding mountains
Seattle Center: Home to the Space Needle, Museum of Pop Culture, Chihuly Garden and Glass, and more
Seattle Washington Waterfront: Recently renovated with the Great Wheel, Seattle Aquarium, and scenic views
(Recommended read: What to See in Seattle in 1 Day)
Cultural Experiences
For arts and culture enthusiasts:
Seattle Art Museum: Features global art collections and rotating exhibitions
Museum of Pop Culture: Celebrating music, science fiction, and popular culture
Wing Luke Museum: Explores Asian Pacific American experiences
University of Washington Seattle campus: Beautiful historic buildings and cherry blossoms in spring
Outdoor Adventures
For nature lovers:
Discovery Park: Seattle's largest park with beaches, forest trails, and lighthouse
Kerry Park: Iconic city views perfect for photography
Green Lake: Popular urban lake with walking/biking path
Washington Park Arboretum: Botanical collections near Lake Washington
Seattle for Families
Kid-friendly attractions:
Woodland Park Zoo: Award-winning exhibits with over 1,000 animals
Pacific Science Center: Interactive exhibits and IMAX theater
Seattle Children's Museum: Hands-on learning experiences for younger children
Museum of Flight: One of the largest air and space museums in the world
(Recommended read: Things to Do in Seattle with Family)
Day Trips and Extensions
While in Seattle, consider these worthwhile day trips:
North to the Skagit Valley
The region between Seattle and Bellingham offers several notable attractions:
Skagit Valley Tulip Festival: Spectacular flower displays each April
Deception Pass State Park: Washington's most visited state park with dramatic bridges and coastal scenery
Anacortes: Charming waterfront town and gateway to the San Juan Islands
La Conner: Historic waterfront village with shops, restaurants, and museums
(Recommended tour: Tulip Fields Private Tours)
East to the Cascades
Mountain adventures within day-trip distance:
Snoqualmie Falls: 268-foot waterfall just 30 minutes from Seattle
Leavenworth: Bavarian-themed village in the Cascade Mountains
Stevens Pass: Skiing in winter, hiking in summer
West to the Olympic Peninsula
Coastal and rainforest experiences:
Bainbridge Island: Quick ferry ride from downtown Seattle
Olympic National Park: Ancient rainforests, mountains, and coastal beaches
Port Townsend: Victorian seaport with arts community
Choosing Cheryl's Northwest Tours for Your Washington Exploration
While self-guided traveling from Bellingham to Seattle offers flexibility, Cheryl's Northwest Tours provides a premium alternative that transforms your journey into an enriching experience.
Benefits of Guided Tours
Cheryl's Northwest Tours specializes in customized private tours throughout Washington State:
Local expertise: Gain insights into the region's history, geology, and culture from knowledgeable guides
Customized experiences: Tours tailored to your specific interests, whether natural landscapes, urban exploration, or culinary adventures
Convenience: Avoid navigation, parking challenges, and planning logistics
Hidden gems: Discover lesser-known attractions and viewpoints not found in standard guidebooks
Educational value: Learn about the Pacific Northwest's unique features through expert narration
Highlighted Tour Options
Cheryl's Northwest Tours offers several excellent tour options that can enhance your Washington State experience:
Channeled Scablands Geology in Washington - Explore fascinating geological formations created by prehistoric floods
Puget Sound Washington State Insider Info from a Local - Gain local perspectives on this iconic waterway
Washington State Tours - Discover specialized tours throughout the region
(Recommended read: What is There to Do in Downtown Seattle)
Planning Tips: Making the Most of Your Journey
For Students at Western Washington University
As a major university in Bellingham, many Western Washington University students travel to Seattle regularly:
Student discounts: Amtrak and BoltBus often offer student fares when presenting student ID
Rideshare boards: Check university bulletin boards for shared rides
Academic resources: Consider visiting University of Washington Seattle campus for research or events
Weekend getaways: Seattle makes an ideal weekend trip from campus
For Business Travelers
Business travel considerations:
Reliable options: Train service offers dependable scheduling and workspace during transit
Business-friendly accommodations: Numerous hotels near Seattle Convention Center
Meeting venues: Seattle offers diverse meeting spaces from corporate boardrooms to creative hubs
Extended stays: Consider adding leisure days to business trips to explore the region
For International Visitors
For travelers from abroad exploring Washington State:
Public transportation: Seattle offers excellent public transit with the ORCA card system
Cultural attractions: Diverse experiences reflecting the Pacific Northwest's multicultural heritage
Natural beauty: Easy access to mountains, forests, and water within and around the city
Guided experiences: Cheryl's Northwest Tours can provide context and cultural insights for international visitors
Frequently Asked Questions About Traveling from Bellingham, Washington to Seattle
How far is Bellingham from Seattle?
The distance is approximately 90 miles (145 kilometers) via Interstate 5.
What is the best way to travel from Bellingham to Seattle?
The "best" method depends on your priorities:
For flexibility: Driving
For relaxation: Train
For economy: Bus services
For enrichment: Guided tour with Cheryl's Northwest Tours
How long does it take to drive from Bellingham to Seattle?
Typical driving time is 1.5–2 hours, depending on traffic conditions and time of day.
Is there a train from Bellingham to Seattle?
Yes, Amtrak's Cascades service provides multiple daily trains between these cities, with a journey time of approximately 2 hours.
What is there to do in Seattle for a day trip from Bellingham?
Popular day trip activities include visiting Pike Place Market, the Space Needle, Museum of Pop Culture, and the Seattle Waterfront.
What's the weather like in Seattle Washington?
Seattle has a temperate marine climate with mild, wet winters and warm, drier summers. The weather is famous for quick changes in temperature, so wearing layered clothing is recommended year-round.
Are there hotels near the University of Washington Seattle?
Yes, several hotels are located near the University of Washington Seattle campus in the University District, and downtown hotels are accessible via light rail.
Final Thoughts
The route between Bellingham and Seattle connects two distinctly different yet equally appealing Washington cities. While Bellingham offers a relaxed coastal college town atmosphere, Seattle presents the vibrant energy and diverse attractions of a major metropolitan center.
Whether you choose to drive the scenic Chuckanut Drive, relax on the train with views of Puget Sound, opt for economical bus transportation, or enhance your experience with Cheryl's Northwest Tours, the journey itself can become a memorable part of your Pacific Northwest experience.
By considering factors like transportation options, timing, seasonal conditions, and your specific interests, you can create the perfect plan for traveling from Bellingham, Washington to Seattle. And once you arrive, the Emerald City's blend of urban sophistication, natural beauty, and cultural richness offers something for every traveler.
For the most enriching experience exploring Seattle and beyond, consider the expertise and personalized service offered by Cheryl's Northwest Tours.
Visit Cheryl’s Northwest Tours to discover how their locally-guided tours can transform your Washington State travels into extraordinary adventures. Book a tour now from a wide range of tours offering varying activities to do in West Seattle based on your preferences.