As any long time Seattle commuter has already learned, ridesharing, carpooling, and vanpools are the fastest, least expensive, and most convenient way to drive downtown on four wheels. As commuters ourselves, we understand that sometimes you have to drive alone and park downtown. For those who require short-term downtown parking there are ways to make what is normally costly and inconvenient, less expensive and less complicated. The City of Seattle has compiled a helpful list of methods to help you manage your single driver parking on the rare occasion that you park downtown alone. Use this great tool to learn how, when, and where to park. Other great resources include the Port of Seattle and Downtown Seattle Carpool Parking — all great online parking information portals.
For those people that drive part of the way and then bus, Park and Ride (P/R) lots are a great way to connect with Seattle’s mass transit service. King County Metro, Sound Transit and Community Transit Park and Rides have easy-to-read online guides for how to best use P/R services. Additionally, an overview of Washington’s transportation services is available at the Washington State DOT website.
Spend money and save! Shopping downtown can help pay for your downtown parking. Many local merchants give a token — good for a dollar off your parking at specific CityPark lots — for each purchase of $20 or more. Be sure to ask for a token when making your purchases.
Parking garages throughout downtown Seattle offer various parking options as well.
Quick Links:
City Parking list
Port of Seattle
Downtown Seattle Carpool Parking
King County Metro Park n Ride
Sound Transit P/R
Community Transit Park and Rides
Washington State DOT
CityPark
Parking garages