Major Highways & Driving Tips in Seattle, United States
1. Interstate 5 (I-5)
A major north-south route connecting Canada and Mexico, passing through Seattle. Known for heavy traffic during rush hours.
- Rush Hour Traffic: Expect delays during morning and evening peak hours.
- Construction: Ongoing maintenance and construction may cause lane closures.
- Public Transportation Alternatives: Consider using Light Rail or Bus services for parts of your journey.
2. State Route 99 (SR-99)
Also known as Alaskan Way Viaduct, this major highway runs along the waterfront before terminating at Aurora Avenue. Frequently congested due to its coastal location.
- Waterfront Scenic Beauty: Enjoy stunning views of Puget Sound and the Olympic Mountains.
- Construction Projects: The viaduct is undergoing a replacement project, causing possible detours.
- Alternative Routes: Familiarize yourself with alternate routes through downtown Seattle.
3. State Route 520 (SR-520)
Connects the eastside of Lake Washington to downtown Seattle. Known for being a toll road and less congested compared to other major routes.
- Toll Road: Expect to pay a toll fee when crossing the bridge.
- Fewer Congestion Issues: Usually less traffic compared to I-5 and SR-99.
- Natural Beauty: Enjoy scenic views of Lake Washington during your drive.
4. State Route 522 (SR-522)
Runs east to west from Bothell to Redmond. Known for its proximity to Microsoft and other tech companies.
- Tech Industry Location: Drive past the headquarters of major tech companies like Microsoft.
- Rush Hour Congestion: Expect heavy traffic during peak hours due to tech company employees commuting.
- Public Transportation Options: Take advantage of the local bus services for parts of your journey.
5. Interstate 405 (I-405)
A major north-south route that runs along the eastside of Lake Washington. Known for its congestion during rush hours.
- Rush Hour Traffic: Expect delays during morning and evening peak hours.
- Construction Projects: Ongoing maintenance and construction may cause lane closures.
- Public Transportation Alternatives: Consider using Light Rail or Bus services for parts of your journey.
6. Aurora Avenue North (SR-99)
North-south route running through Seattle's northern districts. Known for its mix of residential and commercial areas.
- Residential and Commercial Areas: Experience diverse neighborhoods along the route.
- Rush Hour Traffic: Expect traffic during morning and evening peak hours.
- Local Businesses: Discover unique local businesses and eateries along the way.
7. Interstate 90 (I-90)
East-west route connecting Seattle to the eastern United States. Known for its scenic views of the Cascade Range.
- Mountain Scenery: Enjoy breathtaking views of the Cascade Range.
- Long Distances: Prepare for long drives when traveling on I-90.
- Rest Areas and Services: Take advantage of rest areas and services along the route.
8. State Route 527 (SR-527)
Runs from Redmond to Kirkland. Known for its proximity to Microsoft and Google campuses.
- Tech Industry Location: Drive past the headquarters of Microsoft, Google, and other tech companies.
- Rush Hour Congestion: Expect heavy traffic during peak hours due to tech company employees commuting.
- Public Transportation Options: Take advantage of the local bus services for parts of your journey.
9. State Route 167 (SR-167)
South-north route connecting Tacoma to the Seattle area. Known for its congestion during rush hours.
- Rush Hour Traffic: Expect delays during morning and evening peak hours.
- Construction Projects: Ongoing maintenance and construction may cause lane closures.
- Public Transportation Alternatives: Consider using Light Rail or Bus services for parts of your journey.
10. State Route 516 (SR-516)
Runs from I-405 to I-5 in the northeastern part of Seattle. Known for its proximity to the Boeing Factory.
- Industrial Area: Drive past industries and factories, including the Boeing Factory.
- Rush Hour Congestion: Expect heavy traffic during peak hours due to industrial workers commuting.
- Public Transportation Options: Take advantage of the local bus services for parts of your journey.
11. State Route 518 (SR-518)
Runs from the Tacoma Narrows Bridge to Federal Way. Known for its proximity to Joint Base Lewis-McChord.
- Military Installation: Pass by the Joint Base Lewis-McChord during your drive.
- Rush Hour Congestion: Expect heavy traffic during peak hours due to military personnel commuting.
- Public Transportation Options: Take advantage of the local bus services for parts of your journey.
12. State Route 519 (SR-519)
Runs from Federal Way to the Seattle area. Known for its congestion during rush hours.
- Rush Hour Traffic: Expect delays during morning and evening peak hours.
- Construction Projects: Ongoing maintenance and construction may cause lane closures.
- Public Transportation Alternatives: Consider using Light Rail or Bus services for parts of your journey.
13. State Route 990 (SR-990)
Runs from I-5 to I-405 in the northeastern part of Seattle. Known for its proximity to the Seattle Premium Outlets.
- Retail Area: Pass by the Seattle Premium Outlets during your drive.
- Rush Hour Congestion: Expect heavy traffic during peak hours due to shoppers and commuters.
- Public Transportation Options: Take advantage of the local bus services for parts of your journey.
14. State Route 520 Bridge
A floating bridge connecting Mercer Island to Seattle. Known for its scenic views and toll fee.
- Toll Road: Expect to pay a toll fee when crossing the bridge.
- Fewer Congestion Issues: Usually less traffic compared to other major routes.
- Natural Beauty: Enjoy scenic views of Lake Washington during your drive.
15. Tacoma Narrows Bridge
A suspension bridge connecting Tacoma to the Kitsap Peninsula. Known for its iconic design and scenic views.
- Iconic Design: Experience one of Washington's most recognizable landmarks.
- Scenic Views: Enjoy breathtaking views of Puget Sound and the Olympic Mountains.
- Rush Hour Congestion: Expect heavy traffic during peak hours due to commuters.