Public Transportation: The Pacific Northwest

Comprehensive Overview of Public Transit Systems

Seattle (King County Metro, Sound Transit): The Link Light Rail connects Seattle-Tacoma International Airport (Sea-Tac) to downtown Seattle, Capitol Hill, the University of Washington, and Northgate. It presents an expanding network, offering a quick and reliable connection through the city's core. King County Metro Buses provide an extensive network serving most neighborhoods. The Seattle Streetcar operates two lines (South Lake Union and First Hill), connecting specific neighborhoods for local circulation.

Portland (TriMet): Portland boasts an extensive MAX Light Rail network with five lines (Blue, Red, Green, Yellow, Orange). It connects downtown Portland to the airport, various suburbs, and surrounding areas. The Portland Streetcar operates loop lines connecting downtown, the Pearl District, and other central neighborhoods, ideal for exploring the urban core. TriMet Buses complement the light rail and streetcar systems with a comprehensive network.

Public Transit Highlights

Seattle: Link Light Rail for airport and downtown, King County Metro buses, Seattle Streetcar.
Portland: MAX Light Rail (extensive network including airport), Portland Streetcar, TriMet buses.
Ticketing: ORCA Card in Seattle, Hop Fastpass in Portland (reloadable cards, mobile pay options).
Accessibility: Most vehicles are wheelchair accessible. Check transit agency websites for details.

Route Maps & Hubs

Seattle: Sound Transit & King County Metro websites; Hubs: Westlake Station, International District/Chinatown. Portland: TriMet website; Hubs: Pioneer Courthouse Square, Rose Quarter.

Hours & Frequency

Generally, light rail and major bus routes operate from early morning (4:30-5:00 AM) until late evening/midnight (12:00-1:00 AM). Reduced service on weekends.

Navigation Tips

Download city-specific transit apps (Transit, Moovit) for real-time tracking. Purchase ORCA (Seattle) or Hop Fastpass (Portland) for convenience and value.

Other Cities

Smaller City Transit

Most smaller cities in the Pacific Northwest feature local bus services.
These options are more limited and less frequent compared to Seattle and Portland.
Check local city websites for specific transit schedules and routes.

Planning for Rural Areas

For rural areas and national parks, public transit is minimal or nonexistent.
A rental car is highly recommended for exploring outside major urban centers.
Always have maps or GPS available for navigation in less-populated regions.

Taxis & Ride-Sharing

Taxi Hailing

Metered fares, hail on street in downtowns or book via phone/app.

Fares & Payments

Vary by city/distance. Credit cards generally accepted; confirm with driver.

Ride-Sharing Apps

Uber and Lyft are widely available in major urban areas. Book via smartphone app.

Safety Tips

Verify driver/vehicle match app details. Use designated pick-up zones at airports.

Rental Options

Various rental options exist for independent exploration and specialized activities.

Car Rental

Requirements: Valid driver's license (IDP if not English), major credit card for deposit. Minimum age typically 21 (under 25 incurs surcharge).
Companies: Hertz, Avis, Enterprise, National, Budget, Thrifty, Alamo, Dollar.
Booking: Book in advance, especially during peak season. Compare rates on sites like DiscoverCars.com.
Insurance: Rental companies offer options; check personal/credit card/travel insurance for coverage.

Other Rentals & Driving Tips

Motorcycle/Scooter: Available from specialty shops in larger cities. Motorcycle endorsement on license typically necessary.
Bicycle: City-wide bike-share (Biketown in Portland, Lime in Seattle). Independent shops rent various bikes.
Driving Laws: Drive on the right. Seatbelts mandatory. Speed limits enforced. Cell phone use restricted.
Parking: Can be expensive/difficult in downtown Seattle/Portland. Utilize garages or public transit.

Walking & Cycling

Pedestrian Areas: Seattle: Pike Place Market, Waterfront, Pioneer Square, Discovery Park. Portland: Downtown, Pearl District, Waterfront Park, Hawthorne District, Forest Park.
Walking Tours: Guided and self-guided options available in major cities, focusing on history, food, or neighborhoods.
No-Go Areas: Avoid walking/cycling on major highways. Some industrial/isolated urban stretches may feel less safe, especially at night. Research unpaved backcountry roads before cycling.

Bicycle Infrastructure: Growing networks of bike lanes and multi-use trails (Burke-Gilman Trail in Seattle, Springwater Corridor in Portland). Portland is known for its bike-friendly culture.
Cycling Safety: Wear a Helmet (recommended/required for minors). Use lights at night. Follow traffic laws. Be aware of vehicle traffic.
Bike Safety Gear: Consider reflective clothing, especially if cycling at dawn, dusk, or night.

Specialized Transportation

Tour Buses

Available in Seattle and Portland. Offer convenient sightseeing with commentary. Hop-on-Hop-off services provide flexibility.

Water Taxis/Cruises

Seattle: King County Water Taxi (downtown to West Seattle). Argosy Cruises for harbor tours. Portland: Portland Spirit for river cruises.

Unique Local Transport

Portland Aerial Tram: Connects South Waterfront to Marquam Hill, offering panoramic city views. Functions as a commuter link and tourist attraction.

Accessibility Services

Major public transit systems (Sound Transit in Seattle, TriMet in Portland) offer paratransit services for individuals with disabilities who cannot use regular fixed-route services. These services typically call for advance registration and booking.

Specific accessible taxis are also available in larger cities. Check individual transit agency websites or local city resources for detailed information on accessible travel options.

Public Transportation