Upon arriving at Seattle-Tacoma International Airport (SEA) for business or leisure, make your way to the rental car facility and pick up your car to explore the Seattle and Tacoma area. Though usually associated with Seattle, SEA is actually located in Tukwila, about 30 minutes north from Tacoma and 30 minutes south of downtown Seattle.

Using I-5, you can head north and hit the downtown area, which includes Pike Place Market. The Space Needle is also downtown in the Pacific Science Center plaza, and offers stunning views across Seattle from a 520 ft. observation tower.

Key Facts

Seattle has two prolific sports teams playing in CenturyLink Field: the NFL Seahawks and MLS Sounders. The city also has an MLB team that plays in nearby Safeco Field. The International District is near the stadiums, so you can visit the area's best Asian grocery and gift stores in Uwajimaya.

If you choose to head south to Tacoma, you can visit the Point Defiance Zoo and Aquarium as well as the nearby park. The Ruston Way Waterfront is a great place for taking a walk and grabbing a snack.

Hints and Tips

The in-air flight time from Austin-Bergstrom International Airport (AUS) to Seattle is about four hours. If you're up for a day trip, travel to Cama Beach State Park for scenic views.