Complete Transport Guide for the 2026 World Cup in Seattle
Seattle is ready to welcome the world for the 2026 FIFA World Cup—and so are its buses, trains, ferries, and yes, traffic jams. Whether you’re heading to Lumen Field for a match or exploring the city between games, this guide covers every way to get around during the tournament.
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Link Light Rail – The MVP of Match Day
Why use it: Avoid traffic and parking headaches.
Cost: $2.25–$3.50 depending on distance.
Payment: ORCA card, phone tap (Google/Apple Pay), or paper ticket.
Key stops for World Cup visitors:
SeaTac/Airport Station → Direct train to downtown (~35 min)
International District/Chinatown Station → Closest to Lumen Field
Stadium Station → Short walk to the stadium gates
Capitol Hill, University District, Northgate → Great for exploring other neighborhoods
Pro Tip: Trains will run more frequently during match days—expect a train every 6–10 minutes.
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Buses – Best for Neighborhood Hops
Seattle’s buses go everywhere light rail doesn’t.
Pay with: ORCA card or exact change.
Major routes to know:
7 → Rainier Valley (foodie heaven)
40 → Ballard & Fremont (breweries + bars)
62 → Gas Works Park (viewpoint & potential fan zone)
🚲 Biking & Scooters – Fast & Flexible
Bike share: Lime, Veo, and Bird bikes & scooters are scattered around the city.
Download the app, scan, and go. Perfect for short trips between fan zones, the waterfront, and downtown.
Pro Tip: Helmets are technically required in Seattle, though enforcement is rare—still, ride smart.
⛴️ Ferries & Water Taxis – The Scenic Route
State Ferries: Go to Bainbridge Island or Bremerton for a quick day trip.
West Seattle Water Taxi: A cheap, scenic 15-min ride from downtown to Alki Beach.
Pro Tip: The West Seattle route drops you near Marination Ma Kai, one of our favorite World Cup eats.
🚕 Rideshares & Taxis – Best for Late Nights
Uber, Lyft, and traditional taxis are widely available.
Pro Tip: Surge pricing will spike after matches—walk a few blocks from the stadium before hailing a ride to save money.
🛂 For International Visitors – Quick Tips
Get an ORCA Transit Card: Works on buses, trains, ferries, and light rail. Available at vending machines and convenience stores.
Download the OneBusAway App: Real-time arrivals and trip planning in one place.
Stay Near a Light Rail Station: Even if it’s not downtown, this is your golden ticket to skip traffic.
🗓️ Match Day Transport Checklist
Plan your route ahead of time — Google Maps is accurate for transit here.
Leave early — Security lines + travel time add up.
Tap in & out with ORCA or phone for light rail/bus.
Wear comfy shoes — Even with great transit, you’ll walk a lot.
Check last train times — Some late matches may end close to service cutoff.
🏆 Final Word
Seattle’s not a huge city, but during the World Cup, it will feel like one. Public transit will be your best friend—fast, cheap, and connected to every major neighborhood and fan zone.
If you plan ahead, you’ll spend less time stuck in traffic and more time where you belong—cheering, exploring, and making memories.
More World Cup Seattle Guides:
➡️ Seattle Fan Zones & Public Match Screenings
➡️ Where to Stay in Seattle for the 2026 World Cup
➡️ Top Free Things to Do in Seattle Between Matches
