Is there a direct train from Seattle to Philadelphia?

No, you must transfer in Chicago.

How long is the flight from Seattle to Philadelphia?

Approximately 5 to 6 hours of flight time.

What is the best way to get from Burien to SEA airport?

The King County Metro bus or a ride-share service.

Are there direct flights from SEA to PHL?

Direct flights are rare; most routes require a connection.

What is the cheapest time to fly to Philadelphia?

Mid-week flights during the off-peak season are generally the cheapest.

Burien

Philadelphia

Train Flight

Burien to Philadelphia

Updated: 28 May 2026

Traveling from Burien to Philadelphia covers approximately 4,500 kilometers across the United States. The most efficient route involves a short drive to Seattle-Tacoma International Airport followed by a transcontinental flight. Alternatively, you can take the Amtrak Empire Builder from Seattle to Chicago and transfer to the Capitol Limited. This journey spans multiple time zones and diverse landscapes from the Pacific Northwest to the Atlantic coast. Expect a total travel time of 6 to 8 hours by air or 3 days by rail.

Total Distance: Driving distance 4,550 km, Air distance 3,850 km.

Fastest Way

Flight from SEA to PHL with a single connection takes approximately 6 hours.

Cheapest Way

Flight booked in advance is usually cheaper than a sleeper train ticket.

Compare Burien to Philadelphia Routes

	Train Connecting	Flight Connecting
Duration	72 hours	6 hours
Avg Price	$400 - $900	$300 - $600
Operator	Amtrak	Alaska Airlines
Route	Empire Builder to Chicago, then Capitol Limited to Philadelphia.	SEA to PHL via Chicago or Denver.
Tip	Reserve a roomette for a more comfortable long-distance experience.	Book your flight at least three weeks in advance to secure lower fares.

Travel Tips

Airport Access
Use the Link Light Rail from Burien to reach SEA airport efficiently.
Train Booking
Book Amtrak tickets early as prices increase significantly closer to departure.
Time Zones
Prepare for a three-hour time difference when traveling east.
Packing
Pack layers as the weather in Philadelphia can shift rapidly compared to the Pacific Northwest.
Local Transit
Use the SEPTA system in Philadelphia for easy navigation around the city.

Safety Tips

Airport Security
Arrive at SEA at least two hours before your domestic flight.
Train Safety
Keep your luggage in sight at all times while at major transit hubs like Chicago Union Station.
Urban Awareness
Stay in well-lit, populated areas when exploring downtown Philadelphia at night.
Emergency Contacts
Save local emergency numbers for both your departure and arrival cities.