Is it always raining?

It is often overcast, but heavy rain is less common than people think.

How to get to downtown?

The Link Light Rail is the fastest and cheapest way from the airport.

Is the train worth it?

Yes, for the scenery, but it takes significantly longer than flying.

Summer months are ideal for clear views of the mountains.

Not if you stay in the city center; public transit is very good.

Hawthorne

Seattle

Train Flight

Hawthorne to Seattle

Updated: 29 May 2026

The route from Hawthorne to Seattle covers roughly 4,000 kilometers. Flying from JFK or EWR to Seattle-Tacoma International Airport (SEA) is the standard choice, taking about 6 hours. For a scenic alternative, take the Amtrak Empire Builder from Chicago to Seattle, which traverses the northern plains and the Rocky Mountains. This is a long-distance journey that requires careful planning. Ensure you book your connections well in advance, especially for the popular rail segments.

Total Distance: Driving distance 4,750 km, straight-line air distance 3,850 km.

Fastest Way

Direct flight from JFK to SEA takes approximately 6.5 hours.

Cheapest Way

Booking a flight at least 4 weeks in advance is the most economical option.

Compare Hawthorne to Seattle Routes

	Train Connecting	Flight Direct
Duration	70 hours	6 hours 30 mins
Avg Price	$500 - $1400	$350 - $750
Operator	Amtrak	Alaska Airlines
Route	Lake Shore Limited to Empire Builder	JFK/EWR to SEA
Tip	The Empire Builder route is famous for its views of Glacier National Park.	Alaska Airlines offers frequent direct flights from JFK to SEA.

Travel Tips

Rain Gear
Always carry a waterproof jacket; Seattle is known for its light, frequent rain.
Light Rail
Use the Link Light Rail to travel from SEA airport to downtown Seattle.
Coffee Culture
Explore local independent coffee shops beyond the major chains.
Ferry Rides
Take a Washington State Ferry to Bainbridge Island for great city skyline views.
Booking
Book your Space Needle tickets online to avoid long queues.

Safety Tips

Downtown Safety
Be aware of your surroundings in the downtown core, especially at night.
Property
Do not leave bags unattended in public spaces or parks.
Emergency
Keep the number for local transit police saved in your phone.
Health
Stay hydrated and carry basic first aid supplies if hiking nearby.