Is there a train to Seattle?

Amtrak's Empire Builder runs from Chicago to Seattle, but you must get to Chicago first.

What is the best airport?

SEA is the primary international airport, while PAE is a good alternative for some flights.

How long is the drive?

It takes about 32 hours of driving time, usually split over four days.

No, Seattle has good public transit, but a car is helpful for exploring the surrounding nature.

Yes, the route is well-traveled, but be prepared for mountain passes and potential winter weather.

O'Fallon

Seattle

Flight Driving

O'Fallon to Seattle

Updated: 28 May 2026

The journey from O'Fallon to Seattle covers approximately 2,100 miles. You can fly from St. Louis Lambert (STL) to Seattle-Tacoma International (SEA) in about 4.5 hours. Driving involves taking I-70 West to I-80 West and then I-84 West, crossing the Rockies and the Pacific Northwest. This is a scenic route that takes you through diverse landscapes, from the plains of the Midwest to the lush forests of Washington.

Total Distance: 3,380 km driving, 2,800 km air distance.

Fastest Way

A direct flight from STL to SEA takes 4.5 hours, saving you over 27 hours of travel time.

Cheapest Way

Flying is generally the most economical option when considering the high cost of fuel and overnight stays for a 32-hour drive.

Compare O'Fallon to Seattle Routes

	Flight Direct	Driving Direct
Duration	4 hours 30 mins	32 hours
Avg Price	$220 - $650	$450 - $800 in fuel
Operator	Alaska Airlines	Personal Vehicle
Route	STL to SEA	I-70 W to I-84 W
Tip	SEA is a major hub; check for flights into Paine Field (PAE) for a less crowded experience.	Be prepared for snow on mountain passes in the Rockies and Cascades during winter months.

Travel Tips

Rain Gear
Seattle is famous for its rain; always carry a waterproof jacket, even in the summer.
Public Transit
Use the Link Light Rail to get from SEA to downtown and the bus system for city travel.
Coffee Culture
Seattle is the birthplace of modern coffee culture; explore local roasters beyond the big chains.
Walking
The city is hilly; wear comfortable walking shoes and be prepared for steep inclines.
Reservations
Book popular restaurants and attractions like the Space Needle well in advance.

Safety Tips

Vehicle Security
Never leave anything visible in your car, as break-ins are common in tourist areas.
Neighborhoods
Be aware of your surroundings, especially in areas like downtown at night.
Emergency
Keep a list of local emergency numbers and a physical map in your car for remote stretches of I-84.
Pedestrian Safety
Be cautious when walking in busy areas; always use crosswalks and obey traffic signals.