Olympia
Olympia
Seattle
Seattle
Driving

Olympia to Seattle

Updated: 28 May 2026

The drive from Olympia to Seattle is approximately 60 miles. You will head north on I-5 through the beautiful Pacific Northwest landscape. This route is a common commute and is very easy to navigate. It is a popular trip for those visiting the Emerald City.

Total Distance: 100 km driving, 90 km air distance.
Fastest Way
Driving, taking approximately 1.5 hours.
Cheapest Way
Driving your own vehicle, costing roughly $15 in fuel.
Compare Olympia to Seattle Routes
Driving
Direct
Duration
1 hour 30 mins
Avg Price
$10 - $20 in fuel
Operator
Personal Vehicle
Route
I-5 N.

Traffic in Tacoma and Seattle can be very heavy.

Travel Tips
  • Traffic
    Avoid rush hour in Tacoma and Seattle.
  • Dining
    Try the local seafood.
  • Weather
    It rains often; pack a rain jacket.
  • Parking
    Use public parking garages in the city.
  • Events
    Check the local calendar for festivals.
Safety Tips
  • Road Safety
    Stay alert for heavy traffic on I-5.
  • Urban Safety
    Stick to well-lit areas when walking at night.
  • Emergency
    Keep a roadside emergency kit in your vehicle.
  • Navigation
    Use a GPS for real-time traffic updates.
People Also Ask
  • Is there a train?
    Yes, Amtrak Cascades offers service.
  • How long is the drive?
    It takes about 1.5 hours.
  • Is Seattle safe?
    Stick to tourist areas and stay alert.
  • What is the best route?
    I-5 N is the standard route.
  • Are there tolls?
    No, there are no tolls on this route.
Quick Info
  • From Olympia, Washington, United States
  • To Seattle, Washington, United States
  • Modes
Best Time to Travel

Summer for clear skies and outdoor activities.

Things to Do in Seattle
1
Space Needle
An iconic landmark with great views of the city.
2
Pike Place Market
A historic market with shops, restaurants, and the famous fish throwers.
3
Chihuly Garden and Glass
A beautiful museum dedicated to glass art.
4
Seattle Art Museum
A renowned art museum with a diverse collection.
Tags
Olympia to Seattle driving to Seattle I-5 N route Washington travel Seattle travel road trip guide distance to Seattle travel tips Emerald City