Getting Around Seattle Just Got Easier
Sound Transit is transforming the way people move around Seattle, ever since the latest phase of Link light rail opened March 19. Dubbed U Link, the two-station segment affords Seattleites eight-minute rides from University of Washington Station to Westlake Station, with a stop at Capitol Hill Station.
Currently a bus ride from Downtown to University of Washington can take anywhere from 20 to 35 minutes depending on traffic conditions. The quick, dependable Link light rail allows users to have stability around their schedules as trains arrive every six minutes during morning and afternoon commutes.
U Link is an exciting opportunity to explore and move around the City without hassling with traffic and parking — you will be able to have dinner in Columbia City and zip up to Capitol Hill for a late-night show in a few minutes! The 3.15-mile segment connects some of Seattle’s largest urban centers and make walking or biking around the city even easier.
The stations feature a pedestrian/bicyclist bridge over Montlake Boulevard, connecting the station to Montlake Triangle for an easy and safe crossing over a busy street for pedestrians and cyclists. Riders will enjoy frequent bus connections, and in Capitol Hill can easily connect to the First Hill Street Car. For cyclists, covered bicycle storage is available at both stations, or you can take your bike on the train.
How To Ride Link
The best way to reach Link Light Rail is to walk, bike or bus. There is no car parking at University of Washington nor Capitol Hill stations.
Buy a ticket from the vending machine at the Link light rail stations or you can tap your ORCA card at one of the yellow ORCA card readers at the station. On Link you tap before you board and then tap once you reach your destination. Fare depends on distance.
On-board bicycle capacity is limited so consider locking your bike at the racks at the stations. If you’re bringing your bike on board, enter a door with a bike symbol. Each car fits a maximum of four bikes: two in the hook area (also for luggage) and two standing with the rider. No oversized bikes are allowed on Link. For more information, email bicycles@soundtransit.org.
Things To Do
Explore Capitol Hill and the University of Washington without worrying about parking! Here are a few highlights of things to do around the stations.
CAPITOL HILL STATION
1521 10th Ave.
Located a block south of Cal Anderson Park, The Elliott Bay Book Company, a Seattle fixture for more than 40 years, is a fantastic spot to spend an afternoon. With a knowledgeable staff and a huge selection, this independently-owned bookseller is a treat.
MOLLY MOON’S HOMEMADE ICE CREAM
917 E Pine St.
Molly Moon’s Homemade Ice Cream is a Seattle institution. With a tempting array of flavors , a deluge of topping options and waffle cones made on site, all your ice cream needs are covered. And Molly Moon’s support of local farmers and non-profits, and its ethos of sustainability, is the proverbial cherry on top.
1833 Broadway Ave.
Tucked away in the basement of an old building on Broadway and East Denny, Annapurna is a gateway to the cuisine of the Himalayas. The restaurant is cozy and colorful, flush with enticing aromas, mouthwatering spices and great food.
UNIVERSITY OF WASHINGTON STATION
UW WATERFRONT ACTIVITIES CENTER
3710 Montlake Blvd. NE
Canoe rentals from the Waterfront Activities Center allows you to see some of the most beautiful parts of the city from a unique perspective. Although not visible from the street, the waters just east of Husky Stadium are a gateway to lush urban greenery.
PORTAGE BAY GRANGE
4110 Roosevelt Way NE
With live chickens in the front, jars of pantry staples lining the walls, and gear and books in the back, Portage Bay Grange is both DIY outfitter and educational center for Seattle’s growing urban farming community. Stocked to the gills with goodies and equipment, the Grange is a fun place to poke around.
4100 15th Ave. NE
The Henry Art Gallery is home to a collection of frequently-rotating exhibits of contemporary art. On a dry day, the simple serenity of the Skyspace is not to be missed.
