The Pacific Northwest’s largest city is where enterprise, natural beauty, and the arts meet to create a place brimming with excitement and attractions. Seattle’s popularity with visitors is well-earned by sights such as the Seattle Space Needle, Pike Place Market and Woodland Park Zoo. Those who rent a car in Seattle will be able to visit these and more at their leisure; as well as get out of the city to explore the many excellent hiking and cycling trails, with sublime views, that lie in the wider Pacific Northwest region.
Car rental in Seattle - the most important rental sites
Auto rental in Seattle is the best way of getting around the city, as the attractions tend to be spread out over a large area. Whether you are staying long term in Seattle or are here for a short visit, having your own vehicle can really help you get the most out of this vibrant city. Renting one way from Seattle to another destination is also not a problem. Cheap deals on car hire in Seattle can be found at the following locations:
Rental Site | Address | Main Opening Times* |
Seattle/Tacoma Airport | 17801 International Blvd, Seattle, WA 98158, U.S. | 12:00 a.m. - 11:59 p.m. |
City Office | 1601 3rd Ave, Seattle, WA 98101, U.S. | 07:00 a.m. - 06:00 p.m. |
*The opening times may differ and vary depending on the rental site. Precise information can be found in the listing details. It may be possible to pick up and drop off your rental car outside of the main opening times, but be aware that there may be an additional charge for this service.
Planning your Seattle car rental
There’s a little something for everyone in Seattle. History? Check. Culture? Check. Beautiful outdoor spaces? Triple check.
The Space Needle: This tower is Seattle’s most iconic landmark and is well worth a visit. Built in 1962 as a centrepiece for the World’s Fair, the Needle forms part of the Seattle Center which is an extensive complex with several excellent attractions including a theatre, the Pacific Science Center and the Experience Music Project. It is advised that you park your rental car nearby and take the monorail, which was also built for the World's Fair, to the Needle. Arriving this way is not only memorable but a key part of the experience of visiting here.
Pike Place Market: More than 10 million people visit this bustling market each year. In operation since 1907, the market covers an area of some nine acres and features hundreds of restaurants, market stalls and shops. At the Fish Market you will see fishmongers throwing fish to one another as startled bystanders look on; while at 1912 Pike Place, you will find long queues of people waiting to buy a cup of Joe at the original Starbucks. Add to that a buzzing atmosphere and this market is not to be missed.
Woodland Park Zoo: For something different, rent a car in Seattle and drive just north of the city to the Woodland Park Zoo. This 92 acre, award-winning zoo is one of the best in the country and features a staggeringly wide range of animals: Lemurs, monkeys, gorillas, wolves, grizzly bears, giraffes, and much more can be found here. The Zoomazium, an interactive area for children, is also a highlight.
Getting around in Seattle
A car rental in Seattle makes a lot of sense. Unlike other North American cities, which can sometimes be intimidating to drivers new to the country, Seattle’s spacious roads and well-marked signs make driving here a straightforward experience. For a city of its size, Seattle’s traffic is also surprisingly light, especially when driving in the city centre. Rush hours can see some traffic building up; however, this tends to disperse fairly quickly. Parking can be an issue during peak times, however, the high number of multi storey car parks mean you should not have too much trouble finding a space.
With Seattle car rental, you have flexibility and ease so that you can get the most out of your visit here.