Welcome to Traveling in the United States and its territories! In this article, we will explore the enchanting city of Bellevue, Washington – a vibrant destination filled with natural beauty and urban charm. Discover the best modes of transportation to reach this captivating city, from convenient flights to nearby airports, to scenic road trips through picturesque landscapes. Whether you’re planning a weekend getaway or a longer adventure, let us guide you on how to travel to Bellevue and uncover its hidden gems. Get ready for an unforgettable experience in the heart of the Pacific Northwest!
Best airports to fly into Bellevue
Bellevue, Washington is conveniently located near several major airports, making it easily accessible for travelers. The best airports to fly into when visiting Bellevue are:
- Seattle-Tacoma International Airport (SEA): Located approximately 17 miles from Bellevue, SEA is the closest major airport and offers a wide range of domestic and international flights.
- Portland International Airport (PDX): Situated about 176 miles south of Bellevue, PDX is another popular option for travelers visiting the area.
- Vancouver International Airport (YVR): Located in Canada, approximately 150 miles north of Bellevue, YVR can be a convenient choice for travelers coming from the north.
Transportation options from the airport to Bellevue
Once you arrive at the airport, there are several transportation options available to reach Bellevue:
- Rental cars: Renting a car is a popular choice for travelers who want flexibility and independence during their stay in Bellevue. Several rental car companies operate at each of the airports mentioned.
- Shuttle services: Various shuttle services provide transportation between the airports and Bellevue. These services offer convenience and often drop-off directly at hotels or popular destinations.
- Taxis and rideshare: Taxis and rideshare services such as Uber and Lyft are readily available at all major airports, providing a convenient and hassle-free option to reach Bellevue.
Public transportation options within Bellevue
For travelers who prefer public transportation or want to explore Bellevue without renting a car, there are several options available:
- Bus: King County Metro Transit operates an extensive bus network in and around Bellevue, providing convenient access to various neighborhoods and attractions.
- Light rail: While there is no light rail service directly in Bellevue, Sound Transit’s Link light rail system connects downtown Seattle to nearby cities, offering an alternative for exploring the area.
- Bicycles and walking: Bellevue is known for its pedestrian-friendly streets and well-maintained bike lanes, making it easy to get around on foot or by bike.
Recommended routes for road trips to Bellevue
If you’re planning a road trip to Bellevue, here are a couple of recommended routes:
- From Seattle: Take Interstate 90 East, which offers scenic views of Lake Washington and takes you directly into Bellevue.
- From Portland: Follow Interstate 5 North until you reach Interstate 405, which will lead you to Bellevue.
Tips for getting around Bellevue efficiently
To make the most of your visit to Bellevue, consider the following tips for getting around efficiently:
- Plan ahead: Familiarize yourself with the city’s layout and attractions to optimize your travel routes.
- Use navigation apps: Utilize navigation apps such as Google Maps or Waze to find the most efficient routes and avoid traffic congestion.
- Check for local events: Be aware of any major events happening in Bellevue that may impact traffic or parking availability.
- Consider off-peak hours: Traveling during non-peak hours can often result in shorter travel times and less congestion on the roads.
Frequently Asked Questions in our travel blog
What are the best transportation options to travel to Bellevue, Washington?
Bellevue, Washington is a vibrant city located just outside of Seattle. When it comes to transportation options, there are several convenient ways to travel to Bellevue.
1. Seattle-Tacoma International Airport (SEA): Flying into SEA is the most common way to reach Bellevue. From the airport, you can take a taxi, rideshare service, or the Sound Transit Link light rail to Bellevue.
2. Public Transportation: The King County Metro Transit operates several bus routes that connect Bellevue to neighboring cities and downtown Seattle. Buses are an affordable option, and the Bellevue Transit Center serves as a major hub for these routes.
3. Amtrak: For those who prefer train travel, Amtrak offers service to Seattle’s King Street Station. From there, you can either take a taxi, rideshare service, or transfer to a local bus to reach Bellevue.
4. Rental Car: Renting a car gives you the flexibility to explore Bellevue and its surrounding areas at your own pace. Several car rental agencies have locations at SEA, making it convenient to pick up a vehicle upon arrival.
5. Shuttle Services: There are shuttle services available that operate between SEA and Bellevue. These services provide door-to-door transportation and can be pre-booked for added convenience.
6. Cycling: Bellevue is a bike-friendly city with numerous bike lanes and trails. If you enjoy cycling, you can easily explore the city by renting a bike or using the local bike-sharing program.
Overall, Bellevue offers a variety of transportation options to suit different preferences and budgets. Whether you choose to fly, take public transportation, rent a car, or use alternative modes of transportation, getting to and around Bellevue is relatively easy.
How far is Bellevue from the nearest airport and what are the transport options from there?
Bellevue is located approximately 20 miles from the nearest airport, which is Seattle-Tacoma International Airport (SEA). There are several transportation options available from the airport to Bellevue.
1. Rental Car: Renting a car is a convenient option if you prefer to have your own transportation. All major car rental companies have counters at the airport, and you can easily find their services by following the signs in the terminal.
2. Taxi/Cab: Taxis and cabs are available outside the airport terminals. You can simply queue up at the designated taxi stands and request a taxi to Bellevue. The journey typically takes around 20-30 minutes, depending on traffic conditions.
3. Ride-Sharing Services: Popular ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are also available at Seattle-Tacoma International Airport. Simply use the respective app on your smartphone to request a ride and select Bellevue as your destination.
4. Shuttle Services: Some hotels in Bellevue offer complimentary shuttle services for their guests. If you are staying at one of these hotels, make sure to inquire about their shuttle availability and schedule in advance.
5. Public Transportation: For budget-conscious travelers, public transportation is a viable option. You can take the Link light rail from the airport to downtown Seattle, and then transfer to a bus that will take you to Bellevue. This option may take longer than other modes of transportation but can be more cost-effective.
Overall, there are multiple transport options available from Seattle-Tacoma International Airport to Bellevue, ensuring easy access to this vibrant city in the United States.
Are there any direct flights to Bellevue, Washington?
Are there any direct flights to Bellevue, Washington?
Yes, there are direct flights to Bellevue, Washington. The city is conveniently located near Seattle, which has a major international airport called Seattle-Tacoma International Airport (SEA). Many airlines offer direct flights to SEA from various cities in the United States and around the world. Once you arrive at SEA, you can easily reach Bellevue by car, taxi, or public transportation.
What is the best way to travel from Seattle to Bellevue?
The best way to travel from Seattle to Bellevue is by car. The distance between the two cities is approximately 10 miles, and driving offers the most convenient and efficient option. You can take Interstate 90 or State Route 520, both of which connect Seattle to Bellevue. The drive typically takes around 20 minutes, depending on traffic.
If you prefer not to drive, another option is to take public transportation. There are several bus routes operated by King County Metro that connect Seattle to Bellevue. The most direct route is the RapidRide B Line, which runs along Eastlake Avenue and goes directly to Bellevue Transit Center. The journey takes about 30-40 minutes, depending on traffic conditions.
Cycling is also a popular option for traveling between Seattle and Bellevue, as both cities have bike-friendly infrastructure. There are dedicated bike lanes and paths that connect the two cities, offering a scenic and environmentally friendly way to travel. The distance can be covered in approximately 45 minutes to an hour, depending on your cycling speed.
Overall, the best way to travel from Seattle to Bellevue depends on your preferences and circumstances. If you have access to a car, driving would likely be the most convenient option. However, public transportation and cycling are viable alternatives for those who prefer a more sustainable mode of travel or do not have access to a vehicle.
Are there any scenic routes or alternative transportation options to consider when traveling to Bellevue?
When traveling to Bellevue, there are several scenic routes and alternative transportation options to consider.
If you are driving, one scenic route to take is the State Route 520 which crosses Lake Washington, offering stunning views of the lake and the surrounding areas. Another option is to take the Interstate 90 bridge, which provides beautiful views of both Lake Washington and downtown Seattle.
For those looking for alternative transportation options, you can consider taking the Sound Transit Light Rail from downtown Seattle to Bellevue. This option allows you to avoid traffic and enjoy a relaxing ride while taking in the sights along the way.
Additionally, Bellevue offers an extensive bike trail network that is perfect for cycling enthusiasts. These trails provide a scenic and eco-friendly way to explore the city and its surroundings.
Lastly, if you prefer a more leisurely and scenic experience, you can opt to take a ferry ride from Seattle to Bellevue. This option not only offers breathtaking views of the Puget Sound but also allows you to skip the traffic and enjoy a unique travel experience.
Overall, whether you choose to drive, take public transportation, cycle, or even take a ferry, there are plenty of scenic routes and alternative transportation options available when traveling to Bellevue.
In conclusion, visiting Bellevue, Washington is a must for any travel enthusiast. With its vibrant city life, stunning natural beauty, and endless recreational activities, there is something for everyone to enjoy. Whether you choose to fly into Seattle-Tacoma International Airport and take a short drive to Bellevue or explore the city through public transportation, getting to this gem of the Pacific Northwest is a breeze. Don’t forget to check out the numerous hotels and accommodations available in Bellevue, ensuring a comfortable stay throughout your trip. So pack your bags, plan your itinerary, and get ready to embark on an unforgettable adventure in Bellevue, Washington!
