Last Updated on October 24, 2023 by Usama
Seattle Center is a well-known art and entertainment center offering a variety of events and tourist attractions on a 74-acre land. The 1962 World’s Fair legacy has evolved over the years and become the heart of the city and a must-see destination. It’s accessible by public transport, but it also offers multiple short-term parking services to visitors who prefer to remain behind the wheel. Keep reading to discover all about Seattle Center parking, including garage locations, hourly parking fees, ADA parking availability, and cheap alternatives. Use the info and our tips to have a hassle-free day and save both time and money!
Points of Interest at Seattle Center
Before we dig into parking, let’s go through the most popular attractions in the area, including the city’s treasured icon, the Space Needle. Seattle’s most recognizable landmark has two observation decks with breathtaking views and the only revolving glass floor in the world.
The International Fountain is another centerpiece from the 1962 World’s Fair, while the Seattle Center Armory provides tasty foods and fresh drinks. The world’s most sustainable arena in the world and home to the Seattle Kraken team—Climate Pledge Arena—hosts an array of events on-site. If you’re interested in contemporary popular culture, the Museum of Pop Culture is the place for you! Other attractions include Chihuly Garden and Glass, Seattle Children’s Museum, McCaw Hall, and Pacific Science Center.
Seattle Center Parking in a Nutshell
Several visitor parking structures are available on the Seattle Center grounds and are open 24/7.
- 5th Avenue N. Garage at 516 Harrison Street
- Mercer Street Garage at 650 3rd Avenue N.
- 1st Ave N. Garage at 220 1st Avenue N.
- Theatre Commons Parking Lot at 2nd Avenue N. & Mercer Street
The 5th Ave. N. garage is the most suitable for MoPOP visitors, while those headed to Cornish Playhouse or Seattle Repertory Theatre should use the Mercer St. garage or Theatre Commons lot. Most parking spots are conveniently located and available on a first-come, first-served basis, so early arrival is recommended.
How Much Is Parking at Seattle Center?
While the Theatre Commons Lot charges $15 for up to 12 hours of car parking, Seattle Center parking garages have the following rates. All prices include taxes and are subject to change.
| Duration | Self-Parking Fee |
| Up to 1 hour | $6 |
| 1–2 hours | $13 |
| 2–12 hours | $15 |
| 12–24 hours | $30 |
During events, daily parking prices range from $20 to $30, depending on the occasion.
Accessible Parking
Convenient parking spaces for visitors with disabilities are available at several locations throughout the Seattle Center campus. Mercer Parking Garage offers 67 ADA stalls on Levels B and C. If you’re searching for van-accessible spots, head to the 5th Avenue N. Garage, Theatre Commons ADA parking lot, or School District Parking Lot. The Theatre Commons Lot also has an accessible pick-up/drop-off area. A valid disabled parking permit is required.
Electric Vehicle Charging Stations
Level 2 EV charging stations are available in the 5th Avenue N. Garage—two on Level P1 and one on Level P2. One of the spots on Level P1 is van-accessible. Only credit cards are accepted, and the charging fee is $2. Note that you can occupy the spot only while your car is charging.
Monthly Parking at Seattle Center
Selected Seattle Center parking facilities offer reasonably-priced monthly parking services convenient for people living or working in the vicinity. Although 24/7 access is no longer available, this long-term parking option allows you to park daily between 12 AM and 5:30 PM. The 5th Avenue N. Garage and Mercer Street Garage charge as low as $160 per month; purchase the parking permit at the 516 Harrison St. office or find out more at (206) 615-1906.
Additional Parking Lots Near Seattle Center
If you plan to stick around for a few hours, and the Seattle Center parking garages are too pricey for your budget, we have some suggestions! Our team looked into city parking lots near Seattle Center and discovered a few more cost-effective options. The listed rates apply to three-hour stays on a weekday afternoon.
| Parking Facility | 3-Hour Parking Cost | Address |
| Queen Anne Square Garage | $7 | 616 3rd Ave. W. |
| Skyway Luggage Lot | $7 | 2538 Elliott Ave. |
| Olympus Parking Garage | $10 | 2801 Western Ave. |
| 2601 Elliott Garage | $12 | 2600 Elliott Ave. |
These facilities are up to 10 minutes away; look them up on platforms like SpotHero to confirm prices and book in advance. We also suggest that you check out our Climate Pledge Arena guide, which provides information on on-site and off-site parking options.
Ride the Monorail to Seattle Center
Public transit is the best alternative to driving, and the Seattle Center Monorail runs every 10 minutes between Westlake Center Mall and Seattle Center. This public transportation service operates from 7:30 AM to 9 PM on weekdays and from 8:30 AM on weekends. A one-way fare for adults is $3.00; pay using your credit, debit, or ORCA card. Alternatively, you may hop on one of the many King County Metro buses that stop around Seattle Center.
Find Cheap Parking in Seattle Without Any Hassle!
Parking Access is an excellent resource for Seattle residents and visitors driving around the city. Whether you’re searching for parking near major tourist attractions or affordable event parking, we’ll help you find it and avoid pricey Seattle parking tickets. In addition to Seattle Center parking and Climate Pledge Arena, you may use our assistance to learn more about the following.
If you’re planning a trip outside the city or state and searching for a discounted parking spot at Seattle-Tacoma International Airport, go through our comprehensive guide to Sea-Tac Parking!
