So You Wanna Ride the Seattle Monorail: A Penny-Pinching Tourist's Guide
Let's face it, Seattle is a stunner. From the iconic Space Needle scraping the clouds to the Pike Place Market overflowing with fresh fish (that you might accidentally get launched at you), the Emerald City is a feast for the senses. But hey, who wants to be left broke after taking in the sights? That's where the whimsical Seattle Monorail swoops in, offering a quick and scenic journey...for a price. But fear not, thrifty traveler, this guide will have you navigating the monorail's monetary mysteries like a pro!
How Much is a Monorail Ride, You Ask? Buckle Up!
Here's the skinny: a one-way trip on the Seattle Monorail will set you back a cool $3.50 if you're an adult (ages 19-64). That's not a bad deal considering the stellar views (and the fact you'll be whooshing through the city like a futuristic space pod).
But Wait, There's More! (Discounts That Is)
QuickTip: Return to sections that felt unclear.
For the young adventurers (ages 6-18), a one-way ride dips down to a mere $1.75. Seniors (65+), disabled folks, people with Medicare cards, and active US military with ID can also snag the $1.75 rate. And guess what? Those little tykes under 5? They scoot along for free! Now that's what we call a family-friendly price tag!
Round Trip? We Got You Covered (Literally)
Planning on zooming back and forth? Round trip tickets are simply double the one-way price. So, for adults, that's $7.00 for a round trip adventure. Just remember, Seattle is built on hills, so that return trip might involve a bit of a leg workout!
QuickTip: Repetition signals what matters most.
Alright, Alright, I'm Sold. How Do I Pay?
The monorail is all about convenience, and that extends to payment options. You can snag your tickets from the handy dandy vending machines at both the Seattle Center and Westlake stations. They accept all major credit cards, so you can ditch the wad of cash and focus on snapping those epic monorail selfies.
Bonus Tip: For the Eco-Conscious Adventurer
Tip: Patience makes reading smoother.
Looking to leave a smaller footprint? The monorail accepts ORCA LIFT cards, which is a reloadable transit pass used throughout the Seattle area. So, if you're planning on exploring more than just the monorail, this might be the way to go!
Monorail FAQ: Your Burning Questions Answered (Briefly)
How to get to the monorail stations? Both the Seattle Center and Westlake stations are easily accessible by public transportation.
QuickTip: A slow read reveals hidden insights.
How long is the ride? The monorail is a speedy little devil, zipping you between the two stops in a brisk 2 minutes.
How often do the trains run? Trains depart about every 10 minutes, so you won't be left hanging for too long.
Does the monorail have assigned seating? Nope! It's a free-for-all for the best views (though please be courteous to your fellow passengers).
Is the monorail wheelchair accessible? Absolutely! Both stations and the trains themselves are wheelchair accessible.
So there you have it, folks! Now you can conquer the Seattle Monorail without breaking the bank. Just remember, the real treasure is the journey (and the bragging rights you get for riding a giant, elevated train). Happy travels!
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