How to travel from San Diego to Seattle on the cheap

How to travel from San Diego to Seattle on the cheapPhoto: iStock
Hoodline
Published on November 11, 2019

In need of a vacation that boasts fresh seafood, lush greenery, excellent coffee, live music and panoramic views? According to the New York Times, Seattle, Washington, is one of the best places to visit. Home to tech giants, research institutions and major professional sports teams, Seattle manages to maintain a local feel, offering residents and tourists plenty of street festivals, performing arts, scenic parks and unique neighborhoods, each with its own unique flavor.

It’s more doable than you think. According to travel site Skyscanner, there are plenty of flights from San Diego to Seattle in the next few months, and the prices aren't too shabby.

So if you're looking for a change of scenery, here are some deals to put on your to-do list. (Prices and availability are current as of publication and subject to change.)

Hoodline offers data-driven analysis of local happenings and trends across cities. Links included in the articles may earn Hoodline a commission on clicks and transactions.

Flight deals to Seattle

The cheapest flights between San Diego and Seattle are if you leave on Feb. 7 and return from Washington on Feb. 10. Alaska Airlines currently has tickets for $96, roundtrip.

Alaska Airlines also has tickets at that price point in January. If you fly out of San Diego on Jan. 30 and return from Seattle on Feb. 2, Alaska Airlines can get you there and back for $96 roundtrip.

Top Seattle hotels

Regarding where to stay, here are two of Seattle's top-rated hotels, that we selected from Skyscanner's listings based on price and customer satisfaction.

The Kimpton Alexis Hotel (1007 First Ave.)

Photo: Trip by Skyscanner

For an all-around top recommendation, consider The Kimpton Alexis Hotel, which has rooms for $175/night.

Named as one of Travel + Leisure's Best 500 Hotels in the World, the Alexis Hotel is just steps from the Pike Place Market, the Waterfront and Pioneer Square. 

The Fairmont Olympic Seattle (411 University St.)

Photo: Trip by Skyscanner

Another popular option is The Fairmont Olympic Seattle. The 4.8-star hotel has rooms for $159/night.

Set in the heart of Seattle, this hotel is close to 5th Avenue Theater, Pike Place Market and the Space Needle.

Top picks for dining and drinking

Seattle has plenty of top-notch dining options. Here are a few of the most popular, according to Skyscanner.

Beecher's Handmade Cheese (1600 Pike Place)

Photo: Trip by Skyscanner

If you're looking for a local favorite, head to Beecher's Handmade Cheese, which has an average of 4.5 stars out of 93 reviews on Skyscanner.

In Seattle's historic Pike Place Market, visitors press their noses against the windows to witness a vat of creamy white milk transformed by the expert hands of the cheesemaker.

"I'm literally making a trip to Seattle solely to get Beecher's mac and cheese," wrote visitor Sophia. "The sandwiches are yummy, too."

Pike Place Chowder (1530 Post Alley)

Photo: Trip by Skyscanner

Another popular dining destination is Pike Place Chowder, with 4.6 stars from 72 reviews.

Stop by the flagship cafe and brave the lines for what's been named the nation's best chowder.

"This is the best chowder I've had to date," wrote reviewer George.  

Piroshky Piroshky (1908 Pike Place)

Photo: Trip by Skyscanner

Finally, there's Piroshky Piroshky.

This bakery was started in October 1992 by the Kotelnikov family. The word Piroshky originates from the Russian word "pir," which means feast. It is a handheld meal in the form a stuffed pie with a variety of fillings. 

Top Seattle attractions

Seattle is also full of sites to visit and explore. Here are some popular attractions to round out your trip, again from Skyscanner's listings.

The Space Needle (400 Broad St.)

Photo: Trip by Skyscanner

First up is The Space Needle.

The iconic landmark left by the 1962 World's Fair, the Space Needle comprises the most recognizable feature of one of the most famous skylines in the world. Climb to the top for 360-degree views of Seattle and get your souvenirs at the gift shop on the bottom floor.  

"You can't miss the Space Needle when in Seattle," wrote visitor Juno. "It is such an iconic landmark of the city. The area around it is also very charming to walk around."

The Waterfront Park (1401 Alaskan Way)

Photo: Trip by Skyscanner

Then spend some time at The Waterfront Park, which has spectacular views, hosts summer concerts and includes green space to picnic at Myrtle Edwards Park.

"Great place to go for an easy walk and get views of the mountains," wrote visitor Taylor. 

Chihuly Garden and Glass (305 Harrison St.)

Photo: Trip by Skyscanner

Lastly, consider checking out Chihuly Garden and Glass.

"Breathtaking glass sculptures! The garden is a horticultural symphony of trees, shrubs, arts and colorful glass sculptures," wrote visitor Tracy.


This story was created automatically using flight, hotel, and local attractions data, then reviewed by an editor. Click here for more about what we're doing. Got thoughts? Go here to share your feedback.