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Seattle, Washington / History

Boeing Field / King County International Airport historic terminal area

Experience the dawn of Seattle aviation at the historic terminal of Boeing Field, the city's first commercial airport, featuring unique sustainable architecture and aviation-themed public art.

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Boeing Field / King County International Airport historic terminal area
kingcounty.gov, website_hero_img_kingcounty.gov

What is the Boeing Field / King County International Airport historic terminal area known for?

It is a designated landmark that served as the region's first commercial airport and only passenger terminal when it opened in 1928. It is known for its collection of aviation-themed art and artifacts, as well as a main passenger terminal building featuring the only known existing airport green roof in the United States.

Is it free to visit?

Yes, admission to the Boeing Field Airport terminal is free and open to the public.

What are the hours?

The terminal is open Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Where is it located?

The terminal is located at 7277 Perimeter Road South, Seattle, WA 98108, approximately four miles south of downtown Seattle.

Are there places to eat or shop there?

Yes, there are several dining options and shops available within the main terminal area.

What should I check before going?

Use Gyde for context, then check official sources for current hours, tickets, construction, and closures.

What to know

The historic terminal area at King County International Airport, widely recognized as Boeing Field, stands as a foundational site in the city's aviation history. Constructed in 1928 and named for William E. Boeing, the airfield served as Seattle's primary passenger hub for over a decade until the opening of Seattle-Tacoma International Airport in 1944. This site was the region's first commercial airport and sole passenger terminal upon its debut on July 26, 1928. Located at 7277 Perimeter Road South, the terminal area blends historical significance with modern sustainability. The main passenger terminal building is home to a notable green roof, which is described as the only existing airport greenroof in the United States. This architectural feature complements the facility's role as a public landmark that remains open to the community. Visitors to the terminal can explore a collection of aviation-themed artifacts and public art designed to honor the site's legacy. Among these works is a story pole created by Duwamish carver Michael Halady, which joins other artworks that interpret the location's past. The terminal area also provides practical amenities, including shops and dining options for those visiting the site. Today, the airport remains a vital piece of infrastructure, ranking second in Washington for landings and takeoffs. While it no longer serves as the primary commercial hub, it continues to operate as a busy primary non-hub airport and an international airport of entry, maintaining the spirit of early flight in the heart of Seattle.

Visitor tips

  • Visit between 8 a.m. and 5 p.m., Monday through Friday, to access the terminal interior.
  • Look up to spot the unique green roof on the main passenger terminal building.
  • Allow extra time to walk around the perimeter to view the public art and story pole.

Nearby context

Boeing Field is situated roughly four miles south of downtown Seattle, with most of its property lying south of the Georgetown neighborhood and extending slightly into Tukwila.

Sources

Evidence and links