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Seattle, Washington / History

King Street Station

A historic brick-and-granite gateway to the Pacific Northwest, this landmark station blends early 20th-century architecture with modern transit, featuring a towering clock and a LEED Platinum certified restoration.

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King Street Station
SounderBruce, CC BY-SA 4.0

What is King Street Station known for?

It is a historic train station in Seattle's Pioneer Square neighborhood that serves as a hub for the Pacific Northwest region and is one of Amtrak's busiest stations.

What are the hours for King Street Station?

The station is open Sunday through Saturday from 5:00 a.m. to 11:00 p.m., though ticketing hours are slightly shorter, from 5:10 a.m. to 9:15 p.m.

Where is it located?

The station is located at 303 South Jackson Street in the Pioneer Square neighborhood at the south end of Downtown Seattle.

What services are available at the station?

Available services include a ticket agent and ticket machine, an on-site ATM, checked baggage during station hours, short-term parking, and an enclosed waiting area.

Is the station wheelchair accessible?

Yes, the station is wheelchair accessible and provides an accessible platform and wheelchair availability.

What should I check before going?

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

What to know

Opened to the public in May 1906, King Street Station serves as a vital transport hub at the south end of Downtown Seattle. Located in the Pioneer Square neighborhood near South Jackson Street and 4th Avenue South, this three-story brick-and-granite building is instantly recognizable by its twelve-story clock tower. For over 110 years, it has acted as a gateway for millions of travelers entering the Pacific Northwest. The station is one of the 15th-busiest in the Amtrak system, facilitating movement for more than 2.7 million passengers annually. It supports a wide array of transit options, including Amtrak, Sounder commuter rail, Amtrak Thruway intercity bus services, Link light rail, and the First Hill Seattle Streetcar. This connectivity has historically spurred economic growth and helped establish Seattle as a major metropolitan city. Beyond its role in transportation, the site is a public asset and cultural center. Housed above the station is a 7,500-square-foot gallery and cultural space that contains offices for the Seattle Office of Arts & Culture and a studio for artists-in-residence. The facility's commitment to sustainability was highlighted during its historic restoration and rehabilitation by ZGF, which earned the project a LEED Platinum certification.

Visitor tips

  • The station is open daily from 5:00 a.m. to 11:00 p.m., making it a flexible stop for early birds or night owls.
  • If you need tickets, visit the agent between 5:10 a.m. and 9:15 p.m.
  • Look up at the twelve-story clock tower for the best architectural photo opportunities from the street.

Nearby context

King Street Station anchors the southern edge of the Pioneer Square neighborhood, placing it within walking distance of Seattle's oldest district and its historic cobblestone streets.

Sources

Evidence and links