How do I get to the University from the airport?

You have several options, all of which are explained all of which are explained on this website. If you have any questions, please let us know.

It is possible that you could be reimbursed for some or all of your airport transportation costs (if you have money left out of your maximum of $500). If you're not sure, get a receipt and we will find out for you.

How's the weather?

While our area is well known for its rain, this is rarely the case in the summer. Fortunately it's neither too hot or humid and it's uncommon for Seattleites to have air-conditioning in their homes. Check the weather forecast here.

What to wear?

We recommend a selection of clothes that can be worn layered. Residents can tell you that it might be misty and cold in the morning, 80 and dry in the afternoon, and warm and rainy that same night! It's therefore best to be prepared for just about anything other than snow.

A windbreaker-type light jacket with a hood is another good idea: remember, Gore-Tex was invented in the Pacific Northwest. And if you need to get stuff once you get here, there's always REI.

What's there to do in Seattle?

While Seattle's provinciality may seem evident in contrast to other cities, its diversity offers plenty of stuff to do. Read on!

Local events and Music

If you want to see some local bands or acts touring smaller clubs, check out The Stranger. You'll also find other arts and entertainment information, and columns by local writers.

For more mainstream kind of stuff, try The Seattle Times (the best place to go for comprehensive movie times).

Is there anything I really should see?

All of the following are tourist attractions, but still worth a trip:
The Experience Music Project
Seattle Center (where the Space Needle is)
Pike Place Market
The Seattle Aquarium
Underground Seattle
The International District (Asian Museum, restaurants, Uwajimaya store)
If you want to play some games, there's always Gameworks

Outside the University District, is there anything cool within walking distance?

Fremont is close by (a neighborhood over to the West on the Burke-Gilman Trail) and full of interesting diversions. The Fremont Fair kicks off on June 18th with the Solstice Parade--a Seattle institution! Check the website for details. (Warning: aspects of the parade can be sort of PG-13 rated, particularly choice of attire.)

Museums nearby: Museum of History and Industry. It's a short walk away, and a great way to spend an afternoon. Seattle Art Museum. Centrally located, an Express bus-ride downtown. Henry Art Gallery. Amazing exhibitions of Contemporary Art just across the way.

What can I do outside?

Seattle's fairly urban, but if you need outdoor recreation, we've got lots of parks. These five are pretty close by (mostly within walking distance):

Cowen Park (formed by a glacier)
Greenlake (the lake has a track all the way around for walking or biking)
Golden Gardens (we call it "the beach"!)
The Japanese Garden (beautiful any time of year)
Gas Works Park (near the water, lots of stuff to look at)

If you're interested in seeing what's outdoors beyond the city limits, come ask at the INT, or check the UW libraries.