Whether you’re cheering on the WNBA Storm for the first time or you’re a longtime fan who has the pregame routine down, the Seattle Monorail is one of the easiest ways to get to and from Climate Pledge Arena. Board at Westlake Center, ride about two minutes to Seattle Center Station, and you’re a short walk from the arena with plenty of time before tip-off.
Key Takeaways
- The Seattle Monorail runs from Westlake Center to Seattle Center Station in about two minutes. Then, it’s just a short walk to Climate Pledge Arena.
- Link light rail riders can connect to the Monorail right at Westlake Station, though the Monorail charges its own separate fare.
- On Storm game nights, the Monorail runs more frequently and stays open later, typically until one hour after the game’s scheduled end time.
- Tickets are available online, at the ticket vending machines in either station, or by tapping an ORCA card; no need to find arena parking.
- Your Storm ticket includes a free transit pass you can redeem in the Kraken + CPA App, and it works on the Monorail.
Why Climate Pledge Arena Traffic Gets Rough on Game Night
Seattle Storm games bring thousands of fans to Seattle Center at once. As tip-off gets close, Mercer Street and the streets around Climate Pledge Arena fill up fast, and the arena’s own parking often runs out before the opening tip. Driving straight there means fighting that traffic twice, once on the way in and again after the final buzzer, when everyone leaves at the same time.
Good news: there’s an easy way around all of it. Get yourself to Westlake Center, and the Monorail handles the rest. No fighting Mercer Street traffic, no circling for a spot near the arena.
Your Storm Ticket Includes a Free Transit Pass
Before you buy a Monorail ticket, check this first. Your ticket to any publicly ticketed Climate Pledge Arena event comes with a free transit pass, and it works on the Seattle Monorail. Storm, Kraken and Torrent games and concerts all qualify.
You’ll redeem it in the Kraken + CPA App. Don’t let the name throw you, it’s the arena’s app for every event in the building, not just hockey. Set it up before you head out, then follow Climate Pledge Arena’s Free Transit Pass instructions.
One timing note: your pass is valid until two hours after the event, but the Monorail closes one hour after the scheduled end time. Plan around the Monorail’s closing time.
Getting to Westlake Center
How you get to Westlake Center depends on how you’re already getting downtown. Pick the path that matches your trip, then the ride from there is the same for everyone.
If You’re Riding Link Light Rail
- Exit at Westlake Station. Exit A2 puts you closest to the Monorail, and Exit B takes you into Westlake Center.
- Head to the third floor and the Monorail platform.
If You’re Driving and Parking Downtown
- Skip the arena lots. They’re the first to fill and the last to empty.
- Park in one of the downtown garages near Westlake Center instead.
- Check the garage’s posted closing time before you park. Some close earlier than you’d expect, especially if the game runs long.
- Head up to the third floor of Westlake Center via the escalator or elevator. Then head to the Monorail platform. Pro Tip: There is a street-level entrance on 5th Avenue that is open the same hours as the Monorail.
Know Before You Go:
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| Departure Location: | Westlake Center Monorail Station |
| Arrival Location: | Seattle Center Station |
| Ride time: | About 2 minutes |
| Walk to Climate Pledge Arena: | A few minutes |
| Payment options: | Redeem a free transit pass in the Kraken + CPA App, tap your ORCA card, use Tap to Pay at select faregates, buy tickets online, or use the ticket vending machines at either station |
| Before heading home: | The Monorail stays open until one hour after the game’s scheduled end time. Check the extended hours page on the day of to confirm your night’s closing time. |
Plan to arrive about an hour before tip-off if you’d like time to grab a meal, visit the Team Store, or explore Seattle Center before you find your seat.
The Seattle Monorail is Great for Families
Heading to the game with kids? The Monorail keeps things simple. Strollers roll right on, boarding is easy, and children often enjoy the ride as much as the destination. If you’re making a day of it, Seattle Center offers plenty to do before or after the game, including the Space Needle, Artists at Play, and the International Fountain.
A Smart Choice for Visitors Too
If you’re visiting Seattle, taking the Monorail is one of the easiest ways to reach Climate Pledge Arena. Many downtown hotels are within walking distance of Westlake Center, so there is no need to navigate unfamiliar streets or search for arena parking. You can also combine your Seattle Storm game with nearby attractions like the Space Needle, Chihuly Garden and Glass, the Museum of Pop Culture, or a walk through Seattle Center.
Tips for a Smooth Game Day
A little planning makes the trip even easier.
- For sellouts or rivalry games, build in an extra time buffer; both the trains and the sidewalks around Westlake get busier than on a typical weeknight.
- Expect longer lines right after the game, since everyone heads out at once. We run trains more frequently during events to get you on your way as quickly as possible.
- If you’re not in a hurry, spend a little extra time enjoying Seattle Center before heading home.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Seattle Monorail the best way to get to a Seattle Storm game?
For many fans, yes. The Monorail provides a quick connection between downtown Seattle and Seattle Center while helping you avoid much of the traffic around Climate Pledge Arena.
Does the Seattle Monorail stop at Climate Pledge Arena?
The Monorail stops at Seattle Center Station, just a short walk from the arena entrance.
Is there a free way to ride the Monorail to a Storm game?
Yes. Your ticket to any publicly ticketed Climate Pledge Arena event includes a free transit pass that works on the Monorail. You redeem it in the Kraken + CPA App. Climate Pledge Arena has the step by step instructions.
How long is the Seattle Monorail ride?
The ride between Westlake Center and Seattle Center takes about two minutes.
Can I take Link Light Rail and transfer to the Monorail?
Yes. Exit at Westlake Station and follow the signs to the Seattle Monorail. Keep in mind the Monorail charges its own fare, so you’ll pay separately when you board.
Is the Monorail a good option for families?
Yes. Strollers are welcome, boarding is easy, and the ride is often part of the fun for younger fans.
Should I drive directly to Climate Pledge Arena?
Many fans find it easier to park downtown or arrive by Link Light Rail, then ride the Monorail the rest of the way to Seattle Center.
Make the Ride Part of Game Day
A Seattle Storm game delivers plenty of excitement even before tip-off. Getting there should be just as enjoyable. The Seattle Monorail offers a fast, convenient connection between downtown Seattle and Seattle Center while helping you avoid some of the heaviest traffic around Climate Pledge Arena. It is easy to use, family-friendly, and a memorable part of any visit to Seattle.
The next time you’re heading to a Seattle Storm game, skip the traffic and let the Seattle Monorail take you there. Go Storm!
