Symposium

Known as the “Emerald City”, Seattle boasts year-round lush greenery, both in the city and surrounding areas, further echoing Washington State’s moniker as the Evergreen State. Ideally located in the Pacific Northwest corner of the U.S. continent and on the Puget Sound, this vibrant city offers something for everyone. For the nature lover, the panoramic views include the Puget Sounds’ tranquil water views, lush evergreen forests, and the majestic snowcapped Olympic mountains, all beckoning you to enjoy these exciting activities with a quick daytrip outside of the city. Hop on the day ferry to Bainbridge Island explore the quaint local villages; take the car ferry or a seaplane to Victoria B.C. (passport required) to savor high tea at the world-famous Empress Hotel; experience a whale watching excursion through the San Juan Islands; visit Woodinville, home to several of Washington State’s wineries; or plan a hiking excursion in the majestic Olympic National Park. Alternatively, Seattle offers a wide range of activities to experience including a thriving waterfront scene; its energetic arts culture; world-class dining; entertainment; iconic landmarks and attractions; and ample water sports. Sports fans will have a difficult time choosing between Seattle’s bounty of home teams, including the Mariners baseball team, the Sounders soccer team, and the Storm WNBA team, all just a short cab ride away.

As the 2024 Symposium host hotel, the Westin Seattle is conveniently located with easy access to the world-famous Pike Place Market, the Space Needle, the Museum of Pop Culture, the Chihuly Garden and Glass, the waterfront, the monorail, world-class dining, the flagship Nordstrom’s department store, shopping, and more. Another reason to visit Seattle? It’s a great jumping off point for pre/post Symposium travel. Consider tacking on an Alaskan cruise, visiting the key Canadian cities of Vancouver, Banff, or Victoria B.C.; or winding your way through Washington State’s famed Columbia Valley wine region. Be sure to take advantage of this opportunity to experience these unique Northwestern sites.

And as an added bonus, Seattle’s weather is typically dreamy during August, offering sun filled days tempered with low humidity and generally cool temperatures. The Pacific Northwest’s August average temperatures range from 78° (high) and 65° (low). For more information on Seattle visit https://visitseattle.org/.

AIR TRANSPORTATION:  Travel to Seattle is easy. The Seattle-Tacoma International Airport (SEA) offers many nonstop flights from several major cities and is serviced by most major airlines.  Be sure to consider Alaskan Airlines as well. The airport is also located just 14 miles from downtown Seattle.

GROUND TRANSPORTATION: Upon arrival at the Seattle-Tacoma Airport, ground transportation options to the Westin include taxi/Uber/Lyft (approx. $60 one-way), rental car or Tram. Parking options include the Westin’s valet parking ($60/day) or self-parking ($50/day) and a public parking garage located across the street from the Westin with a connecting sky bridge.

• Rental Cars & Parking: Rental cars are available at the Seattle Tacoma Airport, as well as downtown rental car locations.
• Taxi, Uber and Lyft:  Taxi/Uber/Lyft are all readily available at the Seattle Tacoma Airport and the Westin. At SEA, follow signs for designated pick-up locations with your preferred vendor.
• Do I need a car in Seattle? With so many Seattle attractions centered conveniently near the Westin, a rental car is not necessary, unless you are planning day trips outside of the city. Ubers, Lyfts and taxis are easily available and a great option to explore a Seattle neighborhood outside of the downtown area.

Optional tours information will be forthcoming.  In the meantime, for general information on the Seattle, visit https://visitseattle.org/things-to-do/ or https://www.marriott.com/en-us/hotels/seawi-the-westin-seattle/experiences/.