Distance from Seattle to Portland
174 miles (280 km) • 3-hour drive via I-5 South • 1-hour flight • 3.5-hour scenic train ride
Route Information
Primary Route: I-5 South
The most direct and popular route between Seattle and Portland follows Interstate 5 South through Washington and Oregon.
Major Cities Along I-5
Tacoma, WA
35 miles south • Museum of Glass, waterfront
Olympia, WA
60 miles south • State capital, capitol building tours
Centralia, WA
90 miles south • Premium outlets, historic downtown
Kelso-Longview, WA
125 miles south • Gateway to Mount St. Helens
Vancouver, WA
165 miles south • Just across from Portland
Alternative: Amtrak Cascades
The Amtrak Cascades train offers a scenic, relaxing alternative to driving with stunning views of Puget Sound, Mount Rainier, and the Columbia River.
Best Time to Travel
Cost Calculator
Driving Cost Estimate
Driving
Amtrak
Flying
Cost Breakdown Notes
- No tolls on I-5 between Seattle and Portland
- Flight prices include airport fees but not parking or transportation to/from airports
- Amtrak prices vary by time and booking advance; business class available for $60-90
- Driving allows stops at outlets, restaurants, and attractions along the way
Things to Do
SIn Seattle
Pike Place Market
Historic public market with fresh seafood, produce, crafts, and the original Starbucks
Space Needle
Iconic 605-foot observation tower with 360-degree views of Seattle and surrounding mountains
Chihuly Garden and Glass
Stunning glass art exhibition showcasing Dale Chihuly's masterpieces
Seattle Waterfront
Scenic waterfront with Seattle Great Wheel, aquarium, and ferry terminals
Along the Route
Centralia Premium Outlets
90 miles from Seattle • Shopping break with 50+ outlet stores
Mount St. Helens Viewpoint
30-minute detour from Kelso • Volcanic monument views
Olympia State Capitol
60 miles from Seattle • Free capitol building tours
Columbia River Views
Near Woodland • Scenic river crossing
PIn Portland
Powell's City of Books
World's largest independent bookstore occupying an entire city block
Portland Japanese Garden
Authentic Japanese garden with stunning views of Mount Hood
Food Cart Pods
Over 500 food carts throughout the city offering diverse cuisines
Pittock Mansion
Historic mansion with panoramic views of Portland and five mountain peaks
Voodoo Doughnut
Iconic doughnut shop famous for creative and unusual flavors
International Rose Test Garden
Over 10,000 rose bushes in Washington Park with city views
Recommended Stops for a Leisurely Drive
Travel Tips
Gas & Fuel
- Fill up in Washington - Oregon has no sales tax but similar gas prices
- Oregon law requires attendants to pump gas - no self-service
- Major gas stations at Centralia (halfway point) and Kelso
- Most vehicles can make the trip on one tank
Traffic & Timing
- Avoid Friday 3-7 PM southbound (weekend traffic to Portland)
- Avoid Sunday 3-7 PM northbound (return traffic to Seattle)
- JBLM area (Joint Base Lewis-McChord) can have delays during rush hour
- Check WSDOT and TripCheck Oregon for real-time traffic updates
Food & Stops
- Centralia has multiple fast food and sit-down restaurant options
- Olympia offers local breweries and Pacific Northwest cuisine
- Rest areas with facilities at milepost 88 (WA) and milepost 278 (OR)
- Portland food carts are a must-try upon arrival
Safety & Weather
- Winter: Check for snow/ice conditions, especially near Olympia and Kelso
- Rain is common year-round - allow extra following distance
- Speed limit is 70 mph in rural areas, 60 mph near cities
- Washington State Patrol actively monitors I-5 corridor
Pro Tips for the I-5 Corridor
Cell service can be spotty in rural areas between cities
Stay hydrated and save money at rest stops
Work, read, or enjoy scenery without driving stress
Prices increase closer to travel date, especially weekends
Frequently Asked Questions
Seattle is 174 miles (280 km) from Portland. The drive takes approximately 3 hours via I-5 South without traffic. Flight time is about 1 hour, and Amtrak Cascades takes 3.5 hours.