Nobody knows the terminals and facilities of Seattle-Tacoma International Airport better than Cathy Galka, SEA’s Lead Pathfinder and five-year veteran of the team. Spotted around the airport in bright green vests, the Pathfinder team helps travelers find their way and answer any questions. Coupled with Cathy’s 25-year career with Alaska Airlines, she knows SEA like the back of her hand, and knows what makes for a good experience at the airport. So, if you find yourself with some downtime at SEA, whether you’re early or just on a layover, use Cathy’s guide to discover a variety of unique Seattle-centric shops and eateries to make the wait more pleasurable.
... moreClub at SEA
The Club at SEA is a great place to linger if you have a delay or want more elbow room away from the gate. A $45 pass gives you access to three hours of cozy furniture, workstations, and complimentary food and beverage. The Club at SEA in the S gates is currently open.
Central Terminal
The window wall in Central Terminal is a good spot for plane spotting. Kids and aviation geeks enjoy watching the planes come and go. It will be really magical once we complete the renovation project with a mezzanine level for those airfield views.
Vyne Washington Tasting Room
Vyne opened during the pandemic so it will be a new discovery for travelers returning to the airport this year. Serving exclusively Washington state wines, it is a wine voyage without boarding a plane!
Fireworks Gallery
I recommend Fireworks for unique gifts! With two airport locations in Central Terminal and Concourse D, Fireworks is excellent at curating clever, fun and interesting products. I also love that it is a Seattle and woman-owned business.
Lucky Shines Shoe Shine
Lucky Shines Shoe Shine with three locations in the C, D and N gates is a locally-owned and offers shoe shine services to SEA travelers. The owner, Marcus, and his team will make sure you leave feeling polished.
InMotion
Forgot your charger or earbuds? I send travelers to InMotion on Concourse A and D for electronics on the go.
Poke to the Max
Poke to the Max, just past gate D5, is known for its Hawaiian dishes and cocktails served in a spam can, but I love their fish and chips. The fish and chips are breaded with panko, so they are light and they come with homemade tarter sauce. Just delicious! I lived in Hawaii for seven years, and the restaurant is owned by Sam Choy, so I knew everything would be great. I’m also a big fan of the Spam Musubi.
Evergreens
Evergreens in Central Terminal is ideal for quick bite with made-to-order salads, wraps, and warm grain bowls. My usual order is the Cobb your Enthusiasm salad, it’s a healthy choice and a great value. Skip the line by ordering in advance via the Evergreens mobile app.
Follow Cathy Galka for updates!