Spring Break in Seattle

When I first started visiting Seattle freshman year, I tended to pass two major closures on my adventures through the city: the SAM and the Transit Tunnel.  Recent experiences tell me that the two year wait was worthwhile.  Earlier this Fall I had a great time exploring the SAM and  over spring break I had the opportunity to use the Transit Tunnel for the first time.  I'll admit right now that while the Seattle transit system has always impressed me, I also find it a little overwhelming.  In Tacoma, I rely heavily on my "The bus stops here" guide and the lack of a similar comprehensive rider guide often leaves me feeling lost. When my mom and aunt came to visit for spring break, they were determined to see the sights.  Guidebook in hand, they knew where they wanted to go but had little idea of how to get there.  My normal strategy of asking for help,  getting on a bus that seemed to be going in the right direction or simply walking didn't seem like it was going to work.  When my mom mentioned the Transit Tunnel, I hadn't even realized it was reopened.  To my surprise, it worked out great.  Not only was it a cool underground building, but the stops were easy to understand and the ride across town was quick and pleasant.  Best of all, we stayed in the Ride Free Zone, meaning that even without the bus pass we didn't have to pay.

While I'm back to riding the trusty Tacoma buses now, it was great see another component of Seattle's bus system.  Perhaps it even inspired my mom and aunt to try the local bus when they go back to the midwest.

Liz, student