Traveling to Seattle for Jaw Surgery (orthognathic surgery), maxillofacial treatment, or total joint replacement treatment? We’ve compiled everything you need to plan a comfortable, stress-free stay in Seattle’s First Hill, from airport arrival through post-surgery recovery. Our board-certified oral and maxillofacial surgeon and treatment care team are here to support you every step of the way.
Getting Here
Seattle-Tacoma International Airport (SEA) is your primary gateway, located approximately 14 miles south of our First Hill office.
Seattle-Tacoma International Airport (SEA)
The main gateway to Seattle, SEA is a major hub served by most domestic and international carriers. Located in SeaTac, WA — approximately 30–45 minutes by car from our First Hill office depending on traffic. Rideshare, taxi, and rental car services depart from the ground transportation level after baggage claim.
Link Light Rail — Direct from the Airport
The most affordable option: Sound Transit’s 1 Line runs directly from SeaTac Airport to Capitol Hill Station (~38 min, $3.00 fare). From Capitol Hill, the First Hill Streetcar connects directly to our neighborhood. Visit soundtransit.org to plan your trip.
Rideshare (Uber & Lyft)
Uber and Lyft are widely available throughout Seattle and at the airport. Budget approximately $35–$55 for an airport-to-First Hill trip. Please note: you will not be permitted to drive or use unsupervised rideshare following any sedation procedure. A responsible adult companion must accompany you.
First hill streetcar
The First Hill Streetcar Line runs 2.5 miles connecting Capitol Hill, First Hill, the International District, and Pioneer Square. It links directly to the Link Light Rail at Capitol Hill Station. Visit seattle.gov/streetcar.
Accommodations
How long should you plan to stay?
All patients should plan for a minimum of 1 week in Seattle following surgery to attend their one-week post-operative appointment before traveling home. International patients typically choose to stay for 3 weeks to ensure they are comfortable and cleared for the journey home. If you are planning an extended stay, we recommend exploring alternative lodging options outside the city center — such as extended-stay hotels, furnished apartments, or Airbnb rentals in the greater Seattle area — which can significantly reduce accommodation costs over a multi-week stay.
Silver Cloud Hotel
1100 Broadway
Seattle, WA 98122
P: (206) 325-1400
0.3 miles / 6 min walk
Crowne Plaza Seattle-Downtown by IHG
1113 6th Ave
Seattle, WA 98101
P: (206) 464-1980
1.0 miles / 17 min walk
Hilton Garden Inn Seattle Downtown
1821 Boren Ave
Seattle, WA 98101
P: (206) 467-7770
1.0 miles / 21 min walk
Grocery Store
QFC Broadway
1401 Broadway
Seattle, WA 98122
0.4 miles / 9 min walk
Stockbox first hill
Ninth and Jefferson Building Garage, 901 James St
Seattle, WA 98104
0.3 miles / 7 min walk
Yellow Bee Market & Cafe
922 E Yesler Wy
Seattle, WA 98122
0.5 miles / 11 min walk
Pharmacy
Swedish Pharmacy - First Hill
1221 Madison St, 3rd Floor
Suite 03AR34
Seattle, WA 98104
P: 206-386-6020
Mon – Fri: 9 a.m. – 5 p.m
0.3 miles / 6 min walk
A pharmacist-on-call is available 24 hours a day/7 days a week for any question you may have, including emergency and clinical situations such as concerns about side effects, medication assistance and complaint resolution.
Additional Resources
We’ve put together a set of patient resources to help you feel informed and prepared every step of the way.
- Read through our detailed recovery guidelines before your surgery date. View Post-Op Guide →
- A curated list of everything our team recommends for your recovery at home or in your hotel. View Supplies List →
- Watch video walkthroughs of your surgical instructions from our team before your procedure date. Watch Video Instructions →