Transportation and Parking

Seattle University is offering on-campus complimentary parking for graduates and their guests during Commencement weekend, beginning Friday, June 12th at 3 p.m. until Sunday, June 14th at 11:59 p.m.

Please note, University Parking regulations, including ADA designations and reserved sports, remain in effect; parking fees will be charged prior to and after those times.

Locate parking lots and payment options here if parking outside of the complimentary timeframe.

To ensure a smooth experience, plan to arrive early* to park, walk, and enter the arena before the ceremony commences. Seattle University staff will be on the Seattle Center and Climate Pledge Arena campus to assist you with making your way to the venue and answering any questions.

Multiple transportation options are offered for the convenience of attendees. Graduates are encouraged to carpool, take public transportation, or rideshare.

*Please see Public Transportation and the FIFA World Cup dropdown below for additional context.

Graduate Drop-off

• Graduates attending the Undergraduate Commencement ceremony are required to check in between 9:00 a.m. and 10:15 a.m.

• Graduates attending the Graduate Commencement ceremony are required to check in between 4:00 p.m. and 4:30 p.m.

• For quick and convenient drop-off, the designated drop-off area is on 1st Ave N between Lenny Wilkens Way and John St, adjacent to the Loading Dock.

• Upon dropping off graduates, drivers will continue north on 1st Ave N, turn right onto Mercer St, and proceed to the parking areas.

Parking at Climate Pledge Arena

• Seattle University, in partnership with Seattle Center, has negotiated a $25 rate per car for families parking in the 5th Ave Garage. Other parking options include the Mercer Street Garage and the Memorial Stadium Parking Lot. Fees at these locations may vary.

• Please follow parking instructions at each location for payment procedures.

Accessible parking for individuals with disabilities (ADA) is provided in the Climate Pledge Arena Garage, located on Lenny Wilkens Way. Traffic control will be in effect and you will need to stop at a checkpoint along Sue Bird Court before proceeding to this garage.

Seattle is hosting a FIFA World Cup game on Monday, June 15, 2026. With a large influx of visitors to Seattle anticipated this weekend, traffic may be significantly increased. We encourage Commencement attendees to carpool or use public transportation. 

The 2 Bus Route is recommended for transportation between Seattle University and Climate Pledge Area. We encourage checking bus routes day-of to ensure the most up-to-date information.