Rail Comes to the Eastside
For decades, Bellevue was a city built around the car. That has changed dramatically with the arrival of Sound Transit's Link light rail on the Eastside. Stations in downtown Bellevue, the Spring District, Wilburton, East Main, and South Bellevue now connect residents to Redmond, and the cross-lake connection over I-90 links the Eastside directly with Seattle. Beyond light rail, the region is served by commuter trains, long-distance passenger routes, and major freight railroads. Together, these operators are transforming how people and goods move through the Pacific Northwest.
How We Selected These Operators
We considered railway operators that serve Bellevue residents and businesses directly or indirectly, evaluating service coverage, reliability, comfort, accessibility, scenic value, and economic importance. We included urban transit, commuter rail, intercity passenger service, freight railroads, and heritage railways that offer unique experiences.
1. Sound Transit Link Light Rail
Sound Transit's Link light rail is the most important rail service for Bellevue. The 2 Line serves multiple Bellevue stations and connects the city to Redmond and Seattle, while the 1 Line provides access to Seattle-Tacoma International Airport and beyond. Frequent service, comfortable trains, and fast travel times have made light rail a game-changer for commuters and visitors.
2. Sound Transit Sounder Commuter Rail
Sounder commuter rail connects Seattle with cities to the north and south, including Everett, Tacoma, and Lakewood. Although it does not directly serve Bellevue, it is an important option for Eastside commuters traveling to and from the South Sound, with convenient transfer opportunities in Seattle.
3. Amtrak Cascades
Amtrak Cascades provides scenic intercity service between Vancouver, British Columbia, Seattle, Portland, and Eugene. Its comfortable trains and stunning views of Puget Sound and the Cascade foothills make it a popular alternative to driving for Bellevue travelers heading north or south.
4. Amtrak Coast Starlight
The Coast Starlight runs between Seattle and Los Angeles, offering one of the most scenic long-distance train journeys in the country. Sleeper cars and a sightseer lounge make it a memorable way to travel along the West Coast.
5. Amtrak Empire Builder
The Empire Builder connects Seattle with Chicago, traveling through the Cascades, Glacier National Park, and the northern plains. It offers a classic long-distance rail experience for travelers who want to see the American West at a slower pace.
6. BNSF Railway
BNSF Railway is one of the largest freight railroads in North America and a major operator in Washington State. It moves intermodal containers, agricultural products, and industrial goods between Puget Sound ports and the rest of the country, supporting the regional economy.
7. Union Pacific Railroad
Union Pacific operates freight rail service connecting the Pacific Northwest with markets across the western United States. Its network supports the movement of containers and bulk commodities to and from the Ports of Seattle and Tacoma.
8. Seattle Center Monorail
The Seattle Center Monorail is an iconic elevated rail line linking downtown Seattle with Seattle Center, home to the Space Needle. Bellevue visitors heading to events and attractions often combine light rail with a quick monorail ride.
9. Seattle Streetcar
The Seattle Streetcar serves neighborhoods such as South Lake Union and First Hill, connecting riders to major employers, hospitals, and light rail stations. It provides convenient local connections for Eastside residents working or visiting in Seattle.
10. Snoqualmie Valley Railroad
Operated by the Northwest Railway Museum, the Snoqualmie Valley Railroad offers heritage train rides through the scenic Snoqualmie Valley, a short drive from Bellevue. Seasonal events and historic equipment make it a favorite family outing that celebrates the region's railroad history.
How Rail Is Changing Bellevue
Light rail is reshaping Bellevue's development patterns. New apartments, offices, and public spaces are rising near stations, particularly in the Spring District and Wilburton, where transit-oriented zoning encourages walkable communities. Employers are choosing office locations with rail access to attract talent, and residents are gaining car-free options for commuting, dining, and entertainment. The nearby Eastrail corridor, a former freight rail line being converted into a regional trail, further strengthens connections between Eastside cities for walkers and cyclists.
Accessibility and Rider Experience
Link light rail stations in Bellevue are designed with elevators, level boarding, and clear wayfinding, making rail accessible to riders using wheelchairs, strollers, and bicycles. Real-time arrival displays and mobile alerts help riders plan trips with confidence, while station areas increasingly feature bike parking and connections to local bus routes.
Rail Trends in the Region
Future expansions of the Link network will extend service further across the region, and planning continues for improved intercity service. Freight railroads are investing in efficiency and emissions reduction. Rail is increasingly central to regional goals for sustainability, congestion relief, and economic growth.
Tips for Rail Travelers
Use an ORCA card or transit app for seamless payment on Link light rail and connecting buses. Book Amtrak tickets early for the best fares, especially during summer. Check schedules and service alerts before traveling, and allow time for transfers. With a growing rail network, exploring the region from Bellevue has never been easier.