[bettercallbettman]

I pasted your post into AI:




This is a "perfect storm" weekend in Seattle for 2026. You’ve correctly identified the major hurdles: the Blue Jays series (July 3–5), the Canada Day/July 4th double holiday, and the FIFA World Cup (Seattle is hosting a Round of 16 match on July 6).
Because of the World Cup, "expensive" is going to be the theme for anything in the city center. To keep your group of six together without paying a fortune, you’ll want to look at neighborhoods connected by the Link Light Rail.
Top Neighborhood Recommendations

1. North Seattle (Roosevelt or U-District)

This is your best "compromise" area. It is residential, safer, and significantly cheaper than downtown, but highly accessible.

• The Vibe: Student-friendly (University of Washington), plenty of cheap eats (ramen, burgers, cafes), and very safe for walking.
• Transit: The Light Rail takes about 15 minutes to get to the downtown core (Aquarium/Space Needle) and 20 minutes directly to the Stadium station.
• Stay: Look for rentals or hotels near the Roosevelt Station or U-District Station. The Graduate Seattle or Residence Inn by Marriott Seattle University District often have larger suite configurations.

2. Bellevue (Across the Bridge)

By 2026, the East Link Extension light rail should be fully operational, connecting Bellevue directly to Seattle.

• The Vibe: Very clean, upscale, and safe. It’s a corporate hub, so on holiday weekends, you might find better deals than the tourist-heavy downtown.
• Transit: Direct rail access to the Stadium area (SoDo) and Downtown.
• Stay: Look for "Extended Stay" hotels here (like Residence Inn or Homewood Suites); they are built for families and often offer two-bedroom suites with a pull-out couch that fits 6 people perfectly.

3. SeaTac / Tukwila (The Airport Area)

You mentioned this is "20-30 minutes away," which is true by car, but the Light Rail from the airport to the Stadium is actually very efficient (about 35 minutes).

• The Vibe: Typical airport hotels, but many offer free breakfast and airport shuttles.
• Why it works: It is the most budget-friendly option. If you stay at a hotel near the Tukwila International Boulevard Station, you can park your car for free at the hotel and ride the rail in.
• Stay: Embassy Suites by Hilton Seattle Tacoma International Airport is a classic choice for groups of 6—they have true suites and a legendary free breakfast.

Strategy for Your Group of 6

Since you have a mix of adults and one minor, a 6-person suite is often cheaper than two rooms, but they are rare in downtown boutique hotels.

• Search Tip: Use "Filter by Room Type" on booking sites and select "Two-Bedroom Suite."
• The "Split" Option: If you do two rooms, check Pioneer Square. It is walking distance to the game, but be aware it can be "gritty" at night. If you want a more "vacation" feel for the girls' room, Lower Queen Anne (near the Space Needle) is much prettier and very walkable to the Aquarium.

Important Dates for Your Trip

DateEventImpactJuly 1Canada DayExpect heavy border traffic if driving.July 3-5Blue Jays @ Mariners"Rogers Centre South" effect; tickets will sell out.July 4US Independence DayMassive fireworks over Lake Union; downtown will be packed.July 6World Cup MatchPrices will likely peak this night; leave town by the 6th if possible!