Guilt-Free Bar-Hopping on the Light Rail: Exploring the Best Breweries in Washington

As a Seattle-area resident with a hefty commute, one of our teammates had become all too familiar with the grind of driving to work. Living in Burien, south of Seattle, and commuting to Mountlake Terrace in Snohomish County meant enduring 45-minute to hour-long drives that had become part of their routine. But everything changed when Sound Transit’s Link Light Rail station opened in Mountlake Terrace.

Now, their daily commute has been transformed. Taking the train to and from work not only takes the same amount of time but has also added a magical, stress-free element to the day. While the practical benefits of light rail—like reduced traffic stress and the ability to be productive during the ride—are obvious, there’s one unexpected perk that makes it even better: it’s fun.

Rediscovering the Joy of Bar-Hopping on Rails

Growing up in Everett, this teammate experienced the charm of Hewitt Avenue’s famous bar crawl. Stretching from the Snohomish River to Puget Sound, this bar-hopping tradition was a mix of great drinks and shared moments with other revelers. They never thought they’d find anything comparable, but the Link Light Rail delivered just that.

The beauty of the light rail lies in its simplicity. There’s no need to operate a vehicle or stick to a strict schedule. One can hop off at different stops, explore the city, and know they’ll get home safely. It was during their first rail commute home that they realized the train was like Everett’s Hewitt Avenue Beer Crawl—but on tracks.

One evening, they decided to embrace this revelation. Starting in Mountlake Terrace, they hopped off at downtown Seattle’s Symphony station for a cocktail at Wild Ginger. Then, reconnecting with their Everett roots, they stopped at Diamond Knot Brewpub, savoring the vibe of a familiar favorite. As one of the best breweries in Washington, Diamond Knot Brewpub made the night even more memorable. The Link Light Rail’s seamless connectivity allowed them to tailor their journey to their mood and company, creating an experience that felt like an adventure.

A Shared Experience That Brings People Together

What struck this teammate most about the Link Light Rail was its ability to bring people together. It’s more than just a commuter train—it’s a social equalizer, offering endless opportunities for exploration. Whether you’re looking for a high-end cocktail downtown or a laid-back beer in the suburbs, the train makes it all accessible. Stops like Diamond Knot Brewpub highlight why the region boasts some of the best breweries in Washington.

They also discovered hidden gems along the way, like local food spots and unique bars that gave each stop its own personality. From indulging in craft brews to enjoying lively conversations with fellow commuters, the light rail turned a mundane commute into a series of unforgettable experiences. The chance to explore different neighborhoods and sample local flavors added a layer of excitement to their routine.

During a meeting at work, their enthusiasm for the new commute was evident. “Did you tie one on last night?” their boss asked, laughing when they admitted that the light rail bar crawl was one of the greatest nights of their life. It’s the kind of experience everyone should try at least once.

Your Next Adventure Awaits

Whether commuting to work or crafting an ultimate train beer crawl, the Link Light Rail offers a practical, fun, and unique way to explore Seattle and its surrounding areas. From high-end dining stops to iconic breweries like Diamond Knot Brewpub, the possibilities are endless. It’s no wonder many consider these stops part of the best breweries in Washington.

With over 50 miles of tracks and countless stops, the Link Light Rail connects residents and visitors to some of the most vibrant parts of the region. Whether you’re a beer enthusiast seeking the best breweries in Washington or someone looking for a stress-free commute, this transportation option offers something for everyone.

Ride the light rail. It’s practical. It’s fun. And it might just lead to one of the wildest nights of your life.