I grumble about it myself - why shouldn't I be surprised that one of visitors biggest questions about Seattle is "Why are parking rates so high?" and "Where can I park on-the-cheap?" We're right there among the nation's big cities when it comes to high parking rates in our downtown core. Even the city-operated metered spots are now up to $2.50/hour in most downtown areas (http://bit.ly/DdyIJ) with a 2-hour maximum (and yes, they do check to see how long you've been there!). Work that into a 10-hour downtown day and even if jockeying from block-to-block, you'd be in it for $25!
Parking at the Pike Place Market offers one of the best deals in town (if you're an earlybird). Pull into one of the Market parking lots before 9:30am, stay no more than 12 hours and pay only $10 ($9 if you're astute and find the hidden gem at Western & Lenora).(http://bit.ly/ArEb6)
Multiple lots around the city offer all-day parking for rates from $14-$18 - the most conveniently-located are at the Convention Center at 8th & Pike (http://bit.ly/NH2IO) or at the 7th & Pike Garage (in by 10am with a 10-hour max for $14) http://bit.ly/Slvtm.
It's overnight parking that can make you wish you'd opted out of a rental car for the night. Hotel overnights range from $20-$39 for parking (self-park or with in-and-out privileges). The best advantage to this is the in-and-out available to you through hotels - catering to your need to get out and drive (and return and drive and return). If parking in a non-hotel lot, you'll find each return brings a new fee - essentially starting your parking 'clock' over (with the first hours generally having the highest rates). The lesson here? If you must park, stay parked!
Seattle's public transit system is idea for park-and-riders. Find a reasonably-priced lot and enjoy the city afoot or on the bus (transit.metrokc.gov has awesome tools for bus use - and a 24-hour staffed phone line for questions on use and routes - 206-553-3000).
However you do it - get out of your car and enjoy Seattle!
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