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Seattle is one of the best places to visit in the United States for nature, history, and alternative culture. Make sure you’re in the center of it all by staying at one of these recommended hotels.
Why You Should Visit Seattle
It’s hard to summarize all the reasons why you should visit Seattle in a few short paragraphs, but we’ll do our best. Seattle has many world-famous attractions.
Climb up the Space Needle to see views of the whole city and the Washington landscape. Visit the famous Pike Place Market and see rows and rows of farmers, fishermen, and artisans selling their wares.
Seattle is one of the best cities in the nation for nature lovers. It is a great base for exploring the Pacific Ocean ecosystems, thanks to nearby islands like Vashon Island. Or hike up Mount Rainier and enjoy the spectacular views.
Seattle was the home to one of the best music scenes in the entire country, featuring bands such as Pearl Jam, Nirvana, and many more.
Explore this legacy at the Museum of Pop Culture and with dedicated tours to Seattle’s alternative culture. While you’re in town, catch a show or two by local bands. Seattle also has a thriving hotel scene with big chains as well as indie outposts represented.
Staying in the right hotel can help you get a glimpse of the real Seattle. And if you’re looking for recommendations, you’re in the right place!
The 15 Best Hotels in Seattle
Here are some of the best hotels that Seattle has to offer, hand-picked by our travel experts for all types of travelers and budgets. Let us be your guide!
1. Lotte Hotel Seattle
- Location: Downtown Seattle
- Average Price: $434 a night
The Lotte Hotel Seattle is one of the city’s several five-star hotels where you can go for a truly luxurious retreat. Previous guests rave about the experience, calling it magical from the moment you step in.
Everywhere you go, from the well-designed lobby and the modern rooms to the in-hotel sauna, you’ll be met with the best facilities, Scandinavian-inspired design, and friendly staff. As a bonus, the location is excellent, right near Pike Place Market and other downtown attractions.
2. Fairmont Olympic Hotel
- Location: Downtown Seattle
- Average Price: $400 a night
Seattle boasts several five-star hotels, but few besides the Fairmont Olympic Hotel get to claim the status of historic landmarks. Stay in the stately old building with antique French-inspired décor, and you’ll feel like a pampered heir or heiress of old.
Plus, the hotel has everything you could ever want on-site, including award-winning dining, shops, and a pool. The concierge can help you get tickets to local attractions, such as a show at the 5th Avenue Theatre just across the street.
3. Grand Hyatt Seattle
- Location: Downtown Seattle
- Average Price: $371 a night
The Grand Hyatt Seattle is an ultramodern luxury hotel located in the heart of downtown, near attractions such as Pike Place Market.
Guests on work trips can make use of the in-house business center, while everyone can relax in the health club and fitness center. The rooms are absolutely stunning, with floor-to-ceiling windows with views of the whole city, soaking tubs, and more.
4. Four Seasons Hotel Seattle
- Location: Downtown Seattle
- Average Price: $854 a night
The Four Seasons Hotel Seattle is one of the most luxurious places to stay in town. You can get great views of Seattle from your room, but why settle for that when you can enjoy the rooftop infinity pool?
No matter why you are in Seattle, travel can be stressful, which is why the Four Seasons has an on-site spa to help you work the kinks out.
Guests can also enjoy gorgeous rooms, an award-winning restaurant, and service that goes above and beyond. You won’t even want to leave the hotel, but you should since downtown Seattle is at your doorstep.
5. Pan Pacific Seattle
- Location: Belltown
- Average Price: $352 a night
Nestled in the heart of Seattle, the Pan Pacific lets you open your curtains to a gorgeous view of the Space Needle. The stunning, thoughtful on-site amenities include private bathrooms with soaking tubs and trays for your electronics, a fitness center, and an on-site restaurant.
The location is a bit away from downtown, making it quieter while still being easy to get around by walking or taking the free hotel shuttle.
6. Hotel Ändra Seattle MGallery Hotel Collection
- Location: Belltown
- Average Price: $274 a night
If you want to stay somewhere that feels luxurious yet still personal, the boutique Hotel Ändra is the perfect place for you. The hotel is full of personal touches such as warm Scandinavian décor, a Bluetooth-pairing radio in every room, and soft lighting.
Make your own cocktails with the in-room premium bar, or sashay down to the two on-site restaurants. Previous guests also loved the location in the tony Belltown neighborhood, close to lots of gorgeous restaurants and bars.
7. Hyatt Regency Seattle
- Location: Downtown Seattle
- Average Price: $251 a night
The Hyatt Regency is always a reliable stay if you want comfort without going overboard, and the Seattle location is no different. Amenities include a fitness center and an on-site restaurant.
Guests rave about the view, which allows you to take in all of downtown Seattle. The location is also great, close to downtown attractions such as the Paramount Theatre.
8. citizenM Seattle South Lake Union
- Location: Cascade
- Average Price: $182 a night
The Seattle outpost of the citizenM chain brings the brand’s trademark cool design and futuristic amenities to South Lake Union. Seattle is a tech boom city, which is why citizenM’s innovation fits right in.
For example, you control your room’s thermostat, lighting, and comfort from the in-room iPad or an app on your own phone. Venture out of your room to enjoy the hotel’s restaurant, stylish lobby bar, and free breakfast, as well as the hip surrounding neighborhood.
9. The Sound Hotel Seattle Belltown, Tapestry Collection
- Location: Belltown
- Average Price: $229 a night
The Sound Hotel is a great place to stay near the center of Seattle, especially if you love boutique hotels. The hotel has all the touches you expect from a boutique hotel, such as nice art in the rooms and lounges and personalized service.
Despite its status as a boutique hotel, The Sound Hotel has the standard amenities you expect from a good hotel, such as a fitness center and bistro, plus an excellent location.
10. Staypineapple, The Maxwell Hotel
- Location: Uptown
- Average Price: $245 a night
If you’re coming to Seattle for the famously quirky atmosphere, then Staypineapple, The Maxwell Hotel is the best place to stay. Instead of neutral hotel interior design, expect bold colors and funky touches, such as hand-painted bicycles in your room and the lobby.
Work out in the fitness center or relax in the pool, which is indoors and therefore always warm, even in Seattle’s drizzly weather. As a fun touch, the hotel provides free pineapple snacks in the afternoons.
11. Residence Inn by Marriott Seattle University District
- Location: University District
- Average Price: $188 a night
The Residence Inn by Marriott in Seattle’s University District is a solid choice for a comfortable stay. The hotel is perfect for longer stays, with a comfortable kitchen and spacious rooms that allow you to feel at home instead of like you’re in a hotel.
Amenities include an in-house market and launderette facilities that help you feel at home. Plus, you get to enjoy the indoor pool and free breakfast.
12. Ace Hotel Seattle
- Location: Belltown
- Average Price: $149 a night
The Ace Hotel is a great modernistic, clean option for staying in downtown Seattle without breaking the bank. The décor is crisp and minimalistic yet still feels welcoming.
Have breakfast in the shared breakfast room with fellow guests, or relax in your own room. Some rooms have shared bathrooms, but these are clean and well-maintained.
13. Sonder the Boylston
- Location: Pike/Pine
- Average Price: $156 a night
The gorgeous Sonder the Boylston is located in a historic Seattle building, offering an authentic experience. The interiors are airy and modern, with all the modern conveniences you expect in a hotel, such as Wi-Fi and air conditioning.
You should know that the Sonder chain works differently from most other hotel chains—the chain is mobile-first, creating an integrated tech experience.
14. College Inn Hotel
- Location: University District
- Average Price: $107 a night
The College Inn Hotel is a simple, comfortable place to rest your head while you are in Seattle. Guest rooms include comfortable furnishings, washbasins, and mirrors (bathrooms are shared and cleaned regularly).
Guests love the location, which is right on the University of Washington campus and surrounded by lively bars and restaurants.
15. Georgetown Inn Seattle
- Location: Georgetown
- Average Price: $138 a night
The Georgetown Inn Seattle is a great place with character to book your stay. All guest rooms include comfortable beds, chairs, an en-suite bathroom, and a TV. Enjoy a free continental breakfast to start your day right.
The Georgetown Inn offers free parking for guests, a rarity in dense Seattle. You might need your car as the neighborhood is a bit far from the city’s center, but the location allows you to explore how real Seattle residents live.
Making the Most of Your Seattle Hotel Stay
Seattle-WA,USA – August 19 2017 : Pike Place Market is the oldest farmers’ market on the West Coast. And More than 10 million people visit the market each year. Seattle-Washington State, USA/Nadia Yong/Shutterstock
Here are some tips for making the most of your visit to Seattle:
Getting to the Hotel
Seattle has one of the best public transportation networks in the United States, so the best way to get to your hotel and around town is via public transport.
If you are flying into SeaTac airport, you can take the light rail service into the center of town. Another option is to book a spot in a shared shuttle, called an airporter, along with other travelers heading to their hotels.
Crime and Safety
Seattle is a very safe city for tourists. There are some parts of Downtown that are rougher, such as 3rd and Pine, but most of the area is safe. Use basic precautions you would use anywhere, such as not walking with headphones in and being aware of your surroundings.
Seattle does have a large, very visible homeless population, but these are just people who are unlucky, not criminals, despite what some fearmongering news sources try to tell you.
Traveler Tips
To make the most of Seattle, here are some tips to keep in mind.
- Seattle has famously cool, rainy weather (although it isn’t as bad as its reputation). The best way to protect yourself is to wear layers and bring a waterproof jacket. The locals don’t use umbrellas, and you don’t want to stand out.
- Seattle’s coffee culture is world-famous, so be sure to check out a few brews while you are in town.
- Another famous aspect of Seattle’s culture is its environmentally conscious atmosphere, so don’t forget to recycle — otherwise, you’ll earn some stern glances from locals!
Frequently Asked Questions
Oksana.perkins/Shutterstock
Before you make your hotel reservation for Seattle, here are some other things you may want to know:
What part of Seattle is best to stay in?
The best neighborhoods to stay in while in Seattle are Downtown or the Waterfront, which are closest to all of the attractions. Belltown feels more like a residential district but is still close to all of the sights.
What is the #1 hotel in the US?
Seattle has many great hotels, but not the best one in the country — that would be the Four Seasons Resort Hualalai in Hawaii. However, Seattle does have its own Four Seasons outpost that you can stay in if you want some luxury.
Where do rock stars stay in Seattle?
Seattle is famous for its role in nurturing the rock music scene. The Edgewater Hotel has had the most famous musical guests and certainly deserves an honorable mention on this list.
Should I stay in Seattle’s Capitol Hill?
Capitol Hill is another great neighborhood where you can stay in Seattle. It’s close enough to the downtown attractions that you can go sightseeing and has its own distinct character that you can explore at night.
Capitol Hill is the center of Seattle’s counterculture and is known informally as the city’s gay village, making it a great choice for LGBTQ travelers.
How many days in Seattle is enough?
Seattle has a lot to offer, especially if you are planning day trips into nearby parks, so you need a few days to explore it properly. Plan at least three to four days for this amazing city.
So What’s the Best Hotel in Seattle?
Seattle has a thriving hotel scene with something for everyone. From luxury places like the Four Seasons to designer boutique hotels such as the Hotel Ändra, Seattle offers many great places for you to rest your head. So what are you waiting for — book your trip today!