The Hotel Guru
Seattle
16 Best Hotels in Downtown Seattle

16 Best Hotels in Downtown Seattle

Downtown Seattle is where you’ll find the Space Needle, Pike Place Market with its coffeehouses and microbreweries, the Waterfront, Pioneer Square, and some of the city’s most famous museums and galleries. And it’s the hub of theatre, shopping, and late night entertainment. There’s a lot more to Seattle than just the Downtown area, but this is a super convenient place to be based, and perfect if it’s your first visit to the city, or you’re not staying long. And our Gurus have come up with a list of the best hotels in downtown Seattle which includes some super affordable choices, as well as some hotels with incredible views, and some really cool ones…Use our guide and start planning your next city break.

For the Album

The Edgewater sits atop Pier 67 on Seattle’s waterfront, with many of the rooms on that side of the hotel featuring balconies over of the water, a bit like a cruise ship. There are 223 rooms and suites, and the suites are big — some with fireplaces and seating areas that allow you to dine privately overlooking the water. So it’s romantic, but also very family friendly, with rubber ducks in the bathrooms and fantastic kids’ menus in both the restaurants. The Edgewater is historically associated with the music industry and they still have regular live music.
The Fairmont Olympic Hotel is an historic icon, taking up a whole block of prime central Seattle. In a hotel this size — it has 450 rooms and suites — and this age, you can expect both all the mod cons and all traditional the features too; so there’s a wonderful afternoon tea, bee hives on the roof terrace, and thoughtful touches for families like tear-free bath products and bath robes of all sizes, plus a state of the art spa and gym, haute couture shopping in house, and fancy TVs.

For the Views

The Thompson Seattle overlooks Puget Sound, with its ‘feet’ on the Waterfront. With floor-to-ceiling windows, and unfussy, stylish decor that doesn’t detract from the impact of the views, this is a peaceful feeling pick. Until you get to the sleek rooftop cocktail bar, when there’s a pleasant buzz of chatter.
The Four Seasons Seattle offers all the perks of the brand, in a wonderful location overlooking Elliot Bay. The simple, stylish decor makes the most of huge windows and lots of light, both in the 147 rooms and suites and in the common areas. The rooftop infinity pool is a highlight, as are the bar and restaurant. The family suites are a great size.
The Hotel 1000 is a sleek, contemporary choice just steps from the Waterfront — and with a sophisticated seafood and oyster bar. We think this is a luxurious pick, but with a friendly starting point for your wallet. The spa has all the bells and whistles, and the corner rooms have incredible views, there’s also a gym, library and business centre, but it’s family, and pet friendly too.

For a City Break

The Kimpton Palladian Hotel has grand dame heritage, but with a trendy makeover. Its Belltown location has influenced the decor, which is striking and cool, with a rock’n’roll edge. There are 97 rooms and suites (the suites are really big!)\ with traditional portraits of contemporary muses, and the occasional black wall. The bar and restaurant are seriously hip too, and popular with the cool local crowds.
The Hotel Vintage is a great base for exploring Seattle. Our pick of the 125 rooms and suites have floor-to-ceiling windows, and some of the suites have four-poster beds. The restaurant, Tulio, is Italian, and popular with locals as well as guests, partly for the regular wine tastings, and both kids and pets of all sizes are welcome.

For Romance

Chic, perfectly located, and reasonably priced, the Palihotel Seattle is our pick for romantics because we think it’s memorable. From the walls, painted a particular shade of green you’re unlikely to see too much of elsewhere, to the original art, vintage and retro furniture, and SMEG min-fridges, this hotel has lots of nice, memorable touches. There’s also a cool bar and laid-back restaurant with a Southern-inspired menu and a fantastic cocktail list.

For City Style

The Alexis Royal Sonesta Hotel is a chic, 121 room hotel in the West Edge neighbourhood, which is close to Pioneer Square, the Waterfront and Pike Place Market. Historic on the outside, but recently refurbished on the inside — with the sort of interiors you see in interiors magazines — this is a great pick for location, views, and city style. Our Gurus especially appreciate the Bookstore Bar and Cafe — which runs whiskey tastings — the spa, and the fantastic gym with climbing wall.
Philippe Starck designed the Lotte Hotel and it’s got his signature blend of functional industrial, and architectural cool about it. Occupying an historic central building, the Sanctuary building, plus a contemporary extension, this is now a large hotel, with 189 rooms and suites, plus a slick spa, a gym, and the 16th floor Charlotte Restaurant, which offers incredible views and fantastic Pacific Northwest cuisine. Many of Seattle’s highlights are in walking distance.

For Foodies

The Inn at the Market is at the market: within Pike Place Market, overlooking Elliot Bay. Even if you don’t stay here there’s a chance you’ll eat in one of its three restaurants — all different and all popular with locals. If you do stay you’ll also benefit from the incredible views, especially from the roof terrace; from the spacious feeling in the 70 light, airy rooms; and when you’re booking you’ll benefit from the range of room sizes.
The Hotel Andra is a chicly luxurious hotel with a definite Scandinavian flavour: think plenty of wood and rattan, neutral colours and natural fibres, and a huge fireplace in the lobby. The restaurant, Lola, is a big draw here, and its cooking school, The Hot Stove Society, is well known round town and offers tuition at all levels. You’re also only a short walk from Pike Place Market. Great family options with interconnecting rooms and roll-away beds.

For Cool Kids

The State Hotel is cool from its Art Deco facade, to its incredible roof terrace overlooking Puget Sound — via a trendy restaurant, eclectic local artwork, and 91 unfussily stylish rooms. And you’re right next door to Pike Place Market, close to a collection of iconic live-music venues, and only 200m from the original Starbucks. Expect lots of selfies and Instagram photography.
W Seattle is big, cool and colourful, with a lounge lobby known for its vast fireplace and bold art installations, a bar known for its DJs, and an Asian-inspired restaurant known for its skyscraper views. It also has a sound studio, a gym with complimentary yoga classes, and a very welcoming pets policy.

For Great Value

The Ace Hotel is a small and affordable choice in cool, central Belltown. This property keeps things simple and stylish, with basic, but cool decor, and no restaurant. What it does have is a fantastic location, surrounded by great places to eat and drink, a shared kitchen, and interesting art works.
The Hotel Monaco is affordable, perfectly positioned, and has great facilities for the whole family — including the four-legged members. The restaurant, Sazerac, is well regarded, and our Gurus were impressed with the drinks as well as the food. The decor feels European, and our pick of the 189 rooms and suites have whirlpool baths!

Still not sure where to book?

You could browse our recommendations for all the best places to stay in Seattle
Or peruse our Seattle collections, historic Seattle hotels, for example, or the best hotel views in Seattle
Alternatively, you could contact one of our friendly Gurus for personalised advice.
- The Edgewater, Seattle Seattle (Waterfront) 223 rooms from AU$509
  
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  Families  -  Well-catered to families with teddy bears on arrival, rubber ducks in bathrooms, kid's menu & child-friendly activities nearby
  Romantic Break  -  Bunk up with a loved one in a four poster and enjoy fiery sunsets and twinkling city views in front of a roaring fire
  Business meetings  -  Water or city-facing function rooms streaming with natural light stop business meetings from feeling like a chore
  Views  -  Offers epic views in every direction: Puget Sound, Olympic Mountains and Seattle's downtown
  
  Boasting a one-of-a-kind location atop Seattle's waterfront, this deluxe lodge-style hotel works equally well for couples and families. Dine by the fireplace in-room in the sea-facing suites or head to the slick restaurant with a terrace and water views. A top choice for a unique city stay. See More
  
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- Ace Hotel, Seattle Seattle (Belltown) 28 rooms from AU$189
  
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  Value chic  -  Stylish rooms start from as little as $129 per night if you're happy to share a bathroom.
  Local markets  -  Pike Place Market for a collection of restaurants, bars and shops.
  Short break  -  Great location and with all the facilities to make it your home.
  Sailing  -  Ballard Locks.
  Recommended by  -  Tablet
  
  Situated in Belltown with views of the Olympic Mountains and Elliot Bay this is the original Ace Hotel. Twenty eight comfortable rooms and interiors filled with loft ceilings, hardwood floors and interesting artworks. Plus a shared kitchen for creating your own breakfast. See More
  
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- The Alexis Royal Sonesta Hotel Seattle (Central business district) 121 rooms from AU$409
  
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  Local exploring  -  Well located in the city’s historic West Edge Neighborhood with the Waterfront, Pioneer Square, and Pike Place Market nearby
  City Style  -  With the perfect blend of a grand historic building and stylish modern interiors, this is a chic choice for a city stay
  Gym  -  Arguably the city's best gym with a rock-climbing wall, Peloton Bikes, and cutting-edge strength and cardio equipment
  Local markets  -  The city's famed Pike Place Market is a short walk away and a real must-visit
  Recommended by  -  Tablet
  
  An historic hotel well placed in Seattle's West Edge Neighborhood. Beautifully refurbished interiors are chic and contemporary. Rooms offer vast windows with epic city views, local artworks, and muted hues. With a gourmet restaurant, atmospheric bar, and the city's best gym, this is a luxury stay. See More
  
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- Hotel 1000 Seattle (Central business district) 120 rooms from AU$343
  
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  City Style  -  Boasting fine-dining, sylish design, and a high-end spa. There's nothing amiss at this luxury offering
  Spa  -  With wide range of treatments, relaxation room and sauna.
  Local markets  -  Sample local produce at Pike Place Market
  Romantic  -  Good for couples.
  
  A smart contemporary hotel in the heart of Seattle steps just from the Waterfront. Sleek rooms boast wonderful views, indulgent ensuites and up-to-the-minute tech with VOIP phones for complimentary calls. Plus sophisticated All Water Seafood & Oyster Bar and a spoiling spa. A luxurious city stay. See More
  
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- Four Seasons Seattle Seattle (Central business district) 147 rooms from AU$586
  
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  Local markets  -  Pike Place Market is a great hub for restaurants, bars and boutique shops.
  Sights nearby  -  The 1962 futuristic Space Needle is the landmark to note of Seattle.
  Views  -  Seaviews.
  Lively  -  Hip and happening.
  
  Downtown Seattle luxury hotel boasts stunning Ocean views from rooms, rooftop pool and restaurants. Large, light rooms exude comfort and offer the mod-cons associated with this luxurious chain of hotels. Goldfinch Tavern is a Pacific Northwest affair with lively bar and sweeping views of Elliot Bay. See More
  
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- Hotel Monaco, Seattle Seattle (Central business district) 189 rooms from AU$220
  
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  Coastal
  Local markets  -  Pike Place Market for restaurants, bars and boutique shops.
  Sights nearby  -  Space Needle.
  Kayaking  -  Lake Union.
  Recommended by  -  Tablet
  
  This contemporary central Seattle hotel offers 24-hour fitness and business facilities, Med styled rooms with jet-baths and all the mod-cons. Sazerac offers a range of regional dishes and a mighty selection of cocktails, wine and beer. Ideal base for families plus the dog to explore Seattle. See More
  
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- Hotel Vintage Seattle (Central business district) 125 rooms from AU$286
  
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  Views  -  Great views from hotel
  Wifi
  Sights nearby  -  Around Waterfront Park or Woodland Park - both offering great views.
  Local markets  -  Famous Pike Place Market for shopping and restuarants.
  Recommended by  -  Tablet
  
  Rich tones, luxurious rooms matched with floor-to-ceiling windows for views and natural light. Bathrooms are modern & rooms offer all mod-cons. Enjoy the nightly wine and the popular Italian restaurant, Tulio. A perfect spot for couples to explore Seattle. Ideal base for restaurants, bars and shops. See More
  
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- Fairmont Olympic Hotel Seattle (Central business district) 450 rooms from AU$537
  
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  Families  -  Unusually for a high-end property, children are very welcome. Expect kid's menus, room amenities, babysitting & pool access
  City Style  -  City institution with a long history; this is the place for high glamour, great service and luxe amenities
  Weddings  -  A classic choice: the hotel has been the site for grand weddings, events and galas nearly over a century
  Restaurant  -  Beaux Art Olympic Bar serves classic American menu & Afternoon Tea. Breakfast at 4th Ave Espresso Bar or try Shuck's Oyster Bar
  
  Historic hotel & Seattle icon offering a perfect blend of old & new; grand public areas hark back to Edwardian Era mixed with Jazz age touches. Spoiling rooms & suites feel surprisingly modern. Several restaurants, bars & high-end shops make it a destination. One of the city's finest addresses. See More
  
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- The State Hotel, Seattle Seattle (Pike Place Market) 91 rooms from AU$579
  
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  Restaurant  -  A real local favourite, ground floor Ben Paris restaurant features comfort food classics, counter service and great cocktails
  Local exploring  -  The neighbourhood is this hotel's best amenity; walk to all of the coolest spots in the city
  City Style  -  Considered Seattle's best hotel by the millenial Instagram crowd; expect lots of selfies
  Local markets  -  The city's iconic Pike Place Market is literally next door. Try and find the Pike Place Urban Garden
  
  Hip & cool boutique hotel with an unbeatable city-centre location. An on-trend restaurant, happening bar & eclectic local artwork add a real sense of place; there's also a fab roof terrace. Rooms aren't large but offer a great base for exploring; many boast views over Puget Sound. Feel like a local. See More
  
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- Palihotel Seattle Seattle (Pike Place Market) 96 rooms from AU$218
  
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  Local exploring  -  Well positioned near Pike Place Market with many of the city's main attractions within walking distance
  Local markets  -  Sample regional favourites at the nearby Pike Place Market
  Restaurant  -  Hart & Hunter Restaurant
  Full of character
  Recommended by  -  Mr & Mrs Smith, Tablet
  
  Boasting a central location in vibrant Seattle and cool contemporary design. Stylish rooms are decorated in green hues and feature smeg mini-fridges and retro furniture. The laid-backed restaurant serves Southern-inspired dishes and the bar offers delectable cocktails. A chic city base. See More
  
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- Inn at the market Seattle (Pike Place Market) 70 rooms from AU$367
  
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  Local markets  -  While you stay in Pike Place Market make sure you catch a glimpse of the famouse fish tossing.
  Sights nearby  -  Hop on the monorail to see the Space Needle.
  Great walks  -  Around town and along Michigan Lake.
  Views  -  Great views from hotel
  Recommended by  -  Tablet
  
  In Pike Place Market, overlooking Elliot Bay and home to three restaurants - this contemporary, comfortable hotel offers spectacular views from its rooftop and rooms. The feeling is one of space and light. Café Champagne, Bacco Bistro and Cha:n are all in-house and popular. Location is spot on! See More
  
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- Thompson Seattle Seattle (Pike Place Market) 158 rooms from AU$801
  
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  Romantic Break  -  With beautifully appointed suites, sea views and a rooftop cocktail bar, book this hotel for an unforgettable couples' getaway
  Local exploring  -  Set a stone's throw from the waterfront, next to the best local bars and restaurants, book this hotel for city exploring
  City Style  -  With boutique interiors and an unbeatable downtown location, book this hotel for chic Seattle style
  Local markets  -  Visit Pike Place Market, a vibrant local market which neighbours the hotel
  
  This luxury hotel is nestled close to the Puget Sound waterfront in Seattle. Beautifully appointed guestrooms have sea views from floor-to-ceiling windows and a nautical-themed colour palette. The sleek rooftop cocktail bar makes this hotel a social hub in downtown Seattle. See More
  
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- W Seattle Seattle (Central business district) 424 rooms from AU$449
  
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  Groups  -  Animated atmosphere and large footprint makes this a perfect property for boisterous stag & hen dos or large groups of friends
  Business meetings  -  Fab for dynamic events in the city centre with 16 light-filled meetings rooms, a ballroom, and 12 break out spaces
  Close to nightlife  -  Decorated with music paraphernalia, The Living Room Bar features live music on weekend evenings
  Local exploring  -  Perfectly located for exploring the city's Capitol Hill, Waterfront & Pioneer Square districts
  Recommended by  -  Tablet
  
  A hip & happening downtown hotel. Awash with bold colours & contemporary installations, The Living Room steals the show with cool DJs, a lively bar & an epic fireplace. Dine at an Asian-inspired restaurant or enjoy skyscrapers views from well-designed rooms. An urban retreat ideal for work or play. See More
  
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- Kimpton Palladian Hotel Seattle (Belltown) 97 rooms from AU$471
  
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  Business meetings  -  Chic meeting rooms with unique design make a change from standard hotel offerings; well-suited to high-end events & gatherings
  Local exploring  -  Ideal downtown location means guests are walking distance to the Waterfront, sites, restaurants, shops and nightlife
  Pet friendly  -  Pets are welcome at no extra fee plus welcome amenity. Ask about pet-sitting, grooming and dog-walking services
  City Style  -  Super stylish but doesn't take itself too seriously; ticks all the luxury boxes plus a sense of humour
  
  An Edwardian grand dame turned into a trendy Belltown base. Striking decor reflects the area's rock'n'roll heritage; expect pop art pillows, black walls, European baths & traditional portraits. Cutting-edge cuisine & a speakeasy-style bar attracts a lively local crowd. A playful blend of old & new. See More
  
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- Hotel Ändra Seattle (Belltown) 123 rooms from AU$306
  
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  Foodies  -  The onsite cookery school The Hot Stove Society offers a range of classes for amateurs of all abilities!
  Local exploring  -  Hotel Ändra's central location makes it an ideal base for exploring Seattle
  City Style  -  Chic Scandi design in a superb central location
  Restaurant  -  Lola Restaurant offers delicious Greek/Mediterranean cuisine from renowned chef Tom Douglas
  
  Scandi chic luxury hotel with excellent restaurant in Seattle's bustling downtown. Sophisticated interiors offer plenty of Nordic design elements and a large slice of hygge! Rooms are dressed with subtle shades and boast light wood finishes, rattan headboards and luxury linens. A stylish city base. See More
  
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- Lotte Hotel Seattle Seattle (Central business district) 189 rooms from AU$564
  
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  Local exploring  -  Great central location which means that many of Seattle's best bits are within walking distance
  Views  -  You'll find epic views both over the Elliott Bay and city skyline from floor to ceiling windows
  City Style  -  The Philippe Starck designed interiors ooze sophisticated style and luxury
  Sights nearby  -  Pike Place Market, Seattle Waterfront and the original Starbucks are all within walking distance
  
  Philippe Starck designed luxury hotel with epic views. A stunning mix of old-meets-new is housed in the historic Sanctuary building and its modern addition. Floor to ceiling windows offer jaw-dropping vistas and the interior finish is seriously slick. A spa and superb dining complete the picture. See More
  
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