Seattle has undergone constant changes throughout its history. From its early years when it served as a hub for people seeking opportunity in the gold rush, to present day as a home for some of the world`s leading companies, Seattle has built a reputation for innovation.
We’re here to help you decide where to stay in Seattle, whether you’re here for a weekend or a longer stay, and we hope that you’ll see that theme of innovation come to life over the course of your stay.
Now, I might be (read: definitely am) biased here, because I grew up in the area close to Seattle and spent numerous years both exploring the city and living in it. I think Seattle (and Washington State as a whole) is one of the best locations in the country.
At times, more people seem aware of the Pacific Northwest charms as visits increase to spots like Mount Rainier and Pike Place Market in summer. Yet elsewhere maintains an untouched quality.
Today, the city where I was raised looks very different than it did ten years ago (and truly even just five years ago), but it continues as a hub of innovation. And I don’t mean that only regarding the technology companies that have grown up here.
Seattle is also pioneering progressive trends in cuisine and beverages (though not quite as much as our new home, Portland), where you`ll discover some of the most innovative chefs, brewers, and baristas on the west coast experimenting with novel ideas.
All in all, Seattle is a fantastic city to visit, whether you have a weekend, or additional time to dedicate to the wider Seattle area (Mount Rainier and Olympic National Park are two of our favorite places on the west coast, for what it’s worth).
As a previous local of Seattle, I aim to help visitors decide where to lodge in the city. We`ll start with areas to potentially avoid and then examine the five best locations to stay in Seattle in thorough detail.
We’ll provide an overview of each of the five neighborhoods, our perspective on the pros and cons of residing there, some of our favorite highlights within each neighborhood, and the best locations to lodge in the area.
The intention is that by the end of this guide, you’ll be able to use the information we’ve put together for you to make a decision and find the ideal place to stay in Seattle for your particular style and budget.
Does that sound agreeable to you? Grab a cup of coffee (this is Seattle, after all) and let’s get into it.
Disclaimer: Some of the links in this post, like hotel links, are affiliate links, meaning at no additional cost to you, we make a little bit of money if you click through and book. That being said, we would never recommend something to you that we don’t stand behind 100%.
Where to Stay in Seattle: A Detailed Guide to the 5 Best Areas to Stay for Visitors
Our approach when selecting where to lodge is to initially opt for the neighborhood, then seek out an excellent hotel, hostel or rental in that area
Seattle is a relatively compact city, at least when discussing the neighborhoods where it makes sense for visitors to lodge, though which area you opt for still matters because each has a distinct feel.
For example, if one appreciates a crowded urban environment with corporate professionals hustling and bustling, staying in the downtown area is best suited. If a more relaxed, residential atmosphere is preferred, staying in Capitol Hill would be most fitting.
The location where you reside will have a significant impact on how your trip feels.
We compiled this guide to offer you the data – based on our own experiences exploring Seattle (such as living inside city boundaries) – to aid you in identifying the most suitable area matching your individual style and financial means.”
Now, we’re well aware that a few of you are currently eager to toss your left shoe at the screen, saying “I don’t have time to read all of that, JUST TELL ME THE BEST PLACE TO STAY!”
Here is a brief summary of the key points covered in this guide in case you have limited time, though exploring the section relevant to your chosen lodging will offer location-specific recommendations and activities.
- Our general recommendation for the majority of individuals is to discover an excellent hotel in Belltown.In our view, Belltown offers the finest balance of central location and selection of eateries and drinking establishments. It is within walking distance of Pike Place and the Seattle Center. We have stayed at the Ace Hotel (a hipster classic!), which is right near Pike Place Market in the heart of Belltown, and we would recommend it. Our dream hotel in Belltown is Hotel Ändra, which is a very hip boutique hotel right in the heart of some of our preferred cuisine and beverages in the neighborhood.
- If you have a brief trip and want to be as centrally located as possible, you should remain in Downtown Seattle (stay near Pike Place Market), which is as central a spot as possible. You’ll be within five minutes of Pike Place Market, and walking distance to both Seattle Center and the Light Rail, which will take you further afield (and to the airport). The State Hotel is a fantastic boutique hotel near Pike Place Market, and Hotel Theodore would also be an excellent choice.
- If your aim is to spend time in one of the trendiest parts of Seattle, known for excellent cuisine options, refreshing beverages, engaging shopping spots, and lively nightlife, select Capitol Hill accommodation (you can tell we have a strong affinity for this region of Seattle). The downside is the lack of many lodging choices, but it`s undoubtedly our preferred place to spend time when touring Seattle. Fantastic coffee shops, great bars, amazing food varieties, and Seattle`s best bookstore – what`s not to appreciate? In terms of where to sleep, we`ve stayed with Sonder before in other cities, and have our attention on the serviced flats at Sonder at Solis for our next trip to Seattle. It`s also worth bringing up the Silver Cloud Hotel. While it doesn`t stand out in unique ways, it is located in a prime spot at a fair cost.
A map is provided to help visualize the neighborhoods we’ll discuss in this guide along with some important landmarks (marked by yellow stars) to better understand the geographical layout of the city.
Where We’ve Stayed in Seattle
It probably makes the most sense to start with where we’ve lodged in Milan over the span of our trips.
Now, it’s worth noting that because Seattle – and the broader Seattle area – is home to both Matt’s family and friends, we usually stay with them when we visit from down in Portland.
Especially since friends and family live a convenient 15-20 minute commute or public transportation ride from the city, visits often specifically aim to see them.
However, over the past few years, we have indulged a little and stayed in Seattle itself as a small treat for ourselves, and we have two specific recommendations for you based on our own experiences.
The first time we stayed in Seattle, we lodged in the core of Belltown,our top suggestion concerning neighborhoods for visitors, at the Ace Hotel Seattle, and we’re not certain you could pick a finer location for visitors.
It`s the Ace Hotel`s first location (which, honestly, we thought was the Portland location), and it`s a five minute walk to Pike Place Market, 10 minutes to Seattle Center, and within a few blocks of some of our favorite bars and restaurants in Seattle.
The rooms themselves are nice, but could probably benefit from some good old-fashioned TLC at this point.
What draws visitors to these accommodations are the variety of affordable options ranging from a shared bathroom double room offering excellent value in Seattle to more spacious rooms with private amenities.
Overall, great location, great value, and as long as you’re not going in expecting the highest end fixtures and experience, we think you’ll be pleasantly surprised.
The second time, we spent a few nights around Alysha’s birthday exploring Seattle, and we decided to stay somewhere a little different; South Lake Union.
South Lake Union is where most of Amazon’s presence in Seattle is centered, comprised of high rises, glass buildings, and expensive condominiums and apartments. It’s walkable to Belltown, Seattle Center, and Capitol Hill, which makes it a really nice location.
We stayed at the CitizenM Seattle, and it was our very first experience with one of their properties. We fell in love with their unique approach to travel, and have since lodged at three or four other CitizenM locations around the globe.
CitizenM hotel rooms utilize compact spaces thoughtfully to incorporate everything guests need for excellent overnight rest while traveling, such as spaciously comfortable beds and blackout curtains, controlled through an in-room iPad. Despite limited floorplans, these accommodations meet all sleeping and relaxation requirements.
Instead of spacious rooms with a sitting area and kitchen amenities, they have decided to make the room itself a bedroom, and to utilize the common areas of the hotel to serve as a living or sitting space, with many different seating options throughout the lobby.
This is not a great choice for non-couples (or non solo travelers), since they don’t really have an option for separate beds or, more importantly, a bathroom that’s not visible from the rest of the room.
However, for a couple traveling together or a solo voyager on a brief weekend excursion, we would very much suggest CitizenM.
Belltown: Our Top Pick (Central Area with the Best Bars and Restaurants in Seattle)
In our view, Belltown is probably the best mix of location and amenities. It’s right in the center of the city between Pike Place Market on one end, and the Seattle Center (home of the Space Needle and Museum of Pop Culture) on the other end.
Unlike downtown Seattle filled with big chain eateries, Belltown is home to some of the city`s finest food and drinks. Highlights of the neighborhood will be covered below.
From charming speakeasies to craft beer, there`s a great selection of bars here too, and it`s a nightlife hub where the party continues late into the evening.
In other words, if you want the best of both situations – a central location and a great selection of places to eat and drink on your doorstep – stay in Belltown.
There are also a bunch of cool hotels located in the neighborhood, which only adds to the appeal.
They are the Narrows and Angels Landing – you’ll tackle Angels Landing on Day 1, then the equally-renowned Narrows of the Virgin River on Day 2. In between, there are some great shorter hikes to undertake.
Pros and Cons of Staying in Belltown
Pros of Staying in Belltown:
- It’s central.You’ll be essentially equidistant between Pike Place Market, the Seattle Center and the area surrounding the Space Needle, and Capitol Hill. In fact, you`d be able to walk to all with relative ease.
- Excellent bars and restaurants. If you stay in Belltown, you’ll be amid some of the best bars, eateries, and nightlife in Seattle.
- Wide variety of hotel options. There are several hotels in Belltown that appeal to us and are on our list for potential future trips to Seattle, but there are also some reasonably priced options. Overall, the city offers the best range of hotel choices, in our opinion.
Cons of Staying in Belltown:
- Nightlife noise levels may be high. As mentioned, nightlife is prevalent in the area, so noise levels could potentially be bothersome, particularly for families.
- Parking is a frustration. If you have a car, parking will be a difficulty – we’d advise not renting a car if you’re not planning to leave the city, otherwise you’re going to have to pay for parking in a garage (or at your hotel, which will cost approximately 3000% more).
Belltown Highlights
Here are some places we enjoy in Belltown.
- Lola: If you are yet unfamiliar with him, Tom Douglas is a Seattle icon. He’s a chef-turned-restaurateur, and some of our favorite places to dine in Seattle fall under his umbrella. Lola might be our preferred option (though his pizza establishment across the street, Serious Pie, is a close second). Good for weekend brunch or dinner. Try the spreads (we love the kopanisti and the spiced red pepper, for what it’s worth) and the halloumi-fig kebabs.
- Speakeasy Bar: Very cozy hidden lounge selling top-quality cocktails. Yes, there is actually a bathtub.
- Herkimer Coffee: One of Seattle’s pioneering coffee shops. The location in Belltown is fairly new, and it’s clean and modern, consistently providing the superb coffee that has made them locally renowned.
- Navy Strength: As we already mentioned, this area is known for nightlife and bars, this is another to add to your list. It`s a “tropical bar” – the drinks focus on rum and tequila – with some small plates to accompany your boozy cocktail.
- Some Random Bar: I have enjoyed patronizing this establishment for several years. There are no elaborate cocktail menus or 72 taps of beer here, it’s simply a really good neighborhood bar with friendly staff and reasonable prices.
- Olympic Sculpture Park: An art installation at the northwestern end of the neighborhood providing incredible views of the Puget Sound and Olympic Mountains. This is another among our favorite perspectives in Seattle.
The Best Places to Stay in Belltown
Here are some of our favorite Belltown lodgings for your trip.
The Ace Hotel: A Great Mid-Range Option (Where We’ve Stayed)
The first time we stayed in Seattle together (by that time I had moved to San Francisco, which is where we met) was for a work conference, and we stayed in Belltown at the Ace Hotel.
Prior to that trip, we were unaware it was actually the inaugural Ace Hotel. We always thought it was the Portland location, as the Ace feels very representative of Portland.
Since then, we`ve also stayed at the Ace Hotel in New York City, and recommend it as a nice, stylish mid-range option.
The location in Belltown is great, but it`s not the quietest part of the city, and since it`s in an old building, the rooms aren`t exactly soundproof. They offer a range of rooms, from budget rooms with shared (single occupancy) bathrooms, to larger suites.
They also have some rooms that have a bunk bed, which is one way to fit two beds in a room, and rooms with two beds in a more conventional configuration, if bunk beds feel peculiar to you.
At the far end of the lake, the trail enters the forest and begins climbing relatively gently at first, then starts to get more strenuous at the 2 mile mark.
One thing that will be said is that staff at Ace Hotel locations that have been visited are always excellent, friendly, and willing to assist with all kinds of questions.
Hotel Ändra: A Cool Boutique Hotel in Belltown
I believe Hotel Ändra is the most ingenious boutique lodging in Seattle, and it’s on my wish list to lodge there at some point.
As soon as a person walks into the building – which I have before because I’ve eaten at Lola on the ground floor various times – they’re greeted with the comforting heat (both regarding temperature, and regarding friendliness of the staff) of the fireplace in the lobby, a welcome escape from the sometimes brisk atmosphere outside.
Hotel Ändra draws inspiration from Seattle`s Nordic heritage, with themes of light wood and living spaces with fireplaces featured in the design of rooms and lobby. This differs from many contemporary hotels.
They also recently went through renovations in 2022, so everything is fresh and renewed for your stay!
They offer various room types, from standard hotel-style rooms to bigger studios and suites. To be honest, most of us are likely choosing the standard rooms, which are 200 square feet and have a queen bed and a desk. A slight upgrade would be their superior rooms, which are 25% larger and include a nice seating area.
In terms of amenities, you’ve got a coffee maker able to make espresso drinks in every room, a gym, and high quality bed linens and bathrobes. It allows pets, and offers onsite vehicle parking ($45 per night).
There’s a full blown cooking school on the second floor of the hotel too, run by none other than Tom Douglas (who we’ve mentioned a few times now). It’s called the Hot Stove Society, and would make an excellent evening activity.
StayPineapple Hotel FIVE: An Affordable Hotel in Belltown
While this is an affordable hotel – in a manner where “affordable” still exists in Seattle – there is nothing budget about the experience at Hotel FIVE.
Guests are treated to plush towels, cozy bed linens, and bathrobes within their room, and those checking in can make use of one of the complimentary bicycles on hand to explore the city.
If exploring on foot is preferred, then this is the best place to stay in Seattle with Pike Place Market, Space Needle, and Seattle Waterfront just a few moments away.
The Belltown Inn: Another Affordable Option in Belltown
The Downtown Inn is an additional remarkable importance, with reasonably inexpensive rooms. But it’s not the type of “inexpensive” where you’ll be wanting you spent just a little bit more for an upgrade – instead, you’ll be wondering how you got such an amazing deal.
One aspect we appreciate about this place is that all rooms include kitchenette amenities – which will feature a mini-refrigerator, microwave, and coffee maker.
The spot couldn’t be better – you’ll be conveniently situated between Pike Place, Seattle Center, and Cap Hill, which creates an excellent home base for a weekend exploring Seattle. Plus, a few of the top bars and restaurants will be virtually right outside your door.
The Sound Hotel: A Beautiful Luxury Hotel in the Heart of Belltown
I initially took notice of the Sound Hotel and its matte green facade a few years back as it was being built, and made a mental note to check out what that was becoming. Fast forward to a year ago, and I walked by it and thought “OH, I remember looking at this place!”
The Sound Hotel is a boutique hotel right in the core of Belltown on 4th Ave, and it’s a great site to base yourself while you’re in town.
You’re a block or so away from three Tom Douglas eateries – the Dahlia Bakery (home of the famous coconut cream pie), Serious Pie, and Lola (our favorite spot), and plenty of other bars and restaurants are nearby as well.
The accommodations are very modern and luxurious, with rooms that are quite spacious, coming in at over 400 square feet. Having that additional living area would be particularly advantageous if you plan on trying to work remotely from your hotel room.
In terms of common areas, they have a gym, a lounge area serving alcoholic drinks, and a pleasant outdoor patio where you can unwind and appreciate the scenery.
Valet parking is $49 per night with in and out access (there are plenty of cheaper garage options nearby if you have a car). Pets up to 75 lbs are permitted but incur a nonrefundable $100 charge.
Downtown Seattle: The Most Central and Convenient Place to Stay in Seattle
We’re going to be straightforward here. Downtown Seattle is more of a practical place to stay than an exceptionally charming area or one packed with outstanding bars and restaurants.
Downtown Seattle covers a fairly extensive area including what essentially constitutes Seattle’s central commercial district, with many large glass office buildings, a few shopping centers, a Nordstrom and Macy’s (indicating its commercial nature) and numerous chain restaurants.
We’d encourage looking at hotels within a few blocks of Pike Place Market, which is our favorite part of the downtown area.
Most of the hotels we`ve selected below are within a couple of blocks of the market, though there are a few outliers that are a little further out (but we like the look of the hotel, so we included it).
While the Downtown area of Seattle may not be the most picturesque location for accommodation, it does have an excellent position.
From here, one will be within walking distance of Pike Place Market, the Seattle waterfront (and the ferry terminal, if you’d like to take a day trip to Bainbridge Island), the sports stadiums, and all four of the other neighborhoods we discuss below.
Be sure to sample the mouth-watering beef dripping chips to accompany your chosen cuts of meat and you will leave fully satisfied.
Pros and Cons of Staying in Downtown Seattle
Benefits of a Downtown Seattle stay include:
- Could you BE any more centrally located? Probably not, we think. Staying here essentially means that you’ll be within walking range of Seattle’s major attractions, or within walking distance of a bus or light rail station that will take you to them. It’s well-connected to other parts of the city center via Light Rail and buses, so using public transportation to get around will be relatively simple. If you have children, the Seattle Aquarium is a good rainy day activity, and it`s within walking range along the waterfront.
- Numerous lodging alternatives exist.That central locale, providing proximity to Pike Place Market, implies an ABUNDANCE of hotels in the neighborhood.
Drawbacks of a Downtown Seattle stay include:
- Staying in Downtown Seattle means being situated in an urban landscape, with relatively few surrounding green spaces to provide an escape from the towering office buildings and hotels.
- It also lacks a great deal of charm as it has a more commercial atmosphere. Securing parking will undoubtedly be a nightmare – plan to forgo using a vehicle or pay a hefty fee to station it elsewhere.
Downtown Seattle Highlights
A few sights not to miss in Downtown Seattle are below.
- Pike Place Market: There is too much information to provide about all the activities, sights, foods, and beverages available at Pike Place Market within a single point. Instead, we refer you to our Seattle itinerary(which covers this in more detail) and our upcoming guide about what to do at Pike Place Market. Some of our favorites are Rachel’s Ginger Beer, Beecher’s Cheese, and Ellenos Greek Yogurt.
- The Seattle Art Museum: Surprisingly enjoyable, and it’s right in the heart of Downtown Seattle. It’s a good rainy day activity, which you’ll find plenty of in Seattle outside of the summer months.
- Victrola Coffee: This cafe consistently delivers excellence in two areas. First, their coffee – my favorite cappuccino in Seattle was prepared here. Second, the playlist – songs from the mid-2000s that evoke memories of my teenage years provide the soundtrack, just as they do at Victrola.
- The Pink Door: This Italian restaurant and burlesque show venue in Seattle was the place where my mom and Alysha first connected on one of our early trips there together. It’s located right at Pike Place Market, offering quality dining with a reservation.
- The Showbox: My preferred location for musical performances in Seattle (a city plentiful in outstanding music venues). They host a diversity of act sizes, from bands I`ve never heard of to larger performances (for example, the 1975 is playing there in the upcoming few weeks at the time of composing).
The Best Places to Stay in Downtown Seattle
As mentioned previously, there are nearly limitless quality hotel options located in Downtown Seattle.
Here are the best Downtown Seattle hotels for your trip, at least in our opinion.
The State Hotel: A Cool Boutique Hotel a Block Away From Pike Place Market
Note: We`ve put together an extremely comprehensive guide to help find the perfect accommodation in Seattle based on individual style and budget considerations. For more details, be sure to refer to that guide.
They have maintained many of the historic charms of the building but have updated the interior with new décor and local artwork. Every aspect of this independent hotel is steeped in the local culture – they’ve even partnered with local artists to decorate the place.
Inside, there are 91 areas ranging in size from cozy queen rooms, perfect for couples who don’t require too much open space (you’ll be exploring, after all), to more spacious king rooms, and even a few gorgeous suites.
Rooms on the eighth floor all have terraces but there is also a communal rooftop terrace offering fantastic views over the city.
In terms of parking, they’ve partnered with a nearby garage to offer parking (with in/out privileges) for guests at $27.50 a day (a great deal in Seattle), and it can be purchased on arrival. The garage is located a block from the hotel.
The hotel welcomes pets up to 50 pounds but only has a limited number of pet-friendly rooms, and there is a non-refundable $30 fee for pets.
There is also a daily fee of $22 for amenities, which is an inconvenience (JUST INCLUDE IT IN THE COST!) that covers internet and the round-the-clock health and wellness center.
Hotel Theodore: A Very Hip Boutique Hotel in the Heart of Downtown Seattle
Hotel Theodore is the hotel that is a bit further out from Pike Place Market in the heart of the financial area (to whatever extent such a thing exists in Seattle), but we wanted to include it for a couple reasons.
Firstly, the location is quite excellent, since it`s actually closer to some of our favorite places in Seattle (namely, the Pike/Pine corridor in Capitol Hill). It`s also within a couple of blocks of a Light Rail Station, which is helpful for getting around.
Second, because it looks extremely appealing. They’ve truly strengthened the “Seattle” theme, featuring an art installation curated by the Museum of History and Industry in the lobby, and a selection of Seattle-themed art in each room.
Rooms are elegantly decorated, with industrial-chic touches like exceptionally cool lamps and subway tile in the bathrooms. There are standard rooms, which are on the small side but have enough space to be comfortable for a couple of nights, and have bigger rooms and suites from there.
Parking will cost you $50 a night (valet only, ouch), and the hotel is pet-friendly (with a $30 fee that includes a pet welcome package). There’s also a nice fitness center, and it’s open 24 hours a day.
There is, however, a $20 “daily amenities fee” for the access of amenities like the gym (it’s also not optional), which we absolutely cannot accept. Just incorporate it in the price!
The Inn at the Market: A Luxury Hotel Within Pike Place Market
When we were exploring the city of Seattle recently, my mom directed my attention upwards towards a building and commented “that`s the location I used to stay at when I came here on business before we relocated here!”
She was indicating at the Inn at the Market, which is literally steps from Pike Place Market in the heart of Seattle.
Standard rooms are surprisingly roomy, and some rooms have views of the Puget Sound and Olympic Mountains (though it will cost you a little extra). The decor leans a bit more traditional than modern, but everything is comfortable and well thought out.
The rooms aren’t inexpensive – you’re inside the boundaries of Pike Place Market, after all – but the location and amenities might be worth it if you’re not on too tight a budget.
They have a gorgeous rooftop deck, which overlooks the Pike Place Market sign and has sweeping views over the water out towards the Olympic Range.
The Green Tortoise Hostel: The Best Budget Hostel in Seattle
If you’re looking to stay in a hostel in Seattle, this is it!
The main attraction of the Green Tortoise Hostel is its setting. It’s just a brief walk from Pike Place Market, and within easy walking distance of Seattle Center and the excellent Museum of Pop Culture.
They have your conventional dormitories, which include some queen beds that are ideal for couples, as well as private rooms .
Unlike most hostels, they have included small additional amenities like heated flooring in the bathrooms, and a well-stocked communal kitchen if you want to prepare your own meals to spend less money while you’re exploring Seattle.
South Lake Union: A Central, Modern Neighborhood
South Lake Union is about as straightforward a name for a neighborhood as possible. It’s on the southern end of Lake Union, which is the body of water located directly in the center of Seattle.
Centrally located just east of the iconic Space Needle and Seattle Center, and north of Belltown, it`s an excellent neighborhood from which to base your visit.
South Lake Union was not a place you’d ever want to stay when I was growing up. It was run-down and generally not super pleasant.
That is, until Amazon showed up.
What was once a rather ordinary part of Seattle has since blossomed into one of its most desirable districts, packed with luxury high-rise apartments and sleek Amazon developments alongside some of the finest cuisine and drinks the city has to offer.
I’m not a huge supporter of Amazon, but this isn`t the time or place to go through a list of my concerns about their anti-competitive maneuvers that hurt small local companies, or their questionable employment practices and efforts to discourage unionization.
I think the South Lake Union area should be included on this list of Seattle’s best neighborhoods, regardless of my views about a certain company headquartered there.
Pros and Cons of Staying in South Lake Union
Benefits of Remaining in South Lake Union:
- Central location. Nestled between Capitol Hill to the east, Queen Anne to the west, and Belltown to the south, it allows easy access by car or brief walks on foot to our favorite parts of Seattle within just a few minutes.
- There are numerous food and beverage establishments. As one might envision, a section of the city that was engineered as a place for all kinds of office space has also drawn quite a few amenities – bars, restaurants, cycling studios, etc – that cater to those workers. There are many taverns, eateries, and coffee shops in South Lake Union to keep you engaged, and you’re sufficiently close to Belltown, Capitol Hill, and Queen Anne.
Disadvantages of a South Lake Union stay include:
- In essence, Amazon. You’ll be surrounded by huge, contemporary office buildings covered with AMAZON, and most of the residents in the high end condominiums here are staff of the company that’s gradually (okay, quickly) taking over the world. It’s not going to be the most authentic local experience.
- No Light Rail station. The sole downside to the location is that the Light Rail doesn’t extend to South Lake Union, so you’ll have to walk or take an alternative mode of public transit to reach Light Rail, which definitely comes into play if you’re planning on using it to or from the airport when you’ll have some baggage with you.
South Lake Union Highlights
Here are some spots we enjoy visiting in South Lake Union.
- Mbar: The premier rooftop bar in Seattle boasts spectacular sunsets over the Space Needle and Lake Union. Arrive one or two hours before dusk to secure a spot as they limit occupancy. Beverages come at a premium but the scenic views compensate. Reservations can be made but cancelling within 24 hours incurs a $75 fee, and a credit card is required.
- Kati Vegan Thai: We were captivated by this location when we stayed at the CitizenM last year. Excellent Thai meals (particularly the curries), and though everything is plant-based, you would never know it.
- Cafe Hagen: A very acclaimed coffee shop in South Lake Union serving both good coffee and (highly praised, based on everyone I`ve gone there with) Scandinavian-inspired pastries.
- Flatstick Pub South Lake Union: Liquor and miniature putting. I challenge you to name a better pair. It’s a good time, and the course is vaguely inspired by Seattle.
- MOHAI: This basically functions similar to a Seattle history museum. I hadn’t visited in a few years until recently, and I was really impressed with the contents of the museum. It’s a comprehensive history of Seattle, and covers the two hundred years or so between Seattle being a port city, through its boom during the gold rush, and into the 2000’s when it became a tech hub. Worth a couple of hours if you’re interested in learning about Seattle’s story.
The Best Places to Stay in South Lake Union
Hotels are the central focus here. A few options have emerged as this part of the city was constructed over the past decade or so. Here are some of our favored South Lake Union lodgings for your trip.
CitizenM South Lake Union: Our Favorite Hotel Chain (We’ve Stayed Here)
During our latest trip, we lodged at the CitizenM Seattle in South Lake Union and completely enjoyed it. The hotel is modern, efficient, clean, stylish, and has some great common areas to spend time in.
We were so pleased with the accommodation that we`ve stayed at two additional CitizenM locations since then ( London and Boston), with plans to reside at a few more locations in the future.
This is one of the best hotels in Seattle.
CitizenM is a Dutch hotel chain that has essentially made staying in a hotel very straightforward and streamlined, with all the modern conveniences (like USB charging and climate controls via iPad) that younger travelers seek without unnecessary extras (fluffy robes or sitting areas, for example) to provide good value.
The other thing we like is that, in the interest of simplicity and ease, they’ve stripped away all the somewhat distinct room types you find in most hotels (compact vs. compact deluxe vs. compact deluxe with partial city view), and there’s precisely one room type available: a compact room with an uber-comfy king bed.
Upon arrival, which is handled through convenient kiosks akin to checking in for a flight at the airport, you can pick which side of the hotel you want as well as whether a low or high floor, a customization we found rather pleasant.
Attempting to reserve accommodations facing John Street is recommended, affording景致 of the metropolis (guidance one of the wonderfully helpful staff graciously offered as we weighed options).
The rooms themselves are small (but you have access to their “living room” on the ground floor which has couches, desks, and more), but they have blackout curtains, they’re mostly soundproof, and the huge king beds are extremely relaxed.
Amenities throughout the accommodations – such as lighting, temperature controls, and room service calls – are operated through an iPad interface.
The spot is too outstanding. We walked from the hostel to Seattle Core (where you’ll find the Space Needle and the remarkable MoPop), Pike Position Business, and Capitol Hill. The area around the hostel is too complete of exceptional java shops, bars, and dining establishments.
However, there are a few qualifiers you ought to know before booking.
- First, they offer one room option only. It’s a single king bed with a maximum occupancy of two, which signifies it’s not suitable for families with young children traveling together (you’d need to get a separate room).
- Second, the living areas are compact. They’re well conceptualized, but they lack some of the additional features found in other upscale lodging establishments. Things like an in-room coffee preparation station (The Elm Coffee Roasters establishment is just down the street, where you’ll find some of the finest coffee in Seattle) or an ironing surface (If we’re being honest, I barely know what that is anyway).
- Access Point:Rock Spring Access Point
If your family consists of four people who all desire to lodge in the same accommodation, or you are a business traveler who wants to press your attire before an important meeting, possibly remain elsewhere.
Wanting to learn more about the CitizenM in Seattle? Read our comprehensive review of the CitizenM to decide if it’s the appropriate hotel for your time in Seattle!
Level: An Excellent Aparthotel for Extended Stays in Seattle (Kitchens + Laundry)
If you’re looking for lodging that`s between a standard hotel room and an apartment for an extended stay – a category we`ve mainly seen overseas but should see more of domestically – with extra living space and kitchen facilities, the Level Seattle would be a good choice.
The differences between their suites and standard hotel rooms include things like a full kitchen, in-suite laundry, and other amenities more suited for extended stays.
There’s also a huge fitness center, multiple outdoor decks with play areas for kids / dogs, and several pools (both indoor and outdoor) which is a nice touch.
All in all, if you’re looking for a place to stay for an extended trip to Seattle, this would be our selection.
All of those amenities – and there are a LOT of them – come with a cost in the form of a daily $25 amenity fee. JUST INCLUDE IT IN THE ROOM PRICE.
Capitol Hill: Our Favorite Neighborhood in Seattle
First of all, Capitol Hill is our favorite neighborhood in Seattle, undoubtedly. It’s vibrant during the day, lively at night, and all around a really fun neighborhood.
Capitol Hill is the best neighborhood in Seattle for food lovers, people in their twenties, and hipsters, with plenty of bars and restaurants, specialty coffee shops (don’t miss Victrola and Espresso Vivace), bars, theaters, and music venues showing a range of established and emerging acts.
The aquarium is a staple on many a Seattle itinerary, and is worth dedicating around half a day to exploring extensively.
There is no avoiding the fact that Capitol Hill has a rather hipster vibe and is full of thrift stores, independent fashion labels, and small boutiques that attract young, trendy individuals. Capitol Hill is also renowned for its LGBTQ scene.
As you’re walking around, you’ll notice the rainbow crosswalks, flags, and other subtle (and not-so-subtle) indications to the LGBTQ scene in Capitol Hill.
Capitol Hill is the best area for travelers to lodge in Seattle if they want to tour one of our favorite neighborhoods in Seattle, but also be near Downtown Seattle and the rest of the attractions tourists enjoy in the city, like Pike Place Market and the Space Needle.
Pros and Cons of Staying in Capitol Hill
Benefits of Staying in Capitol Hill:
- Excellent location for eating, drink, and shopping. Capitol Hill is our favorite neighborhood in Seattle – you’ll find us there basically every time we’re in the city. It’s completely packed with bars, cafes, boutiques, and a lively energy that you start to feel as daylight starts to fade. The nightlife is also great.
Drawbacks of Staying in Capitol Hill:
- It’s loud.It’s not a peaceful neighborhood, particularly at night.
- Parking is difficult. Parking is metered throughout the Pike/Pine corridor, and has limits in the more residential areas. If avoiding having a car during your stay is possible, we would recommend it.
- Gentrification. Capitol Hill and the rest of the Central District were historically black neighborhoods, though that history is less apparent now. Gentrification has displaced local residents to other parts of the city as rents have risen and luxury condominiums have replaced more affordable housing options. We do not mean to discourage staying in this area, but want visitors to be aware of how becoming a “trendy” destination has impacted long-time community members.
Capitol Hill Highlights
Here are some of our preferred spots in Capitol Hill. Though, honestly, there are far too many excellent places to eat, drink, and shop to list here.
- Elliott Bay Books: This bookstore in Seattle holds the distinction of being what I consider the best. If we`re within a short distance, we`ll wander over to peruse the aisles. I particularly appreciate the staff recommendations sections, providing a great place to discover one`s next read.
- Analog Coffee: Potentially my preferred coffee shop in Capitol Hill, they import roasters from all over the Pacific Northwest (usually Camber from Bellingham is a staple) and have a nice selection of espresso-based drinks, and pour over options for coffee aficionados like myself.
- Atulea Tea House: Alysha`s preferred venue! They serve matcha and bubble teas superbly, and their matcha ice cream is enormously popular. Alysha is particularly fond of the Ube Matcha Latte.
- Molly Moons: Seattle’s pioneering ice cream spot, which now has locations all over the city. Great seasonal flavors made with fresh ingredients, and freshly baked waffle cones.
- Mamnoon: Lebanese cuisine offers a fun selection of very shareable dishes (like the mezze sampler, where you get to try a little bit of everything).
- In Capitol Hill, within a short walk there are three superb bars. Try Tavern Law for a speakeasy with quality libations. Check out Canon for an extensive whiskey selection. Stop at Footprint Wine Tap for wines served on tap (a more eco-friendly option than bottling).
The Best Places to Stay in Capitol Hill
The most difficult thing about Capitol Hill is that there are very few places available to stay. Aside from the Pike/Pine corridor and Broadway/15th, it’s a pretty residential neighborhood. There are just a few hotels and serviced apartments (aparthotels) to choose from.
Here are some of the most highly recommended places to rest your head in Capitol Hill during your visit.
Silver Cloud Hotel: Good Price and Great Location in Capitol Hill
While not particularly appealing, the Silver Cloud Hotel in Capitol Hill is likely the best location to stay in the neighborhood regarding both cost and place.
Again, there are no special amenities or rooms here, but it’s within walking distance of the heart of Capitol Hill (though it’s a little removed so that you’re not RIGHT in the thick of all the action, which is pleasant for the whole good night’s sleep thing).
Accommodation units are satisfactory – they`re rather traditional like most large hotels, with a revolving seat and desk typically found everywhere, but the cost and area are appropriate!
They offer parking for $40 per night, and pets are not permitted here.
Gaslight Inn: A Charming Bed & Breakfast in a Historic Home
This historic lodging is located inside a landmark Craftsman-style home.
There are six different room options to select from, some including private bathrooms, fireplaces, or city skyline views. All guests can take advantage of the outdoor heated pool and free continental breakfast each morning.
Sonder at Solis: Serviced Apartments in a Perfect Location
We’ve stayed at properties operated by Sonder in the past (specifically in New York City, which we found pleasing), and Sonder at Solis essentially functions as a hotel, though containing apartments (with kitchens and laundry amenities) rather than more conventional hotel-style rooms.
It`s a highly modern approach to travel, involving contactless check-in, a Roku for streaming, and staffless locations (which, it should be noted, can be a problem if something goes wrong).
We’ve previously chosen Sonder for longer stays and would recommend it here too. Especially because of the convenient location, which really could not be much better situated (it’s on Pike at the eastern end of the neighborhood, within two blocks of some of our favorite spots in Cap Hill).
The living spaces here come in a variety of measurements and layouts – specifically studio, one bedroom, and two bedroom – and all have large windows with good natural brightness, full kitchens, and laundry appliances within the unit.
They have an upper level deck with a perspective of the city, which is a nice inclusion for summer months. No pets permitted, though, so leave the furry companion at home.
A major downside: there is no on-site parking available. Street parking in Capitol Hill is notoriously difficult to find. If traveling by car, we strongly suggest selecting alternative lodging like the Level in South Lake Union that provides parking and apartment-style rooms.
Two Blocks Off Broadway (Two Bedroom Apartment)
Ramble along the waterfront heading east to head to the Monument of the Discoveries (in Portuguese, Padrão dos Descobrimentos), which pays tribute to Portugal’s amazing history of explorers. Do you remember from fourth grade who the first person to circumnavigate the world was?
In general, we have reservations regarding vacation rentals in major urban centers, as they deplete limited housing inventory that could instead support residents, exerting upward pressure on escalating rental costs in supply-constrained west coast cities such as Seattle (and, frankly, every other municipality in the region).
However, we do like alternative spaces being used as accommodations for visitors – think the loft above the garage or the basement level apartment – which is exactly what’s happening here.
This downstairs level of a 1902 home contains two full bedrooms and bathrooms, a full kitchen, and ample space to spread out. It was converted into a separate lodging to accommodate visiting family of the hosts upstairs, who come often enough that they opted not to rent the space annually.
If seeking a more expansive accommodation for a group of four, this would be an excellent choice. Onsite parking is also available, so the vehicle can be left off the street.
Queen Anne: Stay Blocks Away from the Seattle Center
The final of the five central neighborhoods in Seattle is Queen Anne, which is north of Belltown closer to Seattle Center, and west of South Lake Union.
The primary attraction here is the reality that the highlights at Seattle Center – the Museum of Pop Culture, Pacific Science Center, Caffe Vita at KEXP, Climate Pledge Arena, etc etc – will be immediately at your entrance.
Additionally, it’s conveniently situated close to Belltown and within walking distance to both South Lake Union and Pike Place Market.
Queen Anne covers a large area, from Seattle Center up to the Lake Washington Ship Canal and Fremont Bridge.
For the purposes of this guide, which is focused on helping you find the right place to stay in Seattle for a relatively short trip, when we say Queen Anne here, we mean Lower Queen Anne, which is the area immediately adjacent to Seattle Center (where you’ll find the Space Needle and a few worthwhile museums).
This part of the city is more central than Upper Queen Anne, which is in a residential area up the hill (too expensive for our budget), and has more lodging options.
Pros and Cons of Staying in Queen Anne
Pros of Staying in Queen Anne:
- Central location near Seattle Center. Queen Anne is basically at the Seattle Center, which means you also won’t be too far away from Pike Place Market and Downtown Seattle.
- The finest panorama in Seattle from Kerry Park. Just up the hill from Lower Queen Anne is Kerry Park, which offers both the finest viewpoint in Seattle (it’s much nicer than the top of the Space Needle, and it’s free!), and the most popular vista in Seattle.
- Accommodations are moderately affordable.The key term here is moderately. It won’t be low-cost – it’s still Seattle – but we have observed that the hotels here trend towards the more budget-friendly end of the range compared to Downtown and Belltown.
Cons of Staying in Queen Anne:
- It’s not our favorite in terms of food and drinks.You’ll likely spend most of your time outside of the neighborhood if you stay here, but that’s perfectly alright as long as you know that going in.
- Parking is impossible. Like all of the other neighborhoods on this list, finding a place to park will be nightmarish. Your best option is to not bring a vehicle, but if you do, be ready to pay for parking.
Queen Anne Highlights
Here are a few of our favorite places to visit in Queen Anne.
- Dick’s Drive-in: Seattle’s classic response to In-n-Out Burger. It’s a simple burger establishment where customization is not permitted, and the food represents tremendous value by Seattle standards. It’s a very busy late night spot, with partygoers overflowing from the bars in Queen Anne and lining up for ages at Dick’s before heading home after dark.
- Toulouse Petit: Exceptional cajun creole cuisine. Opt for brunch or happy hour. It’s among the most popular places in Seattle, so prepare for a wait if you don’t make an advance reservation.
- Kerry Park: Our favored scene in Seattle. We take all guests that come to Seattle for the initial time up here. You can see downtown – which includes the Space Needle – and the ferries moving Elliott Bay. It’s magical. But it’s a well-liked spot, specifically at sunset.
- Coffee house visit in Seattle: One of my favorite coffee shops in Seattle in terms of atmosphere is located at KEXP, an independent radio station in the city. Caffe Vita has taken up residence in the large high-ceilinged space. The coffee, surroundings, and visit while touring Seattle Center are good.
- Queen Anne Ave N: This is the main stretch in Upper Queen Anne, and it is lined with places to eat, drink, and shop. Go to El Mezcalito for Oaxacan cuisine (lots of gluten free options, too!), Big Max Burger Co. for fancy burgers (much classier than Dick’s), and How to Cook a Wolf for a slightly fancier meal at one of the most famous restaurants in Seattle that serves Italian-inspired food.
The Best Places to Stay in Queen Anne
Most lodging in Lower Queen Anne, near Seattle Center, are options. Upper Queen Anne offers a more charming residential environment.
The journey up the hill is worthwhile to check it out – there are some fun places available for eating, drinking, and shopping (plus the perspective from Kerry Park!), but it`s not ideally suited for an extended stay.
Here are some places to stay in Lower Queen Anne that would make a good home base.
The StayPineapple Maxwell Hotel: Our Top Pick in Queen Anne (Great Value)
The atmosphere is inviting, bordering on crowded. You can generally get a table without reserving beforehand during the weekdays. However, it’s advisable to book in advance to ensure you obtain the spot you want at your preferred time slot.
The Maxwell Hotel is just north of Seattle Center, and has remarkably roomy accommodations for the cost.
Everything in this hotel has vibrant colors – from the huge pineapple in the lobby, to the brightly hued interior hallways. Room configurations vary depending on individual needs.
The property does require a daily $25 charge that provides Access to Wifi, beach cruisers that can be borrowed, the fitness center, and other amenities. It is felt that these items should be incorporated into the room cost (as Staypineapple should do), but recognizing this upfront is preferable to discovering it upon arrival.
It’s pet-friendly too (for an extra fee), and they have on-site parking (which is also an additional fee), which can be difficult to find in this part of the city.
The Mediterranean Inn
The Mediterranean Inn is precisely in the heart of Lower Queen Anne, merely west of Seattle Center. The rooms here have apartment-style configurations, which signifies you’ll have access to a small kitchenette that has a mini fridge, electric kettle, microwave, and more.
Rooms are simplistic yet comfortable, ranging from single queen bed rooms, to rooms with two queen beds.
One of the highlights here has to be the rooftop deck, which will give you spectacular views over the Downtown Seattle skyline, including the Space Needle. Plus, you can rent bicycles from the hotel to cruise around the city!
Where NOT to Stay in Seattle
Let`s examine areas visitors may want to avoid due to inconvenience or less appealing qualities.
The first place we’d avoid is Pioneer Square, which is located in a subsection of Downtown Seattle known as Pike Place Market. While we do recommend exploring Downtown Seattle, we would suggest staying further north in the area around Pike Place Market.
Pioneer Square is on the southern end of the downtown core towards the baseball and football venues.
One crucial factor regarding visiting Seattle is the noticeable unhoused population present here.
We aren’t going to debate potential causes and solutions here (the continuously increasing and now extremely high cost of living possibly has something to do with it), but the main thing to keep in mind is that they`re generally harmless to visitors.
Seeing someone struggle with homelessness or addiction can cause discomfort since it draws attention to one`s own security, yet those individuals should not be viewed as blights inflicting harm. They are human beings deserving of the same compassion as any other person.
The point I’m making here is that we’d avoid staying in Pioneer Square because, for a few reasons, there is a large, visible unhoused population that congregates in Pioneer Square. If that makes you uncomfortable, stay elsewhere.
The second area we’d avoid staying is West Seattle. Although the West Seattle Bridge has reopened and West Seattle is a fairly interesting place to explore, it’s still around a 20-30 minute journey to reach downtown.
And that’s without traffic.
With a short trip focusing on major tourist attractions, convenience won`t be optimal.
The third location (or locations) we wouldn’t remain in are Ballard and Fremont.This is regrettable, because we truly appreciate these two neighborhoods, but they`re just too distant from the primary attractions in Seattle.
With traffic, it can take 30-40 minutes by car (more by bus) to reach downtown.
Plus, they’re highly residential, and have very few lodging selections. They’re a great place to visit and spend an afternoon eating and drinking, but living here would be an error.
We’d include the University District (colloquially known as the “U-District”) in this group of places to avoid too, unless you’re visiting Seattle specifically to go to the University of Washington.
While there are some cool places to eat and drink (particularly in the University Village shopping complex), it’s quite removed from just about everything else in Seattle.
