One of the world’s most progressive cities also has a fine collection of places to stay, from many trips here are my favorite spots in the city…
1. Thompson Hotel
This large design hotel really has the wow-factor! It featured a sleek, contemporary design with a striking glass façade offering beautiful views of Puget Sound. I also loved the interiors, which combined mid-century modern elements like hardwood floors and floor-to-ceiling windows with carefully curated artwork, creating an upscale, sophisticated vibe.
My hypoallergenic guest room (a Deluxe King Room with Water View) came with a chic boutique design, floor-to-ceiling windows with superb water views, luxurious bedding (very lush 400 thread count SFERRA linens!), a large rainfall shower, mid-century modern furnishings, and curated honesty bar.
I also discovered a farm-to-table restaurant, the Conversation Kitchen & Bar, their trendy rooftop bar ‘The Nest’, a cocktail lounge, a modern fitness centre and a superb buffet breakfast. I loved its pet friendly policies and its excellent downtown location near the waterfront and iconic Pike Place Market.
My favorite highlights…
- Dining at their stylish Conversation Kitchen & Bar which had a varied menu featuring fresh local produce. I opted for the Forest Mushroom Bisque, which was topped with smoked pimenton cream and crunchy cashews – a very a hearty and comforting dish!
2. Palihotel
I thought was a stylish gem of a place! It’s a charming boutique with wonderfully eclectic decor that mixed a contemporary style with vintage-inspired touches, bold color palettes, and custom furnishings. The result was a laid-back yet sophisticated space with a playful, boutique feel.
My guest room (a queen room) came with a bold green decor, luxurious Bellino linens, a sleek marble bathroom complete with Diptyque amenities, a Nespresso machine, a trendy SMEG mini fridge, a fully stocked minibar and a large rain shower.
I also was won over by the trendy The Hart and The Hunter restaurant, cozy lobby lounge, cute coffee bar, and fine downtown location which was across the road from the famous Pike Place Market.
My personal highlights…
- I loved the calendar of fun events it hosted every night of the week – I especially liked the Martini Thursdays where I enjoyed a frosty gin for just $5!
3. Graduate
I thought this was a stunning and unique, Art-Deco inspired boutique! Inside, I found a wonderful vintage quirky design mixed with playful university-themed decor – there were retro furnishings, bold patterns, and collegiate-inspired details. I loved the nostalgic yet youthful and lively atmosphere which suited its buzzy University District location.
My guest room (a king room) came with its signature Art Deco and university-inspired decor with an extra-large double bed, interesting art, large windows with scenic views, air con and a soaking tub.
I also discovered an amazing rooftop bar, cheerfully named the Mountaineering Club because of the breathtaking views, a 24-hour fitness center, bicycle rentals, pet-friendly policies, and on-site dining options.
My highlights…
- Going for cocktails and inventive campsite-inspired bites at the stunning rustic-chic rooftop bar, The Mountaineering Club Hot – I opted for ‘Hot Chockablock’ which the additions of hemp milk and vegan marshmallows made it very unique!
4. MOXY Downtown
I was really charmed by this fun and funky hotel which had a youthful, upbeat energy! I was a big fan of its playful, industrial-chic design, which combined modern comforts with open-plan social spaces, eclectic retro furniture, colorful murals, and edgy exposed concrete and piping!
My guest room (a king-sized double) was compact yet featured their signature quirky design—I especially loved the colorful vintage telephone! It came with an extra-large bed with cozy bedding, LED lighting, a wall-mounted smart TV, a spacious rain shower, air conditioning, and clever storage solutions.
I also enjoyed the trendy lobby bar, complete with a cozy fireplace backed by book-lined shelves, the convenient 24/7 grab-and-go dining options, a well-equipped fitness center, pet-friendly policies, and the lively downtown location.
My personal highlights…
- I really liked the personal touches it offered! I was greeted at the contactless check-in with a complimentary welcoming tropical cocktail (there was also a mocktail option for the non-drinkers)!
5. Inn at The Market
This was a charming boutique hotel located in a fabulous central location! Located right inside the world-famous Pike Place Market, it felt like a serene retreat with floor-to-ceiling bay windows offering stunning views of Elliott Bay and Pike Place Market. I loved the blend of contemporary Pacific Northwest design with classic features, creating a beautiful and calming space.
My room (a king room) was spacious and with a bright retro-style and had partial views of Elliott Bay through huge windows. It also had an extra large custom-made bed complete with plush Sferra linens, a flat-screen TV with video games and cable channels, a Keurig coffee maker, an iPod/smartphone dock, and in-room massage treatments (for an extra fee).
I also discovered the rooftop deck, which offered breathtaking panoramic views of the Olympic Mountains and Elliott Bay, along with a zen-like, ivy-covered courtyard. Staying true to its surroundings, it was a foodie paradise with four on-site dining options: Café Campagne for French classics, Bacco Café for fresh breakfast and lunch, Chan for modern Korean fare, and Sushi Kashiba with exceptional sushi!
My highlights…
- My breakfast, which was served in the cozy Bacco Cafe, was exceptional! The cafe had a varied menu focused on local and organic produce and I opted for one of their ‘Extraordinary’ options! It was a good choice, the breakfast twist on ratatouille with eggplant, onions and garlic was divine!
6. Lotte Hotel
This is a sophisticated upscale boutique hotel! Inside, I found a chic, contemporary design with impressive classic details like floor-to-ceiling windows, rich marble finishes, and art deco touches. It felt luxurious but still warm and welcoming!
My guest room (a deluxe king room) was spacious and came with a soothing boutique design (I especially loved the orange wing-back chairs!). There was also floor-to-ceiling windows with superb city skyline views, a luxurious marble bathroom with a huge rain shower, and large mirrors everywhere!
I also enjoyed the buzzy downtown location, the modern full-service spa which came complete with a sauna and steam room, the 24-hour fitness center, and dining on creative Pacific Northwest cuisine at the Charlotte Restaurant & Lounge on the 16th floor, while gazing at stunning views of Elliott Bay and the Olympic Mountains!
• To book, check prices or availability for the Lotte Hotel
My personal highlights…
- Going for a Signature Gua Sha Facial at the luxury spa on the third floor. I was fascinated by how it incorporated ancient Chinese therapies to combat early signs of aging, and it was perfectly rounded off with a collagen-boosting LED red light session!
7. The Ace
This quirky and creative boutique is perfect for hipsters! It features a retro-inspired minimalist design with fun, eclectic details, including original artwork, vintage furnishings, and high ceilings. I loved the vibe – it was trendy and sociable but also laid-back and approachable, making it feel comfortable rather than intimidating.
My hypoallergenic guest room (a deluxe room) was spacious and featured high ceilings, painted exposed brick walls, a hardwood floor and a creative eclectic design (I loved the original Shepard Fairey artwork!). It also came with a private bathroom and complimentary Rudy’s hair and body products.
I was also won over by its equally hipster-friendly Belltown neighborhood location, its pet-friendly policies, the access to the on-site Cyclops Café and Panther Room bar and a communal kitchen which came with a free daily breakfast!
My personal highlights…
- I loved how they took the retro theme very seriously, I even had a vintage record player in my room complete with a box of vinyls! In homage to the city I was staying in, I played the Soundgarden, Nirvana, and Pearl Jam records!
8. citizenM South Lake Union
I personally thought this was a great option for funky, tech-savvy stay! It features a contemporary, modular design with lashings of color and quirky design features with vibrant communal spaces and lots of awesome high-tech amenities.
My guest room was compact and cabin like and featured an extra-large bed with plush pillows, hardwood floors, blackout blinds, air con, a powerful rain shower and lots of tech like a smart TV with free movies, and an app-controlled system for the cool mood lighting, temperature, and entertainment options!
I was also a big fan of the 24/7 canteenM kitchen in the lobby which served up food, drinks, snacks, and cocktails, the buzzy area where I could walk to the Space Needle and Pike Place Market, the modern fitness center and how the entire ground floor was set like an inviting shared living room complete with Vitra furniture, books, and eclectic artwork from local artists.
My personal highlights…
- I loved their eco-friendly policies – the receptionist told me the hotel was LEED Gold certified, meaning they’ve put effort into energy and water efficiency, sustainable materials, indoor air quality improvements, and reducing waste.
9. The Edgewater Hotel
This place offers a unique and romantic stay! Perched right on on the waterfront on Pier 67 this four-story upscale hotel extends into the water, offering beautiful views of Elliott Bay. The design mixes rustic charm and rock ‘n’ roll history (The Beatles, Pearl Jam, Led Zeppelin, and The Rolling Stones have all stayed here)! It has the serene, intimate vibe of a cozy Pacific Northwest lodge complete with unique river-rock fireplaces and wood accents.
My guest room (a deluxe double room) was spacious had cozy rustic-chic styling (perfect for couples!), custom-designed furniture, classic-looking leather chairs, a flat-screen cable TV, an open fireplace and gorgeous ocean views.
I was also charmed by their cute on-site gift shop and coffee bar, complimentary bicycle rentals, pet-friendly policies, fitness centre and the superb waterfront Six Seven Restaurant.
My personal highlights…
- Dining on award-winning organic Northwestern cuisine at their Six Seven Restaurant! I ate potato gnocchi served with a forest mushroom ragout while gazing at panoramic views of Puget Sound and the Olympic – it was a very memorable experience!
10. Hotel Max
This is a colorful and creative boutique with a fun music theme! It’s a hip spot in a downtown location, with a funky contemporary design that includes original works by local artists and photographers, bold color schemes, and retro-modern furniture—all coming together to create a dynamic and inspiring atmosphere.
My guest room (a standard double) featured thoughtful design elements, an extra-large double bed, original paintings, Bluetooth speakers, a TV with cable channels, and air conditioning. I especially loved that some rooms on the ‘Sub Pop’ floor include a curated vinyl collection and a vintage Crosley record player!
I also made use out of the complimentary bike rentals, a fitness center which came with a Peloton and yoga mats, locally brewed coffee served in the lobby.
- To book, check prices or availability for Hotel Max
My highlights…
- I loved their sociable, complimentary craft beer hour held daily in the lobby each early evening. I tried the Monk’s Uncle from the local Pike Brewing Company which had quirky branding and a fruity twang!
11. Hotel Theodore
This is a mid-sized trendy boutique! I really enjoyed the blend of Art Deco architecture and modern design, with locally sourced, custom-made furniture and a fascinating museum-curated collection of art and artifacts. It created a charming, understated, and relaxing vibe that I loved.
My guest room (a deluxe double room) was spacious and came with two large double beds (perfect for families) a walk-in shower, free Wi-Fi, a 50″ TV, Bluetooth speakers, a honor bar, an upscale coffee machine and plush white bathrobes.
I also made use out of the fitness center which featured Pelotons, the sociable daily wine hour, a 24-hour fitness center, bicycle rentals and onsite chic Rider restaurant which featured a wood fired grill and a menu with locally-sourced ingredients.
My favorite highlights…
- The welcoming cocktail at check-in was a very thoughtful touch!
12. Hotel Andra
This is a sophisticated Scandinavian-inspired boutique! I loved how the upscale Scandi-chic design, with rich wood accents, stone and glass tiling, and velvet and wool furniture, all came together to create a cozy ‘Hygge’ haven.
My guest room (a superior king) featured an extra-large double bed with luxurious linens, light wood accents and calming textures, a rattan lounge chair, a Nespresso coffee brewer, mood lighting, and individual climate control.
I was also won over by the 24-hour fitness center, pet-friendly policies, and the award-winning on-site restaurant, Lola, which served up creative Mediterranean-inspired cuisine.
My personal highlights…
- Dining in their rustic-chic onsite restaurant – the spicy house-made hummus which was served with freshly griddled pita was divine!
13. Hotel Maxwell
This was a family-friendly boutique with a playful and energetic vibe! It was a heady mix of bright colors, whimsical art, and quirky design elements that celebrated creativity and fun – I loved the large mosaic pineapple in the lobby and the huge mural paintings!
My guest room (a king room) showcased their signature whimsical design and featured an extra-large bed with cozy bedding, an LCD TV with streaming options, a refrigerator and microwave, a Keurig coffee maker, an iHome Bluetooth docking station, air conditioning, and fun pineapple-themed details!
I also loved its Lower Queen Anne neighborhood which was steps from the Space Needle and the Seattle Center, the indoor swimming pool, fitness center, complimentary loaner bicycles, the handy Pineapple Espresso grab and go eatery and the onsite Pineapple Bistro & Bar which served up cocktails, wood-fired pizzas and hearty American classic dishes.
My favorite highlights…
- All the thoughtful touches – I loved the welcoming glass of sparkling wine at check-in, served with pineapple-adorned cookies, and the complimentary afternoon cupcakes (pineapple-branded, of course!) and freshly brewed coffee!
14. W Hotel
I thought this was a hip and very Insta-worthy design hotel! I loved its lively, party-vibe with an exceptional eye-catching design there was lodge-inspired wood elements, unique custom-made furniture, bold colors and striking contemporary art pieces that created an all-encompassing urban retreat.
My guest room (a cozy double) was stylish and modern and came with an extra-large plush pillow-top double bed, a large flat-screen TV, Bluetooth speakers, a well-stocked minibar, fridge and Bliss Spa toiletries.
I loved the lively, party vibe with its exceptional, eye-catching design – lodge-inspired wood elements, unique custom-made furniture, bold colors, and striking contemporary art pieces all came together to create an immersive urban retreat.
- To book, check prices or availability for W Hotel
My highlights…
- Starting the day with a healthy (and very tasty!) Acai and Chia Bowl in their stylish Trace Market Restaurant.
15. Motif
I found this modern pet-friendly hotel in a great central location! I thought it had a stylish yet inviting vibe, with a chic design, Seattle-inspired art, and tasteful contemporary furnishings.
My guest room (a king room) featured a sleek urban design, a very comfortable extra-large double bed, album cover art paying homage to the city’s influential music scene, and a modern en-suite bathroom with a spacious rain shower.
I was also charmed by the rooftop deck which had panoramic views of the city skyline and Puget Sound, its excellent downtown location, its fitness centre, and the Frolik Kitchen + Cocktails where I dined on American Northwest cuisine and sipped on hand-crafted cocktails on the spacious outdoor patio.
My highlights…
- I loved the fun and sociable games available to guests in the restaurant – I ended up playing shuffleboard and ping-pong with fellow guests!
