Then think about what matters most once you check in. Some of these hotels are known for their history, some for their views, and others for green practices or a well-loved bar.
Historic Grand Hotels Downtown and on First Hill
Fairmont Olympic Hotel
Step into Italian Renaissance grandeur at the Olympic, which opened in December 1924 on land that once held the first campus of the University of Washington. That design remains its signature, and the hotel joined the National Register of Historic Places in 1979. With a multiyear renovation wrapped up in 2022, it is a strong pick when you want classic elegance in the heart of downtown.
Hotel Sorrento
Choose this First Hill hotel if old-school Seattle character appeals to you more than sleek modern design. Settle into the mahogany-paneled Fireside Room, known for evening drinks set to music from a baby grand piano. It makes a natural base for a quieter stay a short distance from downtown.
Kimpton Palladian
Bring the dog along: the Palladian welcomes pets and occupies a renovated 1910 building downtown. It is recognized for green touches such as water conservation features and refillable bath amenities. End your evening at Pennyroyal, its bar, where a lively cocktail list meets a dim, elegant mood that appeals to couples and design lovers.
Waterfront Stays on Elliott Bay
The Edgewater Hotel
Built on Pier 67 for the 1962 World's Fair, the Edgewater sits directly over Elliott Bay with views toward the Olympic Mountains. Every room has a gas fireplace, and the lodge-style interiors lean on wood, stone and earthy colors. Music fans come for the rock history: the Beatles stayed here in 1964, and a suite now honors the room where they were famously photographed fishing from the window. Book a table at Six Seven, the hotel restaurant, for seasonal Pacific Northwest cooking.
Four Seasons Hotel Seattle
Near the downtown waterfront, the Four Seasons draws guests looking for a refined, polished stay with water views. Order a drink at Goldfinch Tavern, well regarded for its strong cocktail program and local wines. It works well if you plan to split your days between the waterfront and nearby Seattle landmarks.
Thompson Seattle
Stay at the Thompson and you will have Pike Place Market right on your doorstep. Head up to The Nest, the rooftop bar nine floors above the street, known for sweeping views, outdoor seats and ambitious cocktails. It suits travelers who want a lively, social base.
Design-Forward Boutique Hotels
Hotel Ändra
Where Belltown meets downtown, Hotel Ändra offers 123 rooms styled with calm Scandinavian touches like neutral tones and textured wood. Dining is a big draw, with Tom Douglas's Lola, the Italian spot Assaggio and the Hot Stove Society cooking space all on site. Stroll a short way to Belltown's galleries, small cinemas and bakeries, which makes this a good match if your trip revolves around food.
Populus Seattle
In Pioneer Square, the newer Populus reworked a 1907 building while keeping its original Douglas fir beams, brick and ironwork. Its materials are locally sourced, recycled or sustainably certified. Take in the artwork, which includes Pacific Northwest themed commissions from 35 artists, a real draw if you want history and art in one stay.
Eco-Minded Luxury
1 Hotel Seattle
This stylish South Lake Union newcomer builds its sustainability work around locally grown food. Grab imperfect fresh fruit from the lobby farmstand, which serves guests and neighbors alike, and make use of the terrace, where yoga takes place. It is a natural choice when you want comfort with a lighter footprint.
Hotel 1000
Hotel 1000 is known for its restaurant, All Water Seafood and Oyster Bar, which serves sustainably sourced seafood alongside many vegetarian and vegan dishes. Guest rooms are stocked with Le Labo bath products in large refillable bottles. If you are planning a business gathering, staff can work with your group to measure and reduce the environmental impact of meetings held there.
Making the Most of Your Stay
Many of these hotels sit within walking distance of the market, the waterfront and downtown sights. For ideas beyond the lobby bar, browse our list of things to do in Seattle, or find green space nearby with our Seattle parks guide.
Rates, amenities and policies change, so check each hotel's own website for current details before you book.
