A water view suite at Seattle's Inn at the Market. Photo source.
Planning a Pacific Northwestern vacation with the family? A romantic weekend couple’s escape? Or perhaps you’re just passing through Seattle for business? When you’re in the Emerald City, make sure you do it right! That means wining and dining at the city’s must-try locations; easy access to popular visitor attractions and activities; and, of course, a quaint or luxurious room to return to at the day’s end. Browse these top local hotel picks and book your way to the perfect trip!
Fairmont Olympic Hotel | 411 University St | 206-621-1700
Live the posh life in the heart of downtown. Built in 1924, the 5-star Fairmont Olympic Hotel has long been the gold standard of luxury lodging in Seattle. In summer 2016, the hotel was renovated with fresh mid-century modern decor, but retains its classic character with expansive Palladian windows and two popular dining destinations.
The Georgian, an AAA 4 Diamond restaurant, features afternoon high tea and Northwest creations with a French approach, while Shuckers remains one of the city’s oldest oyster bars and offers a more casual, pub-esque experience.
For those looking to venture off site, mosey one block over to Hamanasu for a lively Teppanyaki experience the whole group will enjoy. In the morning, local favorite Sweet Iron serves up hot and crispy Liege-style waffles topped to the nines with all things sweet or savory.
Four Seasons Seattle | 99 Union St | 206-749-7000
This 5-star destination hugs the Seattle waterfront and boasts unbeatable scenery all around, from panoramic Elliott Bay-facing guest rooms and suites looking out toward the breathtaking Olympic Mountain range to urban cityscape views. Its proximity to the Puget Sound makes for easy access to nearby piers, the Great Wheel, world-famous Pike Place Market, and all the must-hit downtown attractions.
On-site accommodations abound, including a rooftop pool and cocktail lounge perfect for sunset chasers, plus the Goldfinch Tavern -- a dining collaboration between Four Seasons and powerhouse local restaurateur Ethan Stowell. Sip your way through a top-of-line Washington wine list and peruse a menu offering upscale Pacific Northwestern dishes made with regionally sourced ingredients. Enjoy a complimentary cup of joe delivered directly to your room by the hotel “coffee concierge,” or spend the morning reveling in the quintessential Seattle coffee shop experience at Cafe Fonte on 1st Avenue.
Hotel Ballard | 5216 Ballard Ave NW | 206-789-5012
For vacationers looking to migrate away from the hustle and bustle of city center without losing access to some of Seattle’s best eateries, attractions, and ambience, this is your place. Located northwest of downtown in historic Old Ballard, Hotel Ballard pairs boutique appeal with neighborhood charm.
In addition to housing Stoneburner (woodfired pizza extraordinaire) at the lobby level, Hotel Ballard is a stone’s throw from a diverse selection of foodie hotspots. You’re sure to find something to suite everyone’s tastes -- from beer, burgers, and sports pub fervor at nearby Ballard Loft; to craft cocktails at Bastille; Puerto Rican happy hour at La Isla; and hearty Mexican breakfast at Señor Moose.
When you’re good and full, return to your pillow-top king bed and ample accommodations, or splurge on the rooftop courtyard suite or luxury suite with views of historic Ballard Avenue.
Inn at the Market | 86 Pine St | 206-443-3600
The only hotel located smack dab at the center of Seattle’s very own crown jewel: Pike Place Market! Naturally, when you stay at the Inn at the Market, you can expect unprecedented convenience. Your room with a view is just steps from some of the city’s most popular breweries and food spots, including French-style plates at Cafe Campagne in Post Alley; local beer galore at Pike Brewing Company; and all the sweets you can eat at the always charming Shug’s Soda Fountain and Ice Cream parlor.
MarQueen Hotel | 600 Queen Anne Ave N | 206-282-7407
The MarQueen strikes the ideal balance between urban activity and quaint flair. Located at the lower edge of Seattle’s Queen Anne neighborhood, the historic brick building was built in 1918 and continues to offer guests classic and cozy digs.
Down the staircase from your homey accommodations, don’t hesitate to duck into the Tin Lizzie Lounge on the ground floor. The speakeasy-style joint provides the perfect setting to enjoy bottomless mimosas in the morning, or handcrafted happy hour cocktails and small plates after an afternoon of boutique shopping and activities up the hill. Alternatively, walk over to Peso’s Kitchen and Lounge for elevated Mexican plates and must-try margaritas, or nibble on weekend brunch at cajun-creole favorite Toulouse Petit.
