Top Places to Stay in Seattle: A Comprehensive Neighborhood Guide

The largest city in the Pacific Northwest and the seat of King County, Washington, Seattle is a significant cultural and business hub in the United States. Often referred to as the “Emerald City,” Seattle is situated between Puget Sound and Lake Washington, providing stunning views of the Cascade Mountains to its east and the Olympic Mountains to its west.

The Space Needle, recognized as one of the most iconic structures in the US, is a major attraction in the downtown area. With numerous renowned businesses, an exceptional park system, a dynamic arts and music scene, and the University of Washington, Seattle attracts a diverse range of tourists each year. Many travelers come to participate in the city’s famous annual festivals, such as the 24-day Seattle International Film Festival and the Bite of Seattle, one of the largest gay pride festivals in the country.

Let us now explore the popular neighborhoods in the city to help you plan your accommodation in Seattle during your visit.

Pioneer Square

Frequently regarded as the city’s first unofficial neighborhood, Pioneer Square exemplifies the integration of historical and modern elements. Renowned for its unique architecture and vibrant nightlife, this area was once home to some of Seattle’s earliest settlers. To gain a comprehensive understanding of the city’s history, an underground tour of Pioneer Square is strongly encouraged. These tours also provide access to remnants of several structures hidden beneath the city following the great fire of 1889. The Klondike Gold Rush National Historical Park, the smallest park in the United States, offers insights into the city’s involvement in the 1890s gold rush.

Good for: All types of travelers.
Other Highlights: UPS Waterfall Garden Park, Occidental Square, Union Station Square, Bill Speidel’s Underground Tour, and Smith Tower.

Hotel Recommendations:

• Best Western Plus Pioneer Square Hotel – Located within a short walking distance from the city’s waterfront, this elegant hotel provides well-appointed guestrooms featuring large double beds, a safety deposit box, flat-screen TV, coffee machine, and a private bathroom. Complimentary breakfast is served daily, making it suitable for all types of travelers.
• Courtyard Seattle Downtown / Pioneer Square – Situated in the heart of the historic downtown, this hotel offers fully-furnished guestrooms equipped with a large double bed, tea/coffee maker, flat-screen TV with pay-per-view channels, free Wi-Fi, iPod dock, and an ensuite bathroom. The property also features an indoor pool, fitness center, and a fully-stocked bar, ideal for solo travelers, couples, and small families.
• Silver Cloud Hotel – Seattle Stadium – Boasting a spectacular rooftop pool overlooking Elliot Bay, a hot tub, fitness center, and an upscale restaurant, this hotel offers comfortable guestrooms with air-conditioning, tea/coffee maker, flat-screen TV with pay-per-view channels, wake-up service, and an ensuite bathroom with complimentary toiletries. Suitable for all types of travelers.

Downtown/Waterfront

Once characterized by wooden structures, steep hills, and a sawmill, the Downtown Seattle neighborhood has undergone considerable transformation. Today, it serves as a desirable location to live, socialize, and explore numerous iconic landmarks. Bordered by Capitol Hill, Queen Anne, Pioneer Square, and Elliot Bay, this neighborhood is arguably the most bustling in the city. There is a wide array of attractions available for all interests – cultural enthusiasts can visit the Seattle Arts Museum, shoppers can explore Pacific Place, and those seeking a tourist experience can enjoy a cruise or spend time at the waterfront. Additionally, as the central transportation hub of the city, accessing the area is exceedingly convenient.

Good for: All types of travelers.
Other Highlights: Central Library, Bay Pavilion on Pier 57, Seattle Aquarium, Washington Convention and Trade Center, Columbia Center, and the Paramount Theatre.

Hotel Recommendations:

• The Paramount Hotel – Located less than 5 minutes’ walk from the Paramount Theatre and Washington State Convention Center, this hotel features luxurious guestrooms with comfortable double beds, flat-screen TV with cable and pay-per-view channels, safety deposit box, tea/coffee maker, and ensuite bathroom with complimentary toiletries. Amenities include a fitness center, business center, and restaurant, making it suitable for all types of travelers.
• Hyatt House Seattle Downtown – Located opposite the renowned Space Needle, this lavish hotel offers opulent guestrooms, state-of-the-art facilities, complimentary Wi-Fi, on-site dining, a fully-equipped fitness center, full-service bar, and convenience store. Daily complimentary breakfast and free shuttle service to nearby locations are available, making it perfect for luxury travelers.
• The Mediterranean Inn – Featuring stunningly decorated guestrooms with comfortable double beds, free Wi-Fi, tea/coffee maker, flat-screen TV with satellite channels, and ensuite bathroom with complimentary toiletries, this property offers a rooftop patio with panoramic views of the Seattle skyline, Elliot Bay, and Mount Rainier, suitable for all types of travelers.

Capitol Hill

A predominantly urban neighborhood characterized by its high population density, Capitol Hill is vibrant, fast-paced, and trendy. Days are typically spent shopping or leisurely exploring the area, while nights invite exploration of the numerous popular bars and clubs. Recognized as the epicenter of Seattle’s LGBT community, Capitol Hill is culturally diverse, harboring a multitude of art galleries and creative organizations. Once a haunt for musicians like Kurt Cobain, this area remains central to Seattle’s music scene. The Pike/Pine corridor, Broadway, and 12^th Ave E serve as prime locations for shopping, dining, and nightlife.

Good for: All types of travelers.
Other Highlights: Seattle Asian Art Museum, Lakeview Cemetery, Volunteer Park, Jimi Hendrix statue, Seattle Japanese Garden, and Madison Park.

Hotel Recommendations:

• Bacon Mansion Bed and Breakfast – Housed in a historic building established in 1909, this expansive hotel features beautifully appointed guestrooms with Venetian blinds, patio, cotton robes, flat-screen TV with cable, and ensuite bathroom with complimentary toiletries. A complimentary continental breakfast is served daily, making it great for various types of travelers, including larger groups.
• Mozart Guest House Seattle Bed and Breakfast – Located within a 5-minute walking distance from Volunteer Park, this quaint bed and breakfast provides well-furnished guestrooms with comfortable double beds, free Wi-Fi, ironing facilities, cable TV, and ensuite bathroom with complimentary toiletries. Guests can enjoy the library and a communal space with a fireplace, along with daily complimentary breakfast, making it suitable for solo travelers and couples.
• 11th Avenue Inn Bed and Breakfast – Featuring elegant, antique furnishings, the guestrooms at 11^th Avenue Inn Bed and Breakfast include comfortable double beds, hardwood floors, free Wi-Fi, and ensuite bathrooms with complimentary toiletries. A complimentary breakfast is served daily, accommodating solo travelers, couples, and small families.

University District

Named after the esteemed University of Washington, the University District, or U-district, attracts a vibrant twenty-something crowd. This neighborhood, populated by both domestic and international students, exudes a unique atmosphere, likened to a “city within a city.” University Village Shopping Center serves as the main shopping district, complete with various shops, quirky bars, and diverse eateries. If visiting in May, do not miss the U-District Street Fair, an annual celebration of the local fair and urban retailers featuring live music, food vendors, local crafts, and plenty of entertainment. While in the area, consider catching a show at the historic Sundance Cinema.

Good for: All types of travelers.
Other Highlights: Suzzallo Library, University Farmers Market (Saturday mornings), UW campus, Burke Museum, University Theatre, and The Henry Art Gallery.

Hotel Recommendations:

• Staypineapple at University Inn – Situated just 4 blocks from the revered University of Washington, this stylish hotel features comfortable guestrooms equipped with cozy double beds, air conditioning, free Wi-Fi, safety deposit box, ironing facilities, and ensuite bathrooms with complimentary toiletries. Additionally, the hotel includes a seasonal outdoor pool, an on-site café, parking facilities, and free shuttle service within the area, making it ideal for all types of travelers.
• Silver Cloud Hotel – Seattle University of Washington District – Located half a mile from the University of Washington, this elegant hotel features beautifully decorated guestrooms equipped with large double beds, tea/coffee makers, refrigerators, laptop safes, free Wi-Fi, and private bathrooms with complimentary toiletries. A complimentary continental breakfast is provided daily, suitable for various types of travelers.
• University Motel Suites – Offering free Wi-Fi, spacious apartment-style accommodations with fully-equipped kitchens, free parking, and laundry services, this establishment is a short drive from the University of Washington and the University Village Shopping Center. Rooms feature private dining areas, TVs with premium channels, and ensuite bathrooms, making it suitable for all types of travelers.

Belltown

The neighborhood of Belltown is known for its upscale condominiums, fashion boutiques, and a vibrant nightlife. Recognized as one of the most walkable areas in Seattle, visitors can explore much of the neighborhood without the need for transportation. 1^st Avenue serves as the primary attraction in Belltown, running parallel to the waterfront and leading into downtown, with a variety of art galleries, home improvement stores, salons, fashion shops, and an array of dining options. A visit to the historic Cinerama Theatres is recommended for those seeking a vintage experience. For nightlife, consider attending a rock concert at the Crocodile.

Good for: All types of travelers.
Other Highlights: Olympic Sculpture Park, Pier 66, Westlake Park, Moore Theatre, and Denny Park.

Hotel Recommendations:

• Belltown Inn – Located a short stroll from Olympic Sculpture Park, Belltown Inn features well-appointed guestrooms equipped with large double beds, kitchenettes, wardrobes, outdoor furniture, safety deposit boxes, flat-screen TVs with cable channels, and ensuite bathrooms with complimentary toiletries. The property includes a 24-hour reception, business center, fully-furnished rooftop terrace, and laundry facilities, making it suitable for solo travelers and couples.
• The Loyal Inn Seattle – Located a few hundred meters from the Space Needle, this hotel offers luxurious guestrooms fitted with large double beds, free Wi-Fi, flat-screen TVs, safety deposit boxes, private entrances, wardrobes, and ensuite bathrooms with complimentary toiletries. A complimentary continental breakfast is served each day, perfect for various types of travelers.
• The Westin Seattle – Situated within proximity to the 5^th Avenue Theatre and the Washington State Convention Center, this opulent hotel features fully-furnished guestrooms, a 24-hour fitness center, in-room spa facilities, self-service business center, indoor pool, and on-site dining. The monorail station is a mere 5 minutes’ walk from the property, accommodating all types of travelers.

Queen Anne

Consisting of Lower Queen Anne, East Queen Anne, West Queen Anne, and North Queen Anne, this neighborhood, along with the Seattle Center, represents a blend of affluent residential and industrial areas. Home to the Monorail and the iconic Space Needle, Queen Anne is one of the city’s most developed districts. Positioned atop a steep hill, it is also home to Seattle Pacific University. Queen Anne hosts numerous significant celebrations, including the Bumbershoot Festival, the Seattle Storm, and the Bite of Seattle. Additionally, various bars and restaurants, including karaoke and sports-themed establishments, can be found here. A viewing of the Seattle Skyline from Kerry Park is a must-do while visiting.

Good for: All types of travelers, particularly the young.
Other Highlights: Pacific Science Center, Science Fiction Museum, The Children’s Museum, Seattle, Kinnear Park, and Discovery Park.

Hotel Recommendations:

• MarQueen Hotel – Located in the heart of Queen Anne district, this historic hotel features elegant rooms with large double beds, tea/coffee makers, minibars, kitchenettes, cable TVs, free Wi-Fi, and ensuite bathrooms with complimentary toiletries. Additional facilities include a business center, salon, bakery, on-site restaurant, and full-service spa, suited for all types of travelers, including large groups.
• Inn at Queen Anne – Featuring an English-style garden courtyard, this establishment offers perfectly designed guestrooms with comfortable beds, free Wi-Fi, kitchenettes, microwaves, ironing facilities, cable TVs, and ensuite bathrooms with complimentary toiletries and baths. Additional amenities include a business center, dry cleaning, concierge services, and laundry facilities, ideal for all types of travelers.
• Staypineapple at The Maxwell Hotel – Just a stone’s throw from the Space Needle, this stylish hotel offers comfortable guestrooms with modern amenities, vibrant interiors with original artwork, a fitness center, indoor pool, espresso stand, fully-stocked bar, and business center. Bicycle rentals are also available on-site, suitable for varied types of travelers, including larger groups.

Pike Place Market

Overlooking the beautiful Elliot Bay, Pike Place Market serves as the epicenter of Seattle’s fresh produce and stands as one of the oldest continuously operational farmers’ markets in the United States. With over 10 million annual visitors, the market area is the most visited tourist attraction in Seattle and ranks 33^rd globally. Established on the edge of a steep hill, the market is organized into various levels, each offering a unique assortment of products such as specialty foods, antiques, comic collections, collectibles, and family-run restaurants. Local farmers and artisans showcase their products year-round, allowing visitors the opportunity to “Meet the Producer.”

Good for: All types of travelers.
Other Highlights: Waterfront Park, Seattle Aquarium, Benaroya Hall, Seattle Art Museum, Pier 62 and 63, and Seattle Great Wheel.

Hotel Recommendations:

• Thompson Seattle – Boasting spectacular views of the city and surrounding waters, this hotel features lavish guestrooms with large double beds, flat-screen TVs with pay-per-view channels, safety deposit boxes, telephones, iPod docks, and ensuite bathrooms with complimentary toiletries. Free Wi-Fi and an on-site bar are also available, making it ideal for all types of travelers.
• Kimpton Palladian Hotel – Just a short stroll from Pike Place Market, this upscale hotel offers guestrooms with modern amenities such as air-conditioning, flat-screen TVs with pay-per-view channels, telephones, safety deposit boxes, wardrobes, and ensuite bathrooms featuring complimentary Bigelow bath products. Guests can take advantage of the daily evening wine hour and on-site dining, suitable for luxury travelers.
• Pike Place Apartel – Located a few hundred meters from Pike Place Market, this establishment offers fully-furnished apartments with double beds and futons, fully-equipped kitchens, cleaning supplies, dining areas, seating areas, refrigerators, tea/coffee makers, TVs, and ensuite bathrooms with complimentary toiletries. Free Wi-Fi is accessible throughout the property, ideal for all types of travelers.

Central Business District

A sub-neighborhood of Downtown Seattle, the Central Business District is surrounded by hills, Elliot Bay, and reclaimed lands. While relatively compact compared to other business districts in the country, Seattle’s central business district houses numerous local attractions, luxurious hotels, fine-dining establishments, and ample green spaces. The area is also a departure point for cruises exploring the expansive waterfront of Seattle and nearby Blake Island. Several fashion brands, such as H&M, Forever 21, Nike, and North Face, have retail outlets in the district. For stunning city views, visit the Sky View Observatory at Columbia Center.

Good for: All types of travelers.
Other Highlights: St James Cathedral, Seattle Public Library, Freeway Park, Paramount Theatre, Washington State Convention Center, and Pier 55.

Hotel Recommendations:

• Hyatt at Olive 8 – A high-end hotel situated near the Space Needle, Pike Place Market, and the University of Washington, Hyatt at Olive 8 presents well-appointed guestrooms, an indoor pool with impressive city views, a sauna, fitness center, free Wi-Fi, on-site restaurant, and 24-hour reception. Suitable for all types of travelers.
• Grand Hyatt Seattle – With modern guestrooms equipped with the latest amenities, this hotel features a fully-equipped fitness center, business center, on-site steakhouse, multiple dining options, a fully-stocked bar, a health club with spa, whirlpool, sauna, and steam room, along with conference facilities. Located just a 10-minute drive from the Space Needle, it serves all types of travelers.
• Hotel Theodore – Located in the heart of the Central Business District, this hotel offers well-appointed guestrooms and suites with large double beds, air-conditioning, free Wi-Fi, safety deposit boxes, flat-screen TVs with satellite channels, minibars, tea/coffee makers, and ensuite bathrooms with complimentary toiletries. Guests can also enjoy the on-site fitness center, restaurant, coffee bar, and in-room spa services. Suitable for all types of travelers.

South Lake Union

Once a significant industrial center, the neighborhood of South Lake Union has evolved into a trendy urban locale. With new businesses constantly emerging, transportation and infrastructure undergoing significant enhancements, and thriving restaurant and bar scenes developing, it has become a desirable destination for both tourists and locals. Home to Amazon.com’s new headquarters, as well as various other tech firms such as Microsoft and UQ Medicine, South Lake Union features Lake Union Park, which is perfect for learning about the neighborhood’s history and culture. Visitors can also learn to sail a dragon boat or pursue their own carving activities.

Good for: All types of travelers.
Other Highlights: Denny Park, Space Needle, Museum of Pop Culture, Museum of History and Industry, and Pacific Science Center.

Hotel Recommendations:

• Best Western Executive Inn – Within walking distance of Seattle’s main attractions such as the Space Needle, Puget Sound Waterfront, and Pike Place Market, Best Western Executive Inn offers well-appointed guestrooms equipped with modern conveniences, free Wi-Fi, a 24-hour gym, on-site bar and restaurant, and optional breakfast services, ideal for all types of travelers.
• Silver Cloud Inn – Seattle Lake Union – Offering spacious, beautifully-designed guestrooms featuring large double beds, air-conditioning, flat-screen TVs with pay-per-view channels, tea/coffee makers, refrigerators, seating areas, microwaves, and ensuite bathrooms with complimentary toiletries, this hotel serves complimentary breakfast daily and meets the needs of solo travelers, couples, and small families.
• Courtyard Seattle Downtown/Lake Union – With breathtaking views of Lake Union, this lavish hotel features luxurious guestrooms with large double beds, air-conditioning, free Wi-Fi, cable TV, seating areas, work desks, tea/coffee makers, and private bathrooms. Guests can also enjoy the indoor pool, gym, and whirlpool, making it suitable for all types of travelers.