Nestled right on the edge of Puget Sound and overlooking the picture-perfect Olympic Mountains, there’s a lot to love about Seattle. Not only is the setting stunning, but this dynamic Pacific Northwest city has something for everyone – rain or shine! 

Some of the most popular things to do in Seattle include checking out the famous fishmongers at Pike Place Market, taking in the panoramic views from the top of the Seattle Space Needle, and grabbing a cup of coffee at the world’s first-ever Starbucks. But that’s just the beginning! Culture enthusiasts will love perusing the Native American art at the Seattle Art Museum or learning about the history of music and film at the Museum of Pop Culture (MoPOP).

Seattle also has some truly stunning historic hotels, luxurious retreats, and artsy boutique hotels. So many, in fact, that you might have a hard time choosing the perfect one. So we’ve created a list of the 12 best hotels in Seattle to help you plan your perfect getaway!

Don’t forget to check out our web story: 12 Cool Boutique Hotels In Seattle, Washington

Where to Stay in Seattle

Most of Seattle’s best hotels are clustered downtown. Downtown Seattle is comprised of the popular Pike Place Market, historic Pioneer Square, and trendy Belltown neighborhoods. Not only will you be within walking distance to the city’s main attractions, but many of the hotels are either perched over Elliott Bay or boast stunning views of Puget Sound and the Olympic Mountains. 

If you’re in town on business or traveling to Seattle for the first time, downtown is hands down the best place to base yourself. You’ll be able to sample some of the city’s best food at Pike Place Market, go bar hopping in the vibrant Pioneer Square area, and go shopping, wining, and dining in Belltown. Plus, the entire downtown area is easily walkable. 

If you’re a music lover, you might consider basing yourself in Capitol Hill. With its cool cafes, excellent art galleries, and innovative restaurants, this is definitely one of Seattle’s hippest neighborhoods. Plus, you can head to one of the area’s music venues for a live show.

The Queen Anne district is the perfect pick if you want to be in the heart of one of Seattle’s most upscale neighborhoods. The area is brimming with luxury hotels. Plus, this is where the Space Needle and MoPOP are located. No matter where you decide to base yourself, you’ll have easy access to all of Seattle’s main attractions. 

12 Best Boutique Hotels in Seattle, Washington

1. Hotel Max

If you are a fan of art and music, then Hotel Max is the place for you! Step into the funky lobby and you’ll find an original Andy Warhol, a bass guitar signed by Nirvana’s Krist Novoselic, and a funky drum sculpture. Plus, each floor of this boutique hotel features original work by a different local photographer.

The rooms boast plush beds, spacious workstations, and modern ensuites. You’ll love the thoughtful extras including the original paintings, the pillow menus, and the vintage Tivoli radios. 

In true Seattle fashion, you can enjoy free local coffee in the lobby before hitting the town. This unique boutique hotel is conveniently located a few blocks from Pike Place Market and Capitol Hill so exploring the city’s attractions is a cinch. You can even borrow a free Shinola bike from the hotel if you feeling like cruising around on two wheels.  

The complimentary craft beer happy hour is the perfect way to unwind after a long day. And if you feel like having dinner at the hotel, the on-site steakhouse is helmed by a James Beard award-winning chef! Enjoy a stiff cocktail or a fine glass of wine with your filet mignon.

2. The Graduate Seattle

Set right in the heart of the University District, this hip boutique hotel is housed in a historic 1930s Art Deco building. This 16-floor building has been meticulously remodeled to pay homage to its historical roots. You’ll find plenty of original features throughout, including the lobby’s beautiful original Terrazzo floor. 

One of the coolest things about The Graduate Hotel is the outdoor-themed rooftop bar, Mountaineering Club. It’s the perfect place to sip sunset cocktails and take in the stunning views of Mount Rainier, Puget Sound, and downtown. They also serve upscale camping dishes like Wagyu and Dungeness crab hot dogs, decadent tinfoil casseroles, and delicious s’mores.

In the mornings you can order coffee, breakfast sandwiches, or simple grab-n-go lunches at Poindexter. Located in the lobby, this casual eatery transforms into a swanky wine bar at night in case you’re in the mood for a tipple after an action-packed day.  

The retro rooms all boast blush-colored walls, scalloped beds, and black and white tiled floors. You’ll love the extra touches including the funky wall art, ultra-comfy robes, and Malin + Goetz bath products.

3. Palihotel Seattle

Palihotel Seattle opened its doors in 2018 and quickly gained the reputation as one of the best boutique hotels in Seattle. Located on the shores of Elliott Bay, Pike Place Market and the Seattle Art Museum are just a short stroll away. 

The building made its debut as the Colonnade Hotel in 1900 and is now on the National Registry of Historic Places! Not only will you be staying in a historic landmark, but you’ll love all of the hotel’s eccentric and vintage features.

The picture-perfect rooms all boast emerald green walls, nautical artwork, and comfy beds with floral patterned headboards. The fully stocked vintage SMEG fridge, Palisociety bathroom amenities, and fresh flowers are a nice added touch. You can even choose rooms with bunk beds if you’re traveling with a friend. 

You might be surrounded by some of Seattle’s best eateries but be sure to eat at least one meal at the onsite restaurant, The Hart and The Hunter. You’ll love the 1950s diner vibes and the elevated Southern fare. Be sure to try the famous buttered biscuits! 

4. Kimpton Palladian Hotel

Kimpton Palladian Hotel is yet another historic boutique hotel near Pike Place Market. Housed in a 1910 building, you can expect to find all sorts of cool features that pay tribute to Belltown’s heritage. If you’re looking to stay at one of the coolest boutique hotels in Seattle, this is the place! 

Each of the hotel’s 97 rooms features custom beds with a built-in bookshelf in the headboard, Frette Italian linens, and quirky pop-art pillows picturing modern-day celebrities dressed as 1812 Russian generals. From old maps to vintage telephones, you’ll love all of the retro trimmings. If you’re willing to splurge, upgraded suites offer clawfoot tubs, spacious living areas, and panoramic city views.  

The staff host a complimentary wine hour each evening where you can mix and mingle with your fellow guests. Be sure to enjoy a special dinner at Shaker + Spear, which serves up seriously good farm-to-table fare. If you’re in the mood for a nightcap, the hotel’s swanky speakeasy-style Pennyroyal Bar mixes up excellent craft cocktails.

5. Inn at the Market

Inn at the Market is hands down one of the best hotels in Seattle. It’s the only hotel in town that’s actually located inside Pike Place Market! Whether this is your first trip to Seattle or your tenth, Inn at the Market won’t disappoint. 

One of the many cool things about this hotel is that three of the city’s best restaurants are just steps away. Indulge in a leisurely brunch at Bacco, dine on French fare at Café Campagne, or sample the city’s best sashimi at Sushi Kashiba.

Head up to the rooftop deck on the fifth floor where you can enjoy Pacific Northwest cheese and wine from Pike Place Market. The views of downtown Seattle and Elliott Bay are reason enough to book a night at this dreamy inn. 

The modern rooms are the perfect reprieve after a long day on the town. Get cozy on the luxury Hypnos bed with Sferra linens, take in the incredible view of Puget Sound from the floor-to-ceiling windows, and have a relaxing movie night with the flat-screen TV. Book a “Deluxe Water View” room and you’ll have access to a furnished terrace that’s perfect for sipping that evening glass of wine and watching the sun go down!

6. The Maxwell

With so many quirky amenities, The Maxwell is definitely one of the coolest hotels in Seattle. From the giant pineapple mosaic to the whimsical decor, you’ll be charmed from the moment you step foot into the colorful lobby. Be sure to snag a free cup of coffee and a mini pineapple cupcake or two! 

The rooms are chock full of practical amenities including microwaves, mini-fridges, and Keurig coffeemakers. But it’s the extras that make The Maxwell stand out from the rest. You’ll love the comfy robe and slippers, the soft “The Naked Experience” bedding, and the cute husky stuffed animals. 

Another standout feature of this boutique hotel is the indoor pool, which comes complete with pineapple and flamingo pool floats. If you want to keep up with your exercise routine, there’s also a small gym.

The Maxwell is located a 10-minute walk from the Space Needle and a 10-minute drive to most of Seattle’s main attractions. You can check out one of the hotel’s adorable bright yellow bikes if you want to cruise around town on two wheels. Or hop on the complimentary shuttle, which will take you to some of the city’s top attractions.

7. The Edgewater

As the name implies, The Edgewater is perched right over the water of Elliott Bay. With its unreal location on Pier 67 and its storied past, there’s a reason it’s regarded as the best hotel in Seattle!

The Edgewater is the perfect pick for music lovers. The Beatles, Led Zeppelin, and the Foo Fighters have all stayed at this historic hotel. Plus, the staff will loan you guitars and sheet music in case you’re feeling inspired!

Step inside this iconic hotel and you’ll immediately feel like you’ve been transported to a mountain lodge. The cozy rooms boast gas fireplaces, plush armchairs, and quirky bear stuffed animals that double as footstools. All rooms have stunning views of either the water or downtown.

The award-winning Six Seven Restaurant serves up seasonally inspired dishes from Marionberry pancakes for breakfast to Maine lobster mac and cheese for dinner. Head out to the terrace for happy hour cocktails and sweeping views of Elliott Bay!

8. Thompson Seattle

If you’re looking for a hotel right next to Pike Place Market, look no further than the Thompson Seattle. The ultra-friendly staff will greet you with a glass of sparkling wine – the perfect start to any vacation! Plus, this hotel is pet-friendly so rest assured your pooch will be spoiled by the staff.

The sophisticated rooms boast mid-century modern furniture, spacious workstations, and floor-to-ceiling windows with amazing views. The Amazon Alexa and the original artwork by local artists are nice extra touches. You’ll love luxuriating in the ensuites, which feature black and white tile and rainfall showers. 

The Thompson is surrounded by some of the city’s best restaurants, but this hotel is also home to two top-notch eateries. Located in the lobby, Conversation dishes out new American and seafood dishes including lemongrass and coconut milk infused clams and sunchoke miso black cod. 

The hotel is also home to one of the most popular rooftop bars in town. With an impressive wine list and excellent craft cocktails, this is the place to go for a sundowner. Plus, the restaurant serves up light bites and hearty mains if you want to stay for dinner.

9. Hotel 1000, LXR Hotels and Resorts

Hotel 1000, LXR Hotels and Resorts is set right in the heart of downtown Seattle, just down the street from shimmering Elliott Bay. Step into the lobby and you’ll be wowed by the impressive hanging sculpture that is made up of 250 hand-blown LED glass droplets. The welcome glass of champagne doesn’t hurt either! 

Hotel 1000 received a brand new facelift in 2017, so expect luxury around every corner. From the expansive wine cellar to the onsite spa and the sophisticated golf simulator, you’ll find plenty of entertaining amenities throughout the hotel. 

All Water Seafood & Oyster Bar relishes Seattle’s maritime history with its locally sourced boat-to-table fare. Expect creative concoctions including gourmet PNW crab rolls, shareable local cheese boards, and IPA battered halibut and chips. If you feel like imbibing, the speakeasy-style Bell Lounge offers a long list of craft cocktails and local brews. 

The sophisticated rooms boast floor-to-ceiling windows, stylish mossy green couches, industrial-chic light fixtures, and some of the softest beds in town. Whether you’re in town for business or pleasure, you’ll love all of the luxurious extras. You can take a relaxing bath in the soaking tub, get cozy in the super-soft bathrobe, and order room service if you feel like staying in!

10. Hotel Ballard

Tucked away in North Seattle, Hotel Ballard is located in the historic Ballad neighborhood and surrounded by all sorts of eclectic shops and restaurants. Depending on the season, you’ll even be able to walk to the farmers’ market where you can sample local artisanal products. Plus, Downtown Seattle is just minutes away by car.

This luxurious boutique hotel features 29 elegant rooms and all sorts of pampering amenities. Expect to be treated like royalty during your stay!

While you can choose from four different types of rooms, they all boast California king-sized beds with luxury linens and oversized tufted headboards, luxe ensuites with Molton Brown bath products, and floor-to-ceiling windows. If you’re in town for a special celebration, the suites are well worth the splurge for their Juliet balconies, fireplaces, and soaking tubs. 

While there isn’t an onsite gym, you’ll have complimentary access to the neighboring Olympia Athletic Club. Hotel Ballard also has an excellent spa where you can get a variety of relaxing and rejuvenating treatments. If you want to dine in, Stoneburner Restaurant specializes in seasonal seafood dishes, creative small plates, and authentic Italian fare.

11. Hotel Theodore

Housed in one of Seattle’s historic art deco buildings, Hotel Theodore was completely revamped in 2017. Everything about this hotel exudes luxury while tastefully paying tribute to the city’s industrial past. The attentive staff will also go above and beyond to provide your furry friends with pampering pet beds and gourmet treats at this pet-friendly hotel!

The sleek rooms are some of the most stylish in town. You’ll love the vintage Tivoli Bluetooth radios, the industrial-chic lamps, and the handcrafted writing desks. You can get cozy in the plush bathrobes, relax in the black clawfoot tub, and get a restful night’s sleep with the double pillow top beds.

Explore the property and you’ll find a lobby filled with carefully curated art, a state-of-the-art gym with Peloton bikes and Mirror interactive fitness devices, and an on-demand spa and salon. At the end of a fun-filled day in Seattle, unwind with a drink or two and the complimentary craft cocktail happy hour in the hotel lobby.

In the mornings, you can grab a cup of coffee and pastries at MADE Coffee in the lobby. And if you’re looking for a delicious dinner, Rider restaurant serves up some fresh seafood dishes and artisanal meats and cheeses.

12. Hotel Sorrento

Known as the “grand dame” of Seattle, Hotel Sorrento is widely regarded as one of the best boutique hotels in Seattle. Housed in a historic Italian-Renaissance building, every inch of this hotel just oozes Italian luxury. Expect modern amenities and top-notch service during your stay. 

Each of the 76 rooms and studios is different but all feature white Italian marble baths, luxury beds with high-end linens, and in-room Caffé Vita French press coffee service. Depending on which room you choose, you’ll love the exposed original limestone walls, spacious balconies, and living rooms with Italian leather couches and gas fireplaces.

In the summer months, you can dine alfresco at the popular onsite restaurant. Dunbar Room’s menu features contemporary Australian seafood dishes, creative pub classics, and farm-to-table fruits and veggies. Head here on Sundays and enjoy their special Jazz Brunch with live music and bottomless mimosas. 

This incredible hotel is located on First Hill. If you want to get out and explore town, Frye Art Museum and Seattle University are a short stroll away. And Pike Place is just a 7-minute drive away.

That’s it – 12 of the best Seattle hotels! Did we miss any cool boutique hotels in Seattle? Comment below so we can add them to the list!

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