Where to Stay in Seattle 🇺🇸: Best Neighborhoods & Hotels

Wondering where to stay in Seattle? This vibrant city, surrounded by three national parks and boasting over 485 parks within city limits, offers a variety of neighborhoods to suit every traveler. Downtown Seattle is perfect for first-time visitors, while Capitol Hill is the coolest neighborhood for nightlife. Families will love Queen Anne, and foodies should head to Ballard. South Lake Union is best for luxury seekers, and Pioneer Square offers historic charm.

Interesting fact: Seattle, known as the Emerald City, is home to industry giants like Microsoft and Amazon, and has more than 700 bars and restaurants. Whether you want to stay near Pike Place Market or explore the heart of Seattle, there’s a perfect spot for you!

Our Pick of the Best Hotels in Seattle

• 💎 Luxury Hotel: Four Seasons Hotel Seattle
• ✨ 5-Star: Fairmont Olympic Hotel
• 🏨 4-Star: Hyatt at Olive 8
• 🛏️ 3-Star: Hampton Inn & Suites Seattle-Downtown
• 💸 Cheap: Green Tortoise Hostel Seattle
• 🏢 Apartment: Oxford Apartment by at Mine Hospitality
• 👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 For Families: Residence Inn by Marriott Seattle Downtown/Lake Union
• 🏩 For Couples: Palisade Hotel

Quick Guide to the Best Places to Stay in Seattle

• 👀 For the First Time: Downtown/Waterfront
• 👪 For Families: Queen Anne
• 🛍️ For Shopping: Downtown/Waterfront
• 🕊  For Nightlife: Belltown
• 🎭 For Culture: Capitol Hill
• 💰 For Budget Travelers: Ballard
• 🏖️ For Beach Lovers: West Seattle
• 🍃 For Nature Lovers & Adventures: Ballard

1. Downtown/Waterfront: Best for the First-Time Visitors 👀

🏙️ Vibrant Hub: Downtown Seattle is the heart of the city and the best area to stay in Seattle if you’re visiting for the first time. It is both the business district and cultural hub, featuring iconic attractions like Pike Place Market, Central Library, Seattle Art Museum, and Paramount Theatre. This densely urban area is walkable, with high-rise residential pockets offering great bars and restaurants.

🎡 Must-See Attractions: There are countless attractions in this area that you simply can’t miss:

• Pike Place Market: This historic market is a must-visit, offering fresh seafood, local produce, and unique crafts. Don’t forget to see the famous fish-throwing vendors!
• Space Needle: An iconic symbol of Seattle, the Space Needle offers breathtaking views of the city skyline and beyond. It’s a perfect spot for photos.
• Seattle Aquarium: Located on the waterfront, the aquarium is home to a variety of marine life and interactive exhibits. It’s great for families and marine enthusiasts.
• Museum of Pop Culture: This museum, designed by Frank Gehry, celebrates contemporary popular culture with exhibits on music, science fiction, and more.
• Seattle Art Museum: Known for its diverse collection, the museum features everything from Native American art to contemporary pieces.

🍽️ Shopping & Dining: Downtown Seattle is a food lover’s paradise with a variety of dining options:

• Matt’s in the Market: Located in Pike Place Market, this spot offers fresh, locally-sourced dishes with a view of the market.
• Cafe Campagne: A charming French bistro that’s perfect for brunch or a romantic dinner.
• Nordstrom: For shopping, Nordstrom’s flagship store is a must-visit, offering a wide range of high-end fashion and accessories.
• Pike Place Market Shops: Explore the market’s many shops for unique gifts, local crafts, and gourmet foods.

🚌 Convenient Location: Downtown Seattle boasts unparalleled convenience, offering seamless connections to key attractions and vibrant neighborhoods. Its walkable streets and comprehensive public transit options make exploring easy. With quick access to waterfront ferries and light rail stations, reaching places like Capitol Hill and Ballard is a breeze. The area’s compact layout ensures you’re never far from iconic spots and local gems.

💡 Insider Tips: To make the most of your time in Seattle, visit Pike Place Market early in the morning to avoid the crowds and get the freshest produce. For a unique experience, stay at the Waterfront area, which offers stunning views of Puget Sound and is home to the Seattle Aquarium and the Seattle Great Wheel. This lively area is perfect for those who want to be close to the action. If you’re looking to save money, consider purchasing a CityPASS, which offers discounted admission to several top attractions.

Where to Stay in Waterfront & Downtown Seattle?

⭐ Best Luxury Hotels 

• Four Seasons Hotel Seattle – One of the best hotels in Seattle, with stunning views of Elliott Bay and the Olympic Mountains. Enjoy the rooftop infinity pool, full-service spa, and fine dining at the Goldfinch Tavern.
• Fairmont Olympic Hotel – Located in the heart of Seattle, this historic hotel features elegant rooms with French-inspired furnishings, multiple award-winning dining options, and a full-service spa.
• Thompson Seattle – A modern luxury hotel with floor-to-ceiling windows offering panoramic views of Puget Sound. Enjoy the rooftop bar, contemporary design, and proximity to Pike Place Market.

🏨 Best Mid-Range Hotels

• Kimpton Hotel Monaco Seattle – This boutique hotel features vibrant decor, a nightly wine hour, and pet-friendly accommodations. It’s located near the Pioneer Square.
• Hyatt at Olive 8 – A LEED-certified hotel with eco-friendly amenities, an indoor pool, and a full-service spa. It’s conveniently located near the Washington State Convention Center.
• The Westin Seattle – Offering stunning views of the Seattle skyline and Puget Sound, this hotel features an indoor pool, fitness center, and on-site dining options.

🛏️ Best Budget Hotels

• Hampton Inn & Suites Seattle-Downtown – Located near the Space Needle, this hotel offers comfortable rooms, a complimentary breakfast, and a fitness center.
• Warwick Seattle – A budget-friendly option with spacious rooms, an indoor pool, and an on-site restaurant. It’s within walking distance to Pike Place Market and the Seattle Waterfront.
• Hotel Max Seattle – This design hotel features original paintings and photographs by Seattle artists. The contemporary rooms offer a flat-screen cable TV, Bluetooth clock radio, and local mini-bar. Guests can take advantage of the in-room fitness amenities, including streamed online workout videos, a yoga mat, resistance bands, weights, and a core ball.

2. Belltown: Perfect for Nightlife Enthusiasts 🍻

🎉 Vibrant Nightlife: Belltown is one of the coolest neighborhoods in Seattle, the heart of Seattle’s nightlife scene, offering a diverse range of bars, clubs, and live music venues. It is perfect for those who want to experience the city’s vibrant energy and party atmosphere.

🍴 Must-Try Restaurants: Belltown is also known for its eclectic dining scene, featuring a variety of cuisines and eateries:

• Rocco’s: This Italian restaurant is a local favorite, serving up delicious pasta dishes and pizzas in a cozy atmosphere.
• Umi Sake House: For a taste of Japan in Seattle, head to Umi Sake House, which offers an extensive selection of sake and Japanese small plates.
• La Fontana Siciliana: This Sicilian restaurant is a hidden gem, serving up authentic dishes like arancini and cannoli in a warm and inviting atmosphere.

La Fontana Siciliana

🚌 Convenient Location: Belltown is conveniently located near many of Seattle’s main attractions, including Pike Place Market, the Space Needle, and the Seattle Waterfront. The neighborhood is also well-connected to other parts of the city, making it easy to explore the city without a car.

💡 Insider Tips: For a unique nightlife experience, head to the Crocodile, a live music venue that hosts local and national acts. If you’re looking for a more low-key spot, try the Bathtub Gin & Co., a speakeasy-style bar with expertly crafted cocktails.

Where to Stay in Belltown?

⭐ Best Luxury Hotels 

• Lotte Hotel Seattle – This luxurious hotel features a unique design with stunning city views. Enjoy the fitness center, private parking, and exceptional dining at the on-site restaurant.
• Royal Sonesta Hotel The Alexis – Located in the heart of Seattle, this hotel offers beautifully decorated rooms, a full-service spa, and is within walking distance to many attractions including Pike Place Market.
• Hotel 1000 – This modern luxury hotel offers spacious rooms with city views, a rooftop terrace, and a golf simulator. It’s perfect for those seeking a high-end experience in downtown Seattle.

🏨 Best Mid-Range Hotels

• The Sound Hotel Seattle Belltown, Tapestry Collection – This boutique hotel offers a fitness center, private parking, and a terrace. It’s located less than 1 km from the Space Needle and within walking distance of many attractions.
• The Roosevelt Hotel – A stylish hotel located in the heart of downtown Seattle, featuring a fitness center and concierge service. It’s just a short walk to the Pike Place Market.
• Belltown Inn – This hotel offers spacious rooms, a furnished rooftop terrace, a kitchenette. Each room provides a 32″ LCD TV. Coffee-making facilities are provided in every room.

🛏️ Best Budget Hotels

• Hotel Max Seattle – This design hotel features original paintings and photographs by Seattle artists. The contemporary rooms offer a flat-screen cable TV, Bluetooth clock radio, and local mini-bar. Guests can take advantage of the in-room fitness amenities, including streamed online workout videos, a yoga mat, resistance bands, weights, and a core ball.
• Hotel FIVE – Modern rooms at Hotel FIVE feature an iHome Bluetooth docking station and free Wi-Fi. A flat-screen cable TV is available in all brightly furnished guest rooms. A work desk and gourmet coffee machine are included, along with complimentary bottled water.

3. Capitol Hill: Perfect for LGBTQ+ Community and Culture 🌈

🌈 LGBT Friendly: Capitol Hill is the best neighborhood to stay in Seattle for those seeking a vibrant and inclusive atmosphere. Known for its LGBTQ+ friendly bars, clubs, and events, this area is a cultural hub that celebrates diversity. The neighborhood is also home to the Seattle Asian Art Museum and Volunteer Park Conservatory, adding a touch of culture to your visit.

🎸 Grunge Vibes: Capitol Hill has a rich musical history, with a grunge scene that spurred on legends like Kurt Cobain. The neighborhood still retains that edgy, artistic vibe, making it one of the coolest places to stay in Seattle. You’ll find plenty of live music venues and indie theaters that keep the spirit of the 90s alive.

🛍️ Shopping & Dining: If you like to shop, try Pike and Pine streets, which are lined with unique boutiques and trendy shops. Capitol Hill also boasts some of the best restaurants in Seattle, offering a variety of cuisines:

• Oddfellows Cafe + Bar: A cozy spot for brunch or a casual dinner, known for its farm-to-table dishes.
• Tavern Law: A speakeasy-style bar with expertly crafted cocktails and a hidden upstairs lounge.
• Elliott Bay Book Company: Not just a bookstore, but a cultural landmark with frequent author events and a charming café.

📍 Convenient Location: Capitol Hill is centrally located, making it easy to explore Seattle. It’s just a short walk or ride to downtown Seattle, the University of Washington, and the Seattle Center. The neighborhood is well-connected to public transportation, so you can easily visit other parts of Seattle without any hassle.

The University of Washington

💡 Insider Tips: For a unique experience, visit the Capitol Hill Farmers Market on Sundays to sample local produce and artisanal goods. If you’re a fan of street art, take a stroll down the side streets to discover colorful murals and hidden gems. For the best views of the Seattle skyline, head to the top of Volunteer Park’s water tower.

Where to Stay in Capitol Hill?

⭐ Best Luxury Hotels

• Sonder Solis – Featuring 4-star accommodations, this hotel offers rooms fitted with air conditioning, a fridge, a dishwasher, and a coffee machine. Certain rooms come with a balcony.
• Vintage Seattle Gem Spacious Stylish Parking – This modern vacation house is around a 10-minute walk from the Museum of Pop Culture. It features 4 bedrooms, a fully equipped kitchen with a dishwasher and an oven, a washing machine, and 2 bathrooms with a hair dryer. For added privacy, the accommodation features a private entrance.
• Modern Cozy New Townhome Heart of Capitol Hill – This air-conditioned vacation home is composed of 2 separate bedrooms, a living room, a fully equipped kitchen with a dishwasher and oven, and 2 bathrooms. For added privacy, the accommodation features a private entrance.

🏨 Best Mid-Range Hotels

• Sonder Capitol Hill – This 3-star hotel has air-conditioned rooms with private bathrooms and free WiFi. The property is close to popular attractions like Columbia Center, Seattle Great Wheel, and Seattle Aquarium. All rooms in the hotel are equipped with a coffee machine.
• Stylish Cozy Home w/ Rooftop Space Needle View – This air-conditioned vacation home features 2 bedrooms, a fully equipped kitchen with a dishwasher and an oven, a washing machine, and 2 bathrooms with a hair dryer. For added privacy, the accommodation features a private entrance.
• Capitol Hill Luxury Apartments – All units at this apartment complex come with air conditioning, a seating area, a flat-screen TV with streaming services, a kitchen, a dining area, and a private bathroom with a hair dryer, a bath, and free toiletries. A dishwasher, an oven, and a microwave are also offered, as well as a kettle.

🛏️ Best Budget Hotels

• Meleys Crimson Keep Driftmarks Suite – This budget apartment features 1 bedroom, a fully equipped kitchen with a dishwasher and an oven, a washing machine, and 1 bathroom with a hair dryer. A flat-screen TV is also featured.
• Tides of Seasmoke Suite – This affordable homestay is located close to the Seattle Asian Art Museum. Free WiFi is available throughout the property and the Space Needle is 2.1 miles away. The accommodation is non-smoking.
• Pet-Friendly Urban Haven in Historic Capitol Hill Seattle – This air-conditioned vacation home is composed of 2 separate bedrooms, a living room, a fully equipped kitchen with a dishwasher and oven, and 2 bathrooms. For added privacy, the accommodation features a private entrance.

4. Queen Anne: Suitable for Families and Those Seeking Luxury 👪

🏞️ Scenic Views: Queen Anne is one of the best neighborhoods to stay in Seattle, offering stunning views of the Seattle skyline and Puget Sound. It is perfect for families and those seeking a luxurious experience. The area is home to the iconic Seattle Center and the Space Needle, making it a top spot to stay in Seattle.

🎨 Cultural Hub: Queen Anne is rich in cultural attractions, including the Seattle Children’s Museum and the Pacific Science Center. The neighborhood also boasts beautiful parks like Kerry Park, where you can enjoy panoramic views of the city. It’s the perfect place to stay close to the heart of Seattle’s cultural scene.

🍽️ Shopping & Dining: Queen Anne offers a variety of dining options and boutique shops:

• Canlis: A fine dining restaurant known for its exquisite cuisine and stunning views of Lake Union.
• Toulouse Petit: A lively spot offering New Orleans-inspired dishes and a vibrant atmosphere.
• Queen Anne Book Company: A charming independent bookstore perfect for finding unique reads.
• Metropolitan Market: A gourmet grocery store offering high-quality local products and delicious prepared foods.

📍 Convenient Location: Queen Anne is conveniently located near downtown Seattle, making it easy to explore the city. The neighborhood is well-connected to public transportation, allowing you to visit other parts of Seattle without any hassle.

💡 Insider Tips: If you’re visiting with kids, the Seattle Children’s Museum offers interactive exhibits that are both fun and educational. For a unique experience, take a stroll through the historic Queen Anne Boulevard, lined with beautiful old homes and lush greenery.

Where to Stay in Queen Anne?

⭐ Best Luxury Hotels

• Queen Anne Retreat – This charming apartment consists of 1 bedroom, a living room, a fully equipped kitchen with a dishwasher and a coffee machine, and 1 bathroom with a bath and a hair dryer. The property has an outdoor dining area.
• MarQueen Hotel – Located in a historic 1918 building, this hotel features spacious rooms with period furnishings, a full-service spa, and an on-site restaurant. It’s just a few blocks from the Space Needle.
• The Mediterranean Inn – This hotel offers stunning views from its rooftop terrace, a fitness center, and comfortable rooms with kitchenettes. It’s within walking distance to Seattle Center and the Space Needle.

🏨 Best Mid-Range Hotels

• Comfort Suites Downtown Seattle Center – This hotel has guest rooms with coffee makers and 42-inch flat-screen TVs. While staying at the Four Points by Sheraton Downtown Seattle Center, guests can enjoy easy access to attractions including the Pacific Science Center interactive museum.
• Hampton Inn & Suites Seattle Downtown – A cozy hotel with spacious rooms, ideally located only minutes from the Pacific Science Center, the Seattle Opera House, and the Washington State Convention Center. The nearby monorail offers easy and instant access to many additional area sites. Guests can enjoy a restful night’s sleep on the hotel’s signature Cloud Nine beds. The hotel also features a free daily hot breakfast buffet along with a free in-room film channel.
• The Maxwell Hotel – This hotel offers original artwork and colorful interiors. Guests can enjoy free access to the indoor pool and the fitness room. Each guest room features wood floors, free WiFi, and a 42-inch flat-screen TV. Guest rooms are decorated in bold colors and are equipped with an iHome Bluetooth docking station. A refrigerator, microwave, and gourmet coffee maker are provided in every room.

🛏️ Best Budget Hotels

• Solo's Smuggler Suite – This cozy suite offers free WiFi throughout the property and the Space Needle is 2.7 miles away. Towels and bed linen are provided in the homestay. The accommodation offers air conditioning, heating, and a private bathroom.
• Back to The Future Sweet Suites – Offering air-conditioned rooms in the Queen Anne district, this guest house is 1.1 miles from the Space Needle. The guest house offers a flat-screen TV and a private bathroom with a hair dryer, free toiletries, and shower. The rooms are equipped with heating facilities. Guests can relax in the garden at the property.
• Harry Potter Sweet Suites – A budget-friendly guest house featuring accommodations with a garden. The property is just a 17-minute walk from the Museum of Pop Culture. Free WiFi is available throughout the property, and Pocket Beach is 1.7 miles away. All units are fitted with a private bathroom.

5. Ballard: Best Area To Stay in Seattle for Foodies 🍽️

🌊 Historic Waterfront: Ballard is a Seattle neighborhood that perfectly blends historic charm with modern amenities. Located in the northwest corner of the city, it offers stunning waterfront views of Puget Sound and the Olympic Mountains. The Ballard Locks and Fisherman’s Terminal are must-visit spots that highlight the area’s rich maritime history.

🍽️ Seafood Heaven: If you’re a seafood lover, Ballard is the best place to stay in Seattle. The neighborhood is home to some of the city’s best seafood restaurants, including Ray’s Boathouse and The Walrus and the Carpenter. These spots offer fresh, locally-sourced seafood dishes that are sure to delight your taste buds.

🛍️ Shopping & Dining: Ballard’s food scene is complemented by its vibrant shopping options:

• Ballard Farmers Market: Open year-round, this market offers fresh produce, artisanal goods, and delicious street food.
• Standard Goods: A boutique shop offering unique gifts and fashionable apparel.
• Secret Garden Books: A charming independent bookstore perfect for finding your next read.
• Beast & Cleaver: A butcher shop that transforms into a restaurant for chef’s tasting dinners.

📍 Convenient Location: Ballard is well-connected to the rest of the Seattle area, making it easy to explore the city. It’s just a short drive or bus ride to downtown Seattle and Pike Place Market. The neighborhood’s walkability and bike-friendly streets make it easy to get around and enjoy everything Ballard has to offer.

Pike Place Market

💡 Insider Tips: For a unique experience, visit the Ballard Farmers Market on Sundays to sample local produce and artisanal goods. If you’re looking for a scenic spot to relax, head to Golden Gardens Park for breathtaking views and a beach bonfire. For the best seafood, make a reservation at Ray’s Boathouse and enjoy a meal with a view of the sunset over Puget Sound.

Where to Stay Near Ballard?

⭐ Best Luxury Hotels 

• Phinney Hideaway – Providing a balcony with mountain views, this luxury apartment also offers a TV, a well-equipped kitchen with a dishwasher, an oven, and a microwave, as well as 2 bathrooms with a hot tub and a hair dryer. There’s also a seating area and a fireplace.
• Tiny House by Kabino – This vacation home offers accommodations with a patio. It includes 1 bedroom, a living room and a TV, an equipped kitchen with a dining area, and 1 bathroom with a bath or shower. The accommodation is non-smoking.
• Luxury Ballard Townhome – This luxury townhome features air conditioning, city views, and free WiFi. It’s located near Smith Cove Cruise Terminal and KeyArena, offering a comfortable and stylish stay.

🏨 Best Mid-Range Hotels

• Green Lake 1st Line Home B with Central Air Conditioners – During your time at this recently renovated villa, which dates back to 1929, you’ll have access to free Wifi. The air-conditioned villa consists of 2 bedrooms, a living room, a fully equipped kitchen with a dishwasher and a coffee machine, and 1 bathroom with a hot tub and a hair dryer. For added privacy, the accommodation has a private entrance and soundproofing. Guests can also relax in the garden or on the sun terrace.
• Mid-Century Vibes Nest – This affordable apartment comes with 1 bathroom. The accommodation is non-smoking. It’s conveniently located near Ballard’s best attractions.

FAQs About Trip To Seattle

What Are the Must-See Attractions in Seattle?

Must-see attractions in Seattle include the Space Needle, Pike Place Market, and the Seattle Art Museum. These iconic spots offer a glimpse into the city’s culture and history.

Where Should I Stay in Seattle on a Budget?

For budget-friendly options, consider staying in the University District. It offers affordable accommodations and is well-connected to downtown Seattle.

Is West Seattle a Good Place to Stay?

West Seattle is a great place to stay if you prefer a quieter, more residential area. It offers beautiful views of the city and easy access to Alki Beach.

Is South Lake Union a Good Area to Stay?

South Lake Union is one of the best areas to stay in Seattle. It’s close to downtown and offers a mix of modern amenities and waterfront activities.

Which Neighborhood Is Known as the Coolest in Seattle?

Fremont is often dubbed the “Center of the Universe” and is known for its quirky art installations, eclectic shops, and lively events.

What’s the Best Way to Get Around Seattle Without a Car?

Seattle’s public transportation, including buses, light rail, and streetcars, is efficient and easy to use. Many key areas are also walkable or bike-friendly.