Intrigued about your next trip to travel to Seattle? Nestled between the majestic Cascade Mountains and the sparkling waters of Puget Sound, downtown Seattle beckons with its vibrant energy, iconic landmarks, and a coffee culture that’s practically woven into the city’s DNA.
Picture yourself strolling along the historic cobblestone streets of Pike Place Market, where the aroma of freshly brewed espresso dances in the air, and fishmongers toss salmon through the air. As you ascend the Space Needle, the cityscape unfolds beneath you—a patchwork of skyscrapers, green parks, and sailboats gliding effortlessly across Elliott Bay and Union Lake. And don’t forget the quirky Fremont Troll, waiting patiently under the Aurora Bridge to surprise unsuspecting visitors. So grab your latte and let the drizzle-kissed adventure begin!
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When Should You Travel to Seattle with kids
Summer (June to August) is the prime time to visit! Clear skies, warm days, and outdoor adventures await, but also be prepared for the crowds of everyone else who wants to benefit from the verdant, sunny Seattle.
Fall (September to October) is my personal favorite time for friends to come to Seattle. Summer lingers, crowds thin out, and hotel rates drop.
Spring (April to May) is good for bargain hunters who are okay with the rain. Hotels haven’t hiked rates yet, and cherry blossoms are in bloom. Pack layers for those Pacific breezes.
Winter (November to February) is great for those who want to brave the drizzle and chilly winds. If you’re a rain lover, this is your time. But be prepared for indoor activities—like sipping coffee in cozy cafes or exploring museums.
Great Hotels for your Trip to Seattle
Downtown Seattle, a bustling hub of the Pacific Northwest, offers a diverse array of hotels catering to every traveler’s needs. From luxurious high-rises with panoramic views of the cityscape to cozy boutique hotels that exude local charm, there’s a perfect stay waiting for you.
Luxury and Elegance
For those seeking the ultimate in comfort and service, the high-end hotels in downtown Seattle provide world-class amenities. Imagine waking up to a stunning view of the Puget Sound, followed by a gourmet breakfast at an on-site restaurant helmed by renowned chefs.
Westin – 1900 5th Ave – With spacious rooms and suites, it offers guests the comfort of signature Heavenly® beds and breathtaking views of the city skyline and Puget Sound. Whether you’re exploring Pike Place Market, attending events at the Seattle Convention Center, or catching a game at T-Mobile Park or Lumen Field, The Westin Seattle puts you right in the center of the action. Don’t miss the heated indoor pool
Four Seasons Hotel Seattle – 99 Union St – Offers a luxurious stay in the heart of the city’s downtown, with the Seattle Art Museum and Pike Place Market nearby. Guests can enjoy world-class amenities, including a spa (beautiful, up to date, many options) and an Ethan Stowell Restaurant, with rooms providing breathtaking views of Elliott Bay.
The Fairmont Olympic Seattle – 411 University Street – An iconic luxury hotel, known for its elegant Italian Renaissance-style and proximity to the waterfront and Space Needle. It features lavish guestrooms, an award-winning spa (many options, but the spa feels dated), an indoor pool and a hidden speakeasy.
Grand Hyatt Seattle – 721 Pine St – Centrally located next to the Washington State Convention & Trade Center, ideal for both business and leisure travelers. The hotel is praised for its spacious rooms, high-tech meeting spaces. While the cost per night varies, guests find the amenities, including a fitness center and bar, to be excellent.
Loews Hotel 1000 – 1000 1st Ave – A contemporary hotel very close to the Waterfront, offering sleek rooms with city and water views and high-end tech features. The hotel includes Seattle’s only virtual reality golf simulator and a high-end spa, with a rating of 4.3. Nightly rates are competitive for the luxury and convenience provided.
Boutique Charm
If you prefer a more intimate experience, the boutique hotels in the area offer unique themes and personalized service. Each room is often decorated with local art, and the staff are more than happy to share their insider tips on the best spots in the city.
Edgewater – Pier 67 – Located on Seattle’s waterfront. Offers guest rooms with views of Elliott Bay and the Olympic Mountains. The Beatles famously fished out of their windows here decades ago. It features a range of amenities including a fitness center, in-room fireplaces, and an on-site restaurant with truly stunning views. You will not get closer to the water unless you’re in it. The hotel has a rating of 4.0 and provides a unique experience of staying over the water.
Inn at the Market – The only downtown Seattle hotel located directly in the famous Pike Place Market, offering rooms with free Wi-Fi and city views. The hotel boasts a rooftop deck with sweeping views and a 5.0 rating, reflecting its excellent service and prime location. Guests can enjoy the vibrant atmosphere of Pike Place Market and the Seattle waterfront just steps away.
Kimpton Alexis – 1007 First Avenue – A boutique hotel that combines historic charm with modern sophistication, featuring an on-site spa and fitness center with a Peloton Bike. It is located near the Seattle Waterfront and Pioneer Square, with a rating of 4.3. The hotel offers a unique selection of stylish rooms and suites, catering to various tastes. Kimptons have a very pet-friendly policy, providing dog beds, food and water bowls, mats, etc. for your room.
Kimpton Hotel Monaco – 1101 4th Ave – A luxury boutique hotel near Pike Place Market and Pioneer Square, offering a restaurant, gym, and bar. It is known for its playful guestrooms and a lobby that impresses, with a 4.5 rating. The hotel is within walking distance of many city attractions and (again) provides a very pet-friendly environment.
Hotel Sorrento – 900 Madison St – An Italian Renaissance-inspired hotel that has been welcoming travelers since 1909, offering a blend of historic charm and contemporary luxury. It features elegantly designed rooms, a fitness center, and a pretty good restaurant and bar, with a 4.5 rating. The hotel is situated in Seattle’s historic First Hill.
Affordable Comfort
Budget-conscious visitors aren’t left out, as there are numerous well-appointed hotels that offer comfortable accommodations without breaking the bank. These hotels may not have the frills of their pricier counterparts, but they provide a clean, safe, and friendly environment. I found rates for each of these hotels at or under $250 per night.
Staypineapple – 2200 Fifth Avenue – A boutique hotel with a unique pineapple theme and a rating of 4.5, offering amenities like free Wi-Fi and bicycle rental. It is praised for its cleanliness, comfort, and convenient location near Pike Place Market and the Seattle Waterfront14. The hotel provides a fun and inviting atmosphere with games in the lobby and is pet-friendly.
The Moore Hotel – 1926 2nd Ave – A historical hotel with a central location, offering amenities like free Wi-Fi and baggage storage. It has a rating of 4.0 and is known for its proximity to Pike Place Market and the Seattle Waterfront.
Executive Hotel Pacific – 400 Spring St – A European style hotel featuring free Wi-Fi, an on-site restaurant, and fitness center, with plush bathrobes in contemporary rooms. It has a 3.5 rating and offers a daily wine reception on the mezzanine level. The hotel is located near the Seattle Art Museum and Pike Place Market, with self-parking available nearby.
Mediterranean Inn – 425 Queen Anne Ave N – Near the Space Needle and offers a rooftop patio with panoramic views, a fitness center, and 24-hour laundry facilities. It boasts a 4.5 rating and provides rooms with kitchenettes and flat-screen TVs.
Getting to Seattle
As your plane glides over the Puget Sound, you catch glimpses of lush green forests and the iconic Space Needle. If the cloud cover is low, you can also see Mount Rainier, an inactive volcano 2 hours from Seattle. Locals say that “Rainier is out” if the cloud cover is low and you can see the top. Then touchdown. Welcome to Seattle. Once you taxi and make it to the gate, the airport’s modern architecture and floor-to-ceiling windows greet you with natural light. It’s like stepping into a giant terrarium.
If you or your kiddos are hungry after your flight and can’t make it to town without food, here are some options:
- Beecher’s Handmade Cheese: Grilled cheese heaven. Their “World’s Best” mac and cheese lives up to the hype.
- Ivar’s: A local favorite for seafood. Try the clam chowder—it’s legendary.
- Caffe D’arte: Grab a latte or espresso. You’re in the land of coffee, after all.
- Vino Volo: local and international wines and apps to start your trip off on the right foot!
The airport has six terminals (A, B, C, D, N, and S). All terminals lead to the same baggage claim area. If you arrive at the satellite terminals (N & S), take a short underground train to the Main Terminal/Baggage Claim (except for international arrivals). Follow signs to baggage claim, located one level below the gate level.
After grabbing your bags (and maybe a coffee), follow the signs to ground transportation. Here are your options:
- Link Light Rail: After collecting your luggage, head toward the parking garage. Cross a sky bridge to reach the Link Light Rail station at the north end of the parking lot. Buy a ticket from the machines or use the Transit GO Ticket app. Consider an ORCA card if you’ll use public transit frequently during your trip. The fare for the train from SeaTac to downtown Seattle is $3.00. Take the Northgate track (not Angle Lake) when the train arrives. The sleek silver trains whisk you from SeaTac to downtown Seattle. It’s a scenic ride, passing through neighborhoods and offering glimpses of Mount Rainier. Plus, it’s budget-friendly!
- Taxis and Rideshares: Head to the 4th floor of the parking garage for cabs and Ubers. Pro tip: If you’re in a hurry, use the “Ride App Pickup” area—it’s closer.
- Shuttle Buses: The Greyliner shuttle loops through major downtown hotels. Convenient if you’re staying in the heart of the city.
- City Buses: I would avoid these if you are not familiar with big city life and ready to avoid eye contact with the indigent.
- Rental Cars: Renting a car at Seattle-Tacoma International Airport (SeaTac) is straightforward and convenient. Rental car companies operate off-site, with free shuttle services to their locations. It’s essential to reserve your rental car in advance. This ensures availability and helps you secure the best rates.
Most rental cars come with basic liability insurance but check with your own insurance provider or credit card company for additional coverage options.
SeaTac offers several reputable rental companies, including:- Alamo: Wide vehicle range from economy to SUVs.
- Avis: Luxury options alongside standard vehicles.
- Budget: Known for affordability and good service.
- Enterprise: Pick-up/drop-off services and hybrid rentals.
- Hertz: Premium vehicles and rewards for frequent renters.
- National: Emerald Club program for quick service.
- Sixt: Known for it’s extensive selection of luxury vehicles
- Thrifty: Competitive pricing on various vehicle types.
Do You Need a Car on your Trip to Seattle?
If you’re staying in downtown Seattle, you don’t need a car. The city’s walkability is impressive although hilly. Expect to work your glutes. Most of the neighborhoods on the tourist radar are easily navigable by foot. Whether you’re exploring Pike Place Market, the waterfront, or the Space Needle, walking is a great option.
Seattle’s public transportation system includes buses, light rail, and streetcars, providing affordable ways to get around. Bear in mind that the Seattle public transportation system is not like Boston’s or New York’s. Navigating requires a little knowledge of the area, your current address, your target address. But once you get those down, the Seattle public transit website provides a great option for planning out your navigation.
In downtown Seattle, the bus is free to ride. The route is called the Downtown Circulator, and is a fixed route that is free and ADA-accessible service available to everyone. No eligibility requirements, no tickets needed—just hop on and ride! This convenient shuttle loops through downtown, making it easy to explore popular spots without spending a dime.
If you plan to venture outside downtown or take day trips to places like Mount Rainier National Park, having a car becomes more necessary. Exploring neighborhoods like Ballard, Fremont, and Capitol Hill is easier with a car, although you’ll still need to find parking once you arrive. So, while downtown Seattle is carless-friendly, having wheels can enhance your flexibility when exploring the broader metro area.
What if you get sick during your trip to Seattle?
When it comes to urgent care and medical services in Seattle, both residents and tourists have several options. Let’s explore:
- ZoomCare – Conveniently located in the heart of Downtown Seattle, right off 6th Ave and Union St. Street parking is available for patients. Options for urgent care, primary care, and women’s health services.
- Operates during the following hours:
- Monday to Friday: 9 a.m. to 7 p.m
- Saturday and Sunday: 9 a.m. to 6 p.m.
- Operates during the following hours:
- UW Medicine Urgent Care Clinics: offers walk-in urgent care clinics that are open 7 days a week. Options for dealing with minor illnesses, injuries, or need COVID-19 testing.
- Operates during the following hours:
- Monday-Friday 10:00 am – 8:00 pm
- Saturday and Sunday 8:00 am – 6:00 pm
- Operates during the following hours:
- Optum–Northgate Plaza (North of Seattle) Urgent Care: walk-in clinic handles common illnesses (like strep throat and colds) and minor injuries (such as fractures and sprains).
- Operates during the following hours:
- Monday-Friday 7:30 am-7:00 pm
- Saturday and Sunday 8:00 am-5:00 pm
- Operates during the following hours:
What to do during your trip to Seattle
There are a huge number of things to do in Seattle depending on what you like to do, where you are staying and whether or not you have a car. This link will take you to a 2-3 day itinerary of the perfect long weekend in downtown Seattle. It’s geared toward a family trip, but easily works for a trip sans kids as well. Countless friends of ours have thoroughly enjoyed their trip with this itinerary. Enjoy!
Let me know what you think of your trip! I’d love to hear what you like (or not!). Sharing is caring, and the more feedback you give the better we can inform the next people who travel to Seattle. You have benefited from other’s feedback. Let’s pay it forward.
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