Get FREE email communications from Fodor's Travel, covering must-see travel destinations, expert trip planning advice, and travel inspiration to fuel your passion.
For travelers looking to experience a real Seattle neighborhood, Capitol Hill is a terrific option. Close to Downtown, but with a unique scene of its own, "the Hill" offers character-rich bed-and-breakfasts in old mansions and oversized Craftsmans, run with flare by thoughtful proprietors. Airbnb also has a wealth of offerings in this hip neighborhood. Though many of the Hill's residents appear to be hipsters, pierced and tattooed baristas, and intellectual dilettantes, anyone of any age or background is welcome here if you come with an open mind. Seattle's historically LGBT neighborhood is chock-full of live-music venues, true foodie establishments, and little retail gems. While the Pike–Pine Corridor and much of Broadway are alive until the wee hours, most of the neighborhood's lodging spots are set in quiet, tree-lined side streets off the main drags. Most B&Bs require multinight stays.
For a typical mid-range hotel stay on Capitol Hill, this is your only option—and it does the job. The spacious lobby is comfortable and attractive; standard guest rooms are on the small side but have nice design touches, like tall wooden headboards and faux-granite desktops. The building's location doesn't provide any notable views (rooms on lower floors can be dark), but it does put you in the heart of the Capitol Hill scene.
