6 Best Hotels in Downtown, Seattle

Comfortable, old-world charm comes with sturdy antiques, Asian accents, brass fixtures, and florals, and though the hotel's main draw is its central location, street noise isn't much of an issue thanks to the sturdy old construction of the historic 1927 building. There is also a star restaurant, Andaluca, specializing in Spanish-style small plates, as well as Oliver's, a well-known martini bar, where even locals flock for perfectly poured cocktails.

From the huge exterior mural by artist Shepard Fairey to the gorgeous graphic wallpaper inspired by nearby Pike Place Market, every inch of this hip boutique hotel is eye candy, including stylish rooms with sleek, tiled rain showers, an eclectic and welcoming lobby, and vibrant Ben Paris bar and restaurant, where neighborhood locals are as likely to hang out as tourists. Tributes to Seattle's creative side and the city's movers and shakers can be found throughout, from the featured portraits on guestroom walls to the back wall of the lobby covered in repurposed doorknobs from the building's former medical offices. The rooftop terrace with views over Elliot Bay is a serious bonus to take in the scenery, hidden away from the crowds of Pike Place.

The Hilton Seattle is a popular site for meetings, conventions, and the summer cruise set, where the newly renovated rooms are tasteful but nondescript—you'll be paying for a brand name here, reliable though it may be. Some rooms have views of the city skyline with a sliver of Elliott Bay in the distance. The best views can be found at Redtrees bar and restaurant, a recently redesigned and attractive contemporary space that serves a delicious tomato-glazed Pacific salmon, as well as other classics throughout the day. An underground passage connects the Hilton with the Rainier Square shopping concourse, the 5th Avenue Theater, and the Convention Center.

Hip and art-forward, the Hotel Max (for "Maximalism") blends artsy decor with punchy minimalism for an architect-office effect, and though most of the rooms are on the small side, they come with cushy trimmings. The work of local photographers is hung in the public spaces and paintings by local artists decorate the gray walls of the guest rooms—though accent colors like an orange bedspread or a red cushion save rooms from being drab. The hotel even features a Sub Pop floor, which pays homage to the famous Seattle record label that introduced the world to bands like Nirvana and Death Cab for Cutie; those rooms feature band posters and Crosley record players with a stash of vinyl albums. The downside to the Max is that rooms in the historic building can feel cramped, especially the bathrooms, which sorely lack in counter space.

The Hyatt Regency Seattle—right next door to the future Convention Center expansion—currently holds the title of the biggest hotel in the Pacific Northwest. The Hyatt's sophisticated 45-story tower practically feels like a small city, with multiple dining options, a large cutting-edge gym, and an especially swanky Regency Club. Rooms are modern, clean, and comfortable. 

A fabulous shade of dark green coats most of the interior walls and brick surfaces at this eclectic boutique hotel in a historic building (circa 1898) just a block up from Pike Place Market. Other vintage-modern design touches are equally memorable, like bold graphic tile in the bathrooms, chintz headboards and accent pillows, and Smeg tea kettles. Treat yourself to a drink or brunch in the stylish Hart and Hunter, and if you're traveling with a four-legged family member, they're sure to be spoiled too, with treats, toys, and dog beds.