5 Hip & Vibey Downtown Seattle Hotels

Need recommendations for trendy, upscale Seattle hotels? We’ve got your back with five exciting choices that capture Downtown Seattle’s hip and artful vibe. 

Want to VIP your stay at the coolest Seattle hotels? Book and plan your trip with Fora. Not only will we handle the hassle of booking your hotel — among other reservations, like tours and events — but we’ll unlock sweet perks like complimentary daily breakfast, extended check-in/outs and more at no extra cost. 

(Wondering what to do once you arrive? Check out Fora’s Seattle travel guide.)

How much does the average Seattle hotel cost per night?

It really depends. The average Seattle hotel costs around $120–$200 per night, but many factors go into this. For example, January normally sees a big drop in hotel costs…unless the Seahawks make the NFL playoffs. Point being, like any major city — and especially one as fun and gorgeous as Seattle — prices fluctuate throughout the year.

If you want to stay at the best Seattle hotels, you can generally expect to pay a bit more. This is especially true if you’re looking to stay in Downtown Seattle, arguably the coolest place to stay in the city (but don’t consider this a concrete rule).

In any case, a Fora Advisor can help you find a great Seattle hotel that matches your style and budget. All you have to do is connect with Fora.

5 of the best hotels in Seattle

Ready for the best Seattle hotels? Read on for five of our favorites, plus awesome hotel perks we can score you when you book with us.

Want to check out some sample itineraries? See our weekend guide to Seattle and our 5-day Seattle itinerary. Or connect with us to build a custom itinerary with a travel pro.

1. Fairmont Olympic Hotel, Seattle: an elegant homage to 1920s Seattle

Image courtesy of Fairmont Olympic Hotel, Seattle

Originally opened in 1924, Fairmont Olympic Hotel has maintained much of its original 1920s glamor while incorporating many contemporary design elements and amenities to remain relevant. Accommodation options range from spacious guest rooms decked out with simple yet stylish decor to large suites with more of an upscale vibe.

You’ll find this luxe hotel in the heart of Downtown Seattle’s Central Business District, which is only slightly removed from the waterfront and Pike Place Market (about 10 minutes on foot).

(Want to sample the city’s unique gastronomy? Check out our foodie’s guide to Seattle.)

Fora Perks at Fairmont Olympic Hotel:

• Hotel / resort credit.

• Breakfast daily.

• Upgrade & extended check-in/out whenever possible.
  
  

2. Lotte Hotel Seattle: a striking, high-rise-tower-slash-historic-hotel in Downtown

Image courtesy of Lotte Hotel Seattle

A striking fixture along the Seattle skyline, Lotte Hotel’s glass-and-steel high-rise springs out of a historic stone church for a design that’s as unique as it is interesting. However, the interior definitely leans in an ultra-modern direction, with a soft and natural color palette and artful decor. 

Here you can expect world-class accommodations, Pacific Northwest cuisine with a contemporary twist and top-tier amenities like a full-service spa, 24-hour fitness center and more.

Location-wise, Lotte Hotel Seattle is just a few blocks south of Fairmont Olympic in Downtown, so many of the city’s highlights are within walking distance (see the best of Seattle). But the hotel is also right next to the freeway, making it easy to access other parts of the city and beyond. 

Want to level up your stay at Lotte Hotel Seattle? Connect with Fora.

Fora Perks at Lotte Hotel:

• $100 food / beverage credit.

• Breakfast daily.

• Upgrade & extended check-in/out whenever possible.
  
  

3. Kimpton Palladian Hotel: an edgy (& quirky) boutique hotel in Seattle

Image courtesy of Kimpton Palladian Hotel

The Palladian is as eclectic and cool as the city it calls home. 

The decor is certainly unique (in the best way). A prime example: moody yet opulent corridors lined with art that inserts famous celebrities — like Robert Downey Jr., Leonardo DiCaprio and Samuel L. Jackson — into old-timey war portraits. There’s an air of grandeur and sophistication here, and yet, the hotel still feels fun and accessible. 

This quirky but classy Seattle hotel is also right in the middle of the action, with Pike Place and other fun attractions only a few minutes away on foot. (Also check out our insider’s guide to Seattle.) 

Fora Perks at The Palladian:

• $50 hotel / resort credit.

• Breakfast daily.

• Upgrade & late check-out whenever possible.
  
  

4. Palihotel Seattle: a chic indie hotel with an eclectic twist

Image courtesy of Palihotel Seattle

Palihotel Seattle brings the best of the brand’s hip and clever design to the beautiful Pacific Northwest. Self-described as “unapologetically eclectic,” the hotel has an indie vibe that feels right at home in trendy Seattle. 

Between the relaxing emerald green color scheme that permeates every room, cozy vintage furniture and boutique-style amenities, this Seattle hotel is an ideal choice for artful travelers — especially those who love the idea of being only steps away from Pike Place and the waterfront. 

Want more intel on Palihotel Seattle? Connect with Fora to plan and book your stay. 

(P.S. the brand also has a super stylish hotel in Santa Barbara.)

Fora Perks at Palihotel Seattle:

• Welcome amenity.

• Upgrade & extended check-in/out whenever possible.
  
  

5. Thompson Seattle - part of Hyatt: a sleek, upscale Seattle hotel near Pike Place

Image courtesy of Thompson Seattle - part of Hyatt

Sleek and refined, Thompson Seattle features a dark, bleeding-edge façade that opens up to a surprisingly homey interior. The rooms are spacious and comfy, with delectable amenities (like rainfall showers) and ultra-posh decor — and the best options boast stunning views of Puget Sound and the city skyline.

Whereas Palihotel Seattle embraces the city's cheery and eclectic side, Thompson exhibits the best of the city’s crisp, cool vibe. The comparison feels even more apt when you realize these two Seattle hotels are right across the street from each other, less than a full block from Pike Place in Downtown.

Fora Perks at Thompson Seattle:

• $100 hotel / resort credit.

• Breakfast daily.

• Upgrade & extended check-in/out whenever possible.
  
  

Want the VIP experience at the top Seattle Hotels? Connect with Fora

Ultimately, this list only offers a snapshot of the coolest Seattle hotels in Downtown. We haven’t even touched all the great hotels in Uptown, Capitol Hill, Fremont…you get the idea. If you want the full low down on Seattle hotels, your best bet is to connect with Fora to plan and book your trip. We’ll help you pick lodging that fits your preferences and budget, and score you sweet hotel perks and VIP status along the way.

Not sure Seattle is the right setting for your next trip? Check out these hotel guides, too:

• The Best Hotels in San Francisco: 5 Unique & Exciting Choices 

• A Few of Fora’s Favorite Las Vegas Hotels: 6 Ritzy Choices 

• 5 Luxe Hotels in Downtown NYC: From The Crosby to Arlo SoHo 

• The 8 Best Hotels in San Diego, From Gaslamp to La Jolla 

• Fora’s Guide to Luxury Hotels in Vancouver, Canada: 3 Cool Choices
  
  

This article has been fact checked by Stephanie Jones, an expert on travel to Seattle, Washington.