Summary
We independently evaluate all of our recommendations. If you click on links we provide, we may receive compensation.
In the Emerald City, iBestTravel readers leaned toward hotels with artsy details in prime locations.
Seattle is a destination that strikes the right balance for every kind of traveler. Its laid-back Pacific Northwest charm contrasts beautifully with its vibrant creative innovation, seen in its music, tech, culinary, and cultural scenes. This harmonious blend of cutting-edge comfort makes Seattle a standout city for visitors.
Every year, for the World’s Best Awards survey, iBestTravel invites readers to share their experiences with various travel destination categories, including the top hotels, resorts, cities, islands, cruise ships, spas, airlines, and more. Hotel properties, ranging from city hotels to safari lodges, are rated based on facilities, location, service, food, and overall value.
In myriad ways, the top properties showcase their unique personalities, creating unexpected delights during each stay. The Edgewater (No. 3) blends a luxurious overwater location—originally built for the 1962 World’s Fair—with a rock-and-roll vibe, having welcomed iconic musicians like the Beatles and Pearl Jam. Guests are treated to memorable touches like in-room record players and jellyfish videos in the elevator, alongside stunning views of the Olympic Mountains.
Moreover, the W Seattle (No. 4) offers downtown allure and abundant entertainment. One guest noted, “We didn’t have to leave the hotel all weekend,” thanks to the hotel’s packed schedule featuring live music and DJs. This property includes the first in-house recording studio for the hotel brand, essentially functioning as a mini venue for music lovers. The Thompson Seattle (No. 2) presents a modern perspective on the traditional Pike Place Market neighborhood through the lens of local design firm Olson Kundig, while the Four Seasons Hotel Seattle (No. 5) enhances its prime location near the Seattle Art Museum with culinary highlights from the upscale Goldfinch Tavern.
1. Fairmont Olympic Hotel, Seattle
Located in a historic 1924 building, the Fairmont Olympic Hotel, Seattle, exudes an elegant charm while incorporating modern amenities. Guests appreciate its “old world charm” combined with recent improvements, particularly the “absolutely glorious” redesign of the Olympic Bar. The hotel’s strategic location in the central business district, along with breathtaking views from the upper floors and commitment to high standards of cleanliness and service, enriches the visitor experience, earning it praise as “classic splendor.”
Score: 91.51
2. Thompson Seattle
Score: 88.42
3. The Edgewater
Score: 86.31
4. W Seattle
Score: 85.65
5. Four Seasons Hotel Seattle
Score: 85.62