First-Hand Reviews of Seattle Hotels You Can Afford

01 Hotel Five – A Staypineapple Hotel - 2200 5th Ave

Who am I? Spongebob Squarepants? What kind of name for a hotel chain is Staypineapple?

Staypineapple actually owns four hotels in Seattle. The Hotel Five is located in Belltown, which is a quick walk to downtown proper, the Seattle Center, Amazon’s offices, and most importantly, the super popular Top Pot Doughnuts. It also features a hip bar in the lobby if you’d rather stay in. If you're looking for a great deal on this booking, check out Tripadvisor for some amazing deals.

I was excited to stay here due to the hotel's reputation for hipness, only to be slightly disappointed, although some of this could be excused due to the time of my stay (March 2022).

The Good:

• The absurdly comfortable bed, bathrobe, and bedding.
• Non-carpeted floors!
• Complimentary snacks
• Government rates.
• Pets are allowed (for a $25 fee)

The Bad:

• The hotel charged my credit card a higher price than the rate I had booked it at. The hotel eventually reversed the charge, though this was a pain and has never happened to me in the past.
• The room included a white noise machine that was turned on before I arrived in the room to drown out external noise, and unfortunately, it woke me up in the middle of the night. I sensed it was there due to the presence of the monorail just outside of my window. But no, it was due to the noise of loitering hooligans down below. I still think that their racket was more pleasant than the white noise machine. Did this white noise machine have a special tone meant to irritate people over 40?
• The parking fee is $42, but there’s no need to drive with a location this good.
• The small shower.

The Ugly:

• I prefer taking stairs to elevators, and that preference has only increased since the start of the pandemic. The only staircase located near my room ushered me through the laundry area and I wasn’t exactly sure if I should have gone in there.
• According to Google Maps, this hotel used to be a Ramada in 2007. Many Ramadas have completely renovated rooms since 2007 and have become pleasant places to stay, but you didn’t want to stay at a Ramada built in the 60s that hadn’t been renovated since then. In many ways, this hotel just feels like a Ramada with a new paint job, hip accouterments, and ridiculously comfortable bedding.
• Hotel Five charges a required “daily amenity fee” of $25.

02 Paramount Hotel

The Paramount is a small hotel located in the heart of Downtown Seattle – located within walking distance from many of the Top 25 Things to Do in Seattle.

This 3.5-star establishment delivers what you need it to with clean rooms, fast elevators, comfortable beds, and low prices. If you're interested in staying here during your trip, our friends at Tripadvisor. com has incredible rates right now.

The Good:

• Location – all of Seattle’s attractions are within walking distance or within easy access.
• Comfortable bedding
• Generously sized rooms.
• It’s quiet

The bad:

The Ugly:Carpeting – I look forward to when they can install laminate in these rooms.

03 Kimpton Hotel Vintage Seattle

This wine-themed four-star hotel is part of the Kimpton Group, which means you can earn IHG Rewards. Like the Paramount, it’s reasonably priced and very popular. Instead of a fancy rooftop bar, conference space, Irish pub, or overpriced coffee shop, the Hotel Vintage features Tulio Restaurant, which serves Northern Italian classics with a Seattle twist – you’re getting Steelhead instead of Branzino.

The staff is friendly, not hoity-toity, and you feel great staying there whether you’re a business traveler or a family with a pet. It feels like a nice place, but not too precious. Kimpton Hotels combines personality with a high standard of comfort and service.The Good:

• Helpful, down-to-earth customer service
• Large Rooms with all of the creature comforts
• IHG Rewards

The Bad:

• You’re on your own for Breakfast, and there’s nowhere within a five-minute walk where you can grab a quick bite to eat.

The Ugly:

• Your view – One advantage of a giant hotel like the Sheraton is the possibility of a view of Elliott Bay, Puget Sound, and Beyond on a clear day. At the Vintage, you’ll be looking at a nearby building or roof.

04 In past trips to Seattle in the last 30 years or so, I’ve also stayed at these Seattle hotels:

Green Tortoise Hostel

For those who don’t require a plush mattress or ensuite bathroom, consider the Green Tortoise. And if you don’t mind sharing a room, a bed for the night will cost you $50 or less. Booking through Tripadvisor is definitely our choice if the affordable and exciting hostel experience is what you're looking for. It’s bare bones lodging in a great location – adjacent to the world-famous Pike Place Market.

Sheraton Grand Hotel

While it lacks soul, the Sheraton Grand provides a central location, banquet space, easy comfort, and great views. When you need peace, quiet, and a comfortable bed, it’s hard to go wrong here.

Hotel Max

At first glance, you might think the Hotel Max is trying just a tad too hard with its edgy art pieces and its "too-cool-for-school" vibe. But honestly, for those of us who waited in lines around the block at Tower Records to buy tickets for Lollapalooza, it's a delightful throwback – paying homage to Seattle’s importance to pop culture.

Most rooms are on the small side (200 sq ft), but they are filled with thoughtful detail. The open-concept lobby/restaurant/bar will provide you with the necessary space if you feel too confined in your room. Luckily for you, Tripadvisor is currently offering amazing rates at Seattle's Hotel Max.

Plenty of eateries are located nearby to satisfy your appetite for breakfast, lunch, or dinner, whether you want to dine in or need something on the go. I stayed there about 10 years ago and did so very comfortably.

05 Other recommended Seattle hotels where I haven’t stayed:

For those who appreciate heritage, class, and a touch of romance, the Sorrento Hotel offers an experience unlike any other. It's more than just a place to lay your head; it’s a journey back in time, a sensory experience, and a gentle reminder of the grace and grandeur of bygone eras. The meticulous attention to detail, from the handcrafted moldings to the impeccable service, promises a stay that’s both memorable and genuinely Seattle. This is the perfect place to stay for history buffs, romantics, and anyone seeking a unique and luxurious stay in the Emerald City. The location on First Hill is slightly less convenient than other Seattle hotels.

Sorrento Hotel

The Alexis Hotel

Located in downtown Seattle, The Alexis Hotel masterfully blends luxury, local art, and Pacific Northwest charm. As an art enthusiast's haven, its curated art pieces set it apart, transforming stays into immersive cultural experiences. Its prime position near key attractions, including Pike Place Market and the Seattle Art Museum, makes exploration effortless. Guests can anticipate luxury accommodations equipped with high-end linens and thoughtful amenities. Pet lovers will appreciate the hotel's welcoming, pet-friendly stance, complete with special treats.

For wellness aficionados, The Alexis offers a premium fitness center and in-room yoga facilities. The on-site Bookstore Bar & Café combines gastronomic delights with a literary atmosphere, perfect for both foodies and bibliophiles. Committed to eco-conscious practices, the hotel boasts complimentary bikes for a green city tour and employs sustainable operations.

The Alexis isn't merely a stay; it's a uniquely Seattle experience characterized by exceptional service and a rich cultural ambiance.

Hotel Monaco

In the heart of downtown Seattle, Hotel Monaco stands out as a vibrant fusion of eclectic design and luxury. This boutique hotel boasts whimsical decor, celebrating a mix of bold patterns and colors that evoke a playful yet sophisticated atmosphere. Its central location offers guests easy access to iconic Seattle landmarks like Pike Place Market, the Seattle Art Museum, and historic Pioneer Square.

Rooms are thoughtfully designed, melding comfort with a touch of the unexpected, making each stay memorable. Recognized for its pet-friendly approach, Hotel Monaco warmly welcomes four-legged companions, ensuring they receive the same level of pampering as their human counterparts. Dining at the on-site Outlier restaurant promises a culinary journey through Pacific Northwest flavors in a chic urban setting. For those seeking relaxation, the hotel spa services provide the perfect retreat. Dedicated to eco-friendly practices, Hotel Monaco is committed to sustainable hospitality, reflecting the ethos of environmentally-conscious Seattle.

Guests can expect top-notch service with a personal touch, adding to the overall charm. In essence, Hotel Monaco is more than just a place to rest—it's a vivid Seattle experience, combining luxury with a dash of delightful quirkiness.

Hotel Monaco Luxury hotel in the heart of downtown Seattle.