

Everything you need to know about Elliott Bay
The Edgewater Hotel is a top choice, offering breathtaking views of Elliott Bay and the distant Mount Rainier. Located right on the waterfront, it features spacious rooms with private balconies, a luxurious spa, and direct access to the Seattle Aquarium and Space Needle via short walks or light rail. Its prime location makes it ideal for travelers seeking both urban convenience and natural beauty, blending maritime charm with modern comfort.
Take the Link Light Rail from Westlake Station, just a 15-minute ride to Downtown Seattle. Alternatively, catch Metro buses 407 and 36, which run along the waterfront and connect to major attractions like Pike Place Market and the Seattle Art Museum. For a scenic option, walk the Waterfront Trail—a 25-minute stroll past historic docks, sea gulls, and industrial heritage sites—offering a peaceful way to enjoy the city’s coastal character.
Try a half-day sightseeing cruise aboard a guided vessel that sails past the Seattle skyline, ferry terminals, and the iconic Lighthouse Point sculpture. For adventure seekers, sailing lessons are offered at the South Waterfront Marina, perfect for beginners to learn navigation under expert guidance. At night, book a stargazing cruise—a serene experience gliding through the illuminated harbor while viewing the stars above the Elliott Bay waters, creating a truly romantic and memorable maritime encounter.
The Seattle Aquarium, located right on Elliott Bay, offers interactive exhibits, marine shows, and a dedicated kids’ exploration zone—perfect for families. Nearby, the Washington State University Botanical Garden features expansive gardens, walking trails, and picnic areas ideal for children. For outdoor fun, head to Polk Park, with playgrounds, open lawns, and views of ferry traffic. All are accessible via the waterfront trail, making them easy to reach by foot or bike—ideal for a relaxed, engaging day out with the whole family.
The Edgewater Hotel is a top choice for waterfront stays near Elliot Bay, offering panoramic views of Puget Sound from its guest rooms. This historic boutique hotel features Nordic-inspired architecture, an outdoor deck overlooking the marina, and direct access to scenic waterfront paths leading to Space Needle and Pike Place Market. Guests enjoy sunrise views over the water and evening vistas of city lights and passing ferries.
Conveniently located just a 5-minute walk from the Link Light Rail station, it provides easy access to downtown Seattle and Seattle-Tacoma International Airport. The on-site Harbor Restaurant serves fresh local seafood and Pacific Northwest specialties, making it ideal for travelers seeking both comfort and authentic Seattle charm. Whether for business or leisure, this hotel delivers a perfect blend of natural beauty, urban convenience, and iconic waterfront ambiance.
From hotels near Elliot Bay, you can walk approximately 15 minutes along the scenic waterfront path to the Space Needle, passing by the Seattle Aquarium and Pier 57 with stunning harbor views. For a faster option, take the Link Light Rail from the nearby station to Westlake Station, then transfer to the Seattle Center Monorail—a 2-minute ride directly to the Space Needle. Alternatively, catch a Metro Bus (routes 40, 44, or 49) that runs frequently through the area, with a journey time of about 15 minutes.
Using apps like Google Maps or the Seattle Transit App ensures real-time updates on schedules and traffic. Whether walking, riding public transit, or taking a short taxi ride, getting to the Space Needle is convenient and offers a great opportunity to experience Seattle’s efficient transit system and vibrant urban landscape.
Must-try experiences at Elliot Bay include a Puget Sound boat tour offering breathtaking views of Seattle’s skyline and distant Mount Rainier; visiting the Seattle Aquarium to explore marine life, especially the octopus and whale exhibits; watching the sunset from the Elliot Bay Pier, where city lights and reflections create a magical scene; joining daily birdwatching walks to discover local wildlife; and relaxing at a waterfront café with artisan coffee and locally baked treats.
Additionally, weekend floating markets feature local artists, craftspeople, and food vendors, showcasing Seattle’s vibrant creative culture and community spirit. These activities seamlessly blend nature, history, and urban life, providing a rich, immersive way to experience the unique character of Seattle.
The Edgewater Hotel is an excellent family-friendly option near Elliot Bay, offering spacious family suites with child-safe cribs, kid-sized bathrobes, and complimentary family activity kits. The hotel features an indoor play area and hosts regular kids’ programs, including guided dolphin-watching excursions and interactive aquarium workshops.
They also organize monthly family stargazing nights on the pier, complete with astronomy talks and telescope viewing—perfect for sparking curiosity. Located just a 10-minute walk from Pike Place Market and the Seattle Children’s Museum, it’s ideal for exploring with kids. With free baby stroller rentals, children’s menus, and accessible public transit options, the hotel ensures a seamless, stress-free stay for families seeking fun, safety, and educational adventures in Seattle.
See what other travelers say about Elliott Bay

Staying at this century-old hotel was an absolute delight. From the moment I walked in, I was greeted by timeless elegance and a warm, inviting atmosphere. The interior is impeccably maintained—every detail feels cared for, with no signs of wear despite its rich history. The service truly stood out; the doorman personally carried my luggage all the way to my room, making the arrival seamless and stress-free. The room itself is spacious and beautifully designed, offering plenty of room to move around. The bed was incredibly comfortable—perfect for a good night’s sleep after a long day exploring Seattle. It’s clear that attention to detail and guest comfort are top priorities here. If you’re looking for a memorable stay in the city, this hotel delivers on every level. Highly recommended.

The hotel is perfectly located—just a short walk to downtown Seattle and minutes away from public transit, making it super convenient for exploring the city. The room was spacious with a smart layout, and the bed was incredibly comfortable, ensuring a great night’s sleep. The bathroom features a well-designed separation between wet and dry areas, which is such a practical touch. The atmosphere is peaceful, and the staff are friendly and helpful. Overall, this place offers excellent value for money—highly recommend for anyone visiting Seattle.

Staying at Staypineapple Hotel Five in downtown Seattle was a fantastic experience. Despite its compact size, the hotel’s location is unbeatable—walking distance to the Space Needle and other top attractions makes exploring the city effortless. From the moment I stepped in, the atmosphere felt welcoming and comfortable. The pineapple-themed design elements and modern interior decor added a fun, vibrant touch that made the space feel joyful and unique. I also appreciated the nearby large parking lot, which offered significantly lower rates than the hotel’s own garage—great for travelers driving their own cars. Overall, it’s a well-designed, convenient, and stylish stay with excellent value, and I’d definitely recommend it to anyone visiting Seattle.

Staying at the Courtyard Seattle Downtown/Pioneer Square was an absolute pleasure! We arrived earlier than check-in time, but the front desk team happily accommodated us with early check-in—no hassle at all. The checkout process was just as smooth and efficient. Our room was spotless, well-maintained, and comfortably furnished. The location couldn’t be better—right in the heart of downtown, steps away from Pioneer Square, shopping, dining, and major attractions. Walking to the waterfront or public transit was a breeze. This hotel offers excellent value for the quality and convenience. I’d definitely stay here again and highly recommend it to any traveler visiting Seattle.

I stayed at Staypineapple-Watertown Hotel in the University District, Seattle, and was thoroughly impressed. The room was clean, modern, and thoughtfully designed—minimalist but functional with a cozy, inviting atmosphere. The bed was incredibly comfortable, making for a restful night's sleep. While basic toiletries like toothbrushes and toothpaste weren’t provided (which I actually appreciate for hygiene and sustainability), the room came equipped with a mini-fridge, microwave, and coffee maker—perfect for grabbing a quick snack or brewing a morning brew. What really stood out was the location: just a short walk to the University of Washington campus, and within easy reach of local restaurants, cafes, and shopping spots. Public transit is convenient too—getting around the city is a breeze. It’s a great choice for students, solo travelers, or anyone looking for a no-frills yet stylish stay in a vibrant neighborhood. Highly recommend!

Absolutely perfect stay from start to finish! The staff went above and beyond—friendly, professional, and always ready to help. My room was stylish, clean, and incredibly comfortable with a great bed that made for a restful night’s sleep. The location is fantastic, just steps away from downtown Seattle’s best spots. Breakfast was delicious and varied—fresh pastries, local coffee, and healthy options. I loved the unique vibe of the hotel; it feels like a cool hangout spot rather than just a place to sleep. Every detail was thoughtfully done. Would book again in a heartbeat and highly recommend to anyone visiting Seattle.

I chose to stay near the University of Washington because I’d heard the downtown area isn’t the safest, and honestly, this was one of my best decisions. The College Inn Hotel feels just like a college dorm from an American TV show—clean, cozy, and full of charm. The European-style decor adds a nice touch, and it’s super convenient for exploring campus and nearby spots. The only thing to note is that our luggage was quite bulky, and without an elevator, carrying it up the stairs was a bit of a challenge—definitely need some stamina! But overall, the experience was fantastic. Great value, excellent location, and a really welcoming vibe. I’d definitely book here again.

Staying at this hotel was an absolute delight. The location is unbeatable—just a short walk to the Space Needle, Seattle Center, and other major attractions. You can easily explore the city on foot without needing to rely on transportation. While the hotel isn’t brand new, it’s been well-maintained with a clean, inviting atmosphere and a unique, stylish vibe that gives it character. The staff were incredibly friendly and helpful throughout our stay—always smiling, ready to assist, and making us feel welcome. It’s clear they take pride in their guest experience. Comfortable rooms, thoughtful touches, and a central spot in one of Seattle’s most vibrant areas make this a top choice. I’d definitely return and recommend it to anyone visiting Seattle who wants convenience, charm, and great service.

Staying at the Four Points by Sheraton Downtown Seattle Center was an absolute delight. The location is unbeatable—just a 10- to 15-minute walk to the Space Needle, with a safe and quiet neighborhood that made evening strolls enjoyable. A large supermarket is within steps, offering everything you’d need, and within a 1-kilometer radius, I even spotted the Gates Foundation and the Discovery Center—both well-known institutions that added extra charm to the area. What truly stood out was the front desk staff: every single one, regardless of background, was friendly, professional, and genuinely helpful. When I expressed concern about potential noise from an air conditioning unit outside my window, they immediately offered to switch me to a quieter room without hesitation. That kind of service goes above and beyond. This hotel delivers comfort, convenience, and exceptional hospitality—highly recommend for any traveler visiting Seattle.

The cleanliness has definitely improved—clearly some thoughtful updates were made based on guest feedback. Breakfast was refreshed with small daily variations, so it never felt repetitive and the options were fresh and satisfying. The room amenities are well-maintained and comfortable, making for a relaxing stay. Location is unbeatable—just a short walk to the Space Needle and the Chihuly Garden and Glass, perfect for exploring downtown Seattle. Easy access to public transit and nearby attractions makes this hotel a top pick. I’d absolutely stay here again and highly recommend it to anyone visiting the city.

The staff at the front desk were incredibly welcoming and made our stay feel so warm and personal. I’d absolutely stay here again—location is perfect for exploring downtown Seattle, with everything within easy walking distance. The room was adorable, spotlessly clean, and had such a cozy, modern vibe. Every detail felt thoughtfully designed, and the cleanliness stood out. It’s rare to find such a charming hotel with such great value. If you’re visiting Seattle, this is a top pick—I’ll be back!

Staying at Hotel Max was an absolute delight! The location is incredibly convenient—just a 5-minute walk from the metro station, making it super easy to explore downtown Seattle or nearby attractions. The bed was spacious and comfortable, perfect for one person to stretch out freely without feeling cramped. The room felt clean and well-maintained, with a nice balance of modern touches and cozy comfort. Staff were friendly and helpful, adding to the overall great experience. For the price and quality, this hotel offers amazing value. I’d definitely stay here again and recommend it to anyone visiting Seattle.
Explore more amazing destinations