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The Hotel 38: A Guide to Essential Seattle-Area Hotels

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What better way to kick Hotels Week 2013 into high gear than with the Hotel 38, your answer and ours to any question that begins, "What are the best hotels in the Seattle area?" This group covers Seattle, Bellevue, Tacoma and plenty of places in between. It spans luxury hotels as well as boutique inns and collectively satisfies all of your hotel needs. In the future, we'll change it up based on user recommendations, openings, closures, reports of bed bugs and whatever else shows up.

Is your favorite hotel not on the list? Feel free to nominate it for inclusion in the comments or hit up the tipline.

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Ace Hotel Seattle

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Located in the heart of Belltown, this 28-room hotel puts you at walking distance for just about every downtown Seattle tourist attraction you want. Once a Salvation Army halfway house, this historic building has been completely remade into an eco-friendly boutique hotel full of sustainable elements such as re-purposed furniture. If you've got a Bohemian image to keep up but want the luxuries and location of an upscale hotel, the Ace is a solid bet.

The Alexis Hotel

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Every single one of the Alexis Seattle's 121 rooms are different thanks to the countours of this century-old building. Before you step outside to see the sights of Seattle, take a moment to savor the ever-rotating art exhibit in the lobby. The hotel offers various specailty rooms, including the Canlis Glass Suite, which isn't full of meals from legendary Canlis Restaurant but includes hand-blown glass pieces and photos of artist Jean-Pierre Canlis.

Hotel Bellevue

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Guests looking for a hotel that epitomizes contemporary Northwest style will find it here at this "urban retreat at Bellevue Club. The "club" in question is a state-of-the-art health club connected to the hotel. Of course there are three restaurants and a lounge (not to mention a full-service spa) if you're looking for some fun, too.

Cedarbrook Lodge

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Just a five-minute drive from Sea-Tac, you'd never know Cedarbrook Lodge was so close to an airport if you didn't make the drive yourself. The quintessentially Northwest resort is nestled in a woodsy, garden setting that even includes wetland area. Known primarily as a buisness traveler hotspot, it's a cheap alternative to downtown rates (you better have a car, though).

City Hostel

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A European slum spot, this is not. City Hostel fancies itself an "Art hostel" with all rooms painted by local Seattle artists, artistic showcases and even includes a 20-seat theatre to show indie filmmaker works. There's a reason they were named Best Hostel in U.S.A. 2012 by the "Hoscars." Book early, they sell out quick and often.

The Arctic Club

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Located in the Financial District, this luxury spot comes with a curious history. Built in 1917 as an exclusive men's club, it features an Art Deco travel theme in its decor. These days, everyone is welcome, though it's gonna cost them. It's among Seattle's most expensive stays.

The Edgewater Hotel

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The Beatles, Led Zeppelin, Pearl Jam, The Rolling Stones, you. That's some impressive company and it's the kind of company you'll be joining if you stay here. Historically-speaking, this is Seattle's "rock and roll" hotel and a who's who of legends have walked these halls and slept in these beds. See if you can get the water-facing suite the Beatles fished out.

Fairmont Olympic Hotel

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Originally built in 1924, the Fairmont Olympic Hotel resembles an old Italian Renaissance palace and is considered by many to be the most impressive of Seattle's historic hotels. Between the restaurants and connected shopping arcade, it's the closest you'll get to feeling like you're in Vegas. And like Vegas, you'll spend a lot of money to do so.

Four Seasons Seattle

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Located adjacent to Pike Place Market and across the street from the Seattle Art Museum, you'd be hard-pressed to find a more tourist-friendly location in Seattle. Not only will it be easy to get around town from here, but the views of Puget Sound and the Olympic Mountains from their infinity pool will be hard to top.

Gaslight Inn Seattle

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Originally a home built in 1906, this charming bungalow conversion is one of Seattle's oldest, most respected, and affordable lodging choices. A great option for the Seattle traveler who's looking for a richer experience is one of Seattle's most eclectic neighborhoods.

Grand Hyatt Seattle

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Nestled in the Pioneer Square, this one offers a bit of a trade-off. The location is fantastic but rumors are that the regular rooms are snug and the walls are thin. Ask for a larger room and, while you're at it, one facing Elliott Bay. It's worth it.

Green Tortoise Hostel Seattle

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Passing through Seattle as a tourist on the cheap or as an Alaskan fisherman looking to bed down? Find said bed among the 120 here. Some are dormitory-style but they do offer private rooms. There's also free dinners three nights a week, free breakfast in the morning and schedule tours throughout the day.

Heathman Kirkland Hotel

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Kirkland is a good 20 minutes outside of Seattle, assuming good traffic, but the perks here might just be worth the hassle. Consider the Art of Sleep Bed Menu, in-room French press coffeemakers and complimentary transportation around Kirkland in a luxury hybrid SUV as some of the bennies you're in for at what many consider the best hotel in the region outside of Seattle.

Hotel 1000

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If you consider yourself a "hip" traveler, this ultra-modern spot might be perfect for you. The lobby features a dramatically backlit staircase and futuristic fire pit while the rooms have walls of glass and bathrooms that have to be seen to be believed. One cool perk is a virtual golf room even that lets you play over 50 famous courses.

Hotel Andra

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Coming to Seattle with an intent on partying until the break-a-break-a-dawn? Hotel Andra is right on the cusp of Belltown, one of Seattle's nightlife epicenters. The contemporary lodging might be described as "urban luxury," so just because you're partying with the unwashed masses, you don't have to smell like them the next morning.

Hotel Ballard

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A recent addition to the Seattle hotel scene, it puts you right smack in the middle of one of Seattle's restaurant scenes, which now includes the hotel's own restaurant, Stoneburner. The 29-room lodging is connected to the Olympic Athletic Club, making it easy for you to work off those mouthwatering meals the next day.

Hotel Deca

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Visiting friends or family at the University of Washington? The newly-refurbished, luxury boutique hotel is right down the street and drops you right in the heart of University District. It's also a less expensive alternative to staying downtown, which is a quick bus ride or drive away.

Hotel Hotel

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City Hostel's "other" property might be overcompensating by putting the word hotel in its name twice, because in reality it's more of an "upscale hostel." There are private rooms available as well but the appeal here is that it's the only lodging option in the heart of quirky Fremont. A bar, ice cream shop and pie shop are all located downstairs...what more do you need?

Hotel Monaco

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If you're looking for an upscale hotel but don't want to leave your pet at home, this is your ideal spot. And if you don't have a pet, they'll even bring a goldfish to your room to hang out. Among the non-pet-related offers this boutique hotel can charm up is a nightly wine reception in the lobby.

Hotel Murano

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Spending some time in Tacoma? Your best bet might be this one, a boutique lodging in the heart of the city and close to all of the artistic and museum offerings therein. Inside the hotel, you'll be treated to a barrage of glass art as well as a restaurant (Bite) with a fantastic view.

Hyatt at Olive 8

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Sleek, modern and environmental responsibility, the building also happens to be one of the top condo towers around and puts you footsteps from all of downtown Seattle's tourist spots. Enjoy eco-friendly dining and the acclaimed Elaia spa.

Inn at Langley

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An hour north of Seattle is Whidbey Island and nestled in one of its corners is the Inn at Langley, a 26-room, waterfront escape. The tiny town of Langley offers a quaint locale to walk around but the real appeal here is the Inn itself, with breathtaking views of Saratoga Passage and whirlpool baths facing them.

Inn at the Market

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Between the Elliott Bay views, European atmosphere, and proximity to so many romantic & historic restaurants, you'll find one of Seattle's most romantic hotel setting here. It's not just what's going on around it, the ivy courtyard and quaint rooftop deck add to the experience.

Inn @ the WAC

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The Inn at the Washington Athletic Club offers a luxury boutique hotel experience within the opulence of a private club right in the heart of downtown Seattle. The WAC is no slouch either. It's been named the best athletic club in Washington has won six consecutive 5 Star Platinum Club of America awards.

Pan Pacific Hotel

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Truth be told, if you're going to stay downtown, the Pac Pacific probably isn't the best locale around. It's a little bit out of the way. However, if you do choose it, know you're going to bathed is warm colors (blond woods, tan marbles, cinnamon accents) that make you feel right at home even if you're not.

Salish Lodge

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Twin Peaks fans will walk & speak backwards all the way to Snoqualmie Falls to stay at this resort. Even if you didn't watch the show, you'll be mesermized by the spectacular waterfalls, beautiful surroundings and authentic feel of the lodge and grounds. You're not that far away from Seattle if you want to head in, about thirty minutes.

Sorrento Hotel

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Built in 1909, it's the oldest boutique hotel in the city. It's full of charming pieces such as wrought-iron gates, a palm tree-laden courtyard, and an eight-sided Fireside Room. Make sure you take advantage of the complimentary car service because it can be a bit of a grueling walk from there to downtown and back.

The Lodge at Suncadia

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Part of a $1B project, this 254 room full-service, condominium hotel ranges from studios to penthouse suites and offers state of the art convention center facilities. Located an hour and a half outside of Seattle, it's less for tourists and more for family and corporate retreats.

The Maxwell Hotel

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Looking for a moderately-priced hotel that puts you right next door to the Space Needle? You'll be hardpressed to do better than the Maxwell Hotel. Flourished with theatrical decor, it relies heaviliy on its connection to Seattle's theater scene. Rooms even feature names such as Aria and Prima Donna.

The Paramount Hotel Seattle

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The Paramount's Pine Street location drops you right in the middle of downtown Seattle. A great option for families since you're one block from the Paramount Theater and Pacific Place shops and only a few more from some of Seattle's biggest tourist attractions. Asian food fans will appreciate the restuarant downstairs.

Vintage Park Hotel

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Wine is the theme in this smaller Kimpton hotel. Rooms are named after Washington vineyards and they host a complimentary evening wine hour downstairs every night. You might want to leave the car at home, not just because of all the booze but also due to extremely high parking rates.

W Seattle

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You know what you're getting with a W hotel. It's gonna be stylish, it's gonna be ultra-modern, and it's gonna be pricy. There are complimentary Bliss bath products in the rooms and omplimentary Acura MDX car service to take you around town. Probably for the best since parking will run you $37/night.

The Westin Seattle

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Great views are a dime a dozen in Seattle. But the Westin might actually have the best of them all. Make sure you're back for sunset at least once to witness it from the tallest hotel in the city. Since you're right in the middle of all the action, it won't be too time-consuming to go back and forth from all the sights.

Willows Lodge

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This 84-room resort in the heart of Woodinville Wine Country might take you far from Seattle but for Washington wine-lovers, it's right where you want to be. Nestled on relaxing grounds and full of amenties like outdoor jacuzzis and spas, its the kind of experience where the hotel itself becomes one of the most attractive parts of the trip.

Woodmark Hotel, Yacht Club, and Spa

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See what Bill Gates sees when he looks out the windows of his Medina mansion when you look out on Lake Washington from this Kirland resort. It's less a hotel and more a private resort, with fun amenities such as "Raid the Pantry" late-night snack privileges and Molton Brown toiletries. Make sure you say hi to Woody, the hotel's pet Labradoodle. As you might imagine, dogs are welcome.

Seattle Marriott Waterfront

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Right across the street from the waterfront, you'll get plenty of amazing views here when looking south, assuming one of the giant cruise ships hasn't docked in front. It's a tourist paradise, putting you right at the footsteps of some of Seattle's main attractions. Convienence is the name of the game here.

Hotel Max

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Seattle's downtown modern hotel for those on a budget. The space is a feast for the senses with artwork by regional masters and other bold aesthetic choices. The rooms are cramped but, for the location and the price, its the kind of hotel you're staying in when you don't really care about the room.

The Inn at El Gaucho

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Described as Seattle's Luxury Urban Inn (that's so many buzzwords!),visitors are greeted by "retro-swank" doors from the 1950's and the experience inside this 17-room inn remains as indulgent the entire time. Rooms are decked out with Bose Wave sound systems and Riedel stemware, to name a few namebrands...

Ace Hotel Seattle

Located in the heart of Belltown, this 28-room hotel puts you at walking distance for just about every downtown Seattle tourist attraction you want. Once a Salvation Army halfway house, this historic building has been completely remade into an eco-friendly boutique hotel full of sustainable elements such as re-purposed furniture. If you've got a Bohemian image to keep up but want the luxuries and location of an upscale hotel, the Ace is a solid bet.

The Alexis Hotel

Every single one of the Alexis Seattle's 121 rooms are different thanks to the countours of this century-old building. Before you step outside to see the sights of Seattle, take a moment to savor the ever-rotating art exhibit in the lobby. The hotel offers various specailty rooms, including the Canlis Glass Suite, which isn't full of meals from legendary Canlis Restaurant but includes hand-blown glass pieces and photos of artist Jean-Pierre Canlis.

Hotel Bellevue

Guests looking for a hotel that epitomizes contemporary Northwest style will find it here at this "urban retreat at Bellevue Club. The "club" in question is a state-of-the-art health club connected to the hotel. Of course there are three restaurants and a lounge (not to mention a full-service spa) if you're looking for some fun, too.

Cedarbrook Lodge

Just a five-minute drive from Sea-Tac, you'd never know Cedarbrook Lodge was so close to an airport if you didn't make the drive yourself. The quintessentially Northwest resort is nestled in a woodsy, garden setting that even includes wetland area. Known primarily as a buisness traveler hotspot, it's a cheap alternative to downtown rates (you better have a car, though).

City Hostel

A European slum spot, this is not. City Hostel fancies itself an "Art hostel" with all rooms painted by local Seattle artists, artistic showcases and even includes a 20-seat theatre to show indie filmmaker works. There's a reason they were named Best Hostel in U.S.A. 2012 by the "Hoscars." Book early, they sell out quick and often.

The Arctic Club

Located in the Financial District, this luxury spot comes with a curious history. Built in 1917 as an exclusive men's club, it features an Art Deco travel theme in its decor. These days, everyone is welcome, though it's gonna cost them. It's among Seattle's most expensive stays.

The Edgewater Hotel

The Beatles, Led Zeppelin, Pearl Jam, The Rolling Stones, you. That's some impressive company and it's the kind of company you'll be joining if you stay here. Historically-speaking, this is Seattle's "rock and roll" hotel and a who's who of legends have walked these halls and slept in these beds. See if you can get the water-facing suite the Beatles fished out.

Fairmont Olympic Hotel

Originally built in 1924, the Fairmont Olympic Hotel resembles an old Italian Renaissance palace and is considered by many to be the most impressive of Seattle's historic hotels. Between the restaurants and connected shopping arcade, it's the closest you'll get to feeling like you're in Vegas. And like Vegas, you'll spend a lot of money to do so.

Four Seasons Seattle

Located adjacent to Pike Place Market and across the street from the Seattle Art Museum, you'd be hard-pressed to find a more tourist-friendly location in Seattle. Not only will it be easy to get around town from here, but the views of Puget Sound and the Olympic Mountains from their infinity pool will be hard to top.

Gaslight Inn Seattle

Originally a home built in 1906, this charming bungalow conversion is one of Seattle's oldest, most respected, and affordable lodging choices. A great option for the Seattle traveler who's looking for a richer experience is one of Seattle's most eclectic neighborhoods.

Grand Hyatt Seattle

Nestled in the Pioneer Square, this one offers a bit of a trade-off. The location is fantastic but rumors are that the regular rooms are snug and the walls are thin. Ask for a larger room and, while you're at it, one facing Elliott Bay. It's worth it.

Green Tortoise Hostel Seattle

Passing through Seattle as a tourist on the cheap or as an Alaskan fisherman looking to bed down? Find said bed among the 120 here. Some are dormitory-style but they do offer private rooms. There's also free dinners three nights a week, free breakfast in the morning and schedule tours throughout the day.

Heathman Kirkland Hotel

Kirkland is a good 20 minutes outside of Seattle, assuming good traffic, but the perks here might just be worth the hassle. Consider the Art of Sleep Bed Menu, in-room French press coffeemakers and complimentary transportation around Kirkland in a luxury hybrid SUV as some of the bennies you're in for at what many consider the best hotel in the region outside of Seattle.

Hotel 1000

If you consider yourself a "hip" traveler, this ultra-modern spot might be perfect for you. The lobby features a dramatically backlit staircase and futuristic fire pit while the rooms have walls of glass and bathrooms that have to be seen to be believed. One cool perk is a virtual golf room even that lets you play over 50 famous courses.

Hotel Andra

Coming to Seattle with an intent on partying until the break-a-break-a-dawn? Hotel Andra is right on the cusp of Belltown, one of Seattle's nightlife epicenters. The contemporary lodging might be described as "urban luxury," so just because you're partying with the unwashed masses, you don't have to smell like them the next morning.

Hotel Ballard

A recent addition to the Seattle hotel scene, it puts you right smack in the middle of one of Seattle's restaurant scenes, which now includes the hotel's own restaurant, Stoneburner. The 29-room lodging is connected to the Olympic Athletic Club, making it easy for you to work off those mouthwatering meals the next day.

Hotel Deca

Visiting friends or family at the University of Washington? The newly-refurbished, luxury boutique hotel is right down the street and drops you right in the heart of University District. It's also a less expensive alternative to staying downtown, which is a quick bus ride or drive away.

Hotel Hotel

City Hostel's "other" property might be overcompensating by putting the word hotel in its name twice, because in reality it's more of an "upscale hostel." There are private rooms available as well but the appeal here is that it's the only lodging option in the heart of quirky Fremont. A bar, ice cream shop and pie shop are all located downstairs...what more do you need?

Hotel Monaco

If you're looking for an upscale hotel but don't want to leave your pet at home, this is your ideal spot. And if you don't have a pet, they'll even bring a goldfish to your room to hang out. Among the non-pet-related offers this boutique hotel can charm up is a nightly wine reception in the lobby.

Hotel Murano

Spending some time in Tacoma? Your best bet might be this one, a boutique lodging in the heart of the city and close to all of the artistic and museum offerings therein. Inside the hotel, you'll be treated to a barrage of glass art as well as a restaurant (Bite) with a fantastic view.

Hyatt at Olive 8

Sleek, modern and environmental responsibility, the building also happens to be one of the top condo towers around and puts you footsteps from all of downtown Seattle's tourist spots. Enjoy eco-friendly dining and the acclaimed Elaia spa.

Inn at Langley

An hour north of Seattle is Whidbey Island and nestled in one of its corners is the Inn at Langley, a 26-room, waterfront escape. The tiny town of Langley offers a quaint locale to walk around but the real appeal here is the Inn itself, with breathtaking views of Saratoga Passage and whirlpool baths facing them.

Inn at the Market

Between the Elliott Bay views, European atmosphere, and proximity to so many romantic & historic restaurants, you'll find one of Seattle's most romantic hotel setting here. It's not just what's going on around it, the ivy courtyard and quaint rooftop deck add to the experience.

Inn @ the WAC

The Inn at the Washington Athletic Club offers a luxury boutique hotel experience within the opulence of a private club right in the heart of downtown Seattle. The WAC is no slouch either. It's been named the best athletic club in Washington has won six consecutive 5 Star Platinum Club of America awards.

Pan Pacific Hotel

Truth be told, if you're going to stay downtown, the Pac Pacific probably isn't the best locale around. It's a little bit out of the way. However, if you do choose it, know you're going to bathed is warm colors (blond woods, tan marbles, cinnamon accents) that make you feel right at home even if you're not.

Salish Lodge

Twin Peaks fans will walk & speak backwards all the way to Snoqualmie Falls to stay at this resort. Even if you didn't watch the show, you'll be mesermized by the spectacular waterfalls, beautiful surroundings and authentic feel of the lodge and grounds. You're not that far away from Seattle if you want to head in, about thirty minutes.

Sorrento Hotel

Built in 1909, it's the oldest boutique hotel in the city. It's full of charming pieces such as wrought-iron gates, a palm tree-laden courtyard, and an eight-sided Fireside Room. Make sure you take advantage of the complimentary car service because it can be a bit of a grueling walk from there to downtown and back.

The Lodge at Suncadia

Part of a $1B project, this 254 room full-service, condominium hotel ranges from studios to penthouse suites and offers state of the art convention center facilities. Located an hour and a half outside of Seattle, it's less for tourists and more for family and corporate retreats.

The Maxwell Hotel

Looking for a moderately-priced hotel that puts you right next door to the Space Needle? You'll be hardpressed to do better than the Maxwell Hotel. Flourished with theatrical decor, it relies heaviliy on its connection to Seattle's theater scene. Rooms even feature names such as Aria and Prima Donna.

The Paramount Hotel Seattle

The Paramount's Pine Street location drops you right in the middle of downtown Seattle. A great option for families since you're one block from the Paramount Theater and Pacific Place shops and only a few more from some of Seattle's biggest tourist attractions. Asian food fans will appreciate the restuarant downstairs.

Vintage Park Hotel

Wine is the theme in this smaller Kimpton hotel. Rooms are named after Washington vineyards and they host a complimentary evening wine hour downstairs every night. You might want to leave the car at home, not just because of all the booze but also due to extremely high parking rates.

W Seattle

You know what you're getting with a W hotel. It's gonna be stylish, it's gonna be ultra-modern, and it's gonna be pricy. There are complimentary Bliss bath products in the rooms and omplimentary Acura MDX car service to take you around town. Probably for the best since parking will run you $37/night.

The Westin Seattle

Great views are a dime a dozen in Seattle. But the Westin might actually have the best of them all. Make sure you're back for sunset at least once to witness it from the tallest hotel in the city. Since you're right in the middle of all the action, it won't be too time-consuming to go back and forth from all the sights.

Willows Lodge

This 84-room resort in the heart of Woodinville Wine Country might take you far from Seattle but for Washington wine-lovers, it's right where you want to be. Nestled on relaxing grounds and full of amenties like outdoor jacuzzis and spas, its the kind of experience where the hotel itself becomes one of the most attractive parts of the trip.

Woodmark Hotel, Yacht Club, and Spa

See what Bill Gates sees when he looks out the windows of his Medina mansion when you look out on Lake Washington from this Kirland resort. It's less a hotel and more a private resort, with fun amenities such as "Raid the Pantry" late-night snack privileges and Molton Brown toiletries. Make sure you say hi to Woody, the hotel's pet Labradoodle. As you might imagine, dogs are welcome.

Seattle Marriott Waterfront

Right across the street from the waterfront, you'll get plenty of amazing views here when looking south, assuming one of the giant cruise ships hasn't docked in front. It's a tourist paradise, putting you right at the footsteps of some of Seattle's main attractions. Convienence is the name of the game here.

Hotel Max

Seattle's downtown modern hotel for those on a budget. The space is a feast for the senses with artwork by regional masters and other bold aesthetic choices. The rooms are cramped but, for the location and the price, its the kind of hotel you're staying in when you don't really care about the room.

The Inn at El Gaucho

Described as Seattle's Luxury Urban Inn (that's so many buzzwords!),visitors are greeted by "retro-swank" doors from the 1950's and the experience inside this 17-room inn remains as indulgent the entire time. Rooms are decked out with Bose Wave sound systems and Riedel stemware, to name a few namebrands...