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The Best Cheap Hotels to Book in Seattle, Washington

The citizenM is known for its bold style
The citizenM is known for its bold style | Courtesy of citizenM Seattle South Lake Union / Expedia

Seattle, known as Emerald City because it’s so green, is home to some of the biggest corporations in the world – think Amazon, Microsoft and Starbucks. However, there’s no need to spend a lot of green on your stay here, with unique budget-friendly accommodation all over the city. Many of the more affordable hotels toss in extra perks that will help you justify that splurge for dinner atop the Space Needle. Here’s our pick of the best cheap hotels in Seattle, bookable on Culture Trip.

Courtyard by Marriott Seattle Downtown/Pioneer Square, for a fantastic location

Hotel

A hip guest room with a pixelated mural and city views at the Courtyard by Marriott Seattle Downtown/Pioneer Square
Courtesy of Courtyard by Marriott Seattle Downtown/Pioneer Square / Expedia

With views over Elliott Bay in one direction and the glowing high-rises of downtown in the other, this cheap hotel in Seattle proves that a small budget doesn’t mean having to compromise on location – or luxury, for that matter. It sits in the historic Alaska Building, constructed in the 1900s, and the hotel retains that early-20th-century feel in its stylish lobby and charming bar. Rooms are in the form of suites with kitchenettes and bay or city views, and there’s an indoor pool and gym for those who want to keep on top of their fitness schedule.

Residence Inn by Marriott Seattle Downtown/Lake Union, for a home away from home

Hotel

The sprawling lobby with many sitting areas at the Residence Inn by Marriott Seattle Downtown/Lake Union
Courtesy of Residence Inn by Marriott Seattle Downtown/Lake Union / Expedia

With the on-site spa, game room and rooftop patio overlooking Lake Union, cheap hotels in Seattle don’t get more convenient than this. Business travelers will love the location near the Amazon headquarters and Washington State Convention Center, while leisure travelers can stroll down bar-and-restaurant-lined streets to the foodie delights of Pike Place Market in 15 minutes. Alternatively, perhaps stay in and enjoy a craft beer in the True North Taproom. Also, each suite has a living area and kitchenette for a bit of independence.

Courtyard by Marriott Seattle Downtown/Lake Union, for its proximity to the Space Needle

Hotel

The warm lobby with plenty of seating and a fireplace at the Courtyard by Marriott Seattle Downtown/Lake Union
Courtesy of Courtyard by Marriott Seattle Downtown/Lake Union / Expedia

On the shore of Lake Union, this plush hotel sits in the shadow of the iconic Space Needle. Enjoy a Starbucks in the city where it was born at the Bistro, where you can also grab a meal. Plush lounges with wall-length fireplaces are the ideal remote-working spots, and each room has an ergonomic desk. If you’re looking for a stylish hotel in Seattle for your next work-away vacation, this is the one for you.

The Maxwell Hotel, for a little color

Boutique Hotel, Hotel

Two double beds in the Maxwell Hotel with graphic wallpaper and a desk
Courtesy of The Maxwell Hotel / Expedia

Gray days are more fun with the pops of color all over this small hotel on the Queen Anne Hill side of Seattle Center, from red bed skirts and cheery yellow coffee mugs in the guest rooms to the rainbow hues in the lobby and pint-size pool. Light snacks and beverages are available at the hotel, or grab groceries nearby and have a picnic.

Belltown Inn, for its proximity to Seattle Center

Budget Hotel, Inn, Hotel

A spacious terrace with plush seating and city views at the Belltown Inn
Courtesy of Belltown Inn / Expedia

For a friendly place to stay in one of the scruffier but still safe areas in downtown Seattle, the Belltown Inn is a good bet. Every room has a kitchenette, and you can do your own laundry. Also, you’ll be within walking distance of Seattle Center, which has plenty of free sights in addition to its marquee attractions. Free bikes with helmets and locks are another good perk.

Hotel Five, for thoughtful touches

Boutique Hotel

Bold red wallpaper and artworks in double bedroom at Hotel Five
Courtesy of Hotel Five / Expedia

Sleep with Me toss pillows on the bed and Afternoon Delights (fresh coffee, cookies and pineapple-infused water in the lobby) hint at the playful atmosphere of this little Belltown motel beneath the monorail. Bathrobes and thick towels are among the unexpected upscale touches in the guest rooms. Neighborhood attractions include the Spheres and Dimitriou’s Jazz Alley, a classic supper club.

The Paramount Hotel, for big-name shows

Hotel

The living room-like lobby at the Paramount Hotel
Courtesy of The Paramount Hotel / Expedia

The Paramount Hotel is a great bet for people with more taste than money, thanks to its inviting living room-style lobby and guest rooms that are big by downtown standards. Many Seattle hotels now charge an amenity fee for basics, such as wifi and a fitness center, but not here. As the hotel name implies, you’re a block from the Paramount Theatre, home to many major touring shows.

Hyatt House Seattle/Downtown, for a big breakfast

Hotel

A suite at the Hyatt House Seattle/Downtown with lots of windows and city views
Courtesy of Hyatt House Seattle/Downtown / Expedia

You can practically reach out and touch the Space Needle from the Hyatt House. The guest room decor is crisp with few frills, but the rooftop deck and ample breakfast are welcome additions in this price range. Seattle Center, right across the street, has attractions galore. Expect a 20-minute walk or a quick ride on the monorail to the heart of downtown.

citizenM Seattle South Lake Union, for futuristic amenities

Hotel

The eclectic bar at citizenM Seattle South Lake Union
Courtesy of citizenM Seattle South Lake Union / Expedia

The citizenM has a split personality. The exterior and big lobby pulse with color and kitsch, while the small guest rooms are sleek and futuristic, with a MoodPad that controls the lights, blackout blinds, TV and temperature. Established in 2020, the hotel is near the Amazon headquarters and top city attractions. It’s a good choice for solo travelers.

Ace Hotel Seattle, for artsy touches

Hotel, Budget Hotel

A boho-chic room with exposed brick at the Ace Hotel Seattle
Courtesy of Ace Hotel Seattle / Expedia

The first in a small chain that has grown to about 10 hotels, the Ace Hotel Seattle reimagined a former sailors’ inn near the waterfront as a boho-chic landing pad for urban wayfarers. Spare hallways open into comfortable rooms with high ceilings, exposed brick and artsy touches. Some rooms share a bath down the hall, always a good option for cost-conscious vagabonds.

For more options, discover our guide to the best hotels in Seattle. Looking for something a little more special? Discover our guide to the best boutique hotels in Seattle, or go for a dip with these hotels with pools. Book now on Culture Trip.

Suzy Pope contributed additional reporting to this article.

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