Inn at the Market

Inn at the Market describes itself as Seattle's only hotel located directly inside Pike Place Market, and that is its great advantage. It sits on Pine Street, a few steps from the market's stalls and restaurants, and it has been recently refreshed through a renovation. It holds the AAA Four Diamond award and has been recognised by Travel + Leisure and Condé Nast Traveler.

The rooms are designed around the views. Depending on the room type, guests look out over the city skyline, Elliott Bay, Puget Sound and the Olympic Mountains. Room categories include Pike Place Waterview rooms, Emerald City Skyline rooms, a Signature Waterfront Studio Suite, an Elliott Bay Waterfront Suite and the Beecher's Loft. If the view matters to you, choose a water-view category when booking.

One of the best features is the guest-only rooftop view deck, which overlooks Pike Place Market, downtown Seattle and the ferries crossing Elliott Bay. It is a peaceful place to sit with a coffee in the morning before the market gets busy, or to watch the sunset in the evening. The hotel highlights three restaurants, and Sushi Kashiba is right across from the lobby, so you do not have to go far for dinner.

This is a hotel for couples and food lovers who want to be in the middle of the market, with the stalls on their doorstep each morning. It is also handy for families who want a central base for sightseeing on foot. Because it is right in the market, the surrounding streets are busy by day. The Courtyard Room and Market Room are available for private events.

Book early, especially for water-view rooms in summer. Parking around the market is limited, so if you are driving, ask the hotel about options when you reserve. The hotel's reservation line is separate from the main number. Ask about the room categories when you book, as the names give a good idea of the outlook, and request a higher floor if you would like a wider view.

Pike Place Market is literally on the doorstep, with Le Panier, Piroshky Piroshky and the Original Starbucks a short walk along Pike Place. The waterfront and the Seattle Aquarium are downhill to the west, and the Seattle Art Museum is a few blocks south.