Hi guys, on my website, I already wrote an article about Seattle without a car (I will put the link to it at the end of this article). In today’s article, I will help you to find the best places to stay in Seattle for families with kids.
I will share with you what I believe are the best areas to stay in Seattle with family, along with a map. I’ll also recommend some of the best family-friendly hotels in Seattle for various budgets.
Seattle is a major city situated in the state of Washington, in the northwestern part of the United States. It is the largest city in Washington State and serves as its economic and cultural hub.
The city is known for its stunning natural surroundings, including the Puget Sound, Lake Washington, and the Cascade and Olympic mountain ranges. It is often referred to as the Emerald City due to its lush greenery.
Seattle is a major economic center, with a strong presence of tech companies such as Microsoft and Amazon. Other important industries include aerospace (Boeing is headquartered nearby), healthcare, biotechnology, and maritime trade.
The city has several professional sports teams, including the Seattle Seahawks (NFL), Seattle Mariners (MLB), and Seattle Sounders FC (MLS).
Iconic landmarks in Seattle include the Space Needle, Pike Place Market, the Seattle Great Wheel, and the Museum of Pop Culture (MoPOP).
Seattle has an extensive public transportation system, including buses, light rail, and ferries. The city is also known for its traffic congestion, especially during rush hours.
Is Seattle a good place to visit with family?
Yes, Seattle is a great place to visit with family. Known for its stunning natural beauty, iconic landmarks like the Space Needle, and family-friendly attractions like the Seattle Aquarium, Pacific Science Center, and Woodland Park Zoo, there’s something for everyone.
Where to stay in Seattle for families with kids?
The best areas to stay in Seattle for families with kids are Downtown Seattle, Belltown, Lower Queen Anne/ Seattle Center, South Lake Union, and Capitol Hill.
These areas are family-friendly and provide easy access to attractions suitable for children, such as the Space Needle and Seattle Aquarium.
For families with young children, staying in or near the Seattle Center area (Lower Queen Anne) or downtown Seattle could be particularly convenient due to their proximity to family-friendly attractions.
However, families with older kids may find Belltown or Capitol Hill more appealing for their dining and entertainment options.
Below is a map of the popular areas in Seattle for families. You can scroll down to view the live map.
Let’s get into the details of the recommended areas to stay in Seattle, especially for families. I’ll provide you with some suggestions for the best places to stay in each area, catering to every budget.
All hotels in Seattle have been carefully selected by me, with guest review scores of at least 8.0 or higher at the time I chose them. If you don’t like my suggestions (perhaps they don’t suit your budget or preferences), you can click the “MORE HOTEL DEALS” button where you can choose your own hotel.
5 Best areas to stay in Seattle with family:
1. Downtown Seattle
Downtown Seattle is one of the most popular areas to stay in Seattle for families looking for a central location with easy access to Seattle’s main attractions. Downtown offers convenient access to many of the city’s top attractions and amenities.
Downtown Seattle is home to several major attractions, including Pike Place Market, the Seattle Aquarium, the Seattle Art Museum, and the historic Pioneer Square district. These attractions are within walking distance or a short ride away, making it easy to explore with children.
Downtown Seattle has a wide variety of dining options, ranging from family-friendly restaurants to upscale eateries. You’ll have no trouble finding food that suits your family’s tastes and dietary preferences.
If you enjoy shopping, there are numerous shops and boutiques in Downtown Seattle, including the flagship Nordstrom store and a variety of souvenir shops.
Downtown is well-connected to public transportation, including the light rail and bus systems, which can make it easier to get around the city without a car.
The Seattle waterfront is a short walk from Downtown, where you can enjoy scenic views, take boat tours, and visit attractions like the Seattle Great Wheel.
While Downtown Seattle is relatively dense, there are nearby parks like Victor Steinbrueck Park and Waterfront Park where kids can run around and play.
Best places to stay in Downtown Seattle for families with kids:
- Luxury ($$$): Fairmont Olympic Hotel, 5-star family-friendly hotel, centrally located in the downtown area, a short walk from the 5th Avenue Theatre, Washington State Convention Center, and Pike Place Market. Children 18 years and above will be charged as adults at this hotel.
- Mid-range ($$): Hyatt at Olive 8, 4-star children-friendly hotel, welcomes children of all ages, featuring family rooms centrally located, within walking distance from the famous Pike Place Fish Market and the Space Needle.
- Mid-range ($$): Hilton Motif Seattle, 4-star kid-friendly accommodation, offering views of the Seattle City center and the Olympic Mountains. Within walking distance from Seattle Art Museum and a short ride from Ferry Terminal.
2. Belltown
Belltown is a trendy neighborhood in Seattle known for its lively atmosphere, dining scene, and proximity to downtown attractions such as Pike Place Market, the Seattle Aquarium, and the waterfront.
While Belltown is known for its nightlife, it’s a family-friendly neighborhood during the day. You’ll find art galleries, shops, and entertainment options for all ages.
The Space Needle and the Seattle Center are a short walk away from Belltown, making it easy to visit these iconic Seattle landmarks with your kids.
Belltown is well-connected to public transportation, including bus routes and the Seattle Center Monorail, which can take you to the Seattle Center and the Space Needle.
Some hotels in Belltown offer excellent views of the city, including the Space Needle and Elliott Bay.
Due to its lively nightlife, Belltown can be noisy at night, especially on weekends. If you have young children who require quiet for sleep, you might want to choose accommodations away from the busiest streets or ensure your hotel has good soundproofing.
Belltown can be a vibrant and exciting place to stay with older kids who can appreciate its urban atmosphere and dining options. Families with teenagers may particularly enjoy the area’s nightlife and entertainment.
Best places to stay in Seattle in Belltown with children:
- Luxury ($$$): Pan Pacific Seattle, 5-star family-friendly hotel, conveniently located close to Belltown, Space Needle, Pike Street, and Washington State Convention Center. The hotel offers a free shuttle within a 2 mile radius.
- Mid-range ($$): Hotel Andra Seattle MGallery Hotel Collection, 4-star hotel conveniently located between Belltown district and Lake Union, a short walk from Pike Place Market and Westlake Shopping Center. Children 6 years and above will be charged as adults at this hotel.
- Budget ($): Residence Inn by Marriott Seattle Downtown Convention Center, great 4-star kid-friendly accommodation, welcome children of all ages, and Children 12 years and above will be charged as adults at the hotel. Easy access to Pike Place Market, Space Needle, and Seattle Center.
3. Lower Queen Anne/ Seattle Center
Lower Queen Anne, also known as Uptown, is a safe and fantastic area for families visiting Seattle, especially if you plan to explore the iconic Seattle Center and its various attractions.
This neighborhood is home to the Seattle Center, which includes family-friendly attractions like the Space Needle, Chihuly Garden and Glass, the Museum of Pop Culture (MoPOP), and the Pacific Science Center. These attractions are within walking distance of each other, making it convenient for families with kids of all ages.
Seattle Center has several playgrounds and open spaces where kids can run and play. The International Fountain is a popular spot for families to cool off in the summer months.
This area is well-connected by public transportation, including the Seattle Center Monorail, which can take you to the heart of downtown in just a few minutes.
Some hotels in the area offer excellent views of the Space Needle and the city, which can be particularly appealing for families.
The Seattle Center can get crowded during peak tourist times, so plan accordingly and arrive early if you want to avoid long lines at attractions.
Best places to stay in Lower Queen Anne/ Seattle Center with family:
- Mid-range ($$): Staypineapple, The Maxwell Hotel, Seattle Center Seattle, great 3-star family-friendly hotels, offering spacious family rooms, only a few mins walk to Seattle Center Monorail, with services to downtown. Close to Space Needle, Pike Market, Pier 91. Lots of restaurants nearby.
- Mid-range ($$): Hyatt House Seattle Downtown, 3-star kid-friendly hotel, a short walk from the Museum of Pop Culture and the Olympic Sculpture Park.
- Mid-range ($$): Homewood Suites by Hilton Seattle Downtown, 3-star children-friendly hotel, offering views of Puget Sound, short access to Space Needle, the waterfront area, Seattle Center Arts and Entertainment Complex.
4. South Lake Union
South Lake Union is a neighborhood in Seattle that has seen significant development and transformation in recent years. It’s known for its modern, tech-centric atmosphere and proximity to some attractions.
South Lake Union is home to Museum of History and Industry (MOHAI), a museum that offers engaging exhibits on the history of Seattle and the Pacific Northwest. It can be an educational and interesting stop for families.
The waterfront Lake Union Park in South Lake Union offers green spaces, a model boat pond, and access to Lake Union. It’s a great place for picnics and outdoor activities with kids.
Lake Union is a hub for boat tours and activities like kayaking and paddleboarding. If your family enjoys water-based activities, this can be a convenient location.
The Amazon Spheres, a unique botanical garden and workspace, are located in South Lake Union. While access to the Spheres may be limited, they are an interesting architectural attraction.
If your family appreciates a modern, urban environment, South Lake Union’s architecture and tech company presence may appeal to you. You can easily travel to the downtown area with streetcar lines.
Best places to stay in Seattle in South Lake Union with kids:
- Mid-range ($$): Silver Cloud Hotel – Seattle Lake Union, popular 3-star hotel, located close to Lake Union, featuring family rooms, welcomes children of all ages. Children 18 years and above will be charged as adults at the hotel.
- Mid-range ($$): Residence Inn by Marriott Seattle Downtown/Lake Union, 3-star family-friendly accommodation located on Lake Union, a short walk from Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Center. It is only a 10 mins streetcar ride from Westlake Shopping Center.
- Mid-range ($$): Staybridge Suites Seattle – South Lake Union, an IHG Hotel, 3-star hotel, great location, in the South Lake Union district of Seattle.
5. Capitol Hill
Capitol Hill is a diverse and vibrant neighborhood known for its eclectic atmosphere, arts scene, and nightlife.Older kids and teenagers might appreciate the neighborhood’s artsy and diverse atmosphere.
The neighborhood is home to Volunteer Park, which features a playground, a water tower with an observation deck, and the Seattle Asian Art Museum. It’s a great place for families to spend time outdoors.
Broadway Street is the main street in Capitol Hill and offers a variety of dining options, shops, and entertainment venues. You’ll find everything from casual eateries to upscale restaurants.
While Capitol Hill has a lively nightlife scene for adults, during the day, it’s generally family-friendly and safe. Just be mindful of the atmosphere in the evenings if you have younger children.
Best places to stay in Seattle in Capitol Hill with family:
- Mid-range ($$): Silver Cloud Hotel – Seattle Broadway, 4-star family-friendly hotels in the Capitol Hill neighborhood, featuring family rooms, centrally located, short distance from major attractions.
- Mid-range ($$): Hotel Sorrento, great location, easy access to the downtown area.
- Budget ($): Sonder The Boylston, 3-star accommodation, welcomes children of all ages.
In conclusion, Downtown, Belltown, Lower Queen Anne/ Seattle Center, South Lake Union, and Capitol Hill are the best places to stay in Seattle with family. These are safe central neighborhoods, offering plenty of family-friendly attractions and amenities for all ages.
If your family travels without a car, you can check this article: Where to stay in Seattle without a car. If you are new to Seattle, you can check this article Best areas to stay in Seattle for first time.
There you have it, my recommendations for the popular areas and neighborhoods that you can stay during your family trip to Seattle. I hope you found my article helpful and enjoy your holiday!