The Edgewater Hotel

"What did you notice on arrival?At sunset, the meandering lobby is any lodge-lover’s dream—flames dancing in the stone-lined fireplace, waves glittering below a sorbet-hued sky. As the evening advances, however, the space takes on an enchanting Pacific Northwest edge so perfectly captured by Twin Peaks. What’s the crowd like?Visitors drawn to the hotel’s rich and quirky history—the Beatles famously fished out of a window here—mix with families attracted to its proximity to waterfront stops like the Seattle Aquarium and a 175-foot Ferris wheel. And everyone here is all about the views. The good stuff: Tell us what we need to know about the rooms.Guests pay a premium for a waterfront view with a balcony, but once settled in with some sparkling wine and a blazing pink sky sunset, they rarely regret the splurge. Throughout, rooms feel a bit cramped and well-worn—minimalists may feel mildly claustrophobic among the frayed furnishings. How about the little details? Any of that worth a mention?The Edgewater caters to kids with teddy bears and bathtime rubber duckies—it’s a hotel where parents can relax knowing that rambunctious children are looked at as the norm. Other amenities include minibars, Wi-Fi, and a 24-hour fitness center. Food and drink: What are we looking at?While Six Seven here can’t compete with nearby restaurants in Belltown and Pike Place Market—Babirusa, Tavolata, and Sushi Kashiba are just three destination-worthy dining spots nearby. But it's not bad at happy hour with $8 Moscow Mules and truffle fries, best enjoyed while watching the gentle waves from a window-side table. And if you wake up yearning for a Belgian waffle in bed, in-room dining is at its best at breakfast time. Anything we forgot to ask about?Be gone, vehicle! Valet parking costs $45—the Seattle hotel standard—and will free you from citywide traffic and parking woes. Bottom line: Is it worth it?It's a mixed bag, if we’re honest—what with the quirky staff, worn edges, and tacky lobby gift shop. If you like to fall asleep while staring out at gentle waves glistening in the moonlight, however, you won’t find a better spot in the city." - Jessica Voelker