Seattle's historic hotels can provide amenities and ambiance.
The Seattle region was first colonized by settlers in 1851, who called the townsite "New York-Alki." The settlers soon spread through the area and renamed the city Seattle after a local Duwamish tribal leader. Though a fire destroyed much of downtown in the late 1800s, Seattle experienced several boom and bust periods over the next few decades. Several hotels still remain from Seattle's early days. History buffs can enjoy the ambiance of times gone by at Seattle's historic hotels.
Mayflower Park Hotel
The Mayflower Park Hotel opened in 1927 and is Seattle's oldest continuously-operating downtown hotel. The lobby features the hotel's original stained glass windows, high ceilings and crystal chandelier. The hotel is within walking distance of Pike Place Market, Westlake Center and the Seattle Monorail. All 161 rooms are nonsmoking and offer modern amenities, such as Internet access, digital cable television and telephones with data ports, as well as classic styling and Queen Anne furnishings. Dine at Andaluca Restaurant, featuring gourmet Mediterranean cuisine, or have a cocktail at Oliver's Lounge.
Mayflower Park Hotel
405 Olive Way
Seattle, WA 98101
206-623-8700
mayflowerpark.com
Sorrento Hotel
The Sorrento Hotel opened in 1909 and, according to the hotel's website, is the city's first and longest-operating boutique hotel. The hotel is in the First Hill neighborhood, a few blocks east of downtown. The hotel retains its original Italian-mission-style architecture, mahogany wood paneling and stone fireplace. The 76 rooms and suites offer amenities such as antiques, artwork, marble bathrooms, premium linens and stocked mini-bars. Breakfast, lunch and dinner are served at the Hunt Club. Afternoon tea and evening cocktails are available in the hotel's Fireside Room, featuring the hotel's original fireplace.
Sorrento Hotel
900 Madison St.
Seattle, WA 98104
800-426-1265
hotelsorrento.com
Panama Hotel
For a real taste of Seattle history, stay in the the Panama Hotel in Seattle's International District. The Panama Hotel was built in 1910 by a Japanese architect. The hotel originally housed immigrants from Japan and Alaskan fishermen, and operated until 1950. The hotel reopened in 2004 with most of the original fixtures preserved, including the Japanese bathhouse in the basement. The hotel offers basic rooms with sinks, down comforters and daily housekeeping service. Each floor has two shared bathrooms. Relax in the hotel's lounge or go downstairs to the tea room, which serves light fare and a selection of international teas and coffees. Historical photographs of the area are displayed in the tea shop and throughout hotel common areas.
Panama Hotel
650 1/2 South Main
Seattle, WA 98104
206-223-9242
panamahotelseattle.com
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