‘The Emerald City’ Seattle changes in the blink of an eye, and is more a microcosm of diverse neighborhoods than one single, contiguous city. Nestled at the base of Mount Rainier, Seattle is famed as the coffee capital of the Pacific Northwest, but it’s so much more. In fact, it was once also listed as the fifth gayest city in America! The city radiates a strong queer spirit which is evident in its large rainbow flag-flying gayborhood Capitol Hill. It’s also home to some excellent gay friendly hotels in Seattle Washington, aside from the long lineup of annual LGBT events. There’s a lot more to gay Seattle than pride. It also hosts the Seattle Boylesque Festival and the Seattle Queer Film Festival. The headliner is the vibrant PrideFest where thousands turn up to see hundreds of performers.
Even if you aren’t able to visit flagship events, Seattle has some or the other LGBTQ-themed event going on every night of the week. Think the Trans party series, kink night, camp drag shows, burlesques, and what-not. And, of course, there’s so much to see and do in Seattle for nature and culture-loving gays as well. For one, it’s home to Mount Rainier National Park and the gorgeous Snoqualmie Falls, two of the Best Places To Visit In Washington State. Secondly, it’s a haven for foodies and is amongst the World’s Top Vegan-Friendly Cities. And, of course, who can forget the iconic Pike Market Place, which is amongst the USA’s Top Tourist Attractions?
Whether you’re here to enjoy the gay culture or explore Seattle or do a bit of both, you have a great choice of excellent hotels to choose from. To that end, here are the top 11 gay friendly hotels in Seattle.
Silver Cloud Inn
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We start off our list with one for the hopeless romantics, the Silver Cloud Inn. One of the most charming gay friendly hotels in Seattle Washington, this Lake Union hotel is one for the lovebirds.
This waterfront hotel has a slew of dreamiest rooms on offer, of which we’d recommend the King Bed Room for you and your love. For it comes with an in-room Jacuzzi tub that’s perfect for an amorous soak or two. After a long day of exploring Seattle or a long night of fun, this is just what your body needs. Add to that the exclusive Aveda bath products, and you’re sure to have one memorable time. If you’re on your honeymoon or even otherwise, go for the “Romance Package” that’ll get you guys complimentary gourmet chocolate truffles and a bottle of Chateau Ste. With the room being so cozy, why not opt for the in-room breakfast too? It’s no wonder that this hotel is considered one of the Most Romantic Hotels in Seattle and one of the Best Hotels in Seattle.
If that wasn’t enough, the hotel even provides a shuttle service for exploring the attractions around. The best bit? Capitol Hill and its wanton fun is just a 10-minute walk.
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The Edgewater
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Overlooking the calm waters of Elliott Bay, The Edgewater is one for those LGBTQ travelers who love tasteful nautical flair. With its prime and envious location at Seattle’s Pier 67, the hotel boasts incredible views of cruisers, tankers, and sailboats zipping around the bay. On the inside, the hotel is a design-loving gay person’s dream. The decor is inspired by the lush green of the Pacific Northwest and features elegant forest accents that transport you to the dark depths of a rainforest. While Pike Place Market is a mere 15-minute walk, some guests swear by the coffee served at the cafe on-site. You’ll also find a swanky fitness center that’s frequented by a hoard of good-looking people. Don’t miss digging into dinner at the Six Seven restaurant, which boasts spectacular views of Puget Sound and mountains in the distance.
The spacious rooms at this hotel feel like the private corridors of a mega yacht. You’ll find luxurious touches such as plush leather chairs, knotty pine furniture, and gas fireplaces. Mod-cons such as minibars and coffee machines make life all the better. But, the best bit is the European-style spa bathroom with bathtubs and complimentary bath amenities. Finally, the gay scene at Capitol Hill is a 10-minute drive from here.
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Gaslight Inn
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One of the most charming gay friendly hotels in Seattle Washington is Gaslight Inn, which lies very conveniently in the heart of Capitol Hill. In fact, most of the popular bars and clubs lie in the next lane. Set in a three-storeyed 1907-built home, the common areas of the library and living room are reminiscent of a gentlemen’s club. Think aspects such as a large stone fireplace, leather chairs, oak wainscotting, dark green walls, and quirky deer mounts.
The best part of the inn is the landscaped private backyard that features the most divine in-ground pool you’ll have ever seen – so much so that it’s one of the Best Hotel Pools In Seattle. It’s ensconced by lush Pacific Northwest foliage and chaise loungers under pretty turquoise umbrellas. If there ever was a perfect picture, this is it. Unwind with your partner by your side or enjoy a refreshing dip in the swimming pool. Later on, take a walk in the lush gardens that even have a koi pond. Or, you could curl up on the cushy seating on the private deck and sip on fine Seattle roast coffee. Begin your day with a delicious breakfast of tea/coffee, croissants, eggs, cheese, yogurt, and assorted seasonal fruits. Sigh.
Rooms here cater to all sorts of sensibilities. Do you like rustic-chic? Go for the crow’s nest with Navajo-print fabric and peeled-log furniture. If you’re traditional, then go for the suite with stained-glass windows, a fireplace, and Arts and Crafts–style furnishings. Moreover, all but two rooms feature private baths with classic pedestal sinks and wood molding elements.
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The Moxy
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LGBTQ travelers who want to keep their finger on the pulse of Seattle will love The Moxy in downtown Seattle. At the same time, it’s a mere 5-minute drive to the gayborhood at Capitol Hill. So, it’s an excellent base fr exploring the city as well as delving into Seattle’s gay life! You can feel the creative energies flowing both inside and outside while staying at this South Lake Union hotel. Your incredible experience begins right on check-in when you’re offered complimentary cocktails to get the party started. The open and bright lobby with sleek furniture is a great place to meet people, as is the happening bar. Seattle’s art-infused vibes fuel Moxy’s décor, right from the furniture to the lighting. And even though it’s a design hotel, it offers a swish fitness center too.
That said, the sleek and moody guestrooms are the real surprise at the Moxy. A grey color palette infuses the room with a sensuous feel, while the textured wallpaper, plush beds, and chich bathrooms only add to the feel. The best bit? The Wi-Fi is furiously fast and free.
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HI – Seattle Hostel at the American Hotel
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One of the most affordable gay friendly hotels in Seattle Washington has to be the HI – Seattle Hostel at the American Hotel. This is the place to be for the LGBTQ set that loves to socialize and is on the lookout to meet new people on their Seattle sojourn. Set in the heart of Pioneer Square, this fun-filled hostel is minutes away from the bus stop, light rail. and the Amtrak stations. Thus, the 10-minute ride to Capitol Hill’s buzzing gayborhood doesn’t seem much at all. Even then, you might just find some company at the hostel to go along with you!
Featuring a 24-hour front desk, this hostel boasts unique common spaces to hang out, such as the shared lounge and the TV room. The library is a great place to read a book and meet fellow bibliophiles, while the complimentary continental breakfast every morning is a great way to begin the day and figure out your travel plans with your new friends. Moreover, the common kitchen is great for preparing light meals and showing off your cooking skills – who knows, you might even have a meet-cute! You have the options of both dorms and private rooms, both of which are spacious, light-filled, and come with the comfiest beds you’ll ever see in a hostel.
However, the best part is that the hostel is open 24/7. So, you can saunter in as late as you want after a decadent night of Capitol Hill revelry!
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W Seattle
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Paying homage to the Pacific-Northwest is the W Seattle from the upscale and oh-so-colorful gay-popular W brand. The Seattle outpost sits in a swanky highrise that lies a mere 15-minute walk from the cluster of gay bars at Capitol Hill! In fact, the Eagle bar is just a 10-minute walk, making the W the perfect base for luxurious gays who want to indulge in absolute fun during their Seattle holiday.
From the minute you enter, you know that the hotel was designed for play. The lounge boasts an upscale nightclub vibe thanks to the dramatic three-storeyed fireplace, hot-pink armchairs, and shifting colored lights. There’s even an eye-catching DJ alcove, where live performances and weekly DJs hold pulsating gigs. The state-of-the-art FIT gym has excellent equipment for those who love working out and even better-looking people. Do you want to indulge in some unwinding with your partner? The in-room spa services are for just that, and including everything from mani-pedis to wraps and massages.
The W’s fabulous rooms take the atmosphere of indulgence a step further with a purple and deep grey color palette, cage lights, and sweeping views. Moreover, all rooms feature sitting areas and minibars for an in-room party and lemon-sage Bliss Spa toiletries.
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Ace Hotel
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Go glamping in the middle of the city at the Ace Hotel, one of the coziest and yet hip gay friendly hotels in Seattle Washington. Tucked in an understated brick building in the heart of trendy Belltown, the hotel a mere five-minute drive to Capitol Hill. Offering a hip and personable experience, Seattle’s “original boutique hotel” is a favorite with the LGBTQ set. Its unique aesthetic begins right from the cozy lobby, such as the huge mountain vista mural behind the check-in counter. What’s more, the entire space is peppered with vintage pieces such as terrariums and potted plants, mismatched glass cabinets, and industrial chairs. You’ll especially love the stacks of style-conscious magazines which you can borrow for reading.
Begin your day with a hearty complimentary continental breakfast including Stumptown coffee, juice, and waffles. The Cyclops Cafe and Lounge serves up delicious items such as salsa, chips, burgers, and hummus, but it’s the bar that hits the sweet spot. Choose from an excellent selection of cocktails, wine, and beer to begin an evening of fun before proceeding to Capitol Hill. Even the rooms are no less playful and boast a chic glamping theme – think potted plants, a survival guide, and vintage wool blankets. If a quirky and different place of stay for an affordable price near Capitol Hill is what you’re looking for, the Ace is it.
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Hotel Andra
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One of the best gay hotels in Seattle Washington hotels closest to Capitol Hill is the stylish and sophisticated Hotel Andra. Plus, it’s within walking distance of some of the Top Things To Do In Seattle such as Pike Place and Pier 66, making for a well-rounded LGBTQ stay in Seattle. The hotel offers a Nordic-inspired escape from reality with a dose of charming boutique ambiance and world-class service. The “Living Room” lobby is rife with a subtle Scandi design and calming textures, extending to every room and suite. The chic lobby lounge with a roaring fireplace is a great place to meet new people or relax with a cuppa while indulging in people-watching. Two gorgeous on-site dining options are the perfect place to enjoy a romantic dinner before heading out to a wild night at Capitol Hill. And if you love working out, the swanky gym will appeal immensely to you.
You’ll love the modern minimalist furniture in the rooms, complemented by patterned drapes, white linens, and soft alpaca headboards. Swanky mod-cons such as Bluetooth clock radios, flat-screen TVs, and coffeemakers make life easier, while the private bar and plush spa bathrooms with luxury bath amenities are a great perk.
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Kimpton Hotel Vintage Seattle
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Moody, sexy, romantic – these are just some words describing the sensuous vibe at Kimpton Hotel Vintage Seattle. Sitting just south of Capitol Hill, it’s one of the best gay friendly hotels in Seattle Washington. A lavish lobby with a marble fireplace and wrought-iron vine sculpture sets the tone for this place. Start your evening revelries right from the Vintage bar, which hosts an evening happy hour with a complimentary glass of Washington wine. During the day, burn calories at the 24-hour fitness center or do yoga in the comfort of your room. If the outdoors is more your style, then borrow a bike and explore the neighborhood. If that wasn’t enough, the on-site restaurant Tulio is one of the finest Italian restaurants in America. It’s also where you can have one delicious à la carte breakfast.
If the hotel impressed you, wait until you see the rooms, each named after a Washington vineyard. Expect in-room wine fridges (oh yes), silvery curtains, and whimsical cork art. Even the color scheme is earthy with burgundy and fresh green hues. Pillowtop mattresses will make you feel like never getting out of bed, maybe only to spend time in the bathroom. Besides plush robes and oversized towels, you’ll also find indulgent and scented Atelier Bloem toiletries.
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SpringHill Suites Seattle Downtown
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Located right on the edge of Capitol Hill and Downtown Seattle is the affordable SpringHill Suites. This all-suite hotel, which lies a block away from the queer-friendly burlesque club of Kremwerk, is an excellent affordable option for a group of gay travelers to Seattle. If your objective is to roam all day and party all night and just need a place to crash, this is the place for you. Each of the spacious suites comes with a separate living area with a couch to sleep on. There’s a kitchenette as well, with all appliances including a coffeemaker to nurse any hangover you might be having. What’s great is that they offer a complimentary breakfast every morning, allowing your budget to stretch even further for fun in the city.
Despite being a budget all-suite hotel, what travelers love about SpringHill Suites is that it has a fitness center where you can work out and stay in shape. Aside from the restaurant that offers delicious regional cuisine, the highlight is the bar. With a 3-hour-long happy hour in the evening, sip wines, guzzle beer, and enjoy a host of cocktails before setting off to party in Capitol Hill.
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Hotel Max
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Sitting atop the list of best gay friendly hotels in Seattle Washington is the very gay-popular boutique Hotel Max. The hotel is a downtown Seattle hub for art, creativity, music, and big imaginations, and perfect for discerning and design-centric gays. A huge original Andy Warhol in the lobby is just the beginning; the entire hotel features edgy music-related artwork.
There’s a lot to like about this hotel, such as the locally brewed coffee in the morning to begin your day on a glorious note. Fun craft beer tours followed by a complimentary craft beer happy hour is just what you need to amp up your day before you hit the wonderful streets of Capitol Hill. The on-site farm-to-table restaurant serves exceptional fare, and the fitness center is ideal for those who don’t want to miss their workout regimen. Tired of working out indoors? Grab the free loaner bikes and explore the neighborhood with your partner or the new friend you made on the craft beer tour.
Rooms are stylish to boot with luxe designs, original paintings, and even a pillow bar for you to choose from! Grey walls with pops of hot pink and orange set the playful tone while the plush beds guarantee that you won’t be able to leave them easily. Even the bathrooms, albeit slightly small, are zany and immaculate.
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Just So You Know:
- With 12.9% of the residents identifying as LGBTQ+, Seattle has the second-largest LGBTQ community in the U.S. after San Francisco.
- Located in the iconic Pioneer Square neighborhood, The Double Header was a gay bar that was thought to be the oldest gay bar in the U.S. Having opened its doors in 1934, it ran for 81 years before shutting its doors in December 2015.
- The Seattle Women’s Chorus and the Seattle Men’s Chorus are the largest LGBTQ-identified women’s and men’s choruses in the world.
Get Some Culture in Seattle:
- Seattle Pride: Seattle Pride is amongst the largest of the West Coast Pride celebrations and wants to achieve equal human rights and honor diversity. More than 150 national, regional, and local businesses, agencies, and organizations participate in the Parade. What’s more, an amazing range of LGBTQ+ talent provides a weekend of amazing entertainment.
- Seattle Boylesque Festival: This Annual festival held one weekend in April is one big burlesque – except with a lot of boys! Think linger-flying, twerking, and gender-bending at its best with glitter and tassels and lots of pumped-up energy.
Best Gay Bars / Clubs in Seattle:
- Pony: Standing tribute to the 1970s Castro bars stands the Pony, Seattle’s most popular gay dive bar. In fact, its location on Capitol Hill makes it one of the very few standalone bars. This one sits in a 1930s-vintage gas station structure with a sprawling west-facing patio with a gas fire pit. It’s a great place to listen to indie rock, disco, etc., and meet new people.
- Seattle Eagle: This classic leather bar is dingy, dark, and ever-so-seedy – and exactly what you wish for! Like Eagle bars from around the world, this is the place to meet hot people with hot music and cheap drink specials.
- Diesel: This no-frills gay bar is for bikers, bears, badasses, and all their buddies. Especially busy on Taco Tuesdays, this one has a long, long happy hour (among other things), strong drinks, and the most welcoming bartenders.
Best Gay Saunas in Seattle:
- Club Z: If there’s one place in Seattle for hot and steamy fun, then it’ll be this Capitol Hill dive. Not only is it open 24-hours, but also anonymous entry is possible. You’ll find a cinema, a dry and steam sauna, and an in-house toy at this place which regularly hosts themed nights.
