You need an escape. Grandparents are coming. Or maybe friends with kids are arriving. Whatever the reason, these kid-friendly hotels offer perks and family-friendly festivities for you and your crew. Find your perfect place to stay and play from our picks below.
Hyatt Regency Lake Washington
If the Hyatt Regency Lake Washington was a painting, the title would be "Chillin' by the Lake". Upon entering the vast but welcoming lobby, the lake view and Seattle skyline seem to envelop the back of the hotel, beckoning guests to grab a chair on the outdoor patio and let the relaxation begin. Opened in 2017, this hotel is already a neighborhood favorite and community staple. Brimming with goodies for the little ones, families can check in knowing their vacation or staycation will be spectacular. The safety first, faux-mini fire pit sets the mood and s'mores are just as tasty without the melted chocolate option. Grab pool toys and swimsuits for year-round indoor pool and hot tub splashing, or for lake side leisure in the warmer months. Water's Table is highly recommended as it masters the art of fine dining alongside family feasting. Also recommended to please carnivores is the Akaushi Tomahawk Ribeye, a platter of exquisitely cooked aged marbled beef perfect for groups sharing.
Can't-miss kid perks: Pre-order the Kids Glamping Package for $40. Well worth the delight in their eyes when they open the door and a tepee, replete with cozy pillows, soft blankets and s'mores plate greets them. The kid’s cookie decorating option is a creative way to entertain fidgety diners - it's complimentary so pre-order with ease.
Good to know: Hyatt Regency Lake Washington at Seattle's Southport is conveniently located near Skykart Indoor Racing Center, Henry Moses Aquatic Center and the Museum of Flight for more group entertainment
1053 Lake Washington Blvd N.
Renton, WA 98056
425-203-1234
Online: hyatt.com
Kimpton Alexis Hotel
Seattle is synonymous with great music and downtown Seattle still plays that '90s beat if you listen carefully. The Kimpton Alexis Hotel cherishes its convenient downtown location and proudly displays art that hints to the Emerald City's iconic music scene. Good thing the rooms aren't from that era. The recent $14-million guest room renovation blends the backdrop of the Pacific Northwest with elegant simplicity—the colors seem to flow in from the sky, sound and evergreen trees. Families can experience this and more with the Junior Suite, an 825-square-foot room with elevated living space plus an extra TV and sofa. Plus, who doesn't love dress up fairy wings, dinosaur play sets, giant checkerboard and checkers, movie trivia and books that are among the available delights. For the budding photographer, parents can rent a mini Polaroid camera and film for eight hours of artistic exploration. Whatever you choose, the experience will be stylish and entertaining for the whole fam.
Can't-miss kid perks: Take it up a notch with on-demand packages for kids. The Movie Night Package ($75) delivers a popcorn machine and candy bars for a full theatrical experience. Or cozy up with the Hot Cocoa Bar ($32) that provides cocoa mix, house made marshmallows, flavored syrups, whipped cream, and chocolate shavings, plus a bonus for adults: add booze for an additional $9/person. The Kids Mystery Box ($25) offers toys and fun for three age ranges: 3-5, 6-9 & 10-12.
1007 1st Ave.
Seattle, WA 98104
206-624-4844
Online: alexishotel.com
Westin Seattle
The Westin Seattle loves to welcome families and has incorporated that into their slogans. Wonder Awaits With Westin Family means all guests should leave feeling better than when they arrived, and kids are no exception. Westin Family programs were designed to ignite curiosity and creativity. In order to encourage this, the Westin Family Package offers up to 50% off a second room with connecting rooms based on availability. Bring the in-laws, grandparents and aunties, bring ‘em all! Plus, at check-in, children are welcomed with a Westin Family Travel Journal and a local activity guide full of engaging activities and plenty of pages for kids to jot down their findings. Grab the coloring pencils and pens and head out to the Space Needle, Chihuly Garden and Glass and the Seattle Center, as all those sights are right in the Westin's backyard.
Can't-miss kid perks: Make meal times green (as in saving) because kids eat for free from the Westin Eat Well Menu for Kids, with the purchase of an adult entrée. Thanks to expert input from doctors, dentists and chefs at SuperChefs™, the options on the Westin Eat Well Menu for Kids are both delicious and nutritious. Happy parents, happy kids.
1900 5th Ave.
Seattle, WA 98101
206-728-1000
Online: marriott.com
Four Seasons Hotel Seattle
Four Seasons Hotel Seattle presents its artistic side and its delicious side right in the lobby when guests check in. The property has the most extensive collection of Pacific Northwest artwork outside of a museum or gallery, and features pieces of art from the '40s and '50s, selected and organized by Virginia Wright, Seattle’s most prominent arts patron and collector. Even better, afternoon treats are served in the lobby, from house made s’mores and ice cream cupcakes, to caramel apples and macarons every day after 3 p.m. What child wouldn't love a welcome snack while parents peruse fine art? At meal time, head to the in-house, upscale Goldfinch. The kids' menu is as much fun as the LEGO stacking utensils and coloring sheets that accompany it. After dining take advantage of the heated outdoor pool, available year-round, or the babysitting option for an additional fee. Then it’s time to enjoy Four Seasons Hotel Seattle's excellent location near Pike Place Market, shopping, theater, music and more. Wanna escape? The Family Getaway special offer is available: Mar. 14–Apr. 13, 2020.
Can't-miss kid perks: Make kids feel extra special with an age-appropriate welcome gift. Let the staff know your munchkins' ages so they can enjoy fun treats like cookies & milk for tiny tots or root beer & popcorn for tweens. Kid-sized robes and slippers are also available, as are cribs, baby toiletries and diaper genies. Whew! That makes packing easier. Add in other convenient touches like step stools in the bathroom so kids can reach the sink and bath toys for the deep soaking tubs and you've got a perfect home-away-from-home getaway.
Insider tip: Make room for everyone with 30% off a second guest room when booking two nights at Four Seasons Hotel Seattle.
99 Union St.
Seattle, WA 98101
206-749-7000
Online: fourseasons.com
Fairmont Olympic Seattle
Families know that the Fairmont Olympic Seattle is the place to go for holiday festivity. Year-round the hotel lobby is decorated to the hilt with seasonal attire that provides hours of wonder and awe for small tots, juniors and the young at heart. This year the Fairmont Olympic Seattle will undergo a massive renovation with completion planned for summer 2020, welcoming a fully transformed lobby that will present a new social experience for guests and locals, introduce a new bar, and debut a new restaurant. In the meantime, take advantage of the Stay Longer deal with 25% off one to two nights, and 30% off of three or more night stays. The whole gang will feel pampered, while well-designed amenities for families will make the kids feel at home. After tucking them in for the night, arrange for a babysitter through the concierge service then hit the town and enjoy Seattle's burgeoning cocktail scene. Adults only. Check in to check out the transformation of one of Seattle's most renowned hotels.
Can't-miss kid perks: It's touches like children's menus that are available in the restaurants and via in-room dining that make this a great stay for families. Plus, tiny ones under five eat for free at Shuckers Restaurant. Kids' bathrobes and no-tear shampoo highlight the amenities that make everyone feel good about their stay.
411 University St.
Seattle, WA 98101
206-621-1700
Online: fairmont.com
Kimpton Hotel Monaco Seattle
Kimpton Hotel Monaco Seattle boasts a jaw-dropping lobby as well as a dramatic, yet playful, ambiance throughout the hotel. The glitter and glam of the Greek-inspired meets Art Deco vibe must be seen to be appreciated. All the glamour could feel too stuffy, but Kimpton Hotel Monaco Seattle is an all-ages favorite. The property is pet-friendly, which allows parents to look like a superhero to Fido or Fluffy as well. The venue lies just steps away from major sights and sporting events, so grab your two-legged and four-legged creatures and set off on an urban adventure. Before you head out, be sure to ask for a custom lunch pail with activities, snacks and gum. This no-charge extra will help make the most of your day.
Can't-miss kid perks: We're crushing hard on generous (and complimentary) adds that let parents look like heroes without breaking the bank. It all starts with an adventure map to explore the best kid-friendly and free sights. The lending library in the lobby bursts with bedtime stories, and upon request, Land of Nod tepees and play tents will be delivered to the room for more magic-making at bedtime.
1101 4th Ave.
Seattle, WA 98101
206-621-1770
Online: monaco-seattle.com
Hotel Murano
Tacoma is a hidden gem that surprises and delights. Just a quick jaunt down the freeway, Tacoma awaits, filled with family-friendly fun and the kind of artistic edge Seattle families love. This is a wonderful staycation option and an excellent educational trip for growing minds. Hotel Murano has museum-worthy glass art on each floor. Grab an adult bevvy and let the kids to do what they have always wanted to do: push every button in the elevator. The multi-level museum-quality glass display truly astounds. Book the Hey There, Hot Shop package and learn the art of glass-blowing to take home some art of your own making. Hotel Murano is just a hop, skip and a jump away from the Children’s Museum of Tacoma, the only pay-as-you-will museum of its kind in the United States. And the Pacific Seas Aquarium at Point Defiance Zoo & Aquarium is just a year old, so amaze the kiddos and check out the juvenile hammerhead sharks. Whatever you and your crew decide to explore, The Mountain City Sea Attraction Pass was designed with families in mind. It's the best way to see the main attractions in Tacoma and Pierce County at a 50% discount on admission. "You'll Like Tacoma" is this city's slogan, but we think, "You'll Love Tacoma" is more like it.
Can't-miss kid perks: With the touch of a button kids can get a pint of hand-crafted ice cream delivered to the room, from local fave Ice Cream Social.
Insider tip: Use the family discount promo code TACOMA or book through this link for an exclusive discount.
1320 Broadway
Tacoma, WA 98402
253-238-8000
Online: hotelmuranotacoma.com
Pro tip: February is Seattle Museum Month and that means big savings (50% off admission) for guests staying at these hotels (with the exception of Hyatt Regency Lake Washington & Hotel Murano) when they visit Seattle-area museums. With over 40 participating museums, there’s every reason to stay and play now. Think of it as the excuse you need to dive into Octopus Week at the Seattle Aquarium, visit the new Burke or get messy at KIDIMU. The full calendar of events has all you need to plan your stay.
—Natalie Compagno
featured photo courtesy iStock
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