Holiday Inn Express And Suites Seattle Downtown - Lake Union by IHG

We got a newly renovated room with a microwave, mini fridge, and shower with decent water pressure. It was perfectly adequate. The location would earn five stars on its own, with the Space Needle, several museums, and public transit stops just a five to ten-minute walk away. We stayed in December 2025 and didn’t realize major renovations were underway. The front entrance and most of the lobby were closed to guests, and food options at the hotel were very limited. Hammering started at 8 a.m. sharp every day and kept waking us up. I don’t know how long the work will last, but while it’s going on, don’t expect to sleep in.

We’re still staying here, and it’s been a terrible experience. The room’s AC didn’t work, so we’ve been moved twice and it still felt like an oven. One employee downstairs was especially rude. She accused us of lying and treated us badly because we’re Asian, while being nice to white and Black guests. We’re cancelling our future booking and won’t book here again. We’ve been loyal Holiday Inn customers while traveling in other countries, but after this experience we won’t stay at any Holiday Inn Express again.

The location made it easy to explore without a car. Space Needle, Seattle Center, Amazon HQ, and Lake Union were all an easy walk away, and parking is available for a fee. The WiFi worked well when I needed to get some work done, and the front desk made check-in quick and friendly. My room was clean, quiet despite the busy hotel, and comfortable, with a cozy bed, mini fridge, and good shower pressure. I had a pretty positive stay at the Holiday Inn Seattle Downtown and would recommend it for a convenient city trip with decent amenities and a welcoming feel.

The toilets are low and uncomfortable, and the front desk could use more knowledge about Seattle and the surrounding area. Breakfast also runs out quickly, so get there around 6:30 or you may wait for more food and miss some of the original options. There’s construction going on, with enough noise to make a nap difficult. Our room, booked two months ahead, was changed because of cruises. This place is kind of odd.