The Charter Hotel Seattle, Curio Collection by Hilton

The location makes it easy to reach many parts of downtown Seattle, including the Art Museum and Pike Place Market. My room was ready on time and spacious, though it faced the parking garage. That didn't bother me, but you might want to splurge for a room with a better view. Staff were kind. The fitness area and saunas were a good size. I just wish the steam room and sauna had been much hotter. Overall, a solid hotel.

The hotel is two blocks from the famous pike market and two blocks from a Target, handy if you forgot anything. The rooms are very clean, and the cleaning staff do a great job with requested items. Everyone on staff was super friendly and helpful. The only confusing part was valet parking. It costs 65 per day, from 12am to 1159pm, with unlimited in-and-out. I'd definitely stay again.

The rooms are spacious and the property itself is attractive, with darker decor that gives it a modern, moody feel. Staff were pleasant and professional and did a good job, though at times they seemed pretentious rather than warm. I stayed at The Charter Hotel in Seattle, and the service and amenities fell short of what I expect from a Hilton brand. I'm not sure I'd return. Coffee was a recurring hassle. On two mornings it wasn't available until after 7:00 AM. The first morning, The Fog Club couldn't serve it until 7:20. That may not seem like much, but it's inconvenient if you have an early meeting or need to leave by 7:30. Staff said the coffee system had been unreliable for some time. I was also told the first-floor restaurant and bar were a highlight, but found out when I arrived that they were no longer operating. The only option was The Fog Club on the 16th floor, which also handled room service. It was closed for a private event my first night. Room service was available, and staff did give me a $25 food and beverage credit, which I appreciated. The Fog Club was closed again for lunch on my checkout day, an unexpected inconvenience since I'd planned to stay at the hotel until it was time to leave. The hill where the hotel stands seems to be one of the windiest spots in the city. There was a storm moving through, admittedly, but each time I left or walked back to the entrance, it was a challenge. Keep that in mind if you're traveling with older adults or anyone with balance issues. I often walked around the area during my stay. Between the inconsistent coffee, limited dining, and challenging location, the experience fell short, even though I appreciated the staff's efforts to make up for some of the trouble.

The hotel's location is hard to beat, and the rooms are beautiful, with comfortable beds and everything well appointed. For the cost, though, I hoped for better service. A few times I asked the front desk for help and was either ignored or treated rudely, which isn't what I expect from Hilton. It was a fine stay overall, but the price deserved better.