Courtyard Seattle Downtown/Lake Union

Courtyard Seattle Downtown/Lake Union Overview

First Impressions

Walking into Courtyard Seattle Downtown/Lake Union, you immediately get that modern Marriott vibe — clean lines, contemporary furnishings, and a lobby that feels both professional and welcoming. It’s positioned right in the heart of South Lake Union, which honestly has become one of Seattle’s most dynamic neighborhoods over the past decade. The staff here actually knows the area well, and I appreciated how they could point me toward local spots without just handing over a generic tourist map.

Location & Neighborhood

This three-star hotel sits perfectly between downtown Seattle and the more residential areas heading north. You’re literally a few blocks from Lake Union itself — you know, where all those seaplanes take off and land throughout the day. The Amazon Spheres are within walking distance, and honestly, even if you’re not here for tech business, the whole South Lake Union area has this energy that’s hard to ignore. What I really liked was being able to walk to Pike Place Market in about 15 minutes, but still feeling like I was staying somewhere a bit more relaxed than right in the tourist crush.

The Room Experience

My room was exactly what you’d expect from a Courtyard property — thoughtfully designed without being flashy. The bed was genuinely comfortable, and I mean that in the way that matters when you’ve been walking around Seattle hills all day. There’s a decent work area if you need it, and the bathroom was modern with good water pressure. The windows actually open, which is something you don’t always get in newer hotels, and if you’re facing the right direction, you can catch glimpses of the Space Needle.

Amenities & Dining

The hotel’s restaurant serves solid American fare — nothing groundbreaking, but reliable when you don’t feel like venturing out. I actually ended up eating there more than I expected because the portions are generous and the prices aren’t inflated like some hotel restaurants. There’s also a decent fitness center and a small business center that’s open 24/7. The parking situation is what you’d expect for downtown Seattle — it’s available but it’ll cost you, though honestly, you probably won’t need a car much once you’re settled in this location.

Why Guests Love It

What really sets this place apart is how it balances being in the thick of things without feeling chaotic. Couples seem to particularly appreciate this spot — and I can see why. You’re close enough to everything that matters, but the South Lake Union location gives you a bit more breathing room than staying right downtown. The hotel feels like it actually belongs in the neighborhood rather than just being dropped there for tourists. Plus, the staff genuinely seems to care about making sure you know how to get around the city, which makes a bigger difference than you might think when you’re trying to navigate Seattle’s sometimes confusing street layout.

Courtyard Seattle Downtown/Lake Union Accommodations

Reviews of Courtyard Seattle Downtown/Lake Union

• Henry from Germany – 7 May 2025 (7/10)

  Great location on Lake Union. Very nice and friendly staff at the front desk and the restaurant/bar. Nice amenities. Spacious rooms. Very clean. The restaurant staff and the general atmosphere are excellent, both familial and professional, where you can gather with friends after a working day or open your laptop and work undisturbed. I will go again!
  
  What could be improved: I wish the quality of the products (e.g., burger and its bread) was better for a Courtyard hotel but I guess it’s a matter a balancing the budget and the cost of the dishes was very reasonable. But that’s not a deal breaker and the atmosphere wins anyway.

• Tracey from United States – 18 March 2025 (8/10)

  Appreciate the commitment to service- when I arrived my room had an external light shining into it, and they shifted me to a room away from the light as soon as I asked.

• Liliana from United States – 30 December 2024 (8/10)

  beautiful place
  
  What could be improved: They charge extra for everything: parking, water, WIFI, breakfast. Too expensive in the end.

• Moua from United States – 3 November 2024 (7/10)

  What could be improved: You have to pay $40 for parking if you have a car. There was a party going on when I checked in during the afternoon and they blocked the entry way even though there were signs saying not to. There appeared to be staffs outside assisting with luggage but no one said anything.

• Johnston from United States – 30 September 2024 (8/10)

  Great hotel in nice location. Wonderful view of Lake Union.
  
  What could be improved: I appreciate hotels that have glass drinking glasses, and a complimentary bottle of water

• Liz from United States – 9 September 2024 (9/10)

  Location and felt comfortable.
  
  What could be improved: More expensive than other properties around the area.

• Donna from United States – 19 July 2024 (9/10)

  It was located near the lake and felt safe
  
  What could be improved: Not much food choices

• William from Canada – 16 July 2024 (8/10)

  It’s modern, clean and in a perfect location.
  
  What could be improved: The parking charge

• Peter from United States – 4 July 2024 (9/10)

  nice room and comfy bed, excellent views and service.
  
  What could be improved: sofa smells like sweat and homeless people. and it says breakfast included but turns out you still have to pay for it.

• Erleen from United States – 2 June 2024 (9/10)

  location
  
  What could be improved: very noisy refrigerator

Surroundings

Facilities