Seattle–Tacoma International Airport (SEA): Approximate driving time is 25 minutes and distance is 18 miles.

Driving directions from Seattle–Tacoma International Airport: Follow the signs to all freeways, and then to I-5 N. Head north on I-5 about 15 miles to exit 169 for NE 45th St/NE 50th St. Stay to the right on the exit ramp and turn right onto NE 45th St. Continue about six blocks and turn left onto Brooklyn Ave NE. The hotel is on the left.

Getting there: For $16–25, shuttle service is a convenient option. Taxi service is also available for more than $36. Using the hotel's preferred company, Town Car service is actually more affordable at a flat $35 from the airport ($30 back to the airport). Rental cars are another option and are available online. All fees subject to change without notice.

Getting around: With so much to do right outside the hotel's doors, most guests choose to forego a rental car unless they plan extensive travel in the area. (Rental cars are available online.) Instead, they often walk to the diverse shops, ethnic restaurants, and theaters that populate the University District. The hotel also provides complimentary shuttle service to the University of Washington campus, the University of Washington Medical Center, and Children's Hospital.

For other trips, cabs are quite convenient, as a taxi stand with waiting cabs is just outside the hotel. Metro bus service is also excellent in the University District, with a bus stop adjacent to the hotel. Express buses 71, 72, and 73 whisk guests to downtown Seattle in just 15 minutes for less than $5; buses leave the hotel about every 10 minutes. Fee subject to change without notice.

Tully’s - This coffeehouse in the hotel lobby sells pastries and coffee all day.

Amenity highlights: Complimentary amenities include Continental breakfast, overnight parking, a small but well-equipped 24-hour fitness center, and Internet kiosks in the lobby. The hotel also has an on-site 24-hour business center with workstations and fax and copy machines.

Insider tip: The hotel’s University District location offers a neighborhood chock full of used-book stores, vintage clothing stores, restaurants, coffee shops, and an assortment of movie theaters. The campus also has two great museums: The Henry Art Gallery and the Burke Museum of Natural History and Culture. Buy a ticket to one and get discounted admission to the other.