Seattle–Tacoma International Airport: Approximate driving time is 25 minutes and distance is 15 miles.

Driving directions from Seattle–Tacoma International Airport: Follow the signs for freeways and take I-5 N to Seattle. Exit to the left at Seneca St (exit 165). Turn right onto Sixth Ave. Continue three blocks to the hotel on the right, between Union St and Pike St.

Getting there: For less than $5, travelers can reach the hotel via Metro bus in about 30 minutes; route 194 leaves from Bay 1 outside baggage claim every 15-30 minutes, seven days a week. Riders get off at Westlake Station and walk two blocks to the hotel. Another affordable option is Gray Line's Airport Express bus, which costs $5–15. Shuttles are available for $16–25, taxis and Town Car service for $26–35, and limo service for more than $36. Rental cars are available online. All fees subject to change without notice.

Getting around: Restaurants, entertainment, other attractions, and a multitude of upscale shops and department stores are all within walking distance of this centrally located hotel. In addition, the hotel is in Seattle's "ride free zone," which provides free Metro bus service throughout downtown, including fast subway-like service through a bus tunnel spanning 23 blocks. It's just two blocks to the bus tunnel at the Westlake Center station. From the station, riders are quickly transported to the heart of the financial district, historic Pioneer Square, and the International District.

From Westlake Center, guests can also take the city's historic monorail to Seattle Center for less than $5. Fee subject to change without notice. Other transportation options include taxis, best reached by phone, and rental cars, which aren't necessary downtown, but are essential for travel outside the city. Rental cars are available online.

Pike Street Café - Long row of stylish, semi-private booths looking down on Pike Street. Steaks, pasta, and Northwest-accented seafood highlight the menu. The café's fare is also available in The Gallery Bar and lounge located in the lobby. Open for breakfast, lunch, and dinner.

Room service - Serving items from the Pike Street Café's menu (limited hours).

Amenity highlights: Instead of the customary view-restaurant, this hotel placed a view-pool on its top floor. It's worth a visit to the health club and pool for this alone. Exercise-machine devotees enjoy the same panoramic view as swimmers. At 40 feet long, the pool is just long enough for quick laps. In rooms, massage showerheads invite lingering in tub showers, which are outfitted with clever bowed-out shower curtains to create a sensual sense of space.

Insider tip: As an integral part of the open lobby, the sunken Gallery Bar is not only great for people-watching, but also for people-meeting, when cigars are lighted and a fireplace warms up conviviality. Meal service is available here, too. Just ask for a menu.