Best Accommodations in Seattle for Car-Free Travelers
Seattle is a city that has a lot to offer, from the iconic Space Needle to the bustling Pike Place Market. However, navigating the city without a car can be a challenge, especially if you’re looking for a place to stay. Fortunately, there are plenty of options for those who want to explore Seattle without the hassle of renting a car or dealing with parking.
When it comes to finding the best place to stay in Seattle without a car, there are a few things to consider. First and foremost, you’ll want to find a location that is close to public transportation. Seattle has an extensive bus system, as well as a light rail that runs from the airport to downtown and beyond. Staying near a bus stop or light rail station can make it easy to get around the city without a car.
Another important factor to consider is the neighborhood. Seattle is made up of many distinct neighborhoods, each with its own character and vibe. Some neighborhoods are more walkable than others, with plenty of shops, restaurants, and attractions within easy walking distance. Others may require a bit more effort to get around, but offer a quieter, more residential feel.
At the end of the day, the best place to stay in Seattle without a car will depend on your specific needs and preferences. Whether you’re looking for a bustling downtown hotel or a cozy Airbnb in a quiet neighborhood, there are plenty of options to choose from. We’ve done the research and testing to identify the top places to stay in Seattle without a car, so you can spend less time planning and more time enjoying your trip.
Best Places to Stay in Seattle Without a Car
As a team of experienced travelers, we understand the importance of finding the perfect place to stay during a trip. Seattle is a beautiful city with plenty of attractions to explore, but navigating the city without a car can be challenging. That’s why we’ve put together a list of the best places to stay in Seattle if you don’t have a car. These accommodations are conveniently located near public transportation, making it easy for you to explore the city without the hassle of renting a car. Read on for our top picks.
TiMoMo Folding Reusable Grocery Bags
If you’re looking for a convenient and eco-friendly way to carry your groceries in Seattle without a car, the TiMoMo Folding Reusable Grocery Bags might be the perfect solution.
Pros
- These bags are foldable, lightweight, and compact, making them easy to store in your backpack or purse.
- They’re made of durable 210D nylon oxford polyester cloth and can hold up to 50 lbs or 3 grocery bags of stuff.
- You can wash and reuse them, which helps to reduce your carbon footprint and save money on plastic bags.
Cons
- The fabric may be a bit stiff for some users.
- One of the bags may rip or break within 3 months of purchase, but the manufacturer offers a guarantee to replace or refund it.
- The bags may not stand up well on their own when empty.
We recently tried out the TiMoMo Folding Reusable Grocery Bags during a trip to Seattle, and we were impressed by their portability and durability. The bags are very easy to fold and unfold, and they can hold a surprising amount of groceries without feeling too heavy. We also appreciated the fact that we could wash them and reuse them, which helped to reduce our environmental impact.
One thing to keep in mind is that the bags may not stand up well on their own when empty, so you may need to prop them up against something or hold them open while you’re loading them up. Additionally, the fabric may be a bit stiff at first, but it softens up with use.
Overall, we would recommend the TiMoMo Folding Reusable Grocery Bags to anyone who wants a convenient and eco-friendly way to carry their groceries in Seattle without a car. They’re affordable, durable, and easy to use, and they can help you reduce your environmental impact while saving money on plastic bags.
Rightline Gear Car Top Waterproof Duffle Bag For Travel
If you’re looking for a reliable and spacious duffle bag to store your gear on your next road trip, the Rightline Gear Car Top Waterproof Duffle Bag is a solid choice.
Pros
- Enhances storage by storing gear inside before securing it to your cargo basket, rear cargo area, hitch rack, roof top, or truck bed
- Quality construction with welded seams, urethane-coated zippers, and a hook-and-loop-close zipper flap designed to protect against the elements
- Generous capacity with 120 liters of storage, accommodating recovery gear, athletic equipment, emergency travel supplies, getaway essentials, and more
Cons
- Straps can make a lot of noise if not positioned properly
- Some customers have reported issues with zippers breaking
- Not completely waterproof, some customers have reported items getting wet in heavy rain
We recently used two of these bags on the rackless roof of our Honda Fit. The straps were a bit of a pain to adjust, but once adjusted, they were easy enough to use. The bags are big enough for storing upright rectangular plastic storage bins, which we filled with clothes and other gear. We drove through some heavy rain and the bags kept our stuff dry, but we did notice some moisture on the outside of the bags.
Overall, we would recommend the Rightline Gear Car Top Waterproof Duffle Bag for anyone looking for a spacious and durable storage solution for their road trip. Just make sure to properly position the straps to avoid any annoying noise and be aware that the bag may not be completely waterproof in heavy rain.
Bleu Reign Personalized License Plate Washington Mini Kids Bicycle (3×6 in) Washington Bike, Toy Car 3×6 (small)
If you’re looking for a unique and personalized gift for a little explorer in your life, the Bleu Reign Personalized License Plate is a great option.
Pros
- Personalized design adds a touch of individuality to bikes and toy cars
- Vibrant and durable materials withstand the bumps and tumbles of playtime
- Easy to attach to bicycles and toy cars with a secure fastening
Cons
- May be too small for some larger bikes or cars
- Limited color options
- Not suitable for all types of vehicles
We recently gifted the Bleu Reign license plate to a young family member and they loved it. The personalized design with their name and favorite number made their bike feel extra special and unique. The vibrant colors and durable materials held up well during their outdoor adventures and the secure fastening kept the plate in place without any issues.
One thing to note is that the license plate is on the smaller side, so it may not be suitable for larger bikes or cars. Additionally, the color options are limited to the Washington design, which may not be everyone’s preference. It’s also important to check if the license plate is compatible with the type of vehicle you’re attaching it to.
Overall, we highly recommend the Bleu Reign Personalized License Plate for a fun and unique gift that encourages creativity and self-expression during playtime.
The 2nd Amendment Vintage Look Reproduction Metal Sign
If you’re looking for a vintage metal sign to display in your garage or man cave, The 2nd Amendment Vintage Look Reproduction Metal Sign by Custom Kraze is definitely worth considering.
Pros
- Eye-catching design: The sign is 12 inches high and 8 inches wide, making it the perfect size to get your message across and keep you smiling.
- Durable quality: The sign is made from 100% rust-free strong 0.40 aluminum, ensuring that it will last for many years of indoor or outdoor use. It also comes with pre-drilled holes on top and bottom for easy hanging.
- High-quality materials: Custom Kraze uses only first-class materials to manufacture their signs, ensuring that they are long-lasting and of the highest quality.
Cons
- Limited size options: The sign only comes in one size, so if you’re looking for something larger or smaller, this may not be the right product for you.
- Limited design options: While the sign is eye-catching, it only features the 2nd Amendment Vintage Look Reproduction Metal Sign design, so if you’re looking for something more customizable, you may need to look elsewhere.
- May not be suitable for all tastes: The sign has a vintage look and feel, so if you’re looking for something more modern, this may not be the right product for you.
Overall, we think that The 2nd Amendment Vintage Look Reproduction Metal Sign by Custom Kraze is a great product for anyone looking for a durable, high-quality metal sign with a vintage design. It’s well-made, eye-catching, and sure to make a great addition to any garage, man cave, wall, or yard. If you’re in the market for a vintage metal sign, we highly recommend giving this one a try.
The Maxwell Hotel
If you’re looking for a comfortable and convenient place to stay in Seattle without a car, we recommend The Maxwell Hotel.
Pros
- Pro 1: The hotel is located in a central location, just a short walk from popular attractions like the Space Needle and Pike Place Market.
- Pro 2: The hotel offers complimentary shuttle service to nearby locations, making it easy to get around without a car.
- Pro 3: The rooms are spacious and well-appointed, with comfortable beds and modern amenities.
Cons
- Con 1: The parking is expensive if you do bring a car.
- Con 2: The hotel can be a bit noisy due to its central location.
- Con 3: The breakfast options can be limited and not suitable for everyone.
We recently stayed at The Maxwell Hotel and were impressed by its convenient location and comfortable rooms. The hotel is located in the heart of Seattle, just a few blocks from popular attractions like the Space Needle and Chihuly Garden and Glass. We appreciated the complimentary shuttle service, which made it easy to get around without a car. The rooms were spacious and clean, with comfortable beds and modern amenities like a flat-screen TV and free Wi-Fi.
While the hotel has a lot of great features, there were a few downsides. The parking is quite expensive if you do bring a car, so we recommend leaving it at home if possible. Additionally, the hotel can be a bit noisy due to its central location, so light sleepers may want to bring earplugs. Finally, the breakfast options can be limited and not suitable for everyone, so be sure to check the menu before booking.
Overall, we would definitely recommend The Maxwell Hotel for anyone looking for a convenient and comfortable place to stay in Seattle without a car. Its central location and complimentary shuttle service make it easy to explore the city, while the spacious rooms and modern amenities ensure a comfortable stay.
Buying Guide
When choosing a place to stay in Seattle without a car, there are a few key features to consider to ensure you have a comfortable and convenient stay. Here are some factors to keep in mind:
Location
The first thing to consider is the location of the accommodation. Look for places that are within walking distance or a short public transportation ride to popular attractions, restaurants, and shopping areas. It’s also important to choose a safe neighborhood, especially if you plan to walk around at night.
Transportation Options
Since you won’t have a car, it’s important to consider the transportation options available near your accommodation. Look for places that are close to bus stops, light rail stations, or other forms of public transportation. You may also want to consider accommodations that offer shuttle services to popular destinations.
Amenities
When choosing a place to stay, consider the amenities offered. Look for accommodations that offer free Wi-Fi, complimentary breakfast, and other amenities that will make your stay more comfortable. Additionally, consider accommodations that offer laundry facilities, as this will allow you to pack lighter and save money on baggage fees.
Price
Finally, consider the price of the accommodation. Look for places that fit within your budget, but don’t sacrifice quality for a lower price. Keep in mind that accommodations that offer more amenities may be more expensive, but may also provide a more comfortable and convenient stay.
By considering these factors, you can find the best place to stay in Seattle without a car that fits your needs and budget.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the top-rated neighborhoods in Seattle for tourists without personal transportation?
Seattle has several neighborhoods that are ideal for tourists without personal transportation. Downtown Seattle, Capitol Hill, and Belltown are popular neighborhoods that offer easy access to public transportation and attractions.
Which areas in Seattle offer the best access to public transit and amenities?
The neighborhoods of Downtown Seattle, Capitol Hill, and Belltown offer great access to public transit and amenities. Downtown Seattle is particularly convenient, as it is home to many of the city’s major attractions and has a wide range of restaurants and shops.
What family-friendly accommodations in Seattle are most convenient for those without a vehicle?
Seattle has several family-friendly accommodations that are convenient for those without a vehicle. Downtown Seattle has many hotels that cater to families, such as the Sheraton Seattle Hotel and the Grand Hyatt Seattle. Airbnb options are also available in family-friendly neighborhoods like Queen Anne and Capitol Hill.
Can visitors enjoy the main attractions of Seattle while staying in a pedestrian-friendly area?
Yes, visitors can enjoy the main attractions of Seattle while staying in a pedestrian-friendly area. Downtown Seattle, which is easily accessible by public transportation, is home to many of the city’s major attractions, including the Space Needle, Pike Place Market, and the Seattle Aquarium.
Are there any particular hotels or Airbnbs in Seattle well-suited for guests who are not driving?
Yes, there are many hotels and Airbnbs in Seattle that are well-suited for guests who are not driving. The Sheraton Seattle Hotel, the Grand Hyatt Seattle, and the Kimpton Hotel Monaco Seattle are all located in Downtown Seattle and offer easy access to public transportation. Airbnb options in neighborhoods like Capitol Hill and Queen Anne are also popular among visitors without personal transportation.
What should travelers avoid when looking for a car-free experience in Seattle?
When looking for a car-free experience in Seattle, travelers should avoid staying in neighborhoods that are far from public transportation or attractions. It is also important to research the safety of a neighborhood before booking accommodations. Finally, travelers should be aware that Seattle’s weather can be unpredictable, so it is important to pack accordingly.