A friend and I want to take an extra day after a business meeting in Seattle and have a girls' day out, including a spa visit. Though she's a connoisseur, and I've never been to a spa in my life, I'm the one making arrangements. What's a good higher-end spa in Seattle? I've read about Ummelina, and their half-day package sounds interesting, but is there anything else I should consider?

Nope, that's the one. Ummelina's is the most popular with everyone I know who use spas.

Nordstrom is the other that gets mention but it is a far 2nd place.

~suze in Seattle

I also like Spa de Lago in Madison Park (about 10-15 mins. from downtown). It's not a full day spa but a great place to have a pedicure. Nice scenic location in a "village" neighborhood right on Lake Washington (there's a beach park, various shops, etc.). Cactus is a fun restaurant there.

There's a Gene Juarez on Pine (downtown), but I've only ever had a pedicure there. Ummelina is fantastic.

I love Ummelina! I tried the Nordstrom spa recently after going to Ummelina for years and was very disappointed.

My co-worker who loves Ummelina's called Nordstrom's "too corporate".

I think Spa del Lago *is* a full service spa...but I will know for sure mid next month (we're having a bridal shower there). We can definitely get facials, massages, etc...not just limited to nail services. Can't wait to try it!

hi beanweb24~ I know for sure, it's my regular salon & it's a great place but as you'll see it's quite small.

Yes they do have all services... facial, massage, manicure, pedicure, but it is not as extensive as what most people would think of as a "day spa" I'm just guessing.

There's only two treatment rooms and facial or massage people only seem to be there when an appointment is booked.

I really like the room where they do the pedicures (rattan chairs, copper tubs) and a nice waterwall in the waiting area -lol! If you're having a pedicure, ask for Kim.

I'll throw in a shout-out for my regular salon/day spa in West Seattle, Shanti (formerly Carlin). It's an Aveda spa and very friendly and nice...not as high-end as the OP is looking for though.

Thanks for all the responses. I'll go ahead with Ummelina, and report back in a few months!

so how was it and what did you end up having done?

I noticed a sign that there's a spa at the new Pan Pacific hotel building.