Need advice on which hotel to choose
 

We're staying in Seattle for three nights prior to a cruise this upcoming July. We'll be there during the 4th of July, if it makes a difference.

We are torn between the Grand Hyatt and Hyatt Place. The Hyatt Place seems to be a little "out of the way" for things. I know that they offer a shuttle within 1 mile which will take us to everything we want to see, but part of the experience is just walking around, too, in my opinion. Is it really that far out of the way as it seems on the map? The Grand Hyatt looks like it's in the heart of things.

Pluses: Hyatt Place does offer a nice breakfast and with us being a family of 5 that would help cut some of the costs. But is it worth giving up "prime location" that the Grand Hyatt offers?

Anyone there local or been there that can give me some pointers/input?

Thanks!

Assuming the cost differential is not an issue, I wouldn't think twice before selecting the Grand Hyatt (or, a block or so away, the Hyatt/8th.) The Hyatt Place's location is a real minus in my book - surrounded by featureless streets with a lot of traffic (really, a lot) as well as a bunch of parking lots (but the best car wash in town - woo hoo) and a fair schlep from everything except the Space Needle and monorail.

Whereas, the Grand Hyatt is in the middle of things - restaurants, theaters, shopping, a walk to the Pike Market/waterfront, inside the "free" bus zone (the Hyatt Place isn't) and, not inconsequential, one of the best hotels in the city, versus a comfortable enough but much more motel-like environment at the Hyatt Place.

It's good news that the Hyatt Place would offer you their shuttle. The bad news is that you'd need it - all the time.

Any hotel within the free bus zone or within 2 blocks would be better. http://metro.kingcounty.gov/tops/bus...attle-rfa.html

I'm local. Grand Hyatt, no contest! You are correct in reading the map that the other is quite a bit north of the central part of downtown, not easily walkable to the places you'll likely want to go like Pike Place Market, Waterfront, etc. Plus Hyatt Place sits on a busy main street (near to Denny and where the old Hwy 99/Aurora Blvd heads north). Just not a very attractive part of town. That's why they have to give you free breakfast -lol!

Thanks everyone! I was thinking I should stick with the Grand Hyatt - and will! Free breakfast isn't worth the location.

This board is always helpful!

If staying downtown, you should really walk down to the Pike market for breakfast anyway. Best time of the day, numerous great breakfast places.

Hyatt Place is located in a "transitional" neighborhood. I'm sorry I can't suggest where to get a good, reasonably priced breakfast in the retail core.

HTTY

Like Gardyloo says, all kinds of cute places for breakfast in the Pike Place Market. Lowell's and Athenian are old-timey diners with a water view. Le Panier french bakery has tables to sit and both savory and sweet stuff plus coffee. Bacco on 1st Avenue (just above the Market) is excellent and a nice atmosphere.