We are going to Seattle in December for a weekend. Going to a Basketball game at Alaska Airlines Arena, want to take in downtown and Pikes Market. Any suggestions for a good location that would be fun and easy to get from airport and to these locations? Hope to stay in the $150/night range, if possible. Thanks.

The light rail makes it really easy (and fun) to go from th eairport to downtown. there are a number of hotels within easy walking distance of the various station stops downtown, but for access to Pike Place market you probably want Westlake Station. the Mayflower park is near there, also Hotel max, and some more expensive places like the Westin and Hilton.

To get to the basketball game on the UW campus, you could take a bus; use the KCMetro website to fine the route and schedule. Lots of buses to UW start in the bus/light rail tunnel so you could pick up one at Westlake.

Fifth and Pike is the heart of the retail core (hotels, shopping, dining entertainment). Stay anywhere within a few blocks of that intersection (and as far west as 1st Avenue), and you will be well situated.

Pike Place Market stretches along 1st Avenue for a few blocks north and south of Pike Street.

You can get to the Alaska Airlines Arena by taking the #43 bus on Pike Street. During the day it departs every 15 minutes from 4th and Pike. There is also a bus stop at 6th and Pike and farther up the hill by the Convention Center.

I'm sorry I can't advise you which hotels will be offering rooms in the price range you desire.

HTTY

Note: downtown "core" area--buses are free. Getting to Pike Place Market is very easy..
Executive Hotel Pacific (midtown)usually runs $130-140.. Fair reviews--check on Trip Advisvor
My favorite downtown is Mayflower Park..((usually $200 +)so convenient to light rail & connected to 3 level Westlake shopping center...which has food court which we found very convenient.

Note: downtown "core" area--buses are free.

The ride-free area will be no longer after September 29. However, transfers can be used repeatedly during the period they are valid.

HTTY

Thanks to everyone for the information.