Alexis Hotel

Two historic buildings near the waterfront feature exposed brick, walls of windows, and nouveau-baroque accents to appeal to aesthetes and modern romantics. Alexis’ eclectic style nods to a bygone era while amenities include high-tech touches like Amazon Echo Dots in rooms and a cutting-edge gym. The hotel’s charming Bookstore Bar is one of the city's favorite hideaways—whiskey aficionados should check out their impressive selection, including flights.

Alexis is part of the stylish Kimpton brand. Sign up for the hotel's Karma Rewards program for free Wi-Fi and a $10 voucher for in-room snacks or booze. The hotel also hosts a complimentary daily wine hour.

room

Ornate upholstered headboards, rococo gold mirrors, and black leather chairs pair perfectly with the hotel’s original architecture, which dates to 1901, while stainless steel accents, quirky lighting, and modern artwork keep it current. A soothing palette of browns, creams, and light blues is enlivened by pops of red and royal blue. The hotel’s specialty suites include features like exposed brick walls and contemporary four-poster beds. The Fireplace Suites are especially chic, with a wood-burning fireplace and a private bedroom tucked behind glass French doors, while the SAM Suite features a rotating selection of artwork from the Seattle Art Museum handpicked by a curator.

Historical tidbit: In the early 90s, the Sultan of Brunei decided to move into Alexis for a few months. He booked the entire hotel, redecorating his suite to his liking, and generously tipped the entire staff when he moved out.

YOU SHOULD KNOW Some of the rooms have a den-like vibe, meaning they’re low on natural light, despite the large windows.

Photo: Kimpton Alexis Hotel guestroom / David Phelps

Photo: Kimpton Alexis Hotel guestroom / David Phelps

Photo: Kimpton Alexis Hotel guestroom / N/A

Photo: Kimpton Alexis Hotel bathroom / N/A

bathroom

Simple bathrooms feature white subway tile, black-and-white marble counters, and luxury Atelier Bloem amenities. Consider splurging on the Spa Suite if an oversized two-person jacuzzi tub and a separate walk-in shower sound appealing.

Photo: Kimpton Alexis Hotel bathroom / N/A

Photo: Kimpton Alexis Hotel lobby / David Phelps

lobby

With soaring ceilings and substantial crown molding, the Alexis lobby is a standout. Behind the dark wood check-in counter, a shimmering panel of glass is backlit in a subtle violet hue, complementing the lobby’s eye-catching contemporary chandeliers and unique artwork. The accent color carries through in the baroque flourishes on a lovely rug, and in comfortable seating areas with chic chairs and sofas upholstered in a mix of classic and modern patterns.

Photo: Kimpton Alexis Hotel lobby / David Phelps

spa

Treat yourself to the tranquil Chroma Spa in person for spa and salon services, or arrange for a relaxing in-room experience.

gym

The hotel's stylish gym has won national props from magazines and pro athletes for its offerings, which include monkey bars, a bouldering wall, rings, free weights, cardio machines and more.

dining

The Bookstore Bar & Café looks exactly as you’d imagine – a worn-in spot with dark wood, moody green walls, and built-in shelves lined with books. On one side, gooseneck fixtures provide soft lighting above an exposed brick wall and a long tufted banquette and. Other booths in the eatery feature charming library table lamps. Open from breakfast through dinner, with brunch on weekends, the Bookstore serves a menu with simple but tasty fare, like wild salmon and a Mad Hatcher half-chicken. The burger is a messy hit, dripping with secret sauce and cheese on a locally baked sesame bun.

drinking

The bar part of Bookstore Bar & Cafe serves up strong cocktails with an emphasis on whiskey. The intimate space feels like it's been there for as long as the building, especially the floor-to-ceiling built-in bookcase with a library ladder.