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Arctic Club Hotel
Category: Event Planning & Services Hotels Hotels & Travel Hotels Hotels [Edit]
700 3rd Ave(between Cherry St & Columbia St)
Seattle, WA 98104
Neighborhood: Pioneer Square
(206) 340-0340
- Price Range:
-
$$$
- Accepts Credit Cards:
- Yes
- Wi-Fi:
- Paid
76 reviews for Arctic Club Hotel
Review Highlights
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"Be sure to spend some time lounging in the Polar Bar." In 8 reviews -
"10) Nice warm chocolate chip cookie to welcome you..." In 4 reviews -
"The link light rail also has a stop right next door." In 6 reviews
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76 reviews in English
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Review from Leanne F.
Olympia, WA
4/6/2012
If I could live in this hotel, I would...
First of all, valet parking is the bomb. Yes, you have to pay for it, but pulling up to a beautiful, historic building in the heart of Seattle without the hassle of finding a parking space is fantastic. Having someone else pull the luggage from your car, escort you to the lobby, all the while calling you ma'am and sir, is heavenly. Check-in was quick, and within minutes of our arrival we were in our room..."the" room of all hotel rooms.
I live in an old house (1927) and am a sucker for all things vintage and laden with character. This room did NOT disappoint! The ceilings were ridiculously high (in a good way, maybe 20 feet?), and bordered with delicious dark wood molding. The room itself wasn't huge, but certainly large enough for our one night stay-it was also decorated beautifully, with furniture specific to a different place in time. The bathroom was so lovely, I took pictures so that I can someday replicate it in my own home. Our concierge gave us a brief history of the hotel while we marveled at all of this eye candy. The bed, and linens, appeared to be of high quality (which I confirmed later), and the bathroom linens were nice as well.
The wedding we attended that evening took place in The Arctic Club's dome room-really, one of the most beautiful venues I've ever attended a wedding in. Between the ceremony and the reception, guests were able to get a drink and appetizers in the lobby's Polar Club-the ambiance was perfect, and the waitstaff and bar tenders on point. When we returned to the dome room, we were treated to fantastic service and a pretty good meal (my salmon wasn't spectacular, but my husband's New York strip was perfectly cooked-and very big!). We had a great night celebrating great people, and when I finally crashed in our cozy bed after midnight, I was a very satisfied woman!
Since last Saturday, I have been informing family and friends of our wonderful experience at the Arctic Club-and trying to create reasons to revisit it. I must admit, the location isn't fantastic-there are no views, at least not from our room, and the daytime traffic noise was a bit much. But when I think of all the hotels I've patronized in my lifetime, it was far and away the most charming and comfortable experience I've ever had. Thank you Arctic Club, for making a Saturday night wedding a wonderful experience to remember! -
Review from Chris C.
4/4/2012 10 Check-ins Here
This is a very nicely updated historic hotel. The rooms are very nicely done and have extra fancy features that most Hilton family hotels don't have. I especially liked the large bathroom with whirlpool tub and super nice shower head. The room was very quiet although I was at the end of the hall on the top floor which probably helped. The staff were very friendly and went out of their way to provide excellent service. I also really enjoyed both the bar and restaurant in the hotel which was a nice bonus.
The only thing I didn't care for is that the location is a bit weird. Its right on the edge of what I guess could be considered a bad or at least not nice neighborhood. It also was a bit more of a walk than I expected to Belltown which is where I spend most of my time. -
Review from R J.
Snohomish, WA
12/18/2011
This hotel in Downtown Seattle is .....interesting. First, the downside..: If you get a room there, go for the top floors if you can. The problem with downtown, any downtown is the noise from the streets below. The Arctic is located between third and fourth avenue, the main drags to and from the city for the buses. This building, although mostly modern technology throughout, certainly lacks a bit in the soundproofing catagory. If this kind of racket doesnt bother you, dont worry about it.
We arrived on an early Saturday evening right in the middle of a wedding party on the main floor. The reception desk people had to yell at you to be heard. When we returned to the hotel later that evening after a night out, the wedding had happened and now you had a hotel full of totally drunk (open bar) on their ass late-20 somthings running the place. Its annoying, especially if you're not in the party.
Ok, upside...Nice decor and everything seemed to work fine. The beds are a bit firm but I've slept on far worse. The restoration kept the feel of the old gentelmens club in place. Even though they own and operate it, it didn't get wrecked and made ultra modern by being "Hiltoned-up".
The house resteraunt, (Juno) is good for dinnner, ok for breakfast. Pricy as hell though. The headliner item on the breakfast menu was a crabcake eggs benedict. I love eggs anything so I gave it a go. It arrived barely luke warm and more or less cold in the center. Everyone elses selections seemed to be just fine however. Dinner the night before I ordered a ribeye steak that was excellent. Well prepared and not gushyed up with decorative crap that no one actually eats.
The Arctic will likely not be on my favorites list next time we go to the big city but that doesnt preclude me from wanting to give it another go. Its a nice place if you can tolerate some of the minor pitfalls of staying in a very old but nicely refurbished building.. -
Review from Hans D.
Beverly Hills, CA
10/29/2011
The Polar Bar, on the other hand, is one of the best bars we've encountered in a long while. I believe most of this (if not all of it) is due to Viktor the bartender. Viktor is attentive, friendly, helpful, and a wealth of knowledge relating to the Arctic Club hotel. His drinks are delicious and well served. If you like Absynthe, Viktor will put on a show!
Don't forget to view the Ballroom ceiling on the 3rd floor!
We look forward to returning to Seattle and to our new favorite hotel, the Arctic Club and favorite bar and bartender! -
Review from Lynn V.
9/26/2011
Even though this hotel was under the DoubleTree chain, it definitely felt like a boutique hotel. Upon entering the hotel, I saw the decor and furniture and it was classic 1920s. So cute! I loved it. Their customer service was spot on and attentive. We were early for check-in so we hung out in the bar area which had a pool table and games you could play! We played chess to pass the time and enjoyed the warm complimentary cookies. Our room was a bit small, but it was fine since we barely spent anytime there. The bathroom was spacious though! Comfy bed and nice flat panel TV. My only complaint is that the AC made a loud noise whenever it was on. They have a nice little gym that was open 24 hours a day. We worked out one night after overindulging in all the yummy goodness that Seattle has to offer. It was nice because we were the only ones in the gym.
This hotel has a very convenient location. 10 minute walk to Pike's Place and the waterfront and 15 minute walk to all of the shopping! I'd definitely stay here again. -
Review from Tamara A.
Bellevue, WA
3/5/2012
I am a local wedding planner, and had helped with a wedding at The Arctic Club this past weekend. The staff were more than helpful every step of the way, and what a gorgeous wedding venue!!! The photos look amazing, and I can't wait to plan and coordinate another wedding here:) LOVE!
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Review from Bud F.
9/3/2011
White glove service, uniquely decorated rooms that are comfortable and cozy.
We were very pleased with the quality of furnishings and decor and the bed and bathroom were particularly nice. We slept well and the room was very quiet, despite the central location. Everything was within easy walking distance. This is one of those service-oriented hotels where every time you approach a door, someone is there, or jumps there, to open it for you and where gratuities are handled one time at checkout, very nice. Reminded me very much of the service at the Pan Pacific or the Ritz in SF, but at about half the price, which was surprising, as Seattle is not exactly cheap. So, pretty happy, will likely return. -
Review from Mike A.
Santa Clarita, CA
8/11/2011
Came into town early for an Alaskan Cruise. Had a Corner King room pre paid weeks in advance, they gave me a balcony room instead ( I don't care what they say , NO UPGRADE ) Don't do the balcony. It's 3' feet of space outside your room that is more of a pigeon roost with 2 chairs and a small table than anything else. While sitting on Balcony NO VIEW , you need to stand to see anything.
The hotel is an OLD gentleman's club with some history ( i guess ) and way overpriced restaurant and lounge. staff in lounge not too friendly.
Overall ... LOVE THE CITY / Downtown area NEVER AGAIN @ Arctic Club Doubletree -
Review from Albert Y.
Santa Clara, CA
10/3/2011
Adjacent to the historic Pioneer Square district (James Street Light Rail station; $5 cab fare to Pike Place market or free downtown bus service) this gem was much nicer than we had imagined. From unique architectural cues inside and outside the building to excellent amenities in the public rooms and guest rooms, we give this hotel 4-stars!
We visited Seattle for my wife's birthday this past weekend. Seattle is one of our favorite cities and our sister recently relocated there. So, it was a cinch to visit the "Emerald City" for a nice long weekend. We normally stay in one of the more (city) central high-rise hotels, but were disappointed in the availability and pricing as of late. How pleased we were to have found this beautiful hotel to have been so easily accessible and reasonably priced!
The staff are extremely eager to please and always greeted us with a smile and offer for help. There are two bars associated with the hotel: the Juno restaurant & bar on the ground floor and the Polar Bar on the 2nd or main floor (adjacent to the main lobby).
We only enjoyed breakfast at the Juno bar, but were generally pleased with the food and service.
The Polar Bar, on the other hand, is one of the best bars we've encountered in a long while. I believe most of this (if not all of it) is due to Viktor the bartender. Viktor is attentive, friendly, helpful, and a wealth of knowledge relating to the Arctic Club hotel. His drinks are delicious and well served. If you like Absynthe, Viktor will put on a show!
Don't forget to view the Ballroom ceiling on the 3rd floor!
We look forward to returning to Seattle and to our new favorite hotel, the Arctic Club and favorite bar and bartender! -
Review from Spencer W.
Laguna Beach, CA
1/25/2012
Enjoyed. Cookies, classic design and french press coffee in room! Surprised and late to work meeting because I couldn't stop sippin!
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Review from Jessica D.
Seattle, WA
4/11/2011
One of the nicest vintage hotels I've ever stayed in.
It doesn't look or feel like a Doubletree and in fact, I wouldn't have known it was had they not given me their signature cookie upon arriving. (and who says no to a cookie!)
I have lived in Seattle for almost 15 years and never knew this place existed. It is a true gem, inside and out.
The lobby has a gigantic area for sitting that includes a nice bar. The guest rooms are spacious with incredibly tall ceilings and lots of gorgeous detail from unique furniture to stunning molding. The bathroom was beautiful and huge! The dome room is a sight to see!
The staff were all amazing and helpful.
The place is walking distance to everything but also has a bus tunnel across the street if you just want to take a free ride two stops over to downtown center.
Great stay and can't wait to come back! A tad spendier per night than our normal choices, but worth every penny. -
Review from Thanh L.
10/6/2011
I've stayed in A LOT of hotels, but rarely have I stayed in a 4-star hotel. Being that I was on vacation, I would be dumb to not stay at a 4-star vs. any other hotel. I read up a little on the hotel's history and was expecting something a little more extravagant. The hotel theme is pretty awesome and the rooms are definitely unique, but there were just too many things that went wrong. All of us agreed that the beds were really uncomfortable, which was totally unexpected and disappointing. We were on the 7th floor and the toilet did not work...we had to call TWICE to get it fixed properly. It turned out to be a water pressure issue, which I feel like should've been worked out BEFORE guests arrive. There is no bathroom vent. The electric kettle was broken and had to be replaced. The fridge, air conditioning, and traffic-noises were really loud. Also, there is no pool or jacuzzi here. However, they do have a pool TABLE you can use for free.
Customer service was great and responded to our complaints/requests within minutes! Also the lobby and the reception areas were really nice and definitely 4-star. Too bad the actual accomodations were so bad. If this wasn't a reward stay, the Arctic Club and I would have to take it outside.Listed in: Seattle Eats
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Review from Anthony C.
New York, NY
1/21/2011
The thing that impressed me most about the Arctic Club (Doubletree) was the staff. Randy and his counterparts were genuinely friendly; I was somewhat blown away with how exceptional everything was in terms of service. We even got vouchers for breakfast at Juno, the restaurant downstairs for each morning of the stay. The hotel was very clean, and the room was spacious. The only thing this place is short on is extra amenities but it does have 2 bars.
Though I do walk greater distances, I could get to the stadiums, Space Needle, waterfront, Pike's Market, and Capitol Hill from here. Well, I was able to walk back easily (steep) from Capitol Hill! The link light rail also has a stop right next door. Do not take a taxi from SeaTac; the light rail is only $2.50 and runs every 10-15 minutes during most of the day.
This place is in the U.S. National Register of Historic Places having been a club for Arctic explorers during the early 1900s. Be sure to check out the ballroom on the third floor which is a tribute to that era with the fancy glass and ceiling. Also, notice the walruses, made of terra cotta, on the outside of the building. Before the Arctic Club, this was also the site of he Seattle Theatre. -
Review from Megan M.
Pomona, CA
3/7/2012
My fiance and I are originally from Washington and considered this hotel as a wedding venue. We recently flew up to visit venues in Seattle and Portland, and had high hopes for the Arctic Club. Upon arrival, the first thing my fiance and mom commented on was the musky old carpet smell as you enter the dome room (my fiance referred to the carpet at "ratty"). The hotel itself is kind of dark and the location is not desirable for out of town guests. I was so in love with the ceiling and my vision for our special day that I was willing to overlook these things.
Then reality set in. The Arctic Club does not seem customer service oriented and that is very important to us, especially for an occasion like this. Their sales and catering coordinator seemed disinterested in working with us, and their pricing was inflexible. Their overall cost was only slightly less than the Four Seasons, which had a much better location and customer service. Their $3000 site rental fee seems unwarranted, especially for date that is at the tail end of wedding season and a venue that does not allow outside catering. We are planning a Saturday wedding for 150 guests, and every location we spoke with offered to completely waive their rental fee. The Arctic Club would not offer ANY incentives unless we held our wedding on a Sunday! Their idea of a Sunday discount was $1000 off the rental price. Maybe they were holding out for an even larger group, but their tactics seem shortsighted because more than 100 of our guests will require hotel rooms for 2 nights.
There are many other locations in Seattle with better value and customer service. Maybe the Arctic Club will have to improve their service when they realize how much competition is out there! In the meantime, if you are considering this as a wedding venue I recommend shopping around first. -
Review from Karen B.
East Lansing, MI
1/23/2011
A beautiful, well-appointed hotel. I took a star off for the incredible noise. My companion had a second floor room facing 3rd and said the traffic noise was terrible. My room was behind the elevator shaft and the noise was equally disturbing. When booking, request to be away from these spots.
Even though the king bed rooms were very small, the decor, cleanliness and features more than made up for it.
I agree with earlier reviewer Anthony C. about Randy--so helpful and knowlegable of the area. He and the other staff made me want to move in! This hotel is well located and is in easy walking distance of Pioneer Square and Central Waterfront. Be sure to spend some time lounging in the Polar Bar. See separate review on that. -
Review from Nique F.
3/31/2011 3 photos
Do not even think of this hotel as a Doubletree. Besides the signature cookie at check-in, you would think you're at a classy historic boutique hotel (which you basically are - Doubletree bought out the Arctic Club Hotel and kept everything the same. Thank God!)
Everything about the Arctic Club is grandiose, a bit over the top. The rooms are tricked out with faux-antique decor to match the nicely restored old tiles and fixtures. The rooms are quite spacious with huge windows with great views of the city (from the 7th floor anyway). The bathrooms are so beautifully done, you'd think you were royalty aboard the Titanic.
The bar downstairs is a seriously posh, yet low key, way to end the night. Cozy up with a cocktail by the fire, or your own corner of the "living room" bar. Breakfast at Juno was great too - a nice step up from the usual Hilton buffet.
The whole property has a "special occasion" feel to it, so if you're looking for an out of the ordinary hotel experience, you're sure to find it at the Arctic Club. -
Review from Mike B.
Austin, TX
5/9/2011
Decided to stay here mainly because I'm a fan of Doubletree, however as others have mentioned it does not look or feel like a doubletree. It feels like a vintage boutique hotel, which is fantastic! It also has a great location in Pioneer Square. It is adjacent to the light rail station, which makes travel to the airport very easy. It is also adjacent to major bus routes. Let me say, you should quickly become a fan of the bus service in the downtown area. It is free and very easy to get around.
The hotel lobby is gorgeous! It feels like a time warp. The bar area is classy and dignified. -
Review from Ali N.
Auburn, WA
7/15/2011
I was very disappointed in my experience at the Arctic Club. I was hosting a corporate holiday party and made arrangements with the hotel ahead of time to have an account set up with direct billing for room, tax and parking. When my guests arrived at the hotel, they were told that they would have to pay with a credit card. When I arrived at the hotel, I brought the contract and showed them that it was set up for direct billing. They called the sales manager to confirm, and agreed to correct all of the guests in my party. At the holiday party, I assured my guests that they wouldn't be charged after all. However, the following morning, we all received a bill under our doors that we would be charged for parking. I went to the front desk and asked about it, and was told it was a mistake and would be corrected.
However, it has been four days since the party, and I still have a pending charge from the hotel sitting on my account.
Then today, the sales manager called me to inform me that they would need to charge the master account to a credit card since we didn't pre-pay. Nothing had ever been said before about needing pre-payment or charging the master account to a credit card, and I hadn't even received a final invoice! I told her that wouldn't be possible and I would send a check once I received the bill. She checked with her accounting department and finally agreed to accept that.
The hotel itself is nice enough. The rooms are kind of small and a guest in my party complained about being able to hear the neighboring room, but the room was clean and comfortable. If it weren't for the terrible service we received from everyone except the valet, I would give this hotel a higher rating. As it is, my company will not be using this hotel in the future, and I would recommend against staying there. -
Review from Graham C.
12/7/2010 2 Check-ins Here
Stayed at this Doubletree this past weekend based on recommendations from here and TA. I was not disappointed. This is a great old hotel with really unique charms and a must for any walrus enthusiast.
The room was nice and large with really cool amenities. There's a flat screen TV, sound system with a dock for your IPod/IPhone, and even a collection of small office supplies in the desk. The bathroom had a jacuzzi tub and there's a toilet behind a door separate from the sink and tub. As a Diamond member, we got free breakfast and a room on the top floor which meant a small balcony that was semi-private with the other rooms on that side of the hotel.
I'm taking off a star for the noise. The mini bar was so loud I had to unplug it in the middle of the night. The HVAC vent also banged after the air conditioner switched on or off. Like Jeff said, DTs are usually bland hotels. This one however hit it out of the park. -
Review from Susan L.
9/19/2011 2 Check-ins Here
The Artic Club is offically a Hilton Doubletree property, but it is not a normal double tree. It use to be a club for the men who made money on the gold rushes of the northwest and Alaska. The common areas of the hotel are beautiful and the rooms are very comfortable. It is also in a great location on 3rd street where it is easy to get on most public transportation. If you want a modern hotel with an old world feel, this is a great hotel. The staff was great too. I would definately consider staying there again the next time I was in Seattle.
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Review from Jess C.
San Diego, CA
11/21/2011 1 Check-in Here
Best Hotel I've ever stayed in hands down! they give you warm fresh chocolate chip cookies at check in and have fluffy bathrobes waiting for you in the room! LUV IT!!!
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Review from Rose B.
Auburn, WA
2/14/2011 5 Check-ins Here
I really enjoyed my stay here! We had a king size bed, no jacuzzi tub though. Our room looked onto the street and was on the 6th floor.
I love the art deco stylings. The staff were also very polite and courteous.
If you're looking for a quiet night's rest, this isn't a good place to stay. I mean, this is in the city and in a busy downtown district. I slept fine and hardly noticed the city noise.
One negative (which is what lost the hotel a star): I lost the end of a high heal (the spike part) in the elevator grooves. We looked but couldn't find it. -
Review from Nadir K.
Bellevue, WA
2/23/2012
You get what you pay for. If you want a place that is not overrun with loud annoying people and a classy cocktail this is your place. The prices for the drinks were high but the value is there. This place is not for the cheap.
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Review from Jeff F.
11/6/2010
You have to be comfortable with the Arctic Club Motif . I was and liked the Klondike Vintage style that they've meticulously maintained.
Let's face it - Doubletrees are generally crap hotels, but within all the Doubletree properties there a few gems that make you think, how is this a Doubletree (run into the same thing with Sheraton's SPG brand)?
This is one of those hotels - without question best Hilton property to stay at in Seattle unless you like old Hilton towers. Quick thoughts:
- .76 Mb/s down for internet - decent http://www.speedtest.n...
- Juno is solid for breakfast
- Polar Bar is worth checking out for a drink and maybe a quick game of pool
- Get a corner room - it'll make all the difference
Would absolutely stay here again and recommend to business travelers. -
Review from Brad E.
Mukilteo, WA
2/13/2011
This place manages to be historically significant without being all that interesting...
I'm not sure how it does this it just does.
There are a few niceties like the tile in the bathrooms and the ornate toilets but what stands out to me is that the guestrooms are a little small.
I've seen other reviews that complain about the noise but nothing bothered us (even though we were near the elevator and there was a wedding party present).
The hotel was fine I was just expecting something a little more unique. -
Review from Jessica T.
San Francisco, CA
8/10/2009
This past weekend I went to the Gorge for my first Phish concert. Ever.
I was excited about the music. Excited for the random drum circles. Vendors. Sun. Beauty.
But I was not looking forward to the shortage of showers. The porta-potties. Dried out hair. Grime. Dirt.
And so thankfully after waking up at 5:00am for a 7:00am flight with three hours of sleep, we were able to share our friend's hotel room at the Arctic Club hotel.
I had no expectations. I was just excited about a bed. A shower. And some free toiletries.
But once I stepped foot in the Arctic Club's lobby, guarded by intricate stone carved walruses on the statuesque outside - I was instantly impressed.
The door guys were beyond sweet and helpful. The guy behind the desk - checked us in early, made sure to brief us on all of the best spots to get food in the area, gave us a map, and of course smiled as he handed us two of their famous hot Double-Tree cookies.
The lobby was beautiful. Muted greens and yellows, cast in burgundy dim lighting with old school charm. I loved it.
The room was a decent size. Clean. Decorated simply but well, and stocked with a plethora of Neutrogena items - including moisturizer with 45 SPF (proved very handy once we made it out to The Gorge). Probably coupled with the fact I was a hot-just-got off the plane-mess, the bed itself was heaven.
The sheets were soft. High quality and the pillows were in abundance. The thick quality ones - that feel perfect to hug at night.
In between devouring our hot cookies, we tried on the robes hung in the closet - kicked off our shoes - and I proceeded to indulge in some of the most wonderful sleep I've ever had in a hotel room.
Throughout our very brief stay here - the staff were responsive and kind. They were quick to bring up toothbrushes, combs, extra pillows, and towels, and always said hi and bye when we left and entered.
For my first visit to Seattle - I couldn't have asked for a better hotel experience. Arctic club represented. And it was the perfect place to start my Gorge experience. It was ideal for stocking up on sample tolietries, fitting in some much needed sleep, and scrubbing myself clean before descending into Phishdom. -
Review from Nish N.
1/24/2010 3 Check-ins Here
I did a 2-night stint at the Arctic Club Hotel last week, and for the most part it was a grand experience. It's hard to argue with the historic charm of the place (it was designed in 1916 by the architect A. Warren Gould for members of the Arctic Club, who were veterans of the Alaskan gold rush), and the sepia photos of the club's founders, the clubby leather chairs and the walrus heads on the exterior of the building all add a timeless swelligance.
The rooms are well-appointed, in a classic sense, with some of the standard amenities savvy business travelers have come to expect. Still, it's a faded glamor that pervades, and that's ok.
Even if you're not a guest of the hotel, the Polar Bar is worth a martini or two, although they do stop serving drinks on weekdays at 11pm?!Listed in: Nishless in Seattle
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Review from Marc A.
9/20/2009 3 photos
It's the wedding weekend of KTPower's sister and this is the wedding party hotel. You could make a case that when the Double Tree took over this boutique hotel it changed.... I would say not. If anything the chocolate chip cookies they give you when you check in is worth the take over alone!
The rooms are spacious. The help is a perfect 10. The service is charming.
About the hotel: The city bought the hotel in 1971 from the defunct private Arctic Club - wealthy gold miners. Last year right before the recession investors bought the building from the city and opened it as a hotel. Money in, money gone and they soon sold to the Double Tree. After $25m in renovations the hotel still has that boutique feeling with big backing. Enjoy! -
Review from Tiffany B.
Seattle, WA
9/9/2010
I'm a little torn between 2 and 3 stars, so I'll just give it a 2.5.
I've only been here for a wedding, so this review is just for the Dome Room. The room itself is very nice and has a lot of character. But the wait staff and catering... not so nice. It might have been a fluke night, but then again maybe not.
The food took forever to come out! I'm talking almost an hour after everyone was seated. I had steak and it came with a potato gratin. The portions were very good, but the steak was over cooked and the potatoes were still crunchy. Everyone at our table of 9 had the same results. The salad was bearable, and the cake slice was super tiny. I noticed that at the tables that were served first got huge pieces of cake, but the slices got smaller and smaller as they served more table. Whoever cut the cake didn't plan very well.
I have yet to stay in one of the rooms. I probably will one day, but I'm definitely not going to order room service! -
Review from K L.
San Jose, CA
12/19/2009
LOVED THIS HOTEL! It had every amenity I needed when I traveled here on business this week. Let's start:
1) Friendly staff
2) Good bar and lounge area with free computer/printer
3) Ipod docking stereo, DVD player and Flat screen TV (wish I brought netflix to watch)
4) Comfy bathrobes
5) Comfortable bed with ample bedding (nice and warm too)
6) Beautifully restored to its early 1900's glamour (once was a gentlemen's club post Alaskan gold rush era)
7) Snacks you want to eat in bar with fridge (reasonably priced)
8) Office supplies (tape, scissors, stapler in desk)
9) Great cocktail specials which I needed after a long day at work!!! bartender was very nice and accommodating.
10) Nice warm chocolate chip cookie to welcome you (includes nuts)
I'll be staying here again soon. My room was reasonably priced since Doubletree took the place over. I even scored Hilton Honors points. The hotel is just a stone's throw from Pike's Marketplace and near the financial district and local hospitals. -
Review from Mark K.
Seattle, WA
1/30/2009
This is the spot if you want to enjoy a drink and feel like you've stepped back to the 40s in Chicago. The renovation went into a lot of detailing to restore it's historical charm.
Cons are that there is no Happy Hour specials to note and seating is pretty limited. Also, no patio options. -
Review from Lisa C.
Seattle, WA
7/30/2009 4 photos
Can I just move in? No really! I want to move in to my adorable little room I spent the night in, with it's big club chair and awesome bedroom.
We decided to take a break from the heat and get a hotel room for the night. Luckily Mitchell booked the room at the Artic Club. This place is incredible and oozes cool. Literally. The main lobby was really nice, the valet and person at the front desk were wonderful. But it was the cool air and warm chocolate chip cookie that hooked me.
Our room, while small was just perfect. I don't know the last time I slept so well in a hotel bed, it wasn't really soft - it actually had some firmness to it, which was great. All the furniture is in 20's style with club chairs and nice art deco dresser and desk. The icing on the cake was the pictures of native americans and a map of the world that gave the room a very Out of Africa feel. In fact I think this what Denys' room looked like.
Our bathroom was great, large with a very nice vanity and large shower with a big rain shower head. The door was great - looks like an old school detective door with a frosted glass window saying BATH.
The room service was also pretty good. Supplied by Juno restaurant downstairs. I had the pasta and prawn dish - which I enjoyed, we share the spinach salad - which was an interest combination of flavors - pears, bacon, candied walnut, pickled onion, raspberry, tomato. Mitchell had the caprese sandwich which he thought was good.
My only complaint was the breakfast - the fruit salad was really good. But they menu said 2 eggs - we only got one and we had planned on sharing breakfast - and our coffee came with a ton of splenda and sweet n' low, but only 3 or 4 packets of sugar in the raw. I mean come on, who's going to use 10 packets of splenda in their morning coffee?
It's a great place to spend a romantic (but expensive) night - I can't wait to go back! -
Review from Laura O.
Seattle, WA
8/4/2008
I didn't realize that this hotel was brand new- I thought it was around for some time since it was obvious they were working on renovating the building.
Anyway- the doormen were very professional and nice. Our check-in was smooth. We were informed about continental breakfast offered in the mornings. Our room was nice and comfortable with big windows.
Our first morning, we went down for breakfast. The open room where breakfast was hosted was somewhat dark. The front desk staff helped me figure out where to go check out for the morning before my appointment.
Our second morning, we went down for breakfast and saw nothing available. When we inquired about it, we were told that they cancelled breakfast because Juno (which is inside the hotel) now offered breakfast. We were annoyed because we did not get any warning the day before about the changes. We had a bad experience with our breakfast at Juno. You can read about it in the Juno report.
My issues with the hotel is that 1) there was only one working elevator since the other one as being "worked on" so it took forever for an elevator to be available. (We took the stairs down since it was faster but we wanted to use the elevator to go up the room since the room was on the 7th floor.) 2) it was dark in the lobby and sitting area. I know they were trying to have this image to appeal to an audience visiting Seattle- but during the day time- have a little more light inside!! 3) The cancellation of continental breakfast without communicating it to the guests the day prior and not giving current guests a pass to try out Juno was bad customer service and 4) there were lack of signs to let us know where the doors for the stairs are and the stairs lead you outside instead of to the lobby area. -
Review from Michael W.
New York, NY
3/30/2009
It's my first night here and I absolutely love this place already. Best and most accommodating hotel I've been to in Seattle hands down. The hotel itself has a nice old feel to it. Great theme. The hotel room itself is extremely clean. Great spacious rooms with a nice bathroom.
The thing that won me over was the friendliness of the staff. Its great that they open the doors for you and call you sir, but its even more awesome that they'll offer to shine your shoes themselves on their spare time since their shoe shining service isn't ready yet. Great service guys. You guys hired the right people.
Definitely will stay here next time I comeback to Seattle. -
Review from Abby Y.
Houston, TX
8/20/2009
I love this hotel!
After completing a 7-night Alaskan cruise and sleeping on the cruise ship bed for 7 nights, the hubby and I wanted nothing more than to have a spacious room, a bathroom where we didn't hit our elbows on everything with every turn, and a bed that made you say "AHHH!" when you laid down.
Thank goodness for the Arctic Club Hotel.
Upon entering, we were greeted by a very courteous staff and walls and walls of black and white pictures of men in tuxedos. Behind the front desk, there were cases with old beaver pelt top hats. I finally caved and asked what all this was about. Well to our surprise, we were told that this hotel was once a gentleman's club until the 1970s! That theme continues on through the dark wood finishes, the masculine furniture, and the blue doors! There were even "Intimacy kits" in the mini bar!
The bathroom was clean...I mean, there wasn't a single stain on the shower curtain! Not only was it clean, but it was HUGE! Did I mention that they had Neutrogena toiletries? *score!*
The bed was inviting and soft. The sheets were white and crisp and left you not wanting to get out from beneath their soft embrace.
My first trip to Seattle was short, but this hotel kept me feeling warm and comfortable. What more can you ask from a hotel? We'll definitely be staying here again. -
Review from Mat B.
San Diego, CA
11/22/2008
This is one of those places that is cool in theory/on paper, but something that is hard to put your finger on sets it slightly askew. In reality, I would give it 3.5 stars, but ill round up.
The good: rooms are very cozy. The entirety of the room feels like a comfy overstuffed couch. It is very well appointed, with the Kiehls products and flat screen TV. The rooms are also brand new, as of this year.
The bellhops are beyond friendly and helpful. I really wish I remember their names, one in particular...just great, helpful gentlemen.
The bar downstairs is AMAZING. It's like a hunting lodge, but not redneck. Big fireplace, great bartenders, great ambiance in general. If I lived in Seattle, this would be a main haunt of mine.
The bad: as of September 08, this hotel was not finished. Period. Lots of dust, broken elevators, noisy construction, etc. The parking situation is terrible. I am accustomed to paying for parking, but 40$ a night is excessive, especially if you are paying ~250 a night to stay here.
Is this a 4/5 star hotel? Yes, probably. Its just not quite "there" yet. Wherever "there" is. It was like a nice painting that never quite looks centered on your wall.
But dude, what an awesome bar. -
Review from Jaci D.
Seattle, WA
8/26/2008
What an amazing hotel!!!! From the very first moment you drive up to the valet (beware... $38 for overnight parking) to the doorman, you feel like you have stepped back into time. The building is on the national historic society list and has been renevated to make you feel like it would have in 1917, which is when it originally opened as a mens club.
There are only two elevators, which is the only thing I didn't like about the place, as it can feel like you're waiting a long time. But with the great 20's music playing... just take it all in and enjoy yourself when you're waiting... and waiting.... and waiting for the elevator.
The views are spectacular, the amenities are top of the line, just such a cool place! This is in the heart of the financial district and bordering Pioneer Square, so mind you there will be sirens at night. But, if you want a true city hotel... this is it! -
Review from Leonardo H.
Seattle, WA
1/20/2009
This review is for the bar only....and I guess the building itself as a whole.
It is a beautifully restored early-1900s building with great interiors.
Pool table, comfy couches, classy-looking bar, this place almost calls for a tux and dress. I definitely dig the old-fashioned classy atmosphere.
I'm an old-fashioned drinker, too, so I LOVE my Old-Fashioned. I've been hunting for a place that can make good Old-Fashioned, and let me tell you, it's not easy in Seattle. But this place delivered. They're also one of the few places in Seattle that serve absinthe. I was told the food there is fairly decent == next time. I always feel weird about bars or restaurants that are attached to a hotel. Usually a different crowd, mostly guests who are staying at the hotel. But this is one place I can see myself going every now and then.
I also took a peek of the ballroom on the second floor = gorgeous. -
Review from Marcella F.
Portland, OR
4/2/2009
This place is amazing. I'm not sure if we got a special deal online, but it was only about $100 for this gorgeous boutique hotel within walking distance to everything. My husband and I took the train from Portland and walked directly to the hotel. They gave us a room at noon (3 hours early) and were incredibly professional and nice.
The room was smallish, but sooo incredibly CLEAN. I would have eaten off the floor! It felt like we were the first guests to have ever stayed there. Big screen flat TV, French press coffee, Neutrogena products. . it felt like a $300 hotel for a third of the price. I can't wait to go back again. -
Review from Yiling W.
10/23/2009
This review is only for the hotel bar:
Tasty truffle fries for $8 at the hotel bar. They make a good bellini too. Don't bother with the overpriced prawns (4 per order). Service is good too, and the bathrooms were classy and impeccably clean.Listed in: Drink Destinations
