The Silver Cloud Inn Seattle/Downtown looks like a well-tended condo building: neat, tidy, and unexciting. A cushy beige sectional faces a cozy fireplace in the lobby, and red chaise lounges and an oversize beaded pig are whimsical touches that break up the generic earth-toned decor. Beyond this is a business center with three large-screen computer stations, printers, and an ATM. A small shop selling snacks, microwave meals, and necessities is a nice convenience, as is the coffee always available in the lobby. While the hotel hosts mostly leisure travelers, business travelers take advantage of the location close to Amazon’s main offices; proximity to the Seattle Cancer Care Alliance is a draw for patients, too.

Overlooking Lake Union, the Silver Cloud Inn Seattle/Lake Union has a quiet location that’s nevertheless convenient to downtown. The path around the lake makes a pleasant stroll, and the immediate neighborhood of Eastlake is home to posh yachts and upscale restaurants. The vibrant nightlife and entertainment of Capitol Hill is also close by. It’s an 11-minute walk to the Museum of History and Industry (MOHAI). To reach downtown, it’s a 10-minute drive, 18-minute public transit ride, or a 30- to 40-minute walk. Chihuly Garden and Glass and the Space Needle are a 10-minute drive or 26 minutes by public transit. Safeco Field is a 10-minute drive or 34 minutes by public transit, as is Kerry Park, with its iconic views of the Seattle skyline. Pike Place Market is a 13-minute drive or 16 minutes by public transit. It’s a 16-minute drive to the Museum of Flight. Seattle-Tacoma International Airport is a 20-minute drive or a 55-minute public transit ride from the hotel.

Rooms at the Silver Cloud Inn Seattle/Lake Union are spacious and pleasant, though they sport generic hotel decor and bland art. Rooms come with two queen beds or one king bed; the suite with two queen beds and a fold-out sofa is a good option for families with young children. All rooms have giant 55-inch flat-screen TVs, as well as laptop safes and free Wi-Fi, but digital clocks lack docking stations. Rooms are equipped with microwaves, mini-fridges, and coffeemakers with coffee and supplies, and some even have wet bars. Fireplaces are available, a nice option in rainy Seattle. Some rooms, especially on the higher floors, have lovely lake views, and the additional cost isn’t significant. Many rooms have bathroom sinks in the room proper, with only toilets and shower/tub combos in the bathroom. Hairdryers and Aveda bath products are included, and each room has an iron and ironing board.

When it comes to extras, the Silver Cloud Inn Seattle/Lake Union shines. The free shuttle has three stops that cover all the city’s major sights, allowing guests to avoid downtown traffic and parking hassles. Free parking in the hotel’s secured underground garage means savings and peace of mind. Not only is the complimentary hot breakfast a nice spread, but it’s served in the third-floor atrium overlooking the lake. Next to the atrium, the guest library and lounge has free fruit and a fireplace for chilly days. The indoor heated pool and hot tub area has towels and tables with umbrellas, and it’s open 24 hours --- rare at any hotel. Also open 24 hours are the well-equipped fitness center and the lobby shop selling snacks, microwave meals, and necessities. The business center has three computer workstations with large screens and printers, as well as an ATM. Once a week, the hotel offers a reception with free wine, beer, and snacks. Self-serve laundry facilities are available, and Wi-Fi is free throughout.