Moore Hotel Seattle Review: History, Safety, and Tips

Built in 1907 and operating for over 115 years, Seattle’s Moore Hotel offers a bare‑bones stay in the heart of downtown, two minutes from Pike Place Market. This review combines verified property data, aggregated guest ratings, and practical context to help you decide whether this historic budget property fits your next Seattle visit.

Last checked: 2026-06-10

Location: Downtown Seattle, steps from Pike Place Market · Year Built: 1907 · Style: Econo‑Classic Historical Hotel · Amenities: Free WiFi, private bathroom, 24‑hour front desk, daily housekeeping, on‑site café

When was the Moore hotel in Seattle built?

The Moore Hotel building dates to 1907, according to Travel Weekly. It opened in the same era as Seattle’s Moore Theatre (also built in 1907), though the two are separate entities. A room tour confirms the 1907 origin and shows original architectural details in the lobby and hallways. The last major renovation occurred in 1989, over three decades ago, which means guests encounter a mix of antique charm and dated fixtures. The bottom line: The hotel’s age is its biggest differentiator — expect historic character rather than modern polish.

Is the Moore Hotel in Seattle safe?

The Moore Hotel sits at 1926 2nd Avenue in the Belltown/downtown core, a well‑trafficked area during the day. Multiple booking platforms note that the property is 0.1 miles from the city center and a two‑minute walk from Pike Place Market, which is busy with tourists and vendors until evening. Guest reviews on TripAdvisor generally describe the area as safe, but some mention the hotel’s proximity to a “drug and alcohol recovery center” as a concern. The same reviews note that the immediate block feels secure and that the 24‑hour front desk adds a layer of comfort. Visitors walking alone at night should stick to the main commercial streets. What this means: The location is central and busy, but the urban context of downtown Seattle means standard city precautions apply.

“Spartan but clean and spacious. Great location but there is a recovery center nearby that can feel unsettling.” — TripAdvisor Q&A contributor

A broader context: like many downtowns, Seattle’s streets can feel quiet after dark, especially on side streets. The Moore’s front desk staff are available around the clock, and luggage storage means you can check in early even if your room isn’t ready. The pattern: Most guests rate safety as adequate for a budget downtown hotel; those who prioritize a quieter, residential setting may prefer a property farther from the core.

Where to avoid staying in Seattle?

This question often comes from travelers concerned about downtown safety. The Moore Hotel is located in a central, well‑trafficked area that contrasts with neighborhoods typically flagged by travellers — such as parts of the SoDo industrial district or areas near the King County Jail. The hotel’s official site emphasizes its proximity to Pike Place Market and the cruise terminals, suggesting the operators are aware that location is a key selling point. Conversations on Facebook cruise groups mention that the Moore is a common choice for pre‑ and post‑cruise stays precisely because it is walkable to Bell Street Cruise Terminal at Pier 66 and the downtown shopping core. The implication: While no hotel is risk‑free, the Moore’s immediate surroundings are among the busiest and most tourist‑oriented in Seattle.

Some travelers explicitly ask “Is it safe to walk downtown Seattle at night?”. The answer depends on the specific block. The Moore’s section of 2nd Avenue is mostly commercial with restaurants, shops, and a hotel front desk visible from the street. The trade‑off: You trade a suburban level of quiet for the convenience of being steps from the market and waterfront.

What is the oldest hotel in Seattle?

The Moore Hotel is among the oldest continuously operating hotels in Seattle, but it is not the oldest. The Edgewater Hotel, built in 1962, is a waterfront property that predates many downtown towers, but the Moore’s 1907 construction places it in an earlier era. Other historic properties include the Fairmont Olympic Hotel (built 1924) and the Warwick Seattle (originally 1920s). The Moore distinguishes itself by remaining an “econo‑classic” budget option rather than a full‑service luxury property. The bottom line: If you are searching for Seattle’s oldest operating hotel, the Moore is a strong candidate among early‑20th‑century buildings, but it shares the historic designation with several other downtown landmarks.

Pricing: a genuine budget option in downtown Seattle

The Moore Hotel is a 2‑star budget property, according to KAYAK. Rates vary by room type: standard queen rooms with private bath hover around $150 per night, while European‑style rooms with shared baths are closer to $110, based on discussions in Alaska cruises info groups. The hotel charges a mandatory destination fee of $2 per night. Compared to full‑service downtown hotels that often start above $250, the Moore represents a significant savings for travelers willing to trade amenities for location. What this means: For budget‑conscious solo travelers or backpackers, the Moore is one of the most affordable downtown options within walking distance of major attractions.

Location and getting there

The Moore Hotel is at 1926 2nd Avenue in Seattle’s Belltown neighborhood. Key distances include:

• Pike Place Market: 2‑minute walk (0.1 miles)
• Bell Street Cruise Terminal at Pier 66: ~0.3 miles (7‑minute walk)
• Washington State Convention Center: ~0.4 miles (6 blocks)
• Seattle Center / Space Needle: ~0.8 miles (15‑minute walk)
• SEA‑Tac Airport: 13.5 miles (approx. 25‑minute drive or light rail + walk)

The hotel is accessible by Seattle’s Link Light Rail (Westlake station is a 10‑minute walk) and by several bus lines. Parking is not on‑site; the official site advises that garages are available within one block for a fee. The pattern: If you arrive without a car, the location is ideal; drivers should budget for overnight parking costs in downtown garages.

Alternatives to consider

If the Moore’s lack of air‑conditioning or minimal amenities gives you pause, these nearby options offer different trade‑offs:

• The Edgewater Hotel – waterfront property built in 1962 with full‑service restaurant, room service, and air‑conditioning. Rates are significantly higher (typically $250+).
• Green Tortoise Hostel – a block from Pike Place Market, offering dormitory beds and private rooms at hostel pricing, though with shared bathrooms.
• Hampton Inn & Suites Seattle‑Downtown – a 3‑star chain with consistent amenities (pool, breakfast, AC) about four blocks away, priced in the $180‑$220 range.

The trade‑off: The Moore wins on price and historic atmosphere; the alternatives win on modern comfort and predictable service.

Timeline of the Moore Hotel

• 1907 – Moore Hotel building completed and opens for business.
• 1989 – Last major renovation undertaken (per Travel Weekly).
• 2020s – Continues operation as a budget historic property, maintaining a 4.2 cleanliness rating on TripAdvisor.