Hotels in Mercer Island

Embrace the Serenity: Unravel the Hidden Gem of Mercer Island

Nestled in the heart of Lake Washington, Mercer Island is a picturesque escape that blends natural beauty with suburban charm. Ideal for outdoor enthusiasts, the island offers stunning parks, serene waterfronts, and scenic trails perfect for hiking or biking. Explore the vibrant city center, where quaint shops and delightful eateries await. Whether you're seeking a romantic getaway, a family adventure, or a peaceful retreat, Mercer Island's enchanting landscapes and welcoming community make it a must-visit destination for relaxation and recreation. Discover the unique allure of this hidden gem just minutes from Seattle! For the best hotel rates in Mercer Island, be sure to check out Hotels.com's Last-Minute DealsOpens in a new window on travel.

Top locations to stay in Mercer Island

Some of the best places to stay in Mercer Island are Downtown Seattle, Capitol Hill and Queen Anne. Mercer Island is ideally located near Downtown Seattle, Capitol Hill, and Queen Anne, each offering unique experiences. Downtown Seattle boasts iconic attractions and waterfront views, making it perfect for first-time visitors. Capitol Hill is vibrant with nightlife and diverse dining, while Queen Anne provides stunning vistas and a charming neighborhood feel. Hotel accommodations vary widely—from luxury options to boutique stays—ensuring comfort for every traveler. Nearby hotels in Renton and Bellevue also offer great alternatives for your stay. These are some of the hotels preferred by our travelers in Mercer Island:

1. Downtown SeattleOpens in a new window: Downtown Seattle is a vibrant area perfect for travelers seeking a mix of business and leisure. With iconic attractions like the Seattle Waterfront, Space Needle, and Pike Place Market, it’s an urban hub filled with energy and convenience. The area is well-suited for families and business travelers alike. Notable hotels include Fairmont Olympic HotelOpens in a new window, a historic property offering family-friendly amenities and business services, Lotte Hotel SeattleOpens in a new window, a romantic and business-friendly hotel featuring spa services and ocean views, and Four Seasons Hotel SeattleOpens in a new window, which provides adventure sports opportunities along with comprehensive business facilities.
2. Capitol HillOpens in a new window: Capitol Hill is a trendy neighborhood known for its nightlife, dining, and cultural attractions, making it a fantastic choice for travelers looking for local flavor. With proximity to the Seattle Waterfront and Pike Place Market, it’s perfect for exploring the city’s diverse offerings. Hotel options include Sonder The BoylstonOpens in a new window, a 3.5-star hotel with entertainment amenities, Cecil Bacon ManorOpens in a new window, a pet-friendly bed and breakfast, and Seattle Gaslight InnOpens in a new window, which provides a cozy atmosphere with breakfast options and nearby entertainment districts.
3. Queen AnneOpens in a new window: Queen Anne is a picturesque area offering stunning views and outdoor activities, ideal for travelers who appreciate nature and city life. Close to the Space Needle and Seattle Waterfront, it provides a peaceful yet accessible retreat. Recommended hotels include Hotel Hotel HostelOpens in a new window, a 2.5-star hotel featuring local dining options, Let's see how this works 1Opens in a new window, which caters to pet owners, and Staybridge Suites Seattle - Fremont, an IHG HotelOpens in a new window, a 3.0-star hotel that provides business amenities and pet-friendly policies, ensuring a comfortable stay for all visitors.

Things to do in Mercer Island for first time

Three days on Mercer Island offers a serene escape with its lush forests, scenic beaches, and shimmering lakes. Travelers can enjoy outdoor activities like boating, hiking, and picnicking, while also indulging in vibrant entertainment options, shopping, and cultural experiences to create lasting memories. Here's a quick itinerary to make the most of your trip to Mercer Island:

• Day 1: Start your exploration at the Seattle Waterfront, where you can enjoy the stunning views of Elliott Bay and grab a coffee at one of the local cafes. After soaking in the waterfront vibes, make your way to the Seattle Central Library, an architectural marvel with its unique design and a great place to peruse a book or two. Finally, head to Pioneer Square, the historic heart of Seattle, where you can admire the beautiful brick buildings and enjoy some art galleries or quaint shops.
• Day 2: Kick off your day with a visit to the iconic Space Needle, where you’ll be rewarded with breathtaking panoramic views of the city and surrounding mountains. Next, stroll over to Pier 69, a bustling hub for ferries and cruises, where you can enjoy the fresh sea breeze. Conclude your day at The Spheres, a stunning botanical garden housed in glass domes, offering a unique experience of lush greenery and exotic plants.
• Day 3: Begin at the Seattle Center, home to various attractions including the Museum of Pop Culture and the Chihuly Garden and Glass. After exploring, catch a performance at WaMu Theater if there's an event that piques your interest. Round out your trip with a relaxing afternoon at Lake Washington, where you can enjoy a leisurely walk along the shores or rent a kayak to explore the serene waters.

5 tips to find a great Mercer Island hotel deal

1. Book for the cheapest times: The best time to visit Mercer Island for budget-conscious travelers is in January, November, and December, when hotel rates are more affordable. If you're traveling from abroad, aim to book your flight at least one month in advance to secure better prices. A stay of at least 2-3 days is recommended to fully enjoy the area’s great value attractions, including the stunning lakes and scenic parks. With its budget-friendly options, Mercer Island offers an excellent opportunity to explore while keeping your expenses in check.
2. Look for last-minute deals on Hotels.com: Mercer Island offers enticing last-minute hotel deals for travelers looking to explore this beautiful destination. To uncover these offers on Hotels.com, head to the DealsOpens in a new window or Last-Minute DealsOpens in a new window section, where you could find competitive rates on nearby hotels. Don’t forget to enable email alerts or push notifications from Hotels.com to receive updates on flash sales and exclusive promotions, helping you snag great deals while keeping an eye on any resort fees that may apply. Stay informed to make the most of your travel budget!
3. Be flexible with dates: Hotel prices can fluctuate depending on factors like the hotel's location, star rating, and the time of year. As a result, being flexible with your travel dates may help you save on hotel expenses in Mercer Island.
4. Consider your location: Keep your location in mind when booking on Hotels.com for your vacation. Staying near major attractions or city centers can offer convenience, but it usually tends to come with a higher price tag. To find more affordable rates, consider hotels in less central areas or neighborhoods, striking a balance between cost and accessibility to the places you want to visit.
5. Upgrade with One Key: Book your hotel in Mercer Island and join Hotels.com's free One Key rewards program, enabling members to earn and enjoy reward points for hotel reservations. Progress through Blue, Silver, Gold and Platinum tiers and access perks such as room upgrades when available, exclusive discounts, and unique member offers. Join today.

What to eat in Mercer Island

Here are a few top-recommended restaurants in Mercer Island, Washington, United States of America:

• Mioposto: This restaurant captures the essence of Italian cuisine with a local twist, featuring handmade pasta and seasonal ingredients sourced from the Pacific Northwest. Its menu reflects a commitment to creativity and innovation, offering unique dishes that highlight the region's flavors, such as fresh seafood options and artisanal pizzas, all prepared with a passion for culinary excellence.
• Sushi Joa: A standout in Mercer Island's culinary scene, this sushi bar presents an impressive array of traditional and contemporary sushi creations. With a focus on fresh, high-quality fish and innovative flavor combinations, Sushi Joa offers a dining experience that showcases the artistry of sushi-making. The menu includes unique rolls and seasonal specials, making it a must-visit for sushi enthusiasts eager to explore local tastes.

Best time to go to Mercer Island

Mercer Island experiences its lowest average temperature in December, at 38.7°F (3.7°C), while August is the hottest month, with an average temperature of 66.9°F (19.4°C). November tends to be the wettest month. The peak travel months to visit Mercer Island are April, June, and July, which see a higher number of tourists. During this peak period, the weather is mostly sunny to mostly cloudy, accompanied by dry to light rainfall. In contrast, October to December are ideal if you're looking for a calmer vacation, marked by light rainfall and mostly sunny to mostly cloudy conditions.