The W has always been known for its modern sophisticated style, incorporating art and design features throughout the hotel. When the W came to Seattle over a decade ago, the hotel added a sophisticated touch to Downtown Seattle hotels. Opening the W Bellevue only seemed like the next step to elevate the luxury hotel experience in the NW, and enhancing Downtown Bellevue’s already vast growing cosmopolitan vibe.
It’s a bit of a challenge to find at first, but once you’ve frequented the spot a few times, it becomes second nature. Upon entering, you are greeted with the grand presence of amazing local mural art by Gaia in which the mural spans three walls and up the staircase. The stairs are lit which evokes an exciting and wonderous feeling of where you’ll end up.
As you make your way up the stairs, this is where the magic happens. The second level houses the Lakehouse restaurant and the Living Room Bar. My favorite feature is The Porch just outside of the Living Room Bar. It’s the quinessential indoor/outdoor living Northwesterners crave. A giant sectional and fireplace in the middle of the patio anchors the space, while swings and rockers are situated around the perimeter of the patio where great territorial views of Downtown Bellevue can be seen.
Another mural covers one wall – so instagrammable. The service was great as with any W hotel. We enjoyed our drinks on the patio followed by dinner downstairs across to Fogo De Chao. I’ll definitely be making the Living Room Bar of the W a happy hour hang out spot this summer season.
Living in Seattle and the Eastside, Portland has always been a favorite quick travel stop for food, tax-free shopping, and outdoor pursuits. I was traveling to PDX for work during the kids’ mid-winter break, I decided to take the kids and make it a work trip/family vacation. Since my last visit to Portland, a new artisan food venue recently opened (May last year) that we had the opportunity to check out:
Of the nine restaurants, we tried OpWurst, Kim Jong Smokehouse, (pictured above), Bless Your Heart Burgers, and WizBang Bar (Salt & Straw’s lil cousin). I’m interested to see what other chefs and purveyors Pine Street Market will feature as the venue and concept grows.
Kids Happy Hour Cones! Yes please!
Mural by by Ashley Montague
Of course, a trip to Portland wouldn’t be complete without indulging in some tax-free shopping. I finally made it to the Danner Factory Store as I’ve been wanting Danner hiking boots forever, this was a must-buy on my list. These are the only hiking boots I would splurge for. I was excited to find the Mountain Light women’s available in my size for a fraction of the regular retail price, score! Can’t wait to break these babies in.
Merry Christmas!
