The Arctic Club Hotel in Seattle is a historic boutique hotel located at the corner of Third Avenue and Cherry Street, renowned for its striking architecture and iconic terra cotta walrus head sculptures that adorn its exterior. Built in 1916 for the Arctic Club—a social club of Klondike Gold Rush adventurers. Today, the hotel hosts a variety of events, including weddings, concerts, and gatherings at the beautiful Polar Bar.
A little bit of history on the Arctic Club Hotel
During the Klondike Gold Rush of the late 1890s, over 100,000 adventurers from around the world braved harsh wilderness and treacherous trails in hopes of striking it rich in the Yukon region in Canada. The story of the Arctic Club starts in 1907 with the veterans of the Klondike Gold Rush. The Arctic Club was a social club in downtown Seattle, welcoming men, women, and notable figures with connections to the daring adventurers. The club occupied the building from 1916 until its dissolution in 1971, after which the space was eventually converted into a hotel.
What can you do at the Arctic Club Hotel?
The Arctic Club Hotel continues to be a hub for the people of Seattle to come together and feel a sense of community, using the beautiful old space for memorable events. The hotel’s elegant ballrooms and meeting rooms are ideal for weddings, conferences, and the globally-loved Candlelight concerts. As well as larger events, the hotel is home to the Polar Bar, a vintage-inspired lounge serving classic cocktails, craft beer, and regionally inspired dishes.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I get married in the Arctic Club Hotel?
Yes, you can get married at the Arctic Club Hotel, which offers elegant spaces like the Northern Lights Dome Room for wedding ceremonies and receptions.
Is there parking at the hotel?
Yes, the Arctic Club Hotel offers valet parking for a daily fee, but there is no self-parking on-site. Nearby options include the 720 3rd Ave. Garage, Norton Garage at 800 1st Ave., 1st and Columbia Garage at 721 1st Ave., and Frye Parking Garage at 117 3rd Ave South
Is the Arctic Club Hotel haunted?
Supposedly… yes. The Arctic Club Hotel in Seattle is rumored to be haunted, with many guests and staff reporting unexplained phenomena. Stories often focus on the ghost of Congressman Marion Zioncheck, who died there in 1936.
How to get to the Arctic Club Hotel?
The hotel is located in Downtown Seattle, within walking distance of Pike Place Market, Pioneer Square and T Mobile Park, a neighborhood which brims with art galleries, coffee shops, trendy bars and amazing restaurants and even a baseball stadium. The nearest bus stop is Marion St & 2nd Ave, which is only a minute walk away. Nevertheless, the 12, 17, 303, 311, 43, 550, 62, 7, 70, D LINE and E LINE buses all pass nearby. Should you choose to take the light rail, the 1-LINE stops at University Street Station, only a two-minute walk away.
Nearby Venues
The Arctic Club Hotel is steps from historic venues like Smith Tower, the Seattle Public Library, and the Klondike Gold Rush National Historical Park, as well as popular spots like Pike Place Market and Benaroya Hall. Well-regarded restaurants and bars, including The Pike Brewing Company and Cupcake Royale, are also nearby. For an unforgettable night out, Candlelight concerts are regularly held at the Arctic Club and other iconic Seattle venues.