If you live in Seattle, chances are you’ve been to Snoqualmie Falls at least once before, but have you ever wondered what the building right next to the waterfall is? That would be Salish Lodge & Spa, a beautiful hotel with one of the most stunning views around. I recently had the chance to stay there and review Salish Lodge for myself.
While it’s only 30 miles east of Seattle, it feels like you’re in a secluded resort far away from the city. I came here for a quick getaway with my son and had a blast. It was a pleasant surprise to see that it is ideal for a couple’s getaway in Seattle and a family-friendly place if you want a special weekend away for the family.
Here are some tips to make the most of your trip to Salish Lodge and what you need to know ahead of time.
Tips for Getting to Salish Lodge
I’ve included helpful pointers to know before you book your weekend getaway from Seattle.
- Valet parking is included. You don’t have to worry about finding parking, as guests drive right up to the front of the lodge to valet park the car. They even have umbrellas to help you get into and out of your car on rainy days. Make sure to have some cash on hand to tip your valet driver for helping.
- Make your dinner reservations in advance. There’s only one place to eat at the lodge, so make your reservation when booking your room. You can drive around town to find other places, but I guarantee no other restaurants will have a view of the waterfall.
- Going in the off-season will save money. I came on a rainy day and absolutely loved it – this is the coziest place to be when it’s wet outside, so I suggest going in the off-season.
- You can book directly through the website or on Booking.com or Hotels.com.
Every staff member I interacted with during my time there was extremely helpful, so feel free to call them in advance if you have any questions or special requests. I saw a number of people celebrating special occasions, so I’m sure they’ll have useful suggestions whether you’re trying to do a birthday or anniversary there.
Looking for the ultimate Seattle travel guide written by a local that tells you all the best places to go and what to see? My new ebook is now live, so click here to buy your copy!
Salish Lodge Review
A fun Seattle fact is this hotel has been around since 1916 when it was known as Snoqualmie Falls Lodge. This only had eight rooms but quickly gained notoriety for its Country Breakfast (and still is known for its delicious breakfast!). The building was remodeled in 1988 and is now owned by the Snoqualmie Indian Tribe.
Here’s what to know about staying at the lodge.
Rooms
They all have in-room fireplaces, which is one of my favorite things in hotels. The beds are extremely comfortable, and it was actually a place I wanted to stay in the room instead of leaving to explore like I usually do.
Mornings were cozy as well, as they had a pour-over coffee and tea station to enjoy. Robes and slippers are also available in the room if you feel like lounging around.
My son and I felt like staying in the room in the morning, so we ordered room service. I highly recommend the buttermilk pancakes!
The tub was absolutely massive and probably could fit my entire family. The room’s overall vibe was relaxed and roomy, as it felt like there was plenty of room to move around.
We had a patio room, which had a sliding door that opened onto the patio with covered chairs. We also had a fire pit, so we could enjoy that while listening to the massive roar of the waterfall in the background (one of the best Washington waterfalls!)
They also have suites available to rent if you have a large group or family. I’d love to come back sometime and bring my whole family to enjoy a cozy weekend here. Pets are even allowed, which is great since it’s hard to find dog-friendly vacations sometimes.
Add-ons
We had the S’mores kit, which is perfect for kids and adults alike. If you have a patio room, there’s a fire pit outside that can be lit up at night time by one of the staff members.
Even though it was raining outside when I was here, the chairs were covered, so we could still sit outside and enjoy roasting marshmallows.
You can also get a variety of add-ons, such as a CBD bath package, in-room facial, or a moisturizing honey rain shower package.
The Dining Room
You’ll want to book your reservation at the restaurant in advance, as mentioned above. This may be the most scenic place I’ve ever had dinner (and you know I’ve been to many places if you’re a reader of my blog). We had a window table so we could stare at the waterfall the whole time, so I’d recommend asking for that when you make your reservation if possible.
They had a selection of appetizers and meat, fish, and vegetarian dishes. There are unique touches to eating here, such as the edible candle that melted so you could dip your bread in it. It was also nice to walk back through the hotel to our room without getting wet or needing to drive anywhere.
When you’re done with your meal, you could head up to the Lounge for a nightcap (or come here before your dinner).
Spa
The spa may be one of the best parts of the hotel, as it’s a beautiful area where you can book services such as massages or facials. There are a variety of different types of massages, and you can even get a couple’s massage.
They also have various facials (using my favorite skincare brand, Eminence, which I was excited to see!), such as a purifying facial, gentleman’s facial, and winter radiance facial. You can add to your experience by getting a body treatment as well.
You can extend your experience by heading over to the sauna, steam room, or soaking pools when you’re done.
Another part of the spa I thought was unique is they offer self-guided, in-room spa treatments for those who aren’t comfortable being around others or just want to stay in the room. They can include champagne, bath salts, and various other items depending on what type of experience you’re looking for.
Waterfall
Of course, I can’t review Salish Lodge without talking about the waterfall that makes it so special. Snoqualmie Falls is the stunning waterfall that makes this area famous, and it’s only a minute’s walk to go to the first viewing platform. I recommend reading the signs around here to learn more about the area’s history.
There are several viewing platforms, so go to each one to get different pictures. If you’re up for it, I also recommend doing the short waterfall hike to the bottom by the river. You’ll walk on a boardwalk to get a closer view of the waterfall.
Since you’re staying at the hotel, try to come here at sunset for some stunning pictures. It’s also fun to see it at night with the lights shining on the falls.
Have you stayed at Salish Lodge before? Leave a comment and let me know what your favorite part was, or what you’re looking forward to based on this Salish Lodge review!
