Downtown Seattle Hotel

At the Northeast corner of Third Avenue and Cherry Street, the Arctic Club Hotel invites guests to experience the adventure of history. Originally established by Klondike Gold Rush veterans as a social hub for those enriched by the era, the club moved to its current location in 1916. Beautifully restored in 2005, the independently Oregon-owned Oxford Collection is now steward of the significant property, designed by renowned architect A. Warren Gould.

Gould's design for the Arctic Club was inspired by its Alaskan roots, featuring fine marble and unique detailing, including sculptwd walrus heads adorning the exterior. The use of off-white terracotta panels over reinforced steel and colorful accents marked a pioneering approach to Seattle's architectural landscape. This building became a testament to innovation and elegance.

Visitors are greeted by the original Arctic Club emblem, symbolizing unity, achievement, and overcoming hardships. This emblem, integrated throughout the hotel’s design, serves as a constant reminder of the club's enduring legacy and values. It represents the joining of individuals and the shared experiences of sociability and pleasure, encapsulating the essence of the hotel.

Edward S. Curtis' evocative photography is a central feature of the Arctic Club Hotel, with his iconic portraits of Indigenous peoples and Klondike Gold Rush scenes adorning the walls. Curtis, a Seattle native, journeyed to the Yukon goldfields to document the rush with a perspective he described as “more clearly and truthfully than any mere pen picture.” Today, his work, along with images of the hotel's original founding members, offers guests a rich visual connection to the history and spirit of the Arctic.

Sophie Tucker, the celebrated “First Lady of Show Business,” became affectionately known as the “Sweetheart of the Arctic Club” after several memorable performances there. Renowned for her comical and risqué songs, Sophie graced the Arctic Club’s Alaska Night annual dinner in 1958, marking her legacy in its storied history. Today, her connection to the club endures, embodying the warmth and camaraderie that defines its spirit.

Originally, the Arctic Club boasted luxurious amenities including a ladies' tearoom, private dining and card rooms, and even a rooftop garden. The heart of the club was its formal dining room, now known as the Northern Lights Dome Room, celebrated for its Rococo gilding, ornamental cornices, and stunning stained-glass ceiling. These elements underscored the club's status as a premier gathering place.

Today, The Arctic Club Hotel is listed on the National Register of Historic Places and recognized as a Seattle landmark. Its preservation allows guests and the community to celebrate the rich heritage of the Emerald City. The downtown Seattle hotel embodies the spirit and adventure of its origins, connecting the past with the present, and encouraging discovery and exploration through travel.