Founded in the late 19th century, Redmond doesn't have the same long, storied history as some other places in the northwest. It subsisted off fishing, logging, and agriculture through the end of World War II. It wasn't until the completion of the Evergreen Point Floating Bridge in 1963 that provided quick, easy access to Seattle that the city started to flourish.
Technology companies then began to flock to Redmond as a result of cheap land that was still relatively close to a major airport and other businesses. Today, the town is home to 60,000 residents, as well as Nintendo of America and the 35,000 employee-strong Microsoft headquarters. Filled with parks, culture, and recreation, there's always something to do here.
No matter what your reason for visiting Redmond, make sure to find the perfect hotel to make your stay fun and enjoyable.
When to Visit Redmond, WA
If you're an avid outdoorsman, you should check out Redmond from July through September. Despite the northwest's notoriety for rain, this timeframe offers blue skies, sunshine, and warm temperatures that are ideal for exploring the great outdoors. Skilled hikers may want to head further into the mountains for a hike, and if that describes you, make sure to wear layers and bring a rain jacket, as temperatures can change rapidly. If staying near the city, there are tons of festivals to enjoy. Hotels tend to book up quickly, so make sure to make reservations well in advance.
When you want the best deal on a hotel room in Redmond, head there between November and February. During winter, tourism hits a lull for the most part, although you can probably find people staying in Redmond and taking day trips to the various ski areas within an hour or two away. In Redmond, it gets cold and rainy throughout much of this time, so indoor activities are usually the best option. You can probably snag a last-minute deal during this time for an upgrade or great savings.
March through May is prime time to visit Redmond if you want to see the surrounding foliage spring into life. The rain starts to subside from the winter, temperatures warm up, and it's generally pleasant. Many wildflowers bloom around this time, providing a beautiful foreground to the backdrop of the mountains. The Redmond Saturday Market also opens in May, giving you a chance to find arts, crafts, food, and produce from local growers. Hotel demand rises slightly from winter, but starts to spike the closer you get to May.
Late fall begins the thinning of crowds in Redmond, as temperatures start to cool and the clouds open up to let out five inches of rain per month. Still, the weather is warm enough for most markets to stay open, and festivals and football are in full swing. You may encounter some University of Washington or Seattle Seahawks football fans who came for cheaper hotel rooms, but other tourists are almost non-existent. Booking is essential this time of year, especially over the weekends when fans from all over the country flock to see their teams.
Below is a chart of the current pricing seasonality of hotels and motels in Redmond, WA:
Redmond, WA: Prices by Star Rating Class
Below are 3 charts illustrating avg. nightly cost trends by star rating class in Redmond, WA. Browse these charts to evaluate the cheapest dates to stay in Redmond during the year.
Luxury Hotel Options in Redmond, WA
4 Star Average Prices: $204.98
When you're looking for a luxury hotel, you might have to travel closer to Seattle, but the good news is that you're still only 10 to 20 minutes away from Redmond. The Executive Hotel Pacific is one of the ritzy options in the area, providing five-star accommodation in the heart of Seattle. Nearly every major attraction in the city is less than a five-minute walk, making it easy to explore. Plus, you'll have access to some top-notch amenities such as a 24-hour fitness center, a barbershop, valet parking, free Washington apples for your enjoyment, and even a free wine mixer for guests from 5 p.m. to 6 p.m. each night.
Once you're done exploring and enjoying the on-site amenities, head back to your room for a relaxing evening. Each room boasts perks such as a 26-inch LCD flat-screen television with cable, an MP3 player, pillow top mattresses, an in-room coffee maker, and cozy bathrobes.
Another luxurious option near Redmond is the Four Seasons Hotel Seattle. Located just 10 miles from Redmond, you can have close proximity to the city while also enjoying everything that Seattle has to offer. It's no more than a few hundred steps from places such as the Seattle Art Museum, Pike Place Market, the Seattle Aquarium, and the Seattle Public Library. On top of convenience, the Four Seasons also boasts tons of comfort thanks to in-room amenities such as a pillow top bed with down comforter, an iPod dock, digital programming, and a DVD player.
Wake up to a wonderful breakfast, and if you don't feel like leaving the hotel, you don't have to. On-site amenities include a full spa with massages, body treatments, and facials, an outdoor pool with poolside bar, a restaurant, and 24-hour room service.
Affordable/Lower Cost Options in Redmond, WA
3 Star Average Prices: $157.33
If you're searching for affordable accommodation, Redmond has no shortage of options. Located just near the famous Jerry Baker Memorial Velodrome and Marymoor Park, the Redmond Inn is a solid choice. However, it looks anything like budget accommodation. A fancy lobby greets you as you walk in, and you'll have your choice of a king bed, queen bed, or two queens. Other in-room amenities include a 37-inch LCD television with cable programming, an iPod docking station, complimentary Wi-Fi, and a desk to get some work done. On-site perks are an indoor pool and spa tub.
When you're looking to stay in Redmond for several days or weeks for business or leisure, the Extended Stay America is a wonderful low-cost option. At this hotel, you're only minutes away from top attractions such as the Microsoft Campus, Bellevue Golf Course, and Marymoor Park. Each room offers a 32-inch flat-screen television with cable, a desk, microwave, and free Wi-Fi. There's also a free daily breakfast, laundry facilities, free parking, and a 24-hour desk for easy check-in and check-out.