The Lodge at St Edward Park Review: Luxury in the Heart of Nature
Nestled in the peaceful forests of Saint Edward State Park, just north of Seattle, The Lodge at St Edward Park delivers an unforgettable blend of historic charm, modern luxury, and nature immersion. As a Hilton SLH (Small Luxury Hotels of the World) property, this boutique retreat earns high praise for its architectural restoration, elegant guest rooms, Pacific Northwest farm-to-table dining, and serene wellness experiences.
Historic Setting & Design
Originally constructed in 1931 as Saint Edward Seminary, the property was closed in 1976 and later transformed into a state park. In a monumental $57 million renovation completed in 2021, the building was repurposed into this luxurious lodge, preserving its Romanesque-Revival architecture and ornate historical details while infusing modern amenities. The result is a striking union of old-world grandeur and contemporary design.
Walking inside, you’ll find original wood doors, restored windows, and even wallpaper that features architectural blueprints from the building’s seminary past, creating an immersive journey through time.
Rooms & Suites
There are 84 unique guest rooms and suites, each blending the structure’s heritage with modern comfort. Choices range from the compact Classic Queen to the expansive Daniels Suite, sitting at around 718 sq ft with soaring ceilings and forest views.
🛏️ Typical in-room amenities include:
Beauty Rest Black Napa luxury mattress
50″ or 65″ HD Smart TV
Custom pillow menu, Nespresso machine
Luxury linens, hypoallergenic down duvet
Modern bathroom with glass shower and natural stone
Workspace, in-room safe, bathrobe, slippers
Pet‑friendly room options (with advanced notice)
Every room offers a park view, ensuring you wake up to trees, forest light, and subtle wildlife.
Dining at The Lodge at St Edward Park
Cedar + Elm
The hotel’s signature restaurant operates in the former seminary dining hall. The menu highlights Pacific Northwest seasonality; locally sourced produce, honey from the property’s apiary (130 lbs. harvested in peak season), and garden-fresh veggies and herbs. The restored setting, patio seating, and repurposed historical features (like original ice boxes) bring authenticity and atmosphere to your dining experience.
Father Mulligan’s Heritage Bar
Located in the lobby, this elegant bar serves craft beers, artisan wines, creative small plates like flatbreads and burgers, and upscale cocktails in a welcoming, social setting.
The Tonsorium Bar
Housed in the former seminary barber shop, The Tonsorium is a cozy speakeasy lounge offering inventive cocktails and live music. Its characterful decor includes nods to the past like barber-themed ornaments and a signature unicorn head above the bar.
Spa, Wellness & Recreation
Vita Nova Spa
Set on the ground floor, Vita Nova Spa offers seasonal and nature‑inspired treatments using organic botanicals and herbal infusions. Finish with an infrared sauna and relax in the serene outdoor lounge by the fire pit.
Pickleball & Fitness
Fitness and sport amenities include:
Four indoor tournament-grade pickleball courts
Well‑equipped fitness center with Precor gear and free weights
Organized yoga sessions (e.g. Saturday morning Hatha class)
Outdoor Exploration
Right outside the lodge lies Saint Edward State Park a 326-acre forest with over 70 miles of trails, a shoreline on Lake Washington, the historic Grotto Trail, and peaceful lawn‑game and picnic zones. Complimentary mountain bike rentals are available for guests to explore the trails.
Art & Cultural Touches
The Lodge at St Edward Park hosts a Gallery of Fine Arts in its main hallway with rotating exhibitions by Pacific Northwest artists. The Artist in Residence program offers guests demonstration and learning opportunities. This artistic integration ties the hotel to the local creative community and adds enriching cultural layers to the stay.
Events & Extras
With over 9,000 sq ft of event space, the property is ideal for weddings, corporate events, and private gatherings. A self-guided “Stories of St. Edward” tour uses QR codes to reveal the building’s history. Afternoon tea service also adds a refined touch to leisurely afternoons.
Highlights from My Recent Stay
Arrival & Check-in
After a scenic drive through moss-draped evergreens, I was greeted by valet parking and welcomed in the grand lobby with complimentary drinks. The Father Mulligan’s Heritage Bar’s ambiance sets a tone of both elegance and warmth.
In-Room Experience
My Classic King room was a peaceful retreat: sunlight filtered through restored windows into a room festooned with blueprint-patterned wallpaper. The luxury mattress, cozy robes, and Nespresso machine made unwinding effortless. The bathroom—modern but respectful of historic aesthetics—featured a sleek glass shower with a natural stone accent.
Dining Journey
Dinner at Cedar + Elm was memorable: wood-fired flatbread appetizers; chef Luke Kolpin’s seasonal tasting menu with local seafood and vegetable-forward dishes; honey‑drizzled delights sourced from the hotel’s own apiary. Breakfast the next morning was equally fresh offering farm‑raised eggs and Northwest coffee amid plush, light‑filled surroundings.
Cocktails at The Tonsorium Bar were equally notable; artful, whimsical, and best enjoyed with live music in dim glow. The Father Mulligan’s Heritage Bar’s smoky old fashioned was a revelation.
Spa & Relaxation
Vita Nova Spa is a serene escape offering massages, facials, and wellness treatments inspired by the surrounding forest. Unfortunately, I didn’t get a chance to experience their services this trip—availability was limited during my stay, and my schedule was tight.
Pro Tip: If a spa visit is a priority for you, book your treatments as soon as you confirm your reservation. Weekend slots in particular can fill up weeks in advance.
Outdoor Connection
Morning brought a hike down the Grotto Trail to the lakeshore and time to soak in forest air. I biked several trails, played cornhole under shaded trees, and lounged in Adirondack chairs with a book. The property’s quiet allowed for deep rest and reconnection with nature.
Why you'll love it...
The Lodge at St Edward Park is a unique escape that showcases Seattle-style luxury without the bustle of downtown. Its combination of historic architecture, immersive nature, farm-to-table dining, and elegant spa and wellness makes it ideal for thoughtful travelers seeking rejuvenation. This property is more than a hotel—it’s an experience rooted in place, artistry, and restorative design.
Here’s where this property really shines for loyalty travelers: The Lodge at St Edward Park is bookable with Hilton Honors points.
Standard award nights typically start around 80,000 points per night, though pricing varies.
You can also use Hilton Free Night Certificates from Hilton credit cards, including the Hilton Honors Aspire Card by American Express (more on that below).
This is one of the best ways to unlock luxury for less in the Seattle area.
(Note: Travel is the Point may earn a referral bonus if you’re approved through some of the links below. We strive to feature the best publicly available offers and only recommend cards based on their value, rewards potential, and fit for travelers. Thank you for your support!)
Welcome offer varies — click above to see the latest signup bonus.
Potential Guest Tips
Book spa treatments and excursions (e.g. Woodinville wine shuttle) in advance.
Reserve tables at Cedar + Elm early—especially for dinner or afternoon tea.
Pack athletic gear or comfortable walking shoes—best enjoyed with the lodge’s outdoor focus.
Pet owners should request pet-friendly accommodations early and review policy details.
Final Thoughts
My stay at The Lodge at St Edward Park was a standout experience. From historic elegance to modern indulgence, every detail—from the handcrafted cocktail in the heritage bar to the forest-hugged Grotto hike—felt curated and meaningful. It’s a perfect retreat for nature lovers, design aficionados, couples, families, or anyone craving peaceful sophistication just minutes from Seattle.
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