What’s New in Seattle

SEATTLE CONVENTION CENTER SUMMIT BUILDING

In January 2023, Seattle Convention Center opened its innovative and award-winning Summit building. As the first vertical convention center in North America, Summit offers 570,290 square feet of event space, including a 99,250-square-foot fully carpeted, acoustically treated, and column-free Flex Hall. Just one-and-a-half blocks from the existing Arch building, Summit nearly doubles the total meeting space for the centrally located SCC campus.

Learn more about Seattle Convention Center’s Summit building.

SEA AIRPORT UPGRADES

SEA Airport has already undergone several major improvements, including a completely overhauled North Terminal and a new International Arrivals Facility, which opened in April 2022. This cutting-edge space has doubled the international flight capacity and provides a smoother, faster arrival experience.

Most recently, SEA Airport opened a new Security Checkpoint in June 2025. You’ll notice construction is still underway at the Baggage Claim and Check-In areas of the airport, as part of a $5 billion, multiyear series of upgrades expected to be complete before the July 2026 FIFA World Cup in Seattle.

Learn more about SEA Airport upgrades.

SEATTLE WATERFRONT PROJECT

The $1B+ capital project connects Seattle’s downtown to a new Seattle Waterfront with 20 acres of improved parks, public spaces, pedestrian promenades, bike lanes, and other public amenities. Completed improvements include the relocation of SR 99 highway underground, the removal of the Alaskan Way Viaduct, the rebuilding of Pier 62, and the Pike Place MarketFront expansion with an outdoor event space for up to 5,000 people overlooking Puget Sound. A $100 million design for a 50,000-square-foot expansion with an additional wing is also in the works for the Seattle Aquarium. This expansion will enable the Aquarium to boost capacity and hold up to 200 people in a new gathering space. Remaining updates are expected to conclude in 2025.

Learn more about Waterfront Park Seattle.

CLIMATE PLEDGE ARENA

Climate Pledge Arena opened to the public on October 22, 2021 with a spectacular concert from the international hit band, Coldplay. With ZERO single-use plastics, ZERO waste produced, and a ZERO carbon footprint, Climate Pledge Arena is the most progressive, responsible, and sustainable arena in the world, and is the first arena to achieve the International Living Future Institute Zero Carbon Certification.

Learn more about Climate Pledge Arena.

1 HOTEL SEATTLE

Opened in May 2025, 1 Hotel Seattle in South Lake Union infuses thoughtful sustainability throughout the LEED Silver property, from recycled wood room keys and hangers made from 100% post–consumer recycled materials to using fresh, seasonal ingredients sourced locally and fixtures that reduce water consumption by 4.3 million gallons annually. The spacious, light-filled lobby has a striking living wall, a sculptural staircase crafted from reclaimed timber, and textiles inspired by the Suquamish Tribe of Seattle. Thoughtful touches and extraordinary comfort are showcased throughout the entire property including its 153 guest rooms and suites.

Learn more about 1 Hotel Seattle.

POPULUS SEATTLE

Located in Pioneer Square, Populus Seattle opened in May 2025 in a thoughtfully restored, historic 1907 building. Original Douglas fir beams, brickwork, and ironwork have been retained and preserved. Populus is an example of “biophilic architecture,” and incorporates natural design elements to connect guests with nature while also working as a steward of the environment through programs like One Night One Tree and sourcing food from regenerative farms and ranches. Discover a blend of comfort and connection to the city throughout the 120 guest rooms.

Learn more about Populus Seattle.