This is the first Hostel I have ever stayed at, and I have to say it was a life changing experience. I had no idea what to expect because I thought a hostel was just a cheap hotel with shared rooms. My very first afternoon there after I had unpacked my bags I met other travelers who were doing exactly what I want to do: travel the country/world on a budget. It opened my eyes to the possibilities and I am now looking at new places that I can travel to.
Regarding the stay itself. The hostel is open 24/7 so you can come and go as you please, making it very easy for jet lagged travelers to adjust their schedules. The shared rooms were nice, a mix of people who lived there are people just passing though. You are able to meet a lot of people very quickly because of the proximity of everyone.
The bathrooms were clean and constantly maintained by the great people living/working at the hostel that I soon got to know and talk with regularly. There was a complimentary breakfast every morning from 6-10am and a complimentary dinner every Sunday night around 6pm.
The location of the hostel is just perfect. You step outside and you are right on Pike and First, square in front of the market! The Space Needle, MoPOP, and Chihulys Glass Garden are all about a 20 minute walk from the hostel. The city is very easy to walk once you get up to First from the Piers.
The living space and kitchen are fully equipped and accessible to all guests, making it feel like you are at home. The key cards make you feel safe and secure, needing the key card to get into the hallway and again to get in to the rooms, meaning strangers cannot come in and do anything.
I would highly recommend staying at the Green Tortoise Hostel if you want to stay in downtown Seattle and experience the city on a budget!