There's a lot of talk about space recently, and typically astronauts and space travelers have noted that the most amazing thing about it is the impeccable view of planet earth. The world symbolizes harmony and beauty, full of natural wonders - which is evermore distinctive when floating in the dark abyss. But over the last decades, our planet has endured radical environmental costs from human actions. It's okay that it wasn't intentional, but NASA's recent photographs of Earth are a far cry from the "blue marble" photograph first captured in 1972. Our choices continue to shape what the future looks like - from the products we buy to the places we stay.
How Bellevue Leads with an Eco-Conscious Mindset
As travelers, we hold real power in deciding which systems we support, and Bellevue is a city that recognizes that. The city is working on the 2026-2030 Environmental Stewardship Plan Update, guided by our new greenhouse gas emissions reduction target of 95% by 2050 in the Comprehensive plan. There's also a goal to achieve 100% renewable energy by 2045. You can see the the efforts to minimize the environmental impacts of transportation when taking the BellHop free electric shuttle in downtown, riding a complimentary e-bike rental from the BikeHop program, or hopping on Sound Transit's 2 Line Light Rail. Over 10.6 million sq ft in our city is committed to the Bellevue 2030 District.
A LEED Certified Neighborhood
See what a LEED Certified Neighborhood looks like by taking the Light Rail to explore the Spring District, where sustainability is a central pillar. On January 12, 2022, the U.S. Green Building Council (USGBC) awarded The Spring District ‘LEED for Neighborhood Development’ (LEED-ND) certification for mixed-use development. The district has committed all future products to be designed with a sustainability objective. So far, you can find over 800,000 square feet of LEED-certified buildings in the area. Go grab a beer at Bellevue Brewing Company or a coffee at Dote Coffee and check out what a future-forward neighborhood looks like.
LEED-Certified Hotels in Bellevue
Bellevue’s hospitality sector is evolving alongside its environmental goals. These hotels have earned the LEED certification, or Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design, for recognizing best-in-class building strategies and practices developed by the U.S. Green Building Council (USGBC). It verifys their commitment to sustainability, so you don’t have to second-guess your stay.
W Bellevue
LEED Silver & Green Key Eco-Rating Program Certified
The W Bellevue opened in 2017 as part of the Lincoln Square South expansion to The Bellevue Collection, and this visionary 1.5M square foot, mixed-use development earned a LEED Silver Certification. This building also includes the popular food court in Lincoln South, as well as Ascend Prime Steak & Seafood - which has panoramic views on the 31st floor.
Seattle Marriott Bellevue
LEED Silver Certified
Located in downtown Bellevue, the Seattle Marriott Bellevue offers upscale stays in a LEED Silver–certified building designed for energy efficiency and environmental performance. In addition to its eco-friendly practices, the hotel partners with Browne Family Vineyards to serve Browne ForestProject wine at its Amuse Bar + Restaurant. For each bottle of wine sold, a tree is planted to help restore forests in the Pacific Northwest and beyond.
AC Hotel by Marriott Bellevue
LEED Silver Certified
Minimalist design meets thoughtful construction at AC Hotel Bellevue, a LEED Silver certified establishment centrally located in downtown Bellevue with a street level AC Lounge perfect for grabbing local brews after a long day.
Hampton Inn and Suites Bellevue Downtown
LEED Certified
The Hampton Inn and Suites Bellevue Downtown received their LEED Certification in November 2015. Conveniently located in downtown Bellevue, this hotel is also just a quick 16 minute walk to the beautiful Bellevue Botanical Garden, which is always free and open to the public.
Bellevue Hotels With Other Green Certifications
Not every hotel in Bellevue is LEED-certified, but several have earned equally rigorous environmental recognitions that reflect their operational commitment to lowering emissions, conserving resources, and leading with intention.
Hyatt Regency Bellevue
5 Green Key Global Rating & TripAdvisor Green Leaders Platinum
Hyatt Regency Bellevue is one of only 63 hotels in North America to receive the prestigious 5 Green Key rating, which evaluates energy and water conservation, waste management, and corporate social responsibility. It’s also a TripAdvisor Green Leaders Platinum Level hotel, reflecting transparent, verified environmental leadership across operations.
The Westin Bellevue
Green Key Eco-Rating Program Certified
Located within The Bellevue Collection, The Westin Bellevue has been Green Key certified for its efforts in energy reduction, green meetings initiatives, and ongoing staff sustainability training. Travelers can expect luxury without excess—and a hotel that actively seeks to reduce its footprint.
Hilton Bellevue
ISO 14001 Certified Environmental Management System
Hilton Bellevue is certified under the ISO 14001 Environmental Management System, an internationally recognized standard that holds companies accountable for meeting long-term environmental goals. This third-party verified system touches every aspect of hotel operations—from waste tracking to sustainable sourcing.
Plan Your Trip
Whether you’re visiting for a weekend escape, a business trip, or a deeper connection to the Pacific Northwest, Bellevue makes it easy to travel consciously without compromising comfort or style. From LEED-certified hotels to neighborhoods designed with the future in mind, every choice here can reflect your values. Plus, as a "City in a Park," there are plenty of outdoor adventures to embrace.
