A Wonderful Experience in Seattle
Maybe we just got lucky - but we didn't want to leave the Edgewater when it was time to head home. We had a waterfront room on the 2nd floor. It was directly above the lounge/restaurant (we were advised upon check in), and noise wasn't an issue. We saw sea lions swimming in the bay from our room each day (pretty neat). The view was spectacular. Unlike other reviews, our closet was not in the bathroom. No complaints at all with our room. I think getting a waterfront room is the way to go. The hotel is next to ship terminals on each side and the city view is basically a parking garage in the front. I don't think I would have had the same experience with a city facing room or partial waterview room - At least on the lower floors. 
The staff was friendly and helpful from check in/out. We enjoyed happy hour in the lounge. Our bartender Daniel was fantastic. Nice way to watch the sunset. My only complaint was the elephant stamping above our room starting at 4 AM each morning. 
The hotel offers a shuttle downtown. The 99 bus also stops right at the hotel and will take you all along alaskan way, safeco field, century link field, international district, and back down 3rd street. Its Seattle - be prepared to walk a few blocks (or a bunch of stairs) - no matter where you are let off. This hotel is within walking distance to pretty much everything on the City Pass (The zoo is not - the 5 bus takes you right to the west entrance). 
We did notice a significant number of homeless folks in the public market/waterfront area. We did not feel harassed at any time. Use common sense if you are walking around at night. 
Tips: The public market and other attractions are definitely less crowded early in the morning and during the weekdays. We also used several smartphone apps to get around town. The Trip Advisor offline city guide and OneBusAway apps were very helpful.
I would stay at the edgewater again in a heartbeat. Just for the convenience of being near everything. The room and the views are a bonus.