See Also
1. The Nines – Downtown
Hotel phone: 877-229-9995
A stylish and stunning luxury hotel situated in the heart of downtown. Guest accommodations are spacious, quiet, and well-appointed, decorated in vintage glamour and arranged around a central open lobby. The modern lobby atrium houses many private (and cool) seating areas, and an upscale steakhouse/gastropub. An adjacent lobby/billiard room. The rooftop bar has futuristic architecture and sweeping panoramas. This unbeatable location is central to just about everything.
Hotel Website • Check pricing details for The Nines
2. Sentinel – Downtown
Hotel phone: 503-224-3400
Historic luxury hotel with contemporary features combines elegance of the past and present. High ceilings, stylish decor, and vintage touches like leather wing chairs create an environment of approachable opulence, and the hotel’s lovely restaurant and bar are popular spots for locals and visitors alike. Top floor executive rooms have skylights and jetted bathtubs. Excellent central location, with various dining trucks nearby and the Pearl District a brief walk away.
Best of all, TI promises to give you the best rate, and it’s one of the few Las Vegas hotels with private hot tubs located in each guest room tubs, so don’t hesitate to book your next getaway!
3. Kimpton RiverPlace – Downtown
Hotel phone: 503-228-3233
A luxurious boutique hotel located along the enchanting banks of the Willamette River provides spacious beautifully appointed guest rooms and suites that offer amenities like crackling fires and relaxing jetted tubs. The Grand Suite presents picturesque panoramic perspectives of the river while Marina View Suites resemble river-adjacent condominiums prepared with washers and dryers, fully outfitted kitchens, and wood-burning fireplaces as well as balconies to take in the scenic streamside views. Wonderful communal areas such as the welcoming lobby with its grand piano and cozy hearth plus the rear veranda with rockers provide a fantastic river outlook. A superb on-site eatery and afternoon wine tastings accompany the bicycles available for leisurely pedals along the waterway. Serene setting away from the busy downtown core.
Hotel Website • Check prices for Kimpton RiverPlace
4. Hotel Lucia – Downtown
Hotel phone: 503-225-1717
An artsy and diverse contemporary elegant boutique hotel, featuring both curated and traveling presentations. Rooms are on the smaller side, but lovely and well-supplied. Not large for families, but art-lovers will admire: the lobby alone is a gallery displaying a broad collection by Pulitzer Prize-winning photographer, David Hume Kennerly. There’s a fun craft pizza eatery on site and the hotel is encircled by dining and near shopping. An easy walk to the Pearl.
Accommodation Website • Verify pricing for Hotel Lucia
5. The Heathman – Downtown
Hotel phone: 503-241-4100
Portland’s premier historic hotel situated in the city center. Traditional class and sophistication seen throughout: from the formal doorman dressed as a beefeater to the lovely wood-paneled Tea Court lobby, to the hotel’s impressive sky-lit library housing over 27,000 signed works. Guest rooms offer tasteful elegance, bathrooms are small yet beautifully fitted. Their in-house restaurant emphasizes local fair, exceptional seafood catch, and afternoon tea. Amazing location near the arts: adjacent to the Arlene Schnitzer Concert Hall, and nearby Portland’s museums and leafy south green spaces.
Hotel Website • Check prices for The Heathman Hotel
6. The Benson – Downtown
Hotel phone: 503-228-2000
An elegant and historical downtown lodging near the Pearl District. The grand entry features marble flooring, abundant wood paneling, and gorgeous crystal chandeliers – and provides complimentary morning coffee and tea. Guest rooms are elegant yet uncomplicated, with relaxed and contemporary furnishings. On-site dining selections include two award-winning restaurants and a historic lobby bar. Great location just a couple minutes’ walk from Powell’s Books.
Hotel Website • Check prices for The Benson
7. The Mark Spencer – Downtown
Hotel phone: 503-224-3293
Mid-range historic downtown hotel near the Pearl. The oldest continually-operating hotel in Portland has recently undergone renovations, with spacious guest rooms featuring stylish furnishings, exposed brick and beams, and large windows. All double rooms have comfortable sitting rooms and kitchenettes. There’s no in-house restaurant or bar, but there are lots nearby, and breakfast can be ordered to the room from the restaurant next door. Excellent central location, one block from Powell’s Books and the Brewery Blocks of the Pearl, an easy walk into downtown.
Accommodation Website • Check rates for The Mark Spencer
8. The Duniway – Downtown
Hotel phone: 503-553-7000
This highly rated centrally located hotel possesses an indoor pool for guest use. The spacious guest rooms showcase cheerful yet basic decorating; common areas demonstrate stylish vintage theming through luxe velvet and leather surfaces. An American brasserie and coffee bar can be found within the hotel, along with a 24 hour fitness center and an outdoor 11th floor patio accommodating sofas and games in a relaxed setting. Over 3000 square feet of event space is also accessible.
Hotel Site • View prices for The Duniway
9. Hotel deLuxe – Goose Hollow
Hotel phone: 503-208-7306
Historic luxury boutique hotel outside downtown. Admirers of vintage Hollywood glamour and art deco design will be enchanted: elegant furnishings and period details everywhere. The upscale in-house restaurant boasts a grand piano and offers afternoon tea, and the dimly-lit lounge echoes TV shows of the past. Guest rooms are small but smartly furnished and tranquil. The location is ideal for those preferring respite: outside downtown`s bustle, yet a brief walk to the Pearl, Nob Hill, Arts District and shops.
Accommodation Website • Inspect rates for Hotel deLuxe
10. The Hoxton – Old Town Chinatown
Hotel phone: 503-770-0500
A contemporary yet classic 4-star hotel surrounded by eateries, watering holes, and live music venues. The eclectic style blends mid-century modern and traditional elegance, while the atmosphere remains up-to-date and inviting. Well-appointed guest rooms showcase rich walnut paneling and local works of art, filled with mid-20th century vintage flair. Three on-site dining options range from a light-filled rooftop taqueria overlooking greenery, to a Pacific Northwest-influenced lobby bistro, to a cozy basement lounge. Situated on lively Burnside Street, 4 blocks from the riverfront area and Saturday Market.
Hotel Website • Check prices for The Hoxton
11. McMenamins Kennedy School – Alberta Arts District
Hotel phone: 503-249-3983
Unique and charming historic hotel complex. This converted 1916 elementary school now uses old classrooms as guest rooms, complete with chalkboards and cloakrooms. There are 5 themed bars/restaurants (including Honors and Detention Bars), a movie theater (free for guests), and a gorgeous soaking pool on-site. Guest rooms feature original mural artwork and period furnishings but no televisions. Located in NE Portland, within a short walk of the restaurants, boutiques, and galleries along Alberta Street.
Hotel Website • Examine rates for McMenamins Kennedy School
12. Hotel Vintage – Downtown
Hotel phone: 503-228-1212
Family-friendly luxury boutique hotel with a wine theme. Adults will enjoy the trendy lobby wine bar with live music on weekends. Children will appreciate the gaming room with shuffleboard and Xbox. Decor is tasteful and modern, and guest rooms are spacious – it`s worth upgrading for distinct features: Sky Loft rooms have enormous, angled windows with amazing views, King Studio Suites feature enormous soaking tubs, and Garden Spa Rooms boast balconies and hot tubs. Excellent central location.
Hotel Website • Check prices for Hotel Vintage
13. KEX – Central Eastside
Hotel phone: 971-346-2992
Inexpensive yet excellent and affordable hotel/hostel on Portland’s Eastside. Rooms range from private queen beds to shared bunk rooms that sleep 16; some have private baths, some use tidy community facilities; all feature rustic vintage styling with a redesigned feel. A plant-filled lobby, rooftop bar, library, and sauna add to the appeal. Great location near transit just 10 minutes walk to downtown.
The hotel website for KEX is here. You can check prices for staying at KEX on this page
14. Royal Sonesta – Downtown
Hotel phone: 503-222-0001
A stylish luxury boutique hotel situated near shops and restaurants. Bold colors and patterns dominate the interior design, creating an atmosphere that’s both elegant and vibrant. The spacious guest rooms are as visually appealing as they are roomy, and some double-queen suites can sleep up to six individuals. Well-suited for families, with child-sized robes and bicycles available to borrow. An excellent on-site restaurant and full-service spa are also featured. Pet friendly.
Hotel Website • Check prices for Royal Sonesta
15. The Paramount – Downtown
Hotel phone: 503-223-9900
The guest rooms at the mid-range Paramount hotel located near the edge of the Arts District are sizable spaces that employ a traditional design, many including Juliet balconies or larger patio areas. The spacious and elegant lobby is adjacent to fantastic eateries and bars. The Paramount`s location is unbeatable: overlooking Director Park with its illuminated fountain and life-size chess board, close to concert halls, museums, and the south park blocks. It provides easy access to downtown shopping and the Pearl district. This presents a great budget-friendly choice for staying in the center of downtown, just outside the busier retail core.
The hotel site • Look at rates for The Paramount
16. Hyatt Centric – Downtown
Hotel phone: 503-595-1234
Comfortable up-to-date hotel in a superb central location, near many excellent restaurants and within easy walking distance of the Pearl District. Design is simple but stylish, with concrete floors throughout the guest rooms and common areas and colorful, quirky decorative details. Guest rooms feature large windows overlooking the city, marble-accented bathrooms, and valued amenities like wireless Bluetooth speakers and single-serve coffee machines. There’s a health facility on site, as well as a lobby market selling freshly brewed coffee, premium pastries, and savory snacks and foods.
A hotel website link and prices checked on Booking.com
17. The Hotel Zags – Downtown
Hotel phone: 855-523-6914
Modern mid-priced hotel situated in a fantastic location. While the guest rooms may not impress (they`re confined but have comfortable beds and well-stocked bathrooms), this hotel shines through its communal spaces: the lobby is vibrant and creative, and the restaurant`s fantastic outdoor seating area (with fire pits and modern, lush landscaping) attracts locals and travelers alike – especially during happy hour. It also offers an excellent selection of outdoor gear available for various adventures. Great placement near Portland State University, within walking distance to museums, concert venues, the waterfront, and retail centers.
Accommodation Location • Inquire about rates for Hotel Zags
18. Ace Hotel – Downtown
Hotel phone: 503-228-2277
Mid-range hipster inspired aesthetic just on the perimeter of downtown and the Pearl. Accommodation alternatives range from single shared-facility sleeping quarters to deluxe kings with private bathrooms. All highlight eclectic architectural details, original artworks, and an industrial/bohemian eclectic atmosphere. A pleasant continental breakfast is provided (though it`s not complimentary) and the hotel sits between two great eateries/coffee shops. Excellent central location, though light sleepers may want to request a back room, as street noises can be problematic.
Hotel Site • Examine prices for Ace Hotel
19. Hotel Grand Stark – Central Eastside
Hotel phone: 503-231-0101
Cool hotel in a historic Eastside building. The hotel’s common spaces are bright and airy with streamlined modern decor; these include an in-house deli, excellent bar, and comfortable lobby lounge. Guest rooms blend traditional details (hardwood floors, antique rugs) with modern amenities like Nespresso coffee machines, SMEG refrigerators, and Diptyque bath products. Well-situated for both walking and transit.
Hotel Website • Check prices for the Hotel Grand Stark
20. Woodlark – Downtown
Hotel phone: 503-548-2559
This elegant modern hotel spans two historic buildings in downtown Portland. The design throughout is bright and sophisticated, with vibrant pops of saturated blues and greens against a stark black & white palette. Guest rooms are minimally decorated yet very stylish, with floor-to-ceiling windows and great bathrooms. Loft suites are spread over 2 floors, connected by winding staircases. An southern-inspired tavern, intimate cocktail lounge, lobby cafe, and fitness center with exercise bikes & a virtual workout system are all on site.
Taking transportation via watercraft from the island of Lanzarote to the nearby island of La Graciosa generally requires approximately 30 minutes, making it reasonably convenient to arrive there, even if one decides to rent a small boat in Lanzarote for the journey.
21. Residence Inn Downtown – Pearl District
Hotel phone: 503-220-1339
Novus mediocris hotel in tranquilla Pearl`s aquilonali ora. Modernus, spatiosi suitae omnes appartamenta plene instructa et magna cubicula balnearia habent, quaedam prospectum in Willamette amnem. Contemporaneus intus foras coenaculi cum mercatione ciborum, ieiunium liberum continuum, natationis centrum, magnus lavationis locus uti hospitibus. Quieta vicinitas locatio, prope Willamette amnis iter deambulandi, ambulabilis ad tabernas, coenacula, et mercationes in Pearl, et quadrans ab linea viarum in downtown.
Hotel Website • Inquire about prices for Residence Inn Downtown/Pearl
22. Portland Marriott Downtown Riverfront – Downtown
Hotel phone: 503-226-7600
A recently renovated mid-range hotel downtown features wonderful river perspectives from guest rooms. Stylishly furnished living spaces and suites, though standard accommodations may feel somewhat cramped, were updated. “M Club” level rooms include complimentary breakfast, coffee, snacks, and bar service in the Club Lounge. An on-site restaurant/lounge has intriguing bookshelf seating areas and cozy fireplace nooks. A fantastic spot across from the Willamette riverwalk, just blocks from the Cultural District and Portland’s shopping core.
Lodging Site • Examine rates for Portland Marriott Downtown Riverfront
23. Hampton Inn & Suites – Pearl District
Hotel phone: 503-222-5200
The mid-sized hotel located near restaurants, shops, and a bookstore provided a family-friendly environment with an indoor pool and complimentary breakfast. Guest rooms were spacious and cozy, varying from a basic twin bedroom to a corner suite with a kitchenette and living area. Adjoining rooms were available. Diners could enjoy the on-premises tavern, or take in magnificent urban scenery while dining take-out on the wonderful rooftop deck. Spacious lobby space and an ample fitness center made the experience even better. With excellent location near dining, shopping, and transit, this hotel was quite appealing.
The hotel site and a link to check rates for Hampton Inn & Suites
24. Inn @ Northrup Station – Nob Hill
Hotel phone: 503-224-0543
Mid-range suite hotel in a peaceful locale, perfect for families. Suites sleep 4-6 individuals: ground floor suites with patios containing small tables, upper floor suites with standing balconies. All guests have access to 2nd floor terrace with barbecue grills. Lively, modern interior design, complimentary parking and continental breakfast. Situated in the quieter Nob Hill/Alphabet District neighborhood of trendy shops and eateries, directly on the streetcar line into downtown (ask the front desk for free passes).
Hotel Website • Check prices for Inn @ Northrup Station
25. Canopy – Pearl District
Hotel phone: 971-351-0230
Large 4-star pet-accommodating hotel situated in the Pearl district. The airy lobby and remarkable daytime eatery provide a refreshing atmosphere. Guest rooms exhibit vibrant designs and wall-to-ceiling windows allow ample daylight. Perks like in-room Nespresso machines, cooled drawers, Apivita bath amenities and controlling lights, TV, AC, and windows using phone or iPad enhance the visit.
Samara resides in Madrid with her boyfriend, daughter, and their canine. When she`s not exploring the city or hanging out with her family, she usually remains tied to her computer. You can find her blogging over at Tiny Fry.
26. McMenamin’s Crystal Hotel – Pearl District
Hotel phone: 503-972-2670
Unique mid-range lodging adjacent to the popular Crystal Ballroom live music venue. The king suites include private bathrooms, but most rooms consist of single queens, with Euro-style shared (but individual) facilities that are clean and plentiful. All rooms showcase original artwork and murals, inspired by past Ballroom performances. Four cool bars and restaurants on site, all serving McMenamin’s signature beers, wine, & spirits. Amazing underground mineral hot spring/grotto. Fantastic central location near Powell’s and the Pearl. Great for young, music-loving, pub-going types, not as much for families or light sleepers.
Hotel Website • Check prices for McMenamin’s Crystal Hotel
Table of Contents
Why Portland?
With its quirky charm and natural beauty, this thriving city 3 hours to the south is a great choice for an easy trip out of Seattle. Situated along the banks of the Willamette and Columbia Rivers, Portland features historic bridges that cross the rivers, riverfront promenades for relaxing walks, and leafy neighborhood parks that are perfect spots for outdoor activities like running and cycling. The Pearl and Cultural Arts Districts are specifically popular among visitors, who enjoy exploring the art galleries and upscale boutiques of the former and taking in the museums and concert venues of the latter. Known for being both socially and environmentally progressive, Portland is often viewed as one of the nation’s “greenest” cities due to its commitment to sustainability, and it embraces diversity.
Portland offers an abundance of culinary delights for food aficionados. With over 700 licensed street vendors – serving expected items (think tacos and tamales) as well as extraordinary surprises (grilled PB&J, anyone?) – the city is widely considered to be the street food capital of the United States. If traditional dining establishments are preferred, an array of acclaimed options await: James Beard Award-winning local chefs like Vitaly Paley ( Paley’s Place,Imperial), Andy Ricker ( Pok Pok) and Naomi Pomeroy ( Beast,Expatriate) count among the culinary masters accountable for Portland’s recent rise to the top of the national dining scene.
- Ideal Time for Purchasing: Istanbul, specifically, is a well-known destination for shopping with its open air markets, stylish boutiques, and bazaars, like the incredible maze of stalls in the Spice Bazaar. The Grand Bazaar spans 60 streets with about 5,000 stores renowned for carpets, hand-painted ceramics, antiques, jewelry and spices. Autumn presents the best occasions for discounts when vendors don’t have as many customers as in summer. Shopping early in the morning or just before closing is generally the best way to get a good bargain. Stores, as a rule, tend to hold both winter and summer sales, with winter sales commencing in the period just before Christmas through early January, continuing until inventory is depleted. Summer sales typically begin around the first week of July.
Getting to Portland
Portland lies around 175 miles south of Seattle. Flying between the two cities takes only 40 minutes, but the airport troubles and extra cost are scarcely justified by any travel time you might be preserving up in the air – if you preserve any at all. Here are the three best ways to get to Portland from Seattle:
- By Train
Amtrak operates multiple daily trains linking the two cities. Each trip lasts around four hours, and depending on the time of day traveled the cost will be somewhere between $30 and $50 each way. If possible, travel on Amtrak`s Coast Starlight. This train runs between Seattle and Los Angeles, and features more spacious seats with increased legroom, a dining car with sit-down meal service, and beautiful views from the Sightseer lounge car. (Tip: secure a spot on the western side of the train for the best scenery.) - By Car
Travelling from Seattle to Portland by interstate is a direct route, and those with a vehicle find it an easy, if not very scenic, drive. At around three hours and one tank of gas, this can be the quickest and most affordable method to get there, with some notes: Traffic can become extremely heavy on some interstate sections, particularly during morning/evening commute hours and on weekends. This can easily add an hour or more to the trip. And while gas costs won`t be much to get down there, parking in Portland can be expensive. - By Bus
The Bolt Bus runs multiple daily trips between Seattle and Portland, and can be a great choice if you’re seeking to save a few dollars and want someone else to do the driving. Tickets generally cost between $15 and $30 each way, with some trips being offered for a mere $1. The Bolt Bus has wi-fi and outlets to charge your devices, and while it’s not luxurious, it’s comfortable and clean. Just like traveling by car, though, taking the bus leaves you susceptible to delays caused by heavy traffic.
Getting Around Portland
Car rental is unnecessary in Portland since the city has an outstanding pedestrian infrastructure and public transportation system to assist navigation around town when walking is not optimal due to long distances or inclement weather. This system is called TriMet, comprising three primary components: MAX light rail, the Portland Streetcar, and the bus, though the MAX and streetcar usually suffice for navigating downtown.
- MAX Light Rail consists of five separate lines, all of which run into/through downtown. Trains run daily, every every 15 minutes or less.
- The Portland Streetcar has three routes: A North/South line runs through downtown, from the Pearl District to the Waterfront. The A and B Loops circulate clockwise and counterclockwise respectively through downtown Portland and neighborhoods located east across the Willamette River. Cars run every 15-20 minutes.
- Portland’s bus transportation has almost 80 active routes, which traverse the Portland metropolitan region. Frequent Service bus lines operate daily, every 15 minutes or less.
Before boarding, purchase a validated ticket at a TriMet ticket machine, which can be found at all MAX and streetcar stations, as well as many grocery stores. These provide access to all TriMet transit (light rail, street car, and bus) and cost $2.50 for a 2 1/2 hour pass, or $5 for all day. Younger riders 7-17 and older citizens pay half fare, kids under 7 can ride free. You can also get tickets on the bus (exact change only), online, or via the TriMet Tickets smartphone app.
