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Where to Stay in Portland

Where to Stay in Portland

Portland Oregon, USA Travel Guide

Accommodation Types

Portland has a full spectrum of lodging, from communal hostels to sophisticated luxury hotels.

Diverse Lodging Options

  • Hostels

    For budget-conscious travelers, hostels mean dorm-style beds and often private rooms. Social opportunities exist, and activities often begin there. HI Portland Hawthorne Hostel and NW Portland Hostel exemplify this type of stay. For more alternatives, explore Hostelworld.

  • Motels

    Budget to mid-range motel options, often outside the immediate downtown core. They offer practical lodging, sometimes with free parking.

  • Boutique Hotels

    Portland features many unique, independently owned hotels emphasizing design, local character, and personalized service. The Ace Hotel, The Nines, and Hotel Lucia offer a distinct local feel.

  • Hotel Chains

    Major hotel brands like Hilton, Marriott, and Hyatt exist, especially downtown and near the airport. They provide consistent service and amenities. Weigh your options from IHG Hotels.

Specialized Stays

  • Luxury Hotels

    For a premium experience, choose upscale accommodations with a full range of facilities. The Heathman Hotel, Sentinel, and Dossier refine service and comfort.

  • Historic Hotels

    Some hotels occupy historically important buildings, offering a glimpse into Portland's past. The Heathman Hotel, for instance, has elegant architecture and literary connections.

  • Eco-friendly Lodging

    Lots of places in Portland prioritize sustainability and environmentally conscious practices. Look for hotels with green certifications if this matters to you.

  • Vacation Rentals

    Platforms like Vrbo offer apartments, houses, and rooms to accommodate short-term rental. A good option for families or longer stays.

Neighborhood Guide

Each area is a different character and proximity to attractions.

Downtown & Pearl District

Downtown Strengths
  • Central location.
  • Good public transit access.
  • Close to the main sights.
  • Mix of chain and boutique hotels.
Downtown & Pearl Concerns
  • Less atmospheric in some areas.
  • Higher visible homelessness in Pearl District.
  • Safety concerns at night in certain areas.
  • Can be expensive.

Nob Hill & Old Town Chinatown

Nob Hill & Old Town Strengths
  • Nob Hill: Charming, good dining and shopping.
  • Nob Hill: Residential feel.
  • Old Town: Historic atmosphere, some nightlife.
  • Iconic Chinese Friendship Gate in Old Town.
Nob Hill & Old Town Concerns
  • Nob Hill: Slightly less central, can be pricey.
  • Old Town: Less safe at night.
  • Old Town: Higher visible homelessness.
  • Noise levels higher on commercial streets.

Hawthorne, Alberta & Mississippi

Hawthorne/Alberta/Mississippi Strengths
  • Strong local charm.
  • Independent businesses, diverse food scene.
  • Artsy and colorful neighborhoods.
  • Good for exploring unique shops and cafes.
Hawthorne/Alberta/Mississippi Concerns
  • More reliance on public transit or a car to reach downtown.
  • Can be further from major attractions.
  • Busier on event nights (e.g., Last Thursday).
  • Residential areas often quieter.

Neighborhood Safety & Proximity Insights

Safety Precautions

Consistent awareness, as in any major city, is advisable. Downtown and Old Town-Chinatown areas, specifically after dark, suggest heightened awareness due to panhandling and visible homelessness. Residential neighborhoods typically offer a less risky environment.

Proximity & Transportation

Downtown, the Pearl District, and Old Town maintain a central position with excellent MAX tram and Streetcar access. Hawthorne, Alberta, and Mississippi see good assistance from buses and the Streetcar (Mississippi), though transfers could take place for some downtown attractions.

Booking Strategies

Plan your stay with these tips for booking.

Advance Booking by Season

  • High Season (June-September): Book accommodations 3-6 months beforehand, specifically for popular hotels or vacation rentals. This timeframe especially applies if your visit coincides with specific events.
  • Shoulder Season (April-May, October-November): Book 1-3 months beforehand. Availability appears more plentiful during these times.
  • Low Season (December-March): Greater flexibility exists, booking 2-4 weeks beforehand. Exclude holiday periods, which may call for earlier booking.
  • Seasonal Price Fluctuations: Accommodation prices peak in summer (June-September) and during major events. Prices generally dip in winter (December-March), vacation times like Christmas and New Year's excepted.

Booking Resources & Policies

  • Trusted Booking Platforms: Utilize platforms like Booking.com, Expedia, Hotels.com, Agoda, Airbnb, and Vrbo. Direct booking through hotel websites sometimes holds the best rates or added perks.
  • Local Reservation Systems: For independent hotels, checking their direct websites remains a good practice.
  • Deposit and Cancellation Policies: Policies vary by property and booking platform. Always check the deposit conditions and cancellation terms before confirming your reservation. Many platforms allow free cancellation up to a certain point, offering flexibility.
  • Negotiation Customs: Negotiating walk-in rates is generally not customary at established U.S. Hotels. It might occur at very budget motels if vacancy is high, but this is not a common practice.

Considerations for Your Stay

Flexibility in Booking
  • Check for flexible cancellation options while reserving.
  • Consider travel insurance for unforeseen changes.
  • Book non-refundable rates only when arrangements are certain.
  • Direct bookings sometimes offer more personalized service.
Maximizing Your Budget
  • Travel in the off-peak seasons for better rates.
  • Look for packages that bundle flights and hotels.
  • Consider loyalty programs for discounts or perks.
  • Explore hostels or vacation rentals for cost savings.

Important Note on Booking

Verify Details

Always double-check reservation dates, room types, and included amenities.

Read Reviews

Review recent guest feedback to gather a better sense of property quality and service.

Contact Property Directly

For specific needs or questions, reaching out at the accommodation directly yields the most accurate information.

Accommodation Recommendations

Here are some top picks for different budget levels and what travelers need.

Budget & Mid-Range Stays

Budget-Friendly Choices

For those mindful of spending, these options deliver comfort and value.

  • HI Portland Hawthorne Hostel: Offers dormitory-style and private rooms, a social atmosphere, in the lively Hawthorne District.
  • Lolo Pass: A hotel/hostel hybrid providing both private rooms and dorms, with a modern design.
Mid-Range Comfort

Quality and amenities without the premium price tag.

  • Hotel Rose: A stylish, pet-friendly option near Waterfront Park.
  • Jupiter NEXT: A popular choice on the east side, known for its contemporary design.
  • The Duniway Portland (Hilton): Upscale amenities in a central downtown location.

Luxury & Unique Properties

Premium Experiences

For a truly refined and indulgent stay in Portland.

  • The Heathman Hotel: A historic, elegant hotel known for its library and literary connections.
  • The Nines: A luxury hotel in the historic Meier & Frank Building, featuring a rooftop bar.
  • Sentinel: Housed in a historic building, outstanding for its art collection and sophisticated design.
  • Dossier: A boutique luxury hotel with art and comfort.
Family & Solo Traveler Considerations

Finding the right fit for different ways of traveling.

  • Family-Friendly Options: Look for hotels with pools, like the Embassy Suites by Hilton Portland Downtown. Vacation rentals with multiple bedrooms and kitchens suit families.
  • Solo Traveler Recommendations: Hostels like HI Portland Hawthorne create social opportunities. Boutique hotels in walkable neighborhoods suit exploration.

Long-Stay Accommodations

  • Extended-Stay Hotels

    Properties like Residence Inn or Homewood Suites come with kitchenettes and other amenities suited for longer visits.

  • Vacation Rentals

    These properties offer a home-like experience, ideal for extended stays and larger groups. Explore options on Vrbo or equivalent platforms.

Properties with Cultural/Historical Significance

  • The Heathman Hotel

    A Portland institution, known for its elegant ambiance and connections to the city's literary scene. It represents a piece of local history.

  • Hotel Lucia / Sentinel

    Both housed in historic downtown buildings, they feature impressive art collections and design, blending history with modern luxury.

Planning Your Accommodation

What to Look For

Consider neighborhood vibes, proximity to desired attractions, and transportation access.

  • Check recent feedback for updated information.
  • Check amenities relevant to your trip (e.g., parking, pet-friendly, pool).
  • Understand cancellation policies before booking.
Making the Most of Your Stay
  • Book well in advance for peak season travel.
  • Consider independent or boutique hotels for local flavor.
  • Explore different neighborhoods to match your wanted experience.

Other Options

Pet-Friendly Stays

Many hotels and holiday rentals welcome pets. Confirm policies and any associated fees directly with the property.

Housesitting Opportunities

For longer, unique stays, platforms like TrustedHousesitters can link travelers with local homeowners seeking house and pet care.

Accessible Accommodations

Many contemporary hotels and public spaces offer features for accessibility. Inquire directly with properties for specific needs.

Where to Stay in Portland. Hotels, Neighborhoods, Accommodation