Small and compact and not too far from the beautiful Oregon coastline, the unique Pacific Northwest Port city showcases everything good about the hipster scene.
When I visited, it was honestly one of my favorite cities I’d traveled to. It was bursting with excellent style, character, and a sense of hope and community. Cute little cafes, chic and cheap vintage shops, and good-natured, eco-minded hipsters with a heart surrounded me.
Its charming and exciting collection of places to stay also reflects the city’s progressive and creative outlook on life. Here are my favorite fabulous, quirky, and unique hotels in Portland, Oregon, to help you plan a fun and exciting city break (in no particular order; they’re all equally excellent)…
Our Top 3 Best Cool and Unusual Hotels
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McMenamins Kennedy School
Built in 1915, this repurposed Art Nouveux-era elementary school is literally a class of its own!
McMenamins Kennedy School is located in the Northeast of the city, which has more of a local neighborhood feel. Some highlights of this area include a vibrant arts and culture scene, plenty of craft breweries, bike lanes, green spaces, quirky cafes, and interesting independent boutiques.
It’s also near the Moda Center and the Veterans Memorial Coliseum. Alternatively, getting downtown via the popular MAX light rail system or bus is easy.
The decor, building, and concept are just so unique, and I loved my stay here. Half of the 57 individually designed boutique rooms maintain their original classroom character, and the other half sporting literary themes. The vibe is relaxed and friendly but also radiates an unusual vintage cool.
Guest rooms are adorned with authentic vintage-chic decor and design features like hardwood or parquet floors, private bathrooms, free WiFi, air-con (or heating!), complimentary toiletries, and comfy beds.
More of a retreat than a hotel after a day exploring the city, you can unwind in the outdoor soaking pool or combine homegrown pub fare with movie magic on the auditorium cinema screen! Or just wander around the cute gift shop, beautiful green gardens, hip onsite restaurant, and no less than four themed bars!
Thankfully, craft beer and freshly roasted coffee replace school dinners in this hotel! Guests can enjoy the house brew in the hotel’s Concordia Brewery (formally the little girl’s room!), listen to excellent live music in the on-site venue, and munch on delicious, sustainably sourced grub in the Courtyard Restaurant.
Overall, I thought it was a truly unique and fun gem of a place!
Pros
Unique vintage-chic decor
Onsite craft breweries
Hardwood or parquet floors
Scenic swimming pool
Cons
Bathrooms are small
Breakfast is not included
Jupiter Hotel
Aimed at ‘modern travelers, cultural creatives, and anyone who lives outside the box,’ the highly-rated Hotel Jupiter is an excellent choice for a hipster-friendly stay.
It’s located in the trendy Burnside Street, a major thoroughfare in the city and only a 5-minute drive from Downtown. The eclectic area has quirky shops, great nightlife, tasty eateries, cool cafes, and vintage stores. It’s a fun place to base yourself and accessible to major attractions.
If you want to party the night away, you can stay on the bar side of the hotel, right next to the hotel’s Doug Fir Lounge and Restaurant, which serves up creative cocktails and tasty American eats with vegan and gluten-free options. It’s a very cool spot with a great vibe (I was a big fan!), and this award-winning small venue offers excellent food, beer, and live music so that you can rock until the small hours! The live music gigs here are top-rated and attract a fun crowd.
For a more peaceful stay, choose a room on the chill side. All guest rooms are pet-friendly and feature funky and chic 1950s American dream-inspired dΓ©cor, free WiFi, flat-screen TVs, air-con, and everything else you need for a very comfy – and trendy – stay.
As well as a 24-hour art gallery and a contemporary courtyard patio with a trendy fire pit, the hotel is dedicated to supporting local artists and small businesses, and on the first Friday of every month, it hosts a ‘reception for the artist’ event where you can mix with local artisans and explore multi-sensory art forms with like-minded people.
Overall, I thought this is the perfect mid-range hotel for the streetwise urban traveler who also likes to party. Although shy and retiring types may want to give this one a miss!
Pros
Trendy courtyard with a cozy fire pit
Funky youthful vibe
Popular onsite restaurant
Live music gigs
Cons
Ambiance might not be for everyone
No coffee or tea in rooms
Ace Hotel
This funky spot is an affordable option without compromising on style and comfort and also doubles as a locally famous hangout for the cool kids in the city.
The highly-rated The Ace Hotel is based in a historic building in a trendy part of downtown – The West End neighborhood. This area is known for its great nightlife, buzzing bars and restaurants, and modern Indie boutiques. Culture vultures will also love art galleries, museums, theaters, and live music venues, and it’s also close to plenty of public transport links as well as the famous Powellβs City of Books and the funky Pearl District.
The overall decor is hip, with dark wood and colorful retro-styled furniture. There’s a friendly, communal vibe about the place – I got casually chatting with quite a few guests.
The guest rooms range from small to spacious and are lovingly decorated by local artists. Dark wooden floors, the odd exposed brick wall, and plenty of creative and quirky features like vinyl record players. Although the style is rustic som,e have shared bathrooms. However, all come with free WiFi, minibars, and flat-screen TVs.
Are you feeling hungry? Then, you can enjoy home-cooked locally sourced food, a tasty continental breakfast, and a vast range of alcoholic drinks in the cozy Clyde Common restaurant and bar overseen by Chef Carlo Lamagna, who goes all out with innovative menu choices.
If you fancy exploring the city on two wheels, there are bikes to borrow, or you can even rent a bespoke handmade motorcycle created for the hotel by artist Jordon Hufnagel (I loved this!)
I also loved that there are plenty of cozy communal spaces – including a funky onsite cafe and multiple excellent restaurants – where you can chill out with fellow travelers, play a vinyl record or two, or take advantage of the gorgeous vintage photo booth to capture some old-style holiday memories!
I thought it was so different, creative, and art-filled for a unique mid-range stay downtown.
Pros
Trendy onsite bar and cafe
Old-style photo booth
Vintage and salvaged materials
Brick walls
and colorful retro furnishings
Cons
No parking
Water pressure is inconsistent
McMenamins Crystal
Enjoy downtown at its Rock ‘n’ roll finest at this quirky hotel inspired by The Crystal Ballroom’s extensive musical history.
The much loved and highly rated McMenamins Crystal Hotel is set in a historic building built in 1911 in the fashionable and buzzy West End part of Downtown. You’ll be surrounded by busy bars, restaurants, cafes, and interesting shops. Stand-out nearby spots include the famous Powell’s Books, the funky Pearl District, the Artists Repertory Theater, Voodoo Doughnuts, and Jimmy Makβs Jazz Club.
The dΓ©cor is fun, whimsical, and most definitely music-themed. I loved that the vibe is calm but relaxed with a shabby-chic feel, with plenty of interesting, quirky features, unique artwork, and bright colors.
Each of the 51 rooms is influenced by one of the standout shows at the Ballroom – from Blondie to The Flaming Lips, local artists and fans have done their best to capture the atmosphere generated by these music icons. You can even become part of the story with The Crystal Ballroom just across the road!
The wonderfully eclectic guest rooms are fabulous, too. With the music theme running throughout the hotel, the vividly colored rooms are each named after a well-known musician and come with great city views and private bathrooms. Mod cons include free WiFi, comfy bathrobes, and organic toiletries.
Other stand-out features include their very own live music venue and weekend comedy shows, two onsite restaurants and a bar that serves up food made from only the finest Northwest ingredients and popular craft brews, a funky indoor soaking/swimming pool, and a wonderful art gallery – music-themed of course. Oh, and pets and children under six can stay for free.
I was a big fan, and music lovers, particularly, will especially adore this place!
Pros
Musically themed rooms
City view from the window
Comfy bathrobes and organic toiletries
Funky indoor soaking pool
Cons
Some rooms can be a bit small
Corridors are quite dark
Sentinel Hotel
The luxurious 4-star, exceptionally rated Sentinel Hotel is where creative thinkers, artists, and entrepreneurs can lay their heads and be inspired!
It’s housed in a historic terracotta building dating from 1909 in the heart of downtown, so the center of all the action. A streetcar stop is directly outside, so you can explore the city quickly, including the Pearl District and the South Waterfront. Alternatively, many exciting places are within walking distance, including the famous bookstore Powell’s, Portland Art Museum, Oregon History Museum, shops, restaurants, and cafes galore!
Inside the beautiful interior is a fusion of old-time luxury and contemporary ideas with black and white prints of inspirational people, worn leather sofas, thoughtfully curated 20th-century local art, and plenty of books (my favorite part!)
The elegant, pet-friendly guest rooms have a feel of classic upscale elegance, and some are spacious. They offer free Wi-Fi, minibars, air con, flat-screen TVs, luxury linens, a pillow, and an iPod menu. Opt for a suite, and you’ll find cozy fireplaces, too. My favorite detail was the Well & Fit kit, which kept me busy with a yoga mat, fitness equipment, and a tablet pre-loaded with fitness videos – wow!
The food in the hotel’s two upscale restaurants was delicious and could be washed down by creative cocktails. I also admired the eco-minded ethos of this hip hotel – it even has its beehives on the roof to supply the hotel with local honey! The breakfast was one of the best I’d had in the city – it must have been all those organic ingredients!
Overall, I thought this was a gorgeous and innovative combination of luxury and free thinking and a great option when visiting this brilliant and quirky city.
Pros
Communal areas adorned with a fire pit
Easy walking distance of the city center
Onsite restaurant and bar
Cons
Faint outside noise
Valet parking can be pricey
Some extras arenβt included in room rate
Moxy Downtown
The hugely popular and very Instagrammable hotel brand now has a funky Portland version marked out with a giant neon sign in Moxyβs signature hot pink!
The Moxy Downtown is located in a great central downtown area within walkable distance of many great attractions, including the International Rose Test Garden, the trendy Pearl District, Portland Art Museums, and Powell’s Bookstore. You’ll also be spoilt for choice for nearby independent boutiques, cool cafes, excellent restaurants, Food Carts, and some great craft breweries.
Inside, the ultra-modern decor is equally as fun and striking, with unique, colorful, and funky design details that both locals and visiting out-of-towners love. With a playful, youthful vibe, expect neon lights and floor-to-ceiling glass front windows – as a fan of unique design hotels, I loved it!
The trendy guest rooms (197) feature retro-chic wooden floors, flat-screen TVs, cable TVs, air-con, free Wi-Fi, a modern design, city views, and some offer bunk beds.
Other amenities include a hip, friendly bar serving funky hand-crafted cocktails, an onsite restaurant serving tasty breakfasts and dinners, and a trendy-looking fitness center.
Overall, if you fancy staying at a funky place with a youthful vibe that will look good on your Instagram, this is the place for you. Those looking for more tranquil stays should look elsewhere, though!
Pros
Colorful retro-chic decor
Located near great restaurants and bookshops
Bar with hand-crafted cocktails
Fitness center and a restaurant
Cons
Small rooms can be small
Not for all ages
Drinks can be pricey
Hotel Vintage
This beautiful, stylish, and striking boutique hotel is great for couples and solo travelers looking for a unique stay.
The 4-star exceptionally rated Hotel Vintage is located in a fabulous downtown Southwest area location in the center of a lot of entertainment action just half a mile from Governor Tom McCall Waterfront Park on Willamette River, near Pioneer Place Mall (with interesting shops galore), Providence Park, the hipster haven Pearl District and a mere 11-minute walk from the Portland Art Museum.
The overall feel is chic, creative, and art-adorned. It features delightful design details such as a floating staircase, gorgeous sculptures, a graffitied lobby, and chandeliers shaped like bunches of grapes!
The upscale guest rooms are fabulous, with flat-screen cable TVs, minifridges, plush bathrobes, great views, and handy yoga mats! Upgraded rooms come with hot tubs, balconies, or even blissful outdoor hot tubs.
The Pazzo restaurant offers tasty breakfasts, local wines, and cream-of-the-crop Italian cuisine. At the same time, the casually cool Bacchus Bar holds delicious craft beers and wines amongst old-school arcade games and pool (my favorite bit!)
As well as welcoming pets and offering a modern 24-hour fitness center, the gorgeous abode prides itself on its gastronomy and offers urban tasting sessions in its exquisitely designed lounge room.
Overall, this was a tremendous upscale boutique stay, perfect for romance!
Pros
Instaworthy interiors
Free bike rentals and yoga mats
Classic cocktails
and local beer
Free wine at Happy Hour
Blissful outdoor hot tub
Cons
Food can be pricey
No swimming pool
Gym is relatively tiny
Duniway Hotel
Billed as the city’s newest lifestyle hotel, the 4-star, exceptionally rated Duniway Hotel has quickly become one of the most popular places to stay.
It’s located on a lovely tree-lined street in the hip and happening heart of downtown in the buzzy business district- within easy walking distance of cool shops, bars, and some excellent restaurants. Nearby, you’ll find the Portland Art Museum, Moda Center, the Arlene Schnitzer Concert Hall, and MAX Light Rail for easy access to the rest of the city.
The overall design is stylish and trendy with high standards. Expect contemporary furniture with exotic rugs, green plants, and modern prints. I loved the classy but not too over-the-top feel of the place.
The sleek and polished rooms (all 327) feature trendy decor and many mod cons, and the upgraded rooms and suites are spectacular. All have free WiFi, high thread count linens, visual doorbells, great views, and espresso machines.
Other hotel highlights include a hip onsite restaurant by celebrity chef Chris Cosentino and an onsite eatery and bar. They serve innovative cuisine, creative craft cocktails based on 60 herbaceous spirits, and tasty, quick bites.
Add an indoor swimming pool, a modern gym, and a super-lush furnished terrace that regularly hosts live music and yoga classes, and you have a gorgeous upscale boutique stay!
Pros
Outdoor Rooftop Patio Space
Heated indoor wave-less lap pool
Charming furnished terrace offering yoga classes
Onsite restaurant and bar
Cons
Faint neighborhood sound
Water bottles are pricey
Parking is extra
Jupiter Next
This new urban chic hotel is the sister hotel of the trendy Jupiter Hotel but with slightly more luxurious features.
The four start exceptionally rated Jupiter Next city’s located Eastside can be seen as an embodiment of the cityβs hipster culture. It enjoys an excellent and fashionable location on Burnside Street, one of the trendiest spots in town, with an eclectic mix of independent boutiques, cafes, bars, restaurants, and live music venues. You can easily walk to the famous Voodoo Donuts, Revolution Hall, and Powell’s Bookstore. Alternatively, you can hop on a bus or a streetcar and start to explore.
Designed by trendy Works Progress Architecture, the hotel combines edgy with luxury and stunning views of the city and the West Hills. There’s more than a hint of industrial chic with unique features such as a striking concrete-and-steel staircase (I loved this stunning design piece by Laura Sol), a concrete fire pit, and lashings of black and glass.
The striking and trendy guest bedrooms have city-inspired headboards, large windows, modern art, unique glass bathrooms, signature knit throws from Seek & Swoon, and great mod cons such as a voice-activated in-room concierge, high-speed Wi-Fi, and large flat-screen TVs. It’s a seriously cool place!
The hotel also has plenty of space to work, relax, and socialize. The tropical-themed and very Instagrammable onsite restaurant and bar serves up creative fine fayre, a tasty breakfast, fun cocktails, and even turns into a disco in the evenings, so it is perfect for partygoers. However, if you’re looking just to chill out and gaze at city views, head to the impressive open-air lounge on the fifth floor.
Overall, I thought this was an beautiful, trendy urban retreat in a fabulously hip part of town.
Pros
Ultra-modern bar and restaurant
Breathtaking views of the city and the west hills
Self-check-in kiosks and a digital concierge
Cons
Subtle outside noises in the rooms
No swimming pool
No gym
Hoxton Hotel
This gorgeous and hip boutique hotel is a fresh new build yet provides a mixture of modernism with nods to Portlandβs historic past.
The 4-star, exceptionally rated Hoxton Hotel is in the heart of the city’s historic and lively Chinatown downtown and provides easy access to other areas by rail, taxi, and other public transport. You’ll also be surrounded by plenty of great restaurants, unique shops, and a handy MAX Light Rail station. The famous White Stag sign and Tom McCall Waterfront Park are nearby.
Housed in a restored 1906 building, the style is tasteful, and plush modernist furniture lends well with retro-chic design details, quirky ornaments, and an easy-on-the-eye color scheme. I especially loved the laid-back vibe and large windows, which let in tons of natural light.
Guest rooms come in a range of sizes from ‘snug’ to spacious, and all are stylish and trendy with dark woods, funky art, flat-screen TVs, free WiFi, air-con, tall windows offering superb city views, and cool black-tiled private bathrooms.
There are great onsite eating options. My favorite was the fashionable local hangout and a rooftop restaurant, which provides excellent food and beautiful views across the city.
Alternatively, there’s a coffee shop that serves up pastries and great coffee, a stylish lounge bar the buzzy speakeasy-style basement bar, and an eatery that serves up a wide selection of excellent cocktails inspired by the local area, craft beers, and tasty snacks.
Overall, I thought this was a beautiful and trendy boutique perfect for a hip crowd!
Pros
North-West modernist decor
Buzzy speakeasy-style basement bar
Near the funky Pearl district
Fun rooftop taqueria and bar with views of Mount Hood
Cons
Parking is extra
Little closet space
Some rooms can be small
Hotel Zags
Blending clean, sleek lines and welcoming warmth, this gorgeous, contemporary, pet-friendly accommodation promises to offer everything required for a modern, refined boutique stay in the heart of town.
The 4-star, highly rated Hotel Zags is situated along Willamette River in the middle of the funky arts district downtown, just two blocks from a MAX light rail station and a 6-minute walk from the Portland Art Museum. Other nearby attractions include the city’s Farmer’s Market, South Waterfront Park, and the Hawthorne Asylum Food Cart Pod.
It’s a design boutique styled on the city’s unique style and spirit. Expect retro modern furniture mixed with contemporary art and lashings of wood and greenery. I loved that it was visually stunning and zen-like at the same time!
The chic guest rooms have mod cons such as flat-screen cable TVs, air-con, free Wi-Fi, iPod docks, and plush marble bathrooms. All guests receive complimentary passes to a nearby 24-hour fitness center.
My favorite highlight was the beautiful interior courtyard with trendy fire pits and the city’s first-ever (and very green) living wall. There’s also a handy 24-hour store and a tasty breakfast.
It’s also a great place to begin your exploration of the city’s renowned foodie scene, as its onsite restaurant, Nel Centro, offers a fine dining experience engineered by celebrated local chef and restaurateur David Machado.
If unique chic and funky elegance are your thing, this may be your perfect boutique stay!
Pros
A fire pit and furnished patio
Beautiful interior courtyard
and living wall
Retro modern furniture mixed with contemporary art
Fitness center
and adult lap pool
Cons
Parking is extra
Some hidden fees
The bar closes early
Hotel Vance
The 4-star, exceptionally rated Hotel Vance is dedicated to the innovation and creativity that have made this city what it is, and the name itself is short for βAdvance.β
Itβs also located in one of the most convenient places to stay, located downtown near the Pearl District and well connected to other parts of the city. Portland’s Farmer Market, Powell’s Bookstore, Food Cart Pods, and Providence Park are nearby.
The sleek, futuristic shape of the building is echoed in the decor. The interior design is funky and innovative, with geometrical shapes everywhere, plenty of steel, bright modern furniture, and unique art.
The pet-friendly guest rooms are equally as creative and eye-catching and come with free WiFi, city views, flat-screen TVs and trendy artwork, private bathrooms, coffee machines, room service, and air-con.
Still want more? Thereβs a Starbucks in the hotel and also the Beastro by Marshawn Lynch, which serves Hawaiian food during the day and Korean in the evenings. The breakfasts are delicious, too!
Overall, this was a vibrant, creative, and unique stay perfect for visiting Millenials and Gen Zs.
Pros
Up to two pets allowed for a fee
Funky and innovative interiors
Starbucks onsite
Surrounded by beautiful trees
Cons
Some rooms can be dark
Weak water pressure at times
Parking is extra
Hotel Grand Stark
Keeping with the Palisociety tradition of fitting each hotel to its locale and history, the Hotel Grand Stark embodies the Pacific Northwest spirit of quirky, independent do-it-yourself.
Located in the Central Eastside, it is close to the areaβs best cafes, bars, restaurants, and the artists and artisans who give the neighborhood its character.
The distressed-chic lobby wall, lovingly-displayed artwork, and bespoke emerald green accents make this an Instagrammable hotel.
The understated luxury of the rooms is enhanced with Nespresso coffee machines, SMEG refrigerators, plush robes, and Diptyque bath products.
The Bar Chamberlain is a classic hotel bar with a millennial twist, serving Avocado Toast for breakfast, classic cocktails, and Steak Au Poivre in the evenings.
Pros
Exquisite Breakfast Menu
Fully-stocked mini-bar with gourmet snacks
Italian cuisine at onsite restaurant
Walk-in rain shower
Cons
Little noisy due to surroundings
Parking is extra
No cash payment
The Heathman Hotel
Located in a DownTown central historic building built in 1927, this is a high-end landmark Portland institution of a hotel. If you want to splash out on an utterly deluxe boutique experience, the 4-star, exceptionally rated The Heathman Hotel is where it’s at!
Situated in the heart of Portland, close to all the galleries, parks, and museums (and only three blocks from the Pioneer Square South MAX Station), the chic and unique hotel is second to none for classic elegance. Although arguably its most famous accolade is being the hotel of choice for Ana and Christian’s first rendezvous in Fifty Shades of Grey!
The sophisticated boutique rooms are spacious and artfully designed and feature flat-screen TVs, French press coffeemakers, twice-daily maid service, and free Wi-Fi. The gorgeous suites offer 4-poster beds, whirlpool tubs, and living rooms.
Other hotel highlights include a swish fitness center, an intimate Tea Court Lounge offering delicious fine dining, live Jazz twice a week, and complimentary wine tastings offered on weeknights.
Pros
Chic and very luxurious
Gym and in-room fitness equipment
An intimate Tea Court
Located in the cultural district
Cons
Bathrooms can be small
No swimming pool
Not Budget-friendly
Hotel Deluxe
Film buffs will love this place. The 4-star, exceptionally rated Art-Deco Hotel Deluxe is a dream exuding the glamour of Hollywood’s golden years from every wall.
Not an alcove remains untouched by the silver screen as the hotel is adorned with a magnificent collection of film stills from the 1930s through to the 1960s, and each floor is a homage to a director, actor, or era in cinema from Hitchcock to Gene Kelly, from Brando to Bardot…this place has them all.
It also has a pop-up cinema showing semi-impromptu classics accompanied by craft beer or an elegant cocktail!
Located in a central downtown location (a 3-minute walk from Jeld-Wen Park and 10 minutes from Providence Park MAX Station), the unique hotel dates from 1912 – and is beautifully designed with soft, luxurious fabrics and colors, polished wood, and timeless elegance.
Make sure you go for Afternoon Tea in the opulent lobby and a creative cocktail in the 1950s-style cocktail lounge!
Pros
Comfy beds and blackout curtains
Art Deco aesthetic with modern art
Elegant charm and Hollywood photographs
Cool onsite bar and Well & Fit kit in rooms
Cons
Some rooms can be small
Mandatory restaurant reservations
Parking is extra
Hotel Eastlund
This boutique design hotel was a real find, situated in the heart of the bustling east side of the city (1.5 miles from Pioneer Courthouse Square and 3 miles from the Japanese Garden).
The interior of the 4-star, exceptionally rated Eastlund Hotel sports a gorgeous and sophisticated 1960s design full of geometrical shapes and 1960s chic shades.
The chic and colorful rooms come with free Wi-Fi, flat-screen TVs, and sublime city views; upgraded rooms offer extra rooms and soaking tubs.
There is also an onsite shop, fitness center, a fantastic rooftop restaurant with spectacular, city views, a delicious beer-centric menu to die for, n artisan bakery onsite, and a wine bar!
It is an awesome place from which to explore everything excellent and unusual that Portland has to offer!
Pros
Floor-to-ceiling windows
Patio sitting around fire pits
Rooftop Bar and great views
Onsite artisan bakery
and wine-bar
Cons
Can be noisy at night
Chain-owned
Bottled water is extra
Aypineapple at Hotel Rose
Staying at a Staypineapple Hotel is always a thoroughly decent experience; the highly-rated Staypineapple at Hotel Rose is no exception.
Located in the downtown heart of the city (one block from a MAX light rail station), the ultra-comfortable rooms offer views over the city, waterfront, and park.
You’ll have access to the Gym, freebie coffee cookies in the afternoon, and superb in-room amenities such as an iPhone dock/ Bluetooth speaker, a big TV, and super comfy bedding.
Other highlights include the hotel’s vintage yellow cruiser loaner bikes and the fact that pets can stay too (for a reduced fee if you book the pineapple pup package) – Great work, Staypineapple!
Pros
A unique and fun vibe
Kitsch-style decor rooms
Vintage yellow beach cruiser
Well-equipped fitness room
Cons
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The Royal Sonesta Portland Downtown
Located downtown (just two blocks from a MAX light rail station and a 12-minute walk from Portland Art Museum), the beautiful vintage-styled rooms offer free WiFi, flat-screen TVs, in-room spa services, gorgeous fabrics, and designer wallpaper.
Opt for an upgraded room at Hotel Monaco, and you’ll be treated to living rooms, lush whirlpool tubs, and incredible city views.
Pets are welcomed with treats and a gym, and the on-site Red Star Bar boasts creative cocktails, one of the largest whiskey selections downtown, and microbrews and local wines from the Willamette Valley. The all-day Red Star Tavern serves innovative dishes compiled from local organic ingredients.
The beautifully unusual hotel is situated in the wonderfully vibrant and central Downtown Southwest…a shining example of an urban eco-hotel at its finest!
Pros
Striking romantic rooms with yoga mats
Lush whirlpool tubs
On-site Red Star Bar
Wellness center and spa with massage service
Cons
Parking is extra
No fridge in room
No coffee makers in room
The Nines Hotel
The exceptionally rated 4-star Hotel Nines is seriously a masterpiece in design. Luxury and elegance triumph throughout in a perfect homage to Meier & Frank, who brought the building to life in 1909 as their flagship department store and headquarters.
Also expect artwork supplied by the local art college, a library-themed cocktail bar, a modern fitness center, a rooftop restaurant serving Asian fusion cuisine combined with sublime city views, and an onsite restaurant that serves up hearty American cuisines and ultra-chic rooms with flat-screen TVs and and and and Wi-Fi. Upgraded rooms with complimentary evening cocktails!
Located in a fabulous downtown location, the upscale trendsetting hotel is a minute’s walk from the 6th Ave MAX light rail station and 10 minutes’ walk from the Portland Art Museum.
Pros
Insta-worthy upscale decor
Library-themed cocktail bar
Rooftop restaurant with sublime city views
In-room massage treatments
Cons
Not for the budget-friendly crowd
No fridges in the room
No coffee-makers in the room
Highest-rated Cool Hotels in Portland Compared
Here is a comparison table of Portland’s top 19 cool and unique hotels. The table includes essential information such as the hotel’s name and reference number and details like its location, fitness amenities, price range, proximity to attractions, and nearby dining options. You have the flexibility to sort the table according to your preferences:
Hotel Name | Location | Price Range (per night) | Fitness Facilities | Distance to Attractions (km) | Nearby Restaurants |
---|---|---|---|---|---|
McMenamins Kennedy School | 5736 NE 33rd Ave | $278 | No | 6.0 | 3 |
Jupiter Hotel | 800 E Burnside St | $139-$150 | No | 1.9 | 3 |
Ace Hotel | 1022 Southwest Stark Street | $153-$291 | No | 0.75 | 2 |
McMenamins Crystal | 303 SW 12th Ave | $148 | No | 0.8 | 2 |
Sentinel Hotel | 614 SW 11th Ave | $285-$439 | Yes | 0.85 | 2 |
Moxy Downtown | 585 SW 10th Ave | $147-$190 | Yes | 0.8 | 3 |
Hotel Vintage | 422 SW Broadway | $260-$377 | Yes | 0,65 | 3 |
Duniway Hotel | 545 SW Taylor St | $234-$392 | Yes | 0,75 | 2 |
Jupiter Next | 900 E Burnside St | $232-$385 | Yes | 1.3 | 3 |
Hoxton Hotel | 15 NW 4th Ave | $182-$201 | No | 0.85 | 3 |
Hotel Zags | 515 SW Clay St | $200-$352 | Yes | 0.55 | 3 |
Hotel Vance | 1455 SW Broadway | $157-$186 | Yes | 0.65 | 3 |
Hotel Grand Stark | 509 SE Grand Ave | $226-$236 | No | 1.0 | 1 |
The Heathman Hotel | 1001 SW Broadway | $241-$349 | Yes | 0.65 | 2 |
Hotel Deluxe | 729 SW 15th Ave | $171-$294 | Yes | 1.0 | 2 |
Hotel Eastlund | 1021 NE Grand Ave | $219-$372 | Yes | 1.4 | 2 |
Staypineapple at Hotel Rose | 50 SW Morrison St | $206-$383 | Yes | 0.65 | 1 |
The Royal Sonesta Portland Downtown | 506 SW Washington St | $203-$306 | Yes | 0.55 | 2 |
The Nines Hotel | 525 SW Morrison St | $360-$579 | Yes | 0.65 | 3 |
Beth Pinches – writer and photographer
Beth was born under a wandering star, with drama in her veins and ink in her pen. After stints studying theatre in Dublin and Utrecht she used her creative streak to see as much of the world as she could on as little money. She toured Italian Schools with a childrenβs theatre troop, lived as an au-pair in both Rome and Washington DC, explored the British countryside, worked her way through much of Europe, Salsa danced in Cuba and road tripped down Americaβs west coast where she discovered her spiritual home; Portland, Oregon. Other places she loves include Croatia, Finland, Japan and India. In between adventures, travel writing and performing she resides peacefully with her family, cats and ukulele. Find Beth on Linkedin orΒ Facebook.
It is vacation time soon! Portland sounds like a great destination, thanks for all the information and tips on these hotels!
I am also looking for visiting Portland in next few months and this blog is really helpful for me for having a best hotel for stay. Thanks for sharing this blog with us π
Hey, this is awesome! Once COVID is gone I will definitely rush and go to Ace Hotel it’s super cool, simple, and there’s a vintage vibe on it, plus I want to try renting a bike while exploring the streets nearby. Thank you for sharing this.
Thank you so much to share such a beautiful place. I had no idea Ana and CristianΒ΄s first rendezvous was filmed at The Heathman Hotel! I especially love Duniway and Modera! I can not think about them in my own think
Portland is on our list as soon as Covid-19 dies down!
I stayed at the Sentinel last year, so glad to see it make this article! I had a great time there, the room was fantastic, staff very helpful and the location was excellent. Great article, makes me want to get back to Portland even more now.
The Caravan Tiny House hotel is more like my thing. My mom and I watch this show called Tiny House Hunting and are fascinated by the fantastic use of such little space to fit in every requirement. I’d love to stay at a property like that because I certainly see myself adopting the Tiny House Living lifestyle later in life.
These places are so cool and beautiful! Love your photos!!
Sentinel hotel with all those books! I’d probably never leave
Awesome pics!! I’ve never thought that exploring Hotels would be fun and heart-melting. I just loved them, each and every hotel is having its own elegance.
Great collection.In love with the charming looks of these hotels.Will book any of them if I have to go Portland in future.
hi Beth Pinches,
So nice post just wow. Every hotel attracting me so much. Stunning designs,great thoughts and comfort all are getting together who needs more.Since I am a fan of retro style fall in love with the “Hotel Eastlund”.Its interior design amazed me.
Thank you
Great list of hotels that you have provided one of them is my favourite name Duniway Hotel I was thinking to know about this one but by chance have read about it on your site really thanks a lot sir
Really a beautiful blog with so much information about these amazing hotels. Thanks for sharing!
Jupiter Hotel seems like my kind of place! But every suggestion is amazing.
Hotel Vintage really made an impression. I love the rustic style incorporated into modern world. I guess the price is fair.
So many beautiful hotels!!! I had no idea Ana and CristianΒ΄s first rendezvous was filmed at The Heathman Hotel! I especially love Duniway and Modera!
Love the Ace Hotel. Just that we probably won’t be checking in solo. It looks cool but pretty spooky too .
These hotels are real gems. I am charmed by the McMenamins Crystal hotel.
Photos are so amazing the hotels looks so gorgeous.
Hi, Beth Pinches I like the hotel pearl, thanks for sharing!
Wow awesome collection of hotels in Portland!
NIIICEEE! Love Portland – everyone should visit at least once in their lifetime!
Very cool list, I like that painting in Hotel Modera!
Your site is Perfect!!!!! Amazing!!!
Staypineapple looks ace! Awesome list Beth – lots of variety! π
Loved your post! Cool Photos!!
This is first time I am visiting your website and I find this post very very useful thanks for giving such a great information..
Keep up the good workβ¦I will love to visit your site again and againβ¦.
Hotel Modera is the exquisite one! Wish to stay there one day!
I like hotel vintage the best! But hotel deluxe really looks fancy, would love to take photos there!
Very detailed with lots of cool tips and inspiring pictures. I love it!
All hotels seem good for stay. I am planning to visit Portland this Christmas, which one would you recommend for stay?
We stayed at the Heathman last year and loved it, but there are some other great looking hotels on the list that we have to try out on our next visit!
Portland is the best because of it’s mindset, “keep Portland weird”! I love how unique it is. Oh, and don’t forget about VooDoo Donuts! (I also love the Ace Hotel!)
-Gabby
Hotel #3 liked the most of all. Thank you for amazing post π
Wow, really great list of hotels!
SUCH funky hotels, I like the look of Jupiter, really ever so unique!
Laura xo
Gorgeous! I’m a sucker for a quirky hotel. Hopefully I’ll get to visit Portland one day soon.
These hotels are so stunning, Beth! I will definitely stay in some of them when I visit Portland!
Bookmarking this list for my trip to Portland. Looking forward to it!
Portland is amazing!
Great list and I love that cat on the wall in Ace Hotel
Great list of hotels in Portland – like the look of the Ace Hotel.
Great list with amazing looking hotels!! They all look so cool! – C.
I love finding these fun and cool spots in every city!
How do you find these gems?
This is such a cool list of interesting hotels! I still need to visit Portland, and will take this list with me when I go π
Thanks for sharing the link Scott!
Fabulous looking place and hotels! Very cool indeed π
Emma, you would love it I am certain!
Want a romantic place with hot tub under 100$ suggestions?
You might struggle with that one Valerie, although I bet you’d find some last minute deals if your time is flexible!
Love love love this! Portland is such a cool city! I always love visiting because there’s so many cool hip things to do or see. And you nailed it adding the Jupiter. That place is so cool! Keep rocking it.
Portland is so close to us in Vancouver, we really should visit! We hear the craft brewery scene is great. And what a cool selection of funky boutique hotels we have to choose from too! Think we’d like the Hotel Monaco very much :-).
Sand in my suitcase you should really take advantage of that, such a brilliant city, craft brewerys everywhere!
what about The Society Hotel in oldtown???
Sorry to miss it Aaron! so many amazing quirky hotels to choose from, we’ll have to do a list take #2!
I’d heard that Portland was a hipster’s paradise and the hotels certainly confirm that. McMenamins Kennedy School would be my hotel of choice, it looks so quirky
Doesn’t it look fab suze? I can’t wait to go back to Portland one day!!!
These are all so cool! I think my favorites would be either the Ace or the Vintage. Hopefully visiting Portland soon, so I will have to refer back to this list! Thanks for sharing!! π
I have never been to Portland, but if you asked me to stay in one of these hotels I would definitely choose McMenamins Kennedy School β boutique kitsch. It’s so odd, indeed. I can already imagine myself there. Such a cool place.
Love Portland and love the look of these hotels! Especially The Ace – looks very cool!
I know JB, such a cool city… a testament to what is possible when the right kind of proactive, creative people put their heads together!
Those hotels look amazing and I wish I had known about them before I went to Oregon. Thank you for sharing and they absolutely look amazing and inviting. I really like the retro look of the Jupiter Hotel.
Don’t they look fab? I definitely want to try a couple of them out on my next trip!!