Portland is one of America’s most unique cities, where craft beer flows like water and food trucks serve gourmet meals on every corner. I’ve explored every neighborhood in this quirky Pacific Northwest gem to help you find the perfect base for your adventure.
Choosing where to stay can make or break your Portland experience, especially when each district has its own personality and charm. From the bustling downtown core to the hipster havens of Southeast Portland, I’ll guide you through 7 distinct areas that offer everything from luxury hotels to budget-friendly stays.
🏠 Best Hotels in Portland:
- 💎 Luxury Hotel: Sentinel Hotel, Portland
- ✨ 5-Star: The Nines, a Luxury Collection Hotel, Portland
- 🏨 4-Star: Staypineapple, Hotel Rose, Downtown Portland
- 🛏️ 3-Star: The Paramount Hotel Portland, Portland
- 💸 Cheap: Hyatt Place Portland Airport/Cascade Station, Portland
- 🏢 Apartment: Park Lane Suites & Inn, Portland
- 👨👩👧👦 For Families: Woodlark Hotel Portland a Tribute Portfolio Hotel, Portland
- 🏩 For Couples: Hampton Inn Portland Airport, Portland
Quick guide to the best places to stay: 📋
- 🏙️ Downtown Portland: Downtown Portland
- ✨ Pearl District: Pearl District
- 🛍️ Northwest Portland: Northwest District
- 🎭 Southeast Portland: Southeast Portland
- 🏢 Lloyd District: Lloyd District/Convention Center
- ✈️ Airport Area: Portland International Airport (PDX)
1. Downtown Portland – Where to Stay in Portland for First-Time Visitors
Central location. Downtown Portland sits perfectly between the Willamette River and the Pearl District, making it the most walkable area for newcomers. I found myself steps away from Pioneer Courthouse Square, the Portland Art Museum, and countless food trucks that define this city’s character.
Transportation hub. The MAX light rail connects downtown to Portland International Airport in just 40 minutes, while the Portland Streetcar links you to every major neighborhood. My advice is to skip car rentals here – everything runs efficiently on public transport.
Food scene highlights. From Powell’s Books café to the Saturday Market vendors, downtown offers authentic Portland experiences without tourist traps. The area buzzes with local breweries, vegan restaurants, and coffee shops that locals actually frequent.
| Activity | Price (USD) | Location |
|---|---|---|
| Portland Streetcar day pass | $5 | Downtown stops |
| Food truck meals | $8-15 | Pioneer Courthouse Square |
| Powell’s Books browsing | Free | Burnside Street |
| Portland Art Museum | $20 | Park Blocks |
Practical advantages. Downtown Portland neighborhoods offer the best area for first-time visitors who want everything within walking distance. The business district provides easy access to Portland attractions, while staying connected to trendy neighborhoods like Nob Hill and the Central Eastside.
Safety and convenience. I discovered that downtown Portland remains lively until late evening, with well-lit streets and regular police patrols. The area feels secure for solo travelers and families, especially around the cultural district and shopping areas.
Best Hotels in Downtown Portland
Luxury Hotels
- Staypineapple, Hotel Rose, Downtown Portland – This elegant downtown hotel offers sophisticated rooms with modern amenities and stunning views of the Willamette River and city skyline.
- The Hi-Lo, Autograph Collection – A stylish hotel featuring contemporary design, upscale dining, and premium accommodations in the heart of Portland’s cultural district.
- Kimpton Hotel Vintage Portland by IHG – This luxury hotel combines wine-themed elegance with modern comfort, offering spacious rooms and exceptional service in downtown Portland.
Best Cheap/Moderate Hotels
- Hotel Lucia – A sophisticated downtown hotel featuring contemporary art, upscale amenities, and elegantly appointed rooms with premium furnishings and city views.
- The Mark Spencer Hotel – This historic downtown hotel offers comfortable accommodations with classic charm, featuring well-appointed rooms and convenient access to Portland’s attractions.
- Hampton Inn And Suites By Hilton Portland-Pearl District – A reliable chain hotel in the trendy Pearl District offering modern rooms, complimentary breakfast, and easy access to shopping and dining.
Best Hostels
- The Paramount Hotel Portland – This historic downtown hotel provides comfortable rooms with classic decor and modern amenities at affordable rates in the city center.
- 729 Six 15th Avenue – A cozy accommodation option offering comfortable rooms in a convenient location with easy access to Portland’s neighborhoods and attractions.
- Downtown Value Inn – This budget-friendly downtown accommodation offers basic but clean rooms with essential amenities at affordable rates for budget-conscious travelers.
2. Pearl District – Where to Stay in Portland for Upscale Urban Experience
Warehouse Transformation. The Pearl District showcases Portland’s industrial past converted into luxury living spaces. I walk through converted warehouses that now house art galleries, upscale condos, and designer boutiques along NW 13th Avenue.
Shopping Excellence. Powell’s City of Books flagship store occupies an entire city block here, while Tanner Springs Park provides green space between shopping sessions. The district features high-end retailers like Anthropologie and local designers showcasing Portland fashion.
Culinary Destination. James Beard Award-winning restaurants cluster around NW 10th and 11th Avenues, serving farm-to-table cuisine. I discover new flavors at Jamison Square’s weekend farmers market, featuring local Oregon producers.
Art Scene Access. First Thursday art walks happen monthly, when galleries stay open late and serve wine. The Portland Streetcar connects the Pearl to the Central Eastside arts district in 15 minutes.
Transportation Options:
- Portland Streetcar: Every 15 minutes to downtown
- MAX Blue/Red Lines: 5-minute walk to Providence Park station
- Bike share stations: Located every 3 blocks
- Walking distance: 10 minutes to downtown core
Best Hotels in Pearl District
Luxury Hotels
- Canopy by Hilton Portland Pearl District – This upscale 10-story hotel features 153 rooms with floor-to-ceiling windows, curated art displays, and modern amenities including a rooftop terrace and complimentary bicycles.
- Residence Inn by Marriott Portland Downtown/Pearl District – A chic extended-stay hotel offering spacious suites with full kitchens, pet-friendly accommodations, and an on-site gastropub restaurant in the heart of the Pearl District.
Best Cheap/Moderate Hotels
- Hampton Inn And Suites By Hilton Portland-Pearl District – This modern 243-room hotel offers excellent value with complimentary breakfast, indoor pool, rooftop terrace, and prime Pearl District location near Powell’s Books.
- Harlow Hotel – A historic hotel from 1882 featuring unique architectural details, private bathrooms in every room, and authentic Portland charm in the Pearl District.
- Renu Suites at The Burlington Portland – Adult-only apartment-style accommodations with full kitchens, fitness center access, and convenient Pearl District location near Tanner Springs Park.
3. Central Eastside – Top Place to Stay in Portland for Hip Travelers
Creative Hub. The Central Eastside pulses with Portland’s creative energy, from music venues like Wonder Ballroom to craft distilleries on Distillery Row. I spend evenings exploring converted warehouses that house everything from ceramics studios to vintage clothing stores.
Brewery Capital. This neighborhood contains the highest concentration of breweries in Portland, including Cascade Brewing and Base Camp Brewing. The area produces over 30% of Portland’s craft beer within a 10-block radius.
Music Scene. Live music venues like Doug Fir Lounge and Holocene showcase both local and touring acts nightly. I catch everything from indie rock to electronic music without traveling far from my accommodation.
Food Innovation. Food carts and pop-up restaurants experiment with fusion cuisines along SE Division Street. The area hosts Portland’s most adventurous chefs testing new concepts before opening permanent locations.
| Neighborhood Feature | Distance from Hotels | Average Cost |
|---|---|---|
| Craft Breweries | 2-5 blocks | $6-8 per pint |
| Music Venues | 3-8 blocks | $15-25 tickets |
| Food Carts | 1-4 blocks | $8-12 per meal |
| Art Galleries | 2-6 blocks | Free-$10 entry |
Best Hotels in Central Eastside
- VioletSuitesPDX Boutique Hotel – This intimate boutique hotel offers luxurious suites with unique violet-themed decor, premium amenities, and personalized service in a stylish Portland setting.
- AC Hotel by Marriott Portland Downtown, OR – A sophisticated European-style hotel featuring sleek modern design, upscale accommodations, and contemporary amenities in the heart of downtown Portland.
- KEX Hotel – A trendy boutique hotel featuring Icelandic-inspired design, comfortable accommodations, and a vibrant social atmosphere perfect for modern travelers seeking top experiences.
4. Northwest Portland (Nob Hill) – Where to Stay in Portland Oregon for Shopping and Dining
NW 23rd Avenue magic. You’ll find Portland’s most charming shopping street here, lined with independent boutiques and cafés. This place offers everything from designer clothes to handmade chocolates at Moonstruck Chocolate Café.
Restaurant variety. Locals recommend Papa Haydn for desserts (around $12) and Paley’s Place for fine dining (about $35 per person). The best time to visit restaurants is early evening when you can still get tables without reservations.
Forest Park access. You can find America’s largest urban forest right at your doorstep. The park offers 80 miles of hiking trails, and locals say the Wildwood Trail entrance on NW Thurman Street is perfect for beginners.
| Nob Hill Shopping & Dining | What They Offer | Price Range |
|---|---|---|
| Powell’s Books on Hawthorne | New and used books | $5-25 |
| Patagonia Store | Outdoor gear, clothing | $30-300 |
| Elephant’s Delicatessen | Gourmet food, sandwiches | $8-18 |
Victorian charm. The neighborhood features beautiful old homes and tree-lined streets. Don’t miss the historic Pittock Mansion nearby – tours cost $12 and the city views are incredible.
Walkable paradise. This place has everything within six blocks. I discovered that most shops open at 10am and restaurants serve until 10pm, making it perfect for leisurely exploration.
Best Hotels in Northwest Portland
Luxury Hotels
- Inn at Northrup Station – This unique hotel features train car-themed accommodations with modern amenities, located in the trendy Northwest District near NW 23rd Avenue shopping and dining.
- Silver Cloud Hotel - Portland – A highly-rated 3-star hotel adjacent to Nob Hill shopping district, featuring spacious rooms with 55-inch TVs, free parking, and Urban Steel Kitchen + Bar restaurant.
- Holiday Inn Express Hotel & Suites Portland-Northwest Downtown by IHG – A reliable chain hotel offering complimentary breakfast, modern amenities, and convenient access to downtown Portland and Northwest 23rd Avenue.
Best Cheap/Moderate Hotels
- La Quinta by Wyndham Portland NW – A budget-friendly option providing comfortable accommodations with standard amenities in the Northwest Portland area near shopping and dining.
- Northwest Portland Hostel – A budget-friendly hostel offering shared and private accommodations in the heart of Northwest Portland, perfect for backpackers and budget-conscious travelers exploring the city.
5. Southeast Portland (Hawthorne/Division) – Where to Stay in Portland for Local Culture
Authentic Portland. Southeast Portland represents the city’s quirky soul, where locals actually live and work. I experience genuine Portland culture here, from vintage shops on Hawthorne Boulevard to food truck pods on Division Street.
Food Scene Revolution. Division Street earned national recognition as America’s hottest food destination, featuring James Beard nominees and innovative casual dining. The area serves everything from Vietnamese pho to artisan ice cream within a concentrated corridor.
Vintage Shopping. Hawthorne Boulevard hosts Portland’s best thrift stores and vintage boutiques, including Buffalo Exchange and Crossroads Trading. I found unique Portland souvenirs and clothing pieces unavailable in tourist areas.
Residential Feel. Tree-lined residential streets provide quiet accommodation options while maintaining easy access to attractions. The neighborhood offers a genuine local experience without sacrificing convenience.
| Transportation Method | Cost (USD) | Travel Time to Downtown |
|---|---|---|
| Bus Line 20 | $2.50 | 25 minutes |
| Bike Rental | $8/day | 15 minutes |
| Rideshare | $12-18 | 12 minutes |
| Walking | Free | 35 minutes |
Best Hotels in Southeast Portland
Luxury Hotels
- VioletSuitesPDX Boutique Hotel – This intimate hotel offers luxurious suites with unique violet-themed decor, premium amenities, and personalized service in a stylish Portland setting.
- Dougan Suites – An upscale suite hotel providing spacious accommodations with full kitchens and modern amenities in Southeast Portland’s vibrant neighborhood.
- KEX Hotel – A trendy hotel featuring Icelandic-inspired design, comfortable accommodations, and a vibrant social atmosphere perfect for modern travelers seeking unique experiences.
Best Cheap/Moderate Hotels
- Bluebird Guesthouse – A charming guesthouse offering cozy accommodations with personalized service and local Portland charm in the heart of Southeast Portland.
- Tiny Digs - Hotel of Tiny Houses – A unique accommodation experience featuring tiny house-style rooms with modern amenities and eco-friendly design in Portland’s creative district.
- Evermore Guesthouse – A boutique guesthouse providing intimate accommodations with thoughtful design and local hospitality in Southeast Portland’s cultural hub.
Best Hostels
- Executive Lodge – A budget-friendly lodge offering comfortable rooms with basic amenities and convenient access to Southeast Portland’s attractions and dining scene.
- The Secret Garden – A hidden gem guesthouse featuring garden-themed accommodations with peaceful surroundings and authentic Portland hospitality.
- Boutique Style Apartment in the Heart of SE – A stylish apartment rental offering home-like comfort with modern furnishings and full amenities in Southeast Portland’s trendy neighborhood.
6. Lloyd District – Where to Stay in Portland Oregon Near Convention Center
Convention Hub. The Lloyd District centers around the Oregon Convention Center, making it perfect for business travelers attending conferences or trade shows. I appreciate the direct skybridge connections between hotels and the convention center during Portland’s rainy season.
Shopping Convenience. Lloyd Center mall provides covered shopping with over 200 stores, including Macy’s, Nordstrom, and local Oregon retailers. The mall connects directly to the MAX Light Rail system for easy transportation throughout the city.
Transportation Excellence. Three MAX Light Rail lines converge at Lloyd Center station, connecting to downtown Portland in 8 minutes and the airport in 35 minutes. I use this central location to explore the entire metro area without needing a rental car.
Entertainment Options. The Moda Center hosts NBA Trail Blazers games and major concerts, while the adjacent Rose Quarter entertainment district offers restaurants and bars. Memorial Coliseum presents smaller concerts and sporting events year-round.
Business Amenities Available:
- Meeting rooms: Convention center and hotel facilities
- Office services: FedEx, UPS, printing centers
- Restaurants: 25+ options within walking distance
- Parking: Covered garages and surface lots
- Wi-Fi: Free high-speed throughout district
Best Hotels in Lloyd District
7. Airport Area – Where to Stay in Portland Oregon for Early Flights
Ultimate convenience. You’ll find hotels connected directly to Portland International Airport via covered walkways. This place offers the shortest commute possible – some hotels are literally 5 minutes from check-in counters.
Cascade Station shopping. Locals recommend this outdoor mall for last-minute shopping and dining. You can find everything from Nike gear to electronics, plus restaurants like Olive Garden and Panera Bread serving meals for $10-18.
Columbia River access. The best spot for nature lovers is the Columbia River waterfront, just 10 minutes away. Don’t miss the walking trails and bird watching opportunities – it’s free and peaceful.
| Airport Area Amenities | Service | Cost & Hours |
|---|---|---|
| MAX Light Rail to downtown | Public transport | $2.50, every 15 mins |
| Cascade Station | Shopping & dining | 10am-9pm daily |
| Columbia River trails | Walking, biking | Free, sunrise-sunset |
24-hour services. This place has restaurants, gas stations, and convenience stores open around the clock. I discovered that even late-night food options taste decent and cost about $8-15.
Rental car hub. You can find all major car rental companies here, making it perfect for travelers planning Oregon road trips. The best time to pick up rentals is early morning when lines are shortest.
Best Hotels Near Portland Airport
FAQ
What are the best neighborhoods to stay in Portland?
The best neighborhoods include the Pearl District, Northwest District, Old Town, Southeast Portland, and the heart of downtown. Each area offers a unique experience and easy access to Portland hotels, restaurants, and attractions.
Where can I find budget hotels in Portland?
Budget hotels are most common in Old Town, Lloyd District, and near Portland International Airport. These areas offer lower prices and convenient access to public transportation and downtown.
What is the best area to stay in Portland for first-time visitors?
The heart of downtown Portland is ideal for first-timers, with easy access to the Portland Saturday Market, Willamette River, and the city’s best restaurants. You’ll find the central location perfect for exploring Portland’s unique spirit.
Are there boutique hotels in Portland’s best neighborhoods?
Yes, you’ll find boutique hotel options in the Pearl District, Northwest Portland, and near Washington Park. These hotels reflect Portland’s unique style and offer a more personal experience than larger chains.
Is the Kimpton Hotel a good choice in Portland?
Kimpton Hotel is highly rated for its location near the waterfront and its warm, welcoming atmosphere. It’s a favorite for travelers wanting to stay right in the middle of the city’s best attractions.
What are the 5 best areas to stay in Portland?
The 5 best areas are downtown, Pearl District, Northwest District, Southeast Portland, and Lloyd District. Each area to stay in Portland offers something different for every type of traveler.
Can I walk to downtown from most Portland hotels?
Many hotels in Portland, especially in the central area and northwest, are within walking distance to downtown and the Portland streetcar. This makes it easy to explore Portland without a car.
Where should I stay if I want a unique experience in Portland?
For a truly unique experience, try staying in Northeast Portland, SE Portland, or at a place like Jupiter NEXT Hotel. These areas are known for their creative vibe and reflect Portland’s unique spirit.
Are vacation rentals and guesthouses available around Portland?
Yes, vacation rentals and guesthouses such as Portland International Guesthouse are available throughout the city, especially in residential neighborhoods. They’re perfect for longer stays and those wanting a home-like atmosphere.
What’s the best neighborhood for families visiting Portland?
Northwest District and areas near Washington Park are great for families, with parks, playgrounds, and family-friendly dining. You’ll find plenty of hotels in Portland and vacation rentals that cater to families in these neighborhoods.
