Downtown Portland offers you a bite-sized experience of the city. It’s walkable and gives you easy access to what is great about Portland — superb food, parks and gardens, breweries and dive bars, theaters, and excellent vintage shopping. The city’s public light rail, Portland Streetcar, and the bus system also making staying in downtown a perfect jumping-off point to explore further afield. The area is also home to some of the very best hotels in the city. From independent boutique accommodations to large luxury chains, there’s a lot to choose from. Whether you’re in town for business, a weekend getaway, or a longer stay, here’s a selection of Portland hotels downtown famed for their level of service, location, and range of amenities.
We hope you love the Portland hotels downtown we recommend! Just so you know, Matador may collect a small commission from the links on this page if you decide to book a stay.
Traveling through the Pacific Northwest? Check out Matador’s accommodations guides to the region:
The Nines, a Luxury Collection Hotel, Portland
This is arguably not only one of the best hotels in downtown Portland, it’s one of the most popular in the city. Steps away from public transportation connections to the whole metro area, this is a superb central hotel for a weekend getaway. The Nines has been around since 1909 and has been lovingly restored to its former glory. Inside, you’ll be welcomed into an elegant lobby with an open courtyard-style which houses the bar and restaurant.
For those looking to explore the city beyond The Nines’ walls there are plenty of attractions nearby such as Pioneer Square or Portland State University. There are also many high rated restaurants in the area like Le Pigeon where you can sample some of Portland’s best cuisine.
The Nines, a Luxury Collection Hotel, Portland: 525 SW Morrison Street, Portland, OR, 97204
Price per night: $229
Portland Marriott Downtown Waterfront
If you’re looking for a luxurious hotel experience with stunning views of the water, Portland Marriott Downtown Waterfront is worth considering. Located right on the waterfront of the Willamette River, this hotel offers breathtaking views of the Hawthorne Bridge and Mt. Hood. As a Marriott property, expect all the amenities from the top-tier hotel brand, including valet parking, family-friendly amenities, and an onsite lounge. Plus, it’s just a few minutes’ walk from Riverplace Marina, where you can find shopping and dining options. It caters to both business and leisure travelers with great facilities and its enviable location.
Portland Marriott Downtown Waterfront: 1401 SW Naito Pkwy, Portland, OR, 97201
Price per night: $206
Hampton Inn & Suites Portland-Pearl District
Hampton Inn & Suites is located in Portland’s Pearl District, a vibrant neighborhood that’s home to some of the city’s best restaurants, shops, and galleries. It’s a smidge north of downtown and within walking distance to brewery blocks and the Union Station. The lobby’s high ceilings, wood finishes, and floor-to-ceiling windows create a welcoming and inviting atmosphere. The hotel also boasts an impressive art collection featuring works by local artists, adding a unique touch to the chain hotel. Facilities include an on-site restaurant, indoor pool, rooftop patio, and fitness center with a Peloton Bike.
Hyatt House Portland/Downtown: 354 NW 9th Ave, Portland, OR, 97209
Price per night: $192
Hyatt House Portland/Downtown
This hotel is pretty standard for the brand. If you have an affiliation, or just prefer to know exavtly what you’re getting for your money, it definitely deserves a look. It sits on the quieter south end of downtown, with easy access to the light rail and many other attractions. The well-maintained property offers all the amenities of a hotel, plus the comforts of home — and it’s pet-friendly. For those looking for activities outside of the hotel grounds, there is no shortage of things to do nearby. Guests can explore nearby attractions such as the Oregon Convention Center or Moda Center, take part in cultural activities like visiting museums or art galleries, or enjoy the many nearby green spaces. It’s a good alternative to Portland Marriott for business travelers and all rooms have sizeable workstations with the option to upgrade to a studio or one-bedroom with a living area and full kitchen.
Hyatt House Portland/Downtown: 2080 SW River Drive, Portland, OR, 97201
Price per night: $178
Sentinel
Sentinel, a Provenance Hotel in Portland, is an exquisite blend of modern luxury and vintage charm. Located in two grand historic buildings in downtown Portland, this five-star hotel offers guests a luxurious experience with its elegant decor and full-service facilities. Its prime position in the heart of the district places you minutes away from more than two dozen of Portland’s famed food carts, three blocks from Powell’s bookstore and Portland Art Museum and the Oregon History Museum. All rooms are charming with a dark color pallet, leather chairs, and tweed covered headboards. If visiting in winter, opt for a corner King or the Bridgetown parlour suite as they have fireplaces.
Sentinel: 614 SW 11th Avenue, Portland, OR, 97205
Price per night: $169
The Benson Portland
This historic hotel has an interesting history. The Benson’s Presidential Suite has housed every sitting US president since millionaire innovator Simon Benson opened the door sin 1913. It sits downtown on SW Broadway, putting it conveniently close to the airport light rail. The 287-room hotel retains its original, early 20th century elegance and oozes an ambiance of “old money” and tradition. And considering the guest list, it might not come as a surprise that the service is as refined as it is reserved.
The Benson Portland: 309 SW Broadway, Portland, OR, 97205
Price per night: $163
The Hotel Zags Portland
In stark comparison to The Benson, The Hotel Zags Portland is a fun boutique hotel located in the heart of downtown. Everything here feels modern, with colorful furniture and local artwork. It features 51 rooms that embody the quirkiness that defines Portland. There are a lot of added facilities that make a stay at this affordable accommodation worth considering. They have a parking package which is included in your stay, you can bring your pet for free, guests are awarded $50 towards food and drink at their Portland restaurant and welcome drinks, and there’s a late checkout. There’s a lot to love about this small hotel. Expect a lot of character.
The Hotel Zags Portland: 515 Southwest Clay St, Portland, OR, 97201
Price per night: $140
Where can I walk around in downtown Portland?
If you’re looking for a place to walk around in downtown Portland, then Tom McCall Waterfront Park is the perfect spot. Located right on the Willamette River, this park offers stunning views of the city and plenty of walking paths to explore. For those looking for a longer trek, there are several trails nearby, including Wildwood Nature and Northwest Leif Erikson Drive.
The Pearl District is another great option. Here you’ll find plenty of restaurants, shops, galleries, and other attractions all within easy walking distance. Other neighborhoods worth exploring include the Alphabet District, Nob Hill, and downtown Portland, where you can find even more places to explore on foot.
What is the best part of Portland to stay in?
Other than downtown, Nob Hill is a great option. Located in the heart of the city, it’s home to colorful Victorian buildings, great shopping, and plenty of green spaces. The Alphabet District, Slabtown, Northwest Portland, and Hollywood District are all worth checking out as well.
The best things to do in downtown Portland
- Visit Powell’s City of Books, the world’s largest independent bookstore.
- Explore the Portland Art Museum and its extensive collection of art.
- Stroll through the Portland Saturday Market, an open-air market with local crafts and food stalls.
- Sample local cuisine at the numerous street food carts dotted around downtown.
- Take a walk along the Waterfront Park and enjoy the views of the Willamette River.
- Grab a cup of coffee or tea at one of the many independent coffee shops in the area.
- Visit the Oregon Historical Society and learn about the history of Oregon.
- Catch a show or concert at the Arlene Schnitzer Concert Hall or the Keller Auditorium.
