If you’re looking for the best hotels in Portland, Oregon you’ve come to the right place. Boutique hotels, weird hotels, unique hotels and historic hotels – Portland has no shortage of great options.

As a lifelong local, I never needed to have knowledge of the best Portland hotels because all of my family and friends live in the area. However, I didn’t realize the blissful bubble I lived in until I met my now-husband, who moved to Portland from Atlanta.

Many days were spent researching and recommending the best Portland hotels to his family and friends (marry an extrovert, it will be so fun, they said). Thankfully, all that research didn’t go to waste.

Over the past 6 years of our marriage, we’ve had friends stay all over Portland (some hotels stood a mile above the rest, others were duds).

So without further ado, allow me to share the best hotels in Portland, Oregon based on firsthand experience.

Visiting Portland (Helpful Tips)

You might find the tips below helpful if you’re visiting Portland for the first time. Take it or leave it, up to you.

There are no 5-star hotels in Portland

Yep, you read that right. The Ritz Carlton is slated to open in the summer of 2023. But until then you’ll have your fair share of top-notch 4-star hotels to choose from, so fret not if you travel with pearls.

Best time to visit Portland

In my opinion, the best time to visit Portland is between May and October. The weather is comfortable (even during summer because there’s practically no humidity) and chance of rainfall is minimal. Winters tend to be gray, wet and cold.

Portland is a foodie city, know where to eat.

Hungry Local’s Guide: The BEST Restaurants in Portland, Oregon
15 Perfected Portland Pizzas (Portland was named the #1 pizza city in the US!)

Short on time? Cheat-sheet of the best hotels in Portland

Romantic getaway: Woodlark Hotel
Non-negotiable luxury: The Nines
Best pet-friendly hotel in Portland: Royal Sonesta
Most unique hotel: The Kennedy School
“My boss thinks I’m all business, but I’m only half business”: The Hoxton Hotel

Best Hotels in Portland, Oregon

Top 5 Luxury Hotels in Portland

The Heathman Hotel

The first thing you’ll notice about this luxury Portland hotel is the well-dressed doormen that greet you with efficiency and warmth. Impressing guests since 1927, the Heathman Lodge is a safe bet when looking for the best hotels in Portland.

Located in downtown Portland, the hotel was recently renovated (2018) in a contemporary style. Expect airy and bright rooms with modern decor that pay homage to this hotel’s impressive history without making it feel dated.

The rooms are perfectly cozy and the amenities are top notch, which is why many locals consider this one of the best hotels in Portland.

One of the most unique things about this Portland hotel is the library. More than 2,700 volumes signed by notable hotel guests (U.S. Poet Laureates, Nobel Prize and Pulitzer Prize winners and a past President) span the shelves of this impressive library, which is worth a gander.

Best Hotels in Portland, Oregon | Check prices and book your stay at the Heathman Hotel.

The Benson Hotel

Best known for accommodating celebrities and every visiting U.S. President since William H. Taft, The Benson is one of the most iconic hotels in Portland. Step foot into the lobby and find yourself in the midst of an elegant Austrian crystal chandeliers, Italian marble floors and Circassian walnut wood from the imperial forests of Russia.

The elegance of this opulent Portland hotel is unmatched. Built by self-made millionaire Simon Benson, The Benson sought to put Portland on the map by attracting tourists and commerce to the city.

The rooms are modernly designed and were completely renovated in 2018. Every room comes equipped with Temper-Pedic beds, marble bathrooms and access to top-class service all hours of the night.

Fun Fact: The public water fountains around town are referred to as Benson Bubblers. The reason? In 1912, Benson (the same man responsible for this iconic Portland hotel) gave the City of Portland $10,000 to install twenty bronze fountains for clean drinking water. The fountains are in use today and grown to include 52 Benson Bubblers total.

Best Hotels in Portland, Oregon | Check prices and book your stay at the Benson Hotel.

Dossier

Opened in 2017, Dossier is one of the newest hotels in Portland, but that doesn’t stop it from being one of the best. Awarded by Condé Nast Traveler as the best hotel in Oregon in 2019, the Dossier strives to impress.

Located in Downtown Portland, you’ll be steps from Pioneer Courthouse Square (affectionately called Portland’s living room), cafes, restaurants and shopping opportunities.

The rooms are decorated in a classy mid-century style without sacrificing essential comforts. The Beautyrest mattress is topped with high-quality Italian linen sheets. If you’re feeling hunger strike, make reservations at the hotel’s restaurant, Bistro Alder, which serves French fare in a 1920’s inspired bistro setting.

Local’s Tip: One of the biggest perks of staying at Dossier is the FREE daily happy hour served in the lobby. Swing by for craft beer and kombucha, courtesy of Hood River’s Ferment Brewing Company.

Best Hotels in Portland, Oregon | Check prices and book your stay at the Dossier here.

Sentinel

No list of the best hotels in Portland is complete without mentioning the Sentinel. Located smack-dab in the heart of downtown, the location couldn’t be better. This high-end Portland hotel gives you access to food carts, top-notch restaurants (don’t sleep on Lil Shalom) and great shopping opportunities.

The old-school charm of this traditional hotel is perfectly cozy without feeling outdated. Velvet green walls, Pendelton wool throws and leather accents will have you confusing this beloved Portland hotel for a luxury escape to Scotland.

If you’d like to end your evening on a high note make sure to swing by the Domaine Serene Wine Lounge to get a sampling of some world-renowned wines from Willamette Valley.

Best Hotels in Portland, Oregon | Check prices and book your stay at the Sentinel.

The Nines

It’s not uncommon for folks to do a double-take when the Uber pulls up to the Nines Hotel. “Surely there’s been a mistake, we’re not staying at Macy’s!”

Well, technically you’re not, but the old Meier & Frank building has been repurposed into one of the best luxury hotels in Portland.

Attracting everyone from celebrities and professional athletes to wedding-dress clad weekend brides, this is the place to be for a memorable stay in Portland.

The hotel is modern and sleek, giving off a luxurious vibe few can resist. The well-appointed rooms are tranquil and the service is top-notch (as to be expected). This is a great option for folks that like to be in the heart of action. The lobby is always buzzing with energy and the rooftop bar is one of the best in Portland.

Also worth mention, the Nines is home to two really great restaurants: Departure and Urban Farmer. Expect to rub elbows with locals noshing during the dinner hour, we can’t get enough of this fare either.

Best Hotels in Portland, Oregon | Check prices and book your stay at the Nines Hotel.

Where to stay in Portland, Oregon — Image courtesy The Nines

Best Hotels in Portland for Memorable Stays

Woodlark Hotel (My favorite hotel in Portland)

Home to one of the best bars in Portland, the newly-built Woodlark Hotel is one of the highest-rated hotels in Portland. Designed in a beautifully renovated 1900s building, this stylish Portland hotel offers the perfect weekend escape. You’ll have access to the best of Portland without wandering too far from the hotel.

Portland Oregon unique hotels
Woodlark Hotel Portland

Located in the heart of downtown, you’ll be close to the action. But if you’re not in the mood to leave the building, you’ll still find yourself content. The hotel restaurant, The Bullard Tavern, seems incapable of disappointment and the adjoining bar, Abigail Hall, is buzzing with laughter well into the night.

But the biggest perk of this top-notch Portland hotel? The Good Coffee cafe neatly tucked into the hotel lobby. Bright and airy, this modern space is the perfect place to catch up on work emails or prepare for the day.

Speaking from personal experience, my favorite thing about the Woodlark Hotel is the casual vibe and beautiful decor. Whenever my husband and I plan a staycation downtown, this is the hotel we come back to time and time again.

Best Hotels in Portland, Oregon | Check prices and book your stay at Woodlark Hotel.

Cutest hotels in Portland — Image courtesy Woodlark Hotel

The Hoxton Hotel

The Hoxton Hotel is still quite new, but that doesn’t stop it from getting some serious hype. Home to one of the coolest rooftop bars in Portland, this is the best Portland hotel for those that consider an alarm clock optional (or a wonder altogether).

It’s clear the folks behind this beloved Portland hotel focused on the essentials. Floor-to-ceiling windows, tasteful mid-century modern furniture and local artwork are par for the course.

Located on the edge of Chinatown, you won’t need to leave the hotel unless you want to because the (three!) onsite restaurants will hit the spot. If you’d like a night-time libation, grab the elevator to Tope, the buzzy upstairs bar where the only guarantee is a strong drink (a seat is much harder to come by).

As for amenities, this Portland hotel has it all. From complimentary bike rentals to rooftop morning yoga on the last Friday of the month. It’s no wonder why locals consider this one of the best boutique hotels in Portland.

Best Hotels in Portland, Oregon | Check prices and book your stay at Hoxton Hotel.

Best places to stay in Portland, Oregon — Image courtesy The Hoxton Hotel

Hotel Lucia

The first time we stayed at Hotel Lucia we were taken aback by the comfortable quirkiness of this Portland hotel. A perfect fusion between sophistication and charm, we found ourselves very comfortable during our stay.

Located in a historic 1909 building, Hotel Lucia has a more playful vibe than some of the other Portland hotels mentioned on this list and that’s largely in part due to the eclectic art throughout the property.

From the art in the lobby bathroom (I have questions!) to the cool decor inside the rooms, you’ll have plenty of conversation starters.

Another perk of staying at this Portland hotel is the prime location. Located right off Broadway, you’ll be in the heart of everything. I suggest grabbing breakfast from St. Honoré, one of the best bakeries in Portland, it’s just across the street from the hotel.

Best Hotels in Portland, Oregon | Check prices and book your stay at Hotel Lucia.

AC Marriott Hotel in Downtown Portland

Opened in 2017, the AC Marriott is one of the newest hotels in downtown Portland, making it an easy choice for those that tear up when the new car smell starts to fade.

Often dubbed one of the best business hotels in Portland, the AC Hotel by Marriott is a great option for those planning a quick stay in Portland. The rooms are well designed, airy and very clean. Located in downtown Portland, you’ll be hard pressed to find a better location.

This Portland hotel is as stylish as they come. The modern European-inspired rooms will have you asking for a catalogue at check out (those bed frames are so beautiful!).

This is my go-to recommendation for folks visiting Portland for a work trip, or for someone that’s interested in the best business hotel in Portland.

I guess what I’m trying to say is that this Portland hotel is brass tacks and I appreciate that. Sometimes you don’t want frills and extra expenses, you want a comfortable and clean room you can sleep in before setting out to explore. Thankfully, the AC Marriott delivers.

What’s more, this Portland hotel is located a few steps from Tom McCall Waterfront Park, a great walking and biking path that will help you burn off some calories.

Best Hotels in Portland, Oregon | Check prices and book your AC Marriott Hotel

Hotel deLuxe

Hotel deLuxe is one of the best Portland hotels for nostalgic folks that were probably around during the Eisenhower administration. I say this in jest, but only half so. We booked a room for my grandmother-in-law at Hotel deLuxe and she raves about it to this day.

Located in Northwest Portland, this hotel is just barely removed from the downtown core (Powell’s Books is just a few blocks away). As such, the amount of stimulation you get is on your terms. We’ve had a handful of friends stay at Hotel deLuxe and only one mentioned that the hotel felt dated, the others had nothing but great things to say.

It has a grandeur that’s able to satisfy folks that can accurately pick out the salad fork in a line up.

Best Hotels in Portland, Oregon | Check prices and book your stay at Hotel deLuxe.

Hotel deLuxe Portland — Image courtesy Hotel deLuxe

Kimpton Riverplace Hotel

Home to 12 bridges, Portland’s nickname as Bridge City is moniker well-earned. The Kimpton Riverplace Hotel has the most coveted location in the city. Situated right on the Willamette River, this hotel offers stunning river views especially at sunset.

This craftsman-style boutique hotel gives you access to tons of walking paths, great restaurants and epic sunset views. If you can swing it, book the river view because it’s worth the extra expense. The rooms give off a lodge-vibe and couldn’t be cozier.

Best Hotels in Portland, Oregon | Check prices and book your stay at Kimpton Riverplace Hotel.

Unique Hotels in Portland

The Royal Sonesta (Best Pet Friendly Hotel in Portland)

Playfully pointing to Portland’s weird vibes, the Royal Sonesta (previously Hotel Monaco) is all about whimsy via tasteful vintage vibes. Located in the heart of downtown, you’ll be within walking distance of restaurants, a shopping mall, too many cafes to count and endless walking opportunities.

The rooms are adorned with custom-made wallpaper and spirited décor welcome both visitors and their four-legged friends alike. With one floor devoted exclusively to pet-friendly rooms, many locals consider the Royal Sonesta one of the best pet friendly hotels in Portland and I can’t say I disagree.

From the website: We love your furry friends as much as you do. Sonesta is proud to invite your pets and provide special amenities like a comfy pet bed, bowls, waterproof mats, and treats at check-in. $75 fee per stay applies.

If you don’t have a pet, you’ll enjoy one of the three hypo-allergenic floors that are closed off to pets. These floors strive to accommodate guests with allergies by ensuring bedding is free from down and only scent-free and hypo-allergenic cleaning products are used.

Best Hotels in Portland, Oregon | Book your stay at Royal Sonesta here.

best pet friendly hotels in Portland — Image courtesy The Royal Sonesta

The Ace Hotel

The Ace Hotel is easily one of the coolest hotels in Portland. Edgy, unique and memorable, this locale oozes a charm many hotels try to emulate in vain. Bohemian vibes are the biggest draw, but you’re just as likely to see well-suited business folks milling in the lobby with a cup of Stumptown Coffee in hand.

The rooms are decorated in minimalist fashion but give off chic-hostel vibes. It’s the quintessential Portland hotel for those enamored with Portland’s easy-going reputation. But mind you, this iconic Portland hotel isn’t for everyone. It takes a no-frills approach to comfortable lodging and skews more towards a hostel-vibe (some of the rooms house bunk-beds and some shared baths).

All this to say, there’s no better way to experience the quirkiness of our charming city than by staying at one of the best boutique hotels in Portland.

Best Hotels in Portland, Oregon | Book your stay at the Ace Hotel here.

Ace Hotel Portland oregon — Image courtesy Ace Hotel

The Kennedy School

What happens when you take an abandoned school building and convert it into an all-in-one escape for adults? Well, a hell ton of fun, for starters. The detention room has been converted in a bar, the restaurant serves unforgettable tater tots and an auditorium-turned-movie theater.

The classrooms have been converted into comfortable bedrooms you have to see to believe. Each room comes equipped with a private bathroom and chalkboards (imagine!). So if you’re looking for unique hotels in Portland, you need not look further than the Kennedy School, especially since you don’t need to leave the property to have a great time.

Local’s Tip: One of the biggest perks of staying at The Kennedy School is having access to the saltwater soaking pool (only open to guests).

Best Hotels in Portland, Oregon | Book your stay at Kennedy School here.

Portland’s White House (Temporarily Closed)

Located in the charming Irvington neighborhood, Portland’s White House is one of the most unique hotels in Portland. Alright, alright, it’s technically a bed-and-breakfast, but who doesn’t love those?

Offering impeccable old-world charm with all the comforts of modern living, the magic is in the details (nothing is overlooked). I can’t help but recommend this charming locale for folks in search of unique stays in Portland. In fact, I’ve recommended Portland’s White House to many friends over the years and they all rave about it.

Please Note: Portland’s White House is currently closed. I will update this post when the hotel reopens.