Portland’s Indie Stays: Boutique Hotels with Personality

Hotel Eastlund: Modern Elegance in the Heart of the Rose City

As one of Portland, Oregon’s newer additions to the hospitality scene, Hotel Eastlund has garnered considerable acclaim since its opening. In my opinion, the hype is entirely justified. This truly is a magnificent hotel, perfectly blending sophisticated design with an inviting atmosphere, offering every amenity you could desire for a comfortable “home away from home” experience, and then some. Its prime location is a major draw for both leisure and business travelers. Situated directly next to MAX light rail lines and multiple bus stops, it offers unparalleled connectivity. It’s also just across the Willamette River from downtown Portland, putting you within easy reach of the city’s core attractions without being right in the thick of the busiest areas.

The 168 meticulously designed guest rooms at Hotel Eastlund are a testament to modern comfort and style. Each room features either luxurious California king or spacious California queen beds, ensuring a restful night’s sleep. Guests will appreciate the generous lounge space, perfect for unwinding after a day of exploration, alongside dedicated work areas within each room – a thoughtful touch for those blending business with pleasure. For the modern traveler, connectivity is key, and Hotel Eastlund delivers with lightning-fast WiFi available throughout the entire property. With over 5,300 square feet of versatile meeting and event space, it’s an exceptional choice for corporate gatherings and business travelers seeking efficiency and style. However, what truly elevates Hotel Eastlund to the top of my list of cool hotels in Portland, Oregon, is its awesome rooftop bar, Altabira City Tavern. Offering breathtaking panoramic views of the city skyline and the surrounding mountains, it’s the perfect spot to enjoy craft cocktails and delicious bites while soaking in Portland’s unique ambiance.

Hotel Eastlund is more than just a place to stay; it’s an experience. Its vibrant art collection, chic common areas, and commitment to guest comfort make it a standout choice for anyone looking for a contemporary and convenient stay in Portland.

• Address: 1021 NE Grand Avenue, Portland, Oregon 97232
• Phone: 503.235.2100
• Room Rates (approximate): Between $125 to $160/night (subject to change)
• Room Styles: King, Double California Queen, Superior Queen Suite – catering to diverse needs.
• Dining Options: Indulge at Altabira City Tavern, the hotel’s acclaimed rooftop bar and restaurant, or grab a quick, delicious bite at Citizen Baker cafe, perfect for morning coffee and pastries.
• Room Service: Yes! Available daily from 6 am until 11 pm, offering convenience and quality meals right to your door.
• Tech Amenities: Experience super-fast WiFi throughout the hotel, abundant outlets, and convenient USB ports in every room, ensuring all your devices stay charged and connected.
• Kids: Children 12 and younger stay free with an accompanying adult, making it a great option for family travel.
• Pets: Unfortunately, pets are not permitted at Hotel Eastlund. Sorry, Fido & Fluffy will need to stay home or find alternative arrangements.
• Reservations: Visit hoteleastlund.com for the best rates and availability.

ALoft Hotel: A Modern Oasis Near Portland International Airport

For travelers seeking convenience without compromising on style, the Aloft Hotel by the Portland Airport (PDX) is an absolute gem. Forget your preconceived notions of drab airport hotels; Aloft is a vibrant, hip, and utterly refreshing experience, making it by far the coolest airport hotel I’ve ever encountered. Its strategic location makes it incredibly convenient for family and friends flying in for a quick overnight stay or even a longer visit where proximity to the airport is a priority.

The moment you step into Aloft, you’re greeted by a lively atmosphere. The decor is strikingly modern and colorful, infused with playful touches that reflect Portland’s artistic sensibility. Beyond the aesthetics, the hotel offers fantastic amenities, including a great indoor pool that’s a hit with guests of all ages. One of the significant advantages of its airport-adjacent location is its proximity to dozens of diverse dining and shopping options within the vibrant Cascade Station area, meaning you’re never short on choices for a meal or a retail therapy session right outside the hotel. Connectivity is also a breeze, as Aloft is directly on the MAX light rail line and mere moments from major freeway interchanges, ensuring effortless travel into downtown Portland and other city attractions.

My own family had the pleasure of enjoying a “staycation” here one night when my husband was home for just a few precious hours between his travels. The kids absolutely adored it! They reveled in the fantastic pool, were captivated by the room’s fun layout and modern amenities, and loved exploring the bright, colorful lobby lounge spaces. Aloft hotel truly shines as both a kid-friendly and pet-friendly establishment, understanding that travel often includes the entire family, furry members included. Its energetic design and welcoming vibe make it a standout choice for a comfortable and exciting stay near PDX.

• Aloft Hotel – Portland
• Address: 9920 NE Cascades Parkway, Portland, Oregon 97220
• Phone: (503) 200-5678
• Room Rates (approximate): Between $110 to $160/night (subject to seasonal variations)
• Room Styles: Choose from comfortable double bed or spacious king bed rooms, all designed with Aloft’s signature modern aesthetic.
• Dining Options: Enjoy the convenience of a 24-hour grab-and-go shop in the lobby for snacks and light meals, plus the lively w xyz bar on site for cocktails and socializers. Beyond the hotel, the Cascade Station area offers dozens of restaurants & bars within easy walking distance.
• Room Service: No. However, the 24/7 grab-and-go and nearby dining options more than compensate.
• Tech Amenities: Each room is thoughtfully equipped with a versatile charging station capable of powering all laptops, cell phones, and other devices, which can then seamlessly connect to a large 42″ flat screen TV. Guests also benefit from complimentary high-speed internet.
• Kids: Aloft proudly offers a “kids camp” program, providing engaging activities and amenities for younger guests. Children 12 and younger stay free with an adult, making it an excellent choice for family travel. More details on the program can be found on their website.
• Pets: Yes! Aloft warmly welcomes your furry best friend, providing them with a comfortable dog bed, food bowl, delicious treats, and fun toys upon arrival. For dogs over 40 pounds, a simple waiver signature is required, ensuring a smooth and enjoyable stay for all.
• Reservations: Book directly by calling (503) 200-5678 or visiting starwoodhotels.com/alofthotels.

The Nines Hotel: Unparalleled Luxury in Downtown Portland

For those who wish to truly indulge and experience the pinnacle of luxury during their visit to Portland, The Nines Hotel is an absolute must. Without a doubt, this is Portland’s most opulent and swankiest hotel, majestically situated in the vibrant heart of downtown Portland. It stands proudly across from the iconic Pioneer Courthouse Square, often referred to as “Portland’s Living Room,” and offers direct access to the MAX light rail line, placing the entire city at your fingertips.

The Nines’ commitment to opulence is evident from the moment you step through its grand doors, greeted by magnificent large chandeliers that cast a warm, inviting glow. This lavish attention to detail extends into every corner of its 318 exquisite guest rooms and 13 luxurious suites. The accommodations here are nothing short of spectacular: imagine sinking into ridiculously soft and comfortable couches, relaxing in elegant armchairs adorned with plush velvet upholstery, and drifting to sleep in grand Luxury Collection beds outfitted with sumptuously soft 350-thread count sheets and oh-so-cozy plush duvets. Every element is carefully chosen to create an atmosphere of refined comfort and ultimate sophistication.

Despite its central downtown location, which is typically bustling, one of the most remarkable aspects of The Nines is its serene tranquility. It offers one of the quietest hotel stays I have ever experienced in a downtown setting, allowing for a peaceful retreat amidst the urban energy. It’s no surprise that it has become a favored destination for couples seeking a romantic getaway and families enjoying luxurious staycations, as it provides an oasis of calm without sacrificing accessibility to city attractions.

I once enjoyed a fabulous girls’ weekend getaway here with a group of friends, staying in one of the elegant one-bedroom suites, and every aspect of our stay was simply perfect. The Nines Hotel also stands out for its exceptional dining options, home to two of Portland’s most celebrated restaurants under one roof. Guests can savor contemporary American cuisine with a focus on steak at Urban Farmer, a modern steakhouse known for its farm-to-table ethos. For a more elevated experience, head to Departure Restaurant & Lounge, a hip and sexy rooftop eatery that offers not only innovative Asian-inspired dishes but also breathtaking panoramic views of the city skyline, especially stunning at night. The Nines truly embodies luxury, comfort, and an unforgettable Portland experience.

The Nines Hotel
525 SW Morrison
Portland, OR, 97204
1-877-229-9995 

• Room Rates (approximate): From $220 to an extraordinary $4,600 per night. Yes, you read that correctly! While the exclusive Nines Suite and Meier & Frank Suite can command prices upwards of $4K+ per night, the more accessible smaller bedrooms and suites generally range from $220 – $350, offering luxury for various budgets.
• Room Styles: Guests can choose from a wide range of luxurious accommodations, including Superior, Deluxe, Club Level, Hospitality Suite, One-Bedroom Suite (perfect for extended stays or gatherings, as pictured above), and the grand Nines Suite or Meier & Frank Suite for the ultimate indulgence.
• Dining Options: Experience culinary excellence at Urban Farmer Restaurant on the 6th floor, offering a modern twist on the classic steakhouse. For elevated dining with stunning views, head to Departure Restaurant & Lounge on the 15th floor. Be sure to read my detailed restaurant review of Departure for more insights!
• Room Service: Yes. While it might tempt you to empty your wallet, it offers one of the best in-room dining experiences you can savor in Portland, with exceptional quality and presentation.
• Tech Amenities: Guests enjoy complimentary WiFi and a decent amount of power outlets to keep all devices charged. Each room is also equipped with a crisp 42″ HDTV for entertainment.
• Kids: Children 12 and younger stay for free when accompanied by an adult, making it a viable option for families seeking a luxurious getaway. Personally, my kids haven’t stayed here, but I have no doubt they would absolutely adore this grand hotel experience.
• Pets: The Nines Hotel extends its welcome to pets, allowing those 60 pounds or lighter to stay with their owners. There is a comprehensive Pet Policy outlining all the details, which you can review on their official website.
• Reservations: To book your luxurious stay, call 888-627-7208 or visit thenines.com.

Hotel deLuxe: Old Hollywood Glamour in the City of Roses

Just a short distance across the freeway from the vibrant hustle and bustle of downtown Portland, you’ll discover the exquisite Hotel deLuxe. This magnificent hotel is a true homage to the golden age of Hollywood, meticulously designed to make every guest feel like a bona fide movie star. Whether you’re embarking on a solo adventure, bringing the whole family along, or traveling with your cherished furry companion, Hotel deLuxe rolls out the red carpet for everyone.

While the immediate vicinity might not boast a plethora of shops or restaurants within a few steps, Hotel deLuxe’s location is strategically advantageous. It’s conveniently situated directly on the MAX light rail line and is just a few short blocks from the very heart of downtown Portland, ensuring easy access to all the city’s major attractions. Furthermore, the hotel itself houses two excellent dining options that are destinations in their own right. I’ve personally enjoyed countless memorable date nights in the sophisticated and intimate Driftwood Room bar and lounge, known for its classic cocktails and timeless ambiance. For family dinners, business meetings, or casual meetups with fellow moms and their kids, Gracie’s restaurant offers a welcoming and delicious experience. For sports enthusiasts, particularly those in town for a Portland Timbers (men’s soccer) or Thorns (women’s soccer) game at the nearby Providence Park, Hotel deLuxe stands out as an excellent and stylish place to stay, offering both comfort and convenience to the stadium.

Every detail at Hotel deLuxe, from the elegant decor to the attentive service, is crafted to transport you to an era of classic glamour and unparalleled hospitality. It’s a place where timeless elegance meets modern comfort, creating an unforgettable stay in Portland.

Hotel deLuxe

729 SW 15th AvePortland,OR97205503-219-2094
hoteldeluxeportland.com

• Room Rates (approximate): From $129 – $229 per night (rates vary by season and demand).
• Room Styles: Guests can choose from a variety of elegantly appointed rooms and suites, including Queen Deluxe, King Deluxe, King Studio Suite, Queen Premier, Queen or King Premier Suites, and for the ultimate experience, the iconic Marlene Dietrich Suite.
• Dining Options: Savor delicious American comfort food with a sophisticated twist at Gracie’s restaurant, perfect for any meal. For a more intimate and stylish experience, enjoy classic cocktails and small bites at the renowned Driftwood lounge, a favorite among locals and guests alike.
• Room Service: Yes, and it comes with a delightful local touch: you can even order famous Salt & Straw ice cream right to your room for a truly Portland indulgence!
• Tech Amenities: Stay connected with complimentary WiFi available throughout the hotel.
• Kids: Children 12 and younger stay for free when accompanied by an adult. While the hotel has a serene and elegant ambiance, which some families appreciate, it’s worth noting that sound tends to travel a bit more than in some other hotels on this list, so keeping that in mind for younger, energetic children is advisable.
• Pets: Pets are truly VIPs (Very Important Pups!) at Hotel deLuxe! For a reasonable $45 pet fee, your favorite furry traveling companion receives a luxurious pet bed, gourmet treats, a stylish food bowl, and fun toys. The hotel even offers a full pet service menu, ensuring your pet enjoys their stay as much as you do. Learn more about their comprehensive Pet VIP Program on their website.
• Reservations: Book your star-studded stay by calling 503-219-2094 or visiting hoteldeluxeportland.com.

I sincerely hope this curated list proves invaluable, whether you’re embarking on your own adventure to Portland, Oregon, this holiday season, or welcoming friends and family who are visiting from out of town! Choosing the right accommodation can truly elevate your trip, and these cool hotels are designed to deliver unforgettable experiences.