Hi-Lo Hotel: Your Guide to the Best Boutique Hotel in Portland, Oregon

The Hi-Lo Hotel offers an unforgettable experience. It is a modern boutique gem nestled in the heart of downtown Portland, Oregon. This hotel provides a serene and stylish retreat for those seeking a quiet, relaxing stay in the midst of the city’s vibrant energy.

Portland Boutique Hotels: The Hi-Lo Lobby — The inviting lobby of the Hi-Lo Hotel in Portland.

Recently, my husband and I celebrated our 17th wedding anniversary, a milestone that called for a special celebration. Instead of a grand getaway, we opted for a weekend staycation close to home, given our upcoming family vacation to the Oregon coast. Portland boasts numerous hotels in its downtown core, making the choice a delightful challenge. After much deliberation, we decided on the Hi-Lo Hotel, a decision we couldn’t have been happier with.

Choosing a hotel for a staycation can be overwhelming, but the Hi-Lo Hotel stood out for its unique blend of modern aesthetics and exceptional service. The promise of a tranquil escape within the city’s bustling heart was exactly what we were looking for.

This review details our experience at the Hi-Lo Hotel, highlighting its exceptional features and the overall ambiance that makes it a standout choice for anyone visiting Portland. Prepare to discover why the Hi-Lo Hotel is considered one of the best boutique hotels in the city.

For a more immersive experience, check out the Urban Bliss Life YouTube Channel for a full video review.

Best Portland Boutique Hotels: Hi-Lo in Downtown

Hi-Lo Hotel downtown Portland, Oregon Exterior — The Hi-Lo Hotel’s striking exterior in downtown Portland.

The Hi-Lo Hotel, a distinguished member of Marriott’s Autograph Collection, enjoys a prime location in downtown Portland, situated between 3rd and 4th Avenues on Stark Street. Its central position places it adjacent to a popular food cart pod and the renowned Mother’s Bistro, a long-standing favorite for brunch. Furthermore, it shares its neighborhood with Huber’s Cafe, Portland’s oldest restaurant, serving patrons since 1879.

The location of the Hi-Lo Hotel makes it an ideal base for exploring Portland. Its proximity to various culinary delights, from food carts to established restaurants, ensures that guests have a wide range of dining options right at their doorstep. Additionally, its central location provides easy access to the city’s main attractions and cultural landmarks.

The convenience and accessibility of the Hi-Lo Hotel’s location are undeniable, contributing to its appeal as a top choice for both leisure and business travelers. Whether you’re looking to sample the local cuisine, explore the city’s sights, or simply enjoy a relaxing stay, the Hi-Lo Hotel offers the perfect starting point.

Hi-Lo Hotel downtown Portland, Oregon - The Merchant — The Merchant, a curated shop within the Hi-Lo Hotel.

The lobby of the Hi-Lo Hotel is a visual delight, where chic industrial elements are softened by the infusion of bold jewel tones and muted vintage pastels. This creates a warm and inviting atmosphere that immediately sets the tone for a memorable stay. The reception desk, a minimalist stand-alone kiosk, is situated next to The Merchant, a hotel shop that goes beyond the typical offerings.

The Merchant is more than just a hotel gift shop; it’s a curated space offering an impressive selection of local merchandise. Guests can find everything from local tees and baseball caps to artisanal coffees, wines, teas, and gourmet food and beverage products. This dedication to showcasing local talent and products adds a unique touch to the Hi-Lo Hotel experience.

The thoughtful design and carefully selected offerings in the lobby and The Merchant reflect the Hi-Lo Hotel’s commitment to providing a distinctive and enriching experience for its guests. The attention to detail and emphasis on local culture make it a standout destination in Portland’s vibrant hotel scene.

Lo Bar & Alto Bajo Restaurant

Hi-Lo Hotel downtown Portland, Oregon - Lo Bar — The stylish Lo Bar at the Hi-Lo Hotel.

Upon entering the lobby, guests will find the Lo Bar to the left, which seamlessly connects to the Alto Bajo restaurant. This dynamic duo offers a range of culinary experiences to suit any palate and occasion.

Alto Bajo is a full-service restaurant that specializes in Mexican-inspired cuisine, serving breakfast, lunch, and dinner. The menu features a variety of dishes that showcase fresh, local ingredients and innovative flavor combinations. The Lo Bar, on the other hand, is an ideal spot to unwind with a drink and enjoy a few bites from its curated menu.

The collaboration between Alto Bajo and the Lo Bar creates a versatile dining experience for guests. Whether you’re in the mood for a hearty meal or a light snack, you’ll find something to satisfy your cravings. Additionally, the Lo Bar’s connection to Alto Bajo Chef Chip Barnes further elevates the culinary offerings, ensuring a high-quality and memorable dining experience.

The Lo Bar’s design is particularly noteworthy: open, spacious, and minimalist, with ample seating options. In addition to the bar itself, there’s a long communal table in the center, intimate two-seaters, and tables along the wall that connects to the hotel entrance. This versatile layout makes it one of the best Portland boutique hotels, facilitating social interaction and providing a welcoming atmosphere.

Portland Boutique Hotels: Lo Bar Interior — Inside the inviting Lo Bar at the Hi-Lo Hotel.

Hi-Lo Hotel downtown Portland, Oregon - Lo Bar Cocktails — Lo Bar’s creative cocktail selection.

Hi-Lo Hotel downtown Portland, Oregon - Lo Bar Pink Chairs — Stylish seating options at the Lo Bar.

Hi-Lo Hotel downtown Portland, Oregon - Lo Bar Swing — The whimsical swing at the Lo Bar.

Adding to the Lo Bar’s unique charm, there’s a swing located in the middle of the space. In fact, there’s another swing in the hotel lobby as well, making for an Instagram-worthy photo opportunity! These playful touches add a sense of whimsy and fun to the hotel’s overall ambiance.

Hi-Lo Hotel downtown Portland, Oregon Cuvee — Exquisite Cuvee selection at the Lo Bar.

Hi-Lo Hotel downtown Portland, Oregon Lo Bar Fries — Delectable fries at the Lo Bar.

Hi-Lo Hotel downtown Portland, Oregon — Another view of the Lo Bar’s stylish interior.

Lo Bar Hours:
Sunday – Thursday: 11:00am – 11:00pm, and Friday & Saturday: 11:00am – Midnight

Alto Bajo Hours:
Breakfast: Monday – Friday 6:30am – 10:30am
Lunch: Monday – Friday 11:00am – 2:00pm
Brunch: Saturday & Sunday: 7:00am – 2:00pm
Dinner: Monday – Thursday: 5:30pm – 9:00pm, Friday & Saturday: 5:30pm – 10:00pm, closed Sunday

Best Portland Boutique Hotels: Hi-Lo Rooms & Suites

The Hi-Lo Hotel features 120 rooms and suites, each decorated in a minimal, artistic style. During our stay, we enjoyed a One Bedroom Suite, which included a separate sitting area with a large-screen television, a separate bedroom with a king-size bed, a closet, a desk, and large windows to maximize natural light. The bathroom was equally spacious, with a roomy shower.

The attention to detail in the room design is evident, with each element carefully chosen to create a comfortable and aesthetically pleasing environment. The separate living and sleeping areas provide ample space to relax and unwind, while the large windows offer stunning views of the city.

The Hi-Lo Hotel’s commitment to providing a luxurious and comfortable stay is reflected in its well-appointed rooms and suites. Whether you’re traveling for business or leisure, you’ll find the accommodations to be both functional and stylish, ensuring a memorable experience.

Hi-Lo Hotel downtown Portland, Oregon - Sitting Area — The spacious sitting area in the One Bedroom Suite.

Hi-Lo Hotel downtown Portland, Oregon - Bed — The comfortable king-size bed in the bedroom.

Hi-Lo Hotel downtown Portland, Oregon - Desk — A functional desk area in the suite.

Hi-Lo Hotel downtown Portland, Oregon - Bathroom — The spacious and modern bathroom.

One of the standout amenities in each room at the Hi-Lo Hotel is the heated floors. Given the tile floors, the heated feature provides a luxurious touch, especially during colder months, offering a warm and inviting experience from the moment you step out of bed.

This thoughtful detail adds a touch of comfort and sophistication to the Hi-Lo Hotel experience, setting it apart from other hotels in the area. The heated floors are just one example of the hotel’s commitment to providing a memorable and enjoyable stay for its guests.

Portland Boutique Hotels: The Hi-Lo City View — The view from the 4th-floor suite at the Hi-Lo Hotel.

The view from our 4th-floor suite was truly remarkable. Despite the Hi-Lo Hotel’s central location in downtown Portland, we found the room to be surprisingly quiet, offering a peaceful retreat from the city’s hustle and bustle.

The combination of stunning views and tranquility makes the Hi-Lo Hotel an ideal choice for those seeking a relaxing and rejuvenating stay in the heart of Portland. The quiet ambiance of the rooms ensures a restful night’s sleep, while the city views provide a captivating backdrop.

Final Thoughts

My husband and I thoroughly enjoyed our stay at the Hi-Lo Hotel. While I was captivated by the modern decor, the inviting Lo Bar, and the quiet, comfortable suite, what truly set this hotel apart was the exceptional service provided by every staff member we encountered. Each person was incredibly helpful and genuinely kind.

The Hi-Lo Hotel is ideal for young professionals, business travelers, and creative individuals. We found it to be an amazing staycation destination for couples. While we would consider staying here with our children (ages 11 and almost 14), who appreciate modern hotels, I am uncertain about staying here with a baby or toddler.

In summary, if you’re traveling to Portland, Oregon, or if you reside here and seek a peaceful, relaxing getaway, I wholeheartedly recommend the Hi-Lo Hotel. It serves as a hip oasis amidst the bustling downtown area.

VIDEO: The Hi-Lo Hotel

Here is a travel video I made of our stay at the Hi-Lo Hotel! Check it out here (and don’t forget to subscribe to the Urban Bliss Life You Tube channel!)

Stay at the Hi-Lo Hotel

Hi-Lo Hotel
320 SW Stark Street
Portland, Oregon 97204
971-222-2100
[email protected]

To make your reservations and for more information, visit the Hi-Lo Hotel website.

More Portland Boutique Hotels

AC Hotel
The Nines
The Duniway

What feature of the Hi-Lo Hotel looks most appealing to you?

I received a complimentary media stay, but as always, all opinions and photos are my own. I’ve recommended the Hi-Lo to several friends and think you will enjoy a stay here, too!