White Stag Sign Portland
White Stag Sign Portland

Where to Stay in Portland: Your Ultimate Neighborhood Guide

Portland, Oregon, often lauded as one of the coolest cities in the US, is attracting global attention. From being featured in Netflix food shows to its booming outdoor adventure scene in the Pacific Northwest, Portland is no longer a hidden gem. If you’re planning a visit, deciding where to stay is crucial, arguably second only to figuring out where to eat!

You’ve landed in the right spot for that answer.

We are Matt and Alysha, Portland locals with a unique perspective. Before settling here after years of cross-country travel in a minivan, we explored Portland extensively, visiting ten times! We’ve experienced the city as tourists and now as residents. We’re excited to use our combined insights to guide you in choosing the perfect Portland neighborhood for your travel style and budget.

Portland is wonderfully compact, a feature we truly appreciate – no more hour-long commutes across town! However, each neighborhood within the city center boasts a distinct personality. From the historical charm of Downtown to the sleek modernity of the Pearl District and the leafy residential streets of Northwest, navigating these options can be overwhelming.

This guide is designed to simplify your decision. We’ll draw on our personal experiences to provide all the information you need to pinpoint the ideal place to stay in Portland, tailored to your preferences and budget.

Each neighborhood offers a unique mix of atmosphere, price points, and advantages. We’ll break down these elements to empower you with the knowledge to make the best choice. Our goal is that by the end of this guide, you’ll be fully equipped to select the perfect accommodation for you and your travel companions.

Ready to explore Portland’s neighborhoods? Let’s dive in!

White Stag Sign PortlandWhite Stag Sign Portland

Disclaimer: Please note that some links in this article, particularly hotel links, are affiliate links. This means we may earn a small commission if you book through these links, at no extra cost to you. We only recommend products and services we genuinely believe in.

Contents
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1. Portland’s Best Neighborhoods to Stay In
1.1. Downtown Portland: Most Convenient for First-Timers
1.2. Central Eastside: Top Pick for Portland Visitors
1.3. Southeast Portland: Our Favorite Portland Vibe
1.4. Northwest District: Central, Walkable, and Charming
1.5. Pearl District: Walkable and Near Downtown
2. Neighborhoods to Avoid in Portland

1. Portland’s Best Neighborhoods to Stay In

Let’s get to the heart of the matter: choosing the right neighborhood.

Our approach to accommodation is neighborhood-first. We believe selecting the ideal neighborhood is the first step, followed by finding the perfect hotel, hostel, or apartment within that area.

While Portland offers diverse neighborhoods beyond those listed here, we’ve curated five that we believe are exceptional for the vast majority of travelers. We’re committed to explaining our reasoning and guiding you to the best choice for your needs.

For each neighborhood, we’ll provide a structured overview to help you determine if it’s the right fit:

  • Neighborhood Overview & Our Take: We’ll share our personal experiences and insights into each neighborhood’s unique character, having explored them extensively as both visitors and locals.
  • Pros & Cons: A balanced look at the advantages and disadvantages of staying in each area to aid your decision-making.
  • Neighborhood Highlights: Recommendations for coffee shops, restaurants, parks, and must-see spots that we’ve enjoyed and believe you will too.

For those seeking a quick answer: we understand time is precious! Here’s a brief summary. However, we highly recommend reading the full section for your chosen neighborhood to uncover valuable tips and local gems.

A Note on Airbnb and Vacation Rentals in Portland: It’s important to be aware of Portland’s regulations regarding short-term rentals. Renting out entire homes or apartments that are not primary residences is illegal. However, renting out accessory dwelling units (ADUs) like backyard bungalows or garage studios, where the owner lives on-site, is permitted.

For an optimal experience, we suggest opting for vacation rentals where the owner is present, such as a backyard bungalow or a studio over a garage. Avoid downtown core vacation rentals, as they are likely either illegal or less desirable than hotels.

1.1. Downtown Portland: Most Convenient for First-Timers

Downtown Portland SkylineDowntown Portland Skyline

If you’re new to Portland, you might have preconceived notions about Downtown, perhaps influenced by sensationalized media coverage focusing on “riots” and “fires” in recent years. We often encounter this skepticism when we enthusiastically recommend Portland.

It’s important to address these misconceptions. While Portland, like many West Coast cities, faces challenges related to housing and mental health crises, the portrayal of Downtown as a “dying” or “riot-filled” zone is inaccurate. In our extensive time here, we have not witnessed any “riots.”

However, it’s true that Portland grapples with visible homelessness, a consequence of the aforementioned crises. This is most noticeable in the northeastern part of Downtown (north of W Burnside Street and east of North Park Blocks, near Voodoo Doughnut). For a more comfortable experience, especially for families or solo travelers, we recommend focusing your accommodation search in the southwestern part of Downtown. This area, south of Burnside and west of SW Park, is where our hotel recommendations are concentrated.

It’s crucial to remember that the unhoused individuals you may encounter are people in need, often struggling with untreated mental health issues. They deserve compassion and support, not demonization. While you might witness distressing situations, such as public drug use or verbal outbursts, these individuals are generally not a threat to visitors.

Despite these realities, Downtown Portland remains an excellent, centrally located base for exploring the city, particularly for first-time visitors. It provides easy access to major attractions like the International Rose Test Garden and Powell’s City of Books. Furthermore, Downtown boasts a wide array of hotels catering to diverse budgets and preferences.

As mentioned, the southwestern section of Downtown, south of Burnside and west of SW Park, is generally the most pleasant area to stay.

Pioneer Courthouse Square PortlandPioneer Courthouse Square Portland

Pros and Cons of Staying Downtown

Here’s a balanced look at the advantages and disadvantages of choosing Downtown Portland as your base:

Pros of Staying in Downtown Portland
  • Central Location: Downtown’s central position is a major advantage. It’s nestled between the expansive parks to the west – Forest Park and Washington Park – and the charming neighborhoods east of the river.
  • Wide Hotel Selection: Downtown offers the most extensive range of hotels in Portland. Whether you’re seeking budget-friendly options or luxurious accommodations for a special occasion, you’ll find numerous choices here.
  • Excellent Transit: Downtown is a public transportation hub. The MAX Light Rail and TriMet buses provide easy access to nearly anywhere in the city, including Portland International Airport (PDX).
Cons of Staying in Downtown Portland
  • Limited Food and Drink Scene: While Downtown has restaurants, our favorite dining and drinking spots are primarily located outside the core, in neighborhoods like Northwest, Southeast, and Northeast Portland. Plan to venture out for most meals if you stay Downtown.
  • Visible Homelessness: While not a reason to avoid Downtown entirely, the presence of unhoused individuals is undeniable and can be disheartening. It’s a reality you will encounter when spending time in this area.

Click here to find the perfect place to stay in Downtown Portland

Pioneer Courthouse Square PortlandPioneer Courthouse Square Portland

Best Places to Stay in Downtown Portland

Here are some recommended hotels in Downtown Portland:

Heathman Hotel: Top Hotel Pick Downtown

The Heathman Hotel is our top choice for Downtown accommodation. It excels in almost every aspect.

Its location on SW Broadway is superb, within walking distance of key landmarks: Pioneer Courthouse Square, Less and More Coffee (both locations), and the South Park Blocks, home to the Oregon Historical Society, Portland Art Museum, and the fantastic PSU Farmers Market (Saturdays). Staying here puts you in a prime spot to explore Downtown, the Pearl District, and Northwest District on foot.

The hotel itself is steeped in history. The original Heathman Hotel opened in 1926, with this adjacent building constructed a few years later. Recent renovations have seamlessly blended historic charm with modern comfort.

Rooms are generously sized, offering both standard hotel rooms and suites. Suites provide added seating areas and one-bedroom suites include sofa beds in the living area, ideal for families.

Amenities include a fitness center, a library in the common area, and complimentary rental bikes for exploring the riverfront loop. However, a mandatory $29 amenity fee is a drawback. We prefer transparent pricing, but unfortunately, hidden fees are common in the hotel industry.

The Heathman is pet-friendly, with a $50 pet fee per stay that includes pet amenities like bowls, beds, and treats.

Hotel Zags Portland: Hip and Modern Style

Hotel Zags offers a hip, modern alternative in a similar area to the Heathman, slightly further south on the South Park Blocks. This means a slightly longer walk to the heart of Downtown, but excellent public transport options are readily accessible.

Hotel Zags features rooms and “suites” (suites offer a separate living space and bedroom). Some rooms offer city views, while others overlook an interior garden.

Amenities include their unique “gear shed” with rentals like bikes, backpacks, and games, complimentary continental breakfast (though Portland’s breakfast scene is too good to miss!), and day passes to a nearby gym.

Like many hotels, Hotel Zags has an amenity fee, this one at $35 per night – a significant addition to the room rate. Factor this into your budget.

Pet-friendly policies include a $45 one-time fee and a two-dog maximum with no breed or weight restrictions.

Hyatt Centric Downtown Portland: Affordable and Centrally Located

Hyatt Centric PortlandHyatt Centric Portland

The Hyatt Centric in Portland is a brand-new hotel in the heart of Downtown, steps away from top bars, restaurants, and shopping.

This large hotel boasts 220 spacious rooms (250-300 sq ft), many with impressive Portland skyline views. Room categories include “rooms” and “suites/studios,” with suites offering a seating area. Choose from King or Queen bed configurations and opt for a view room for a slight upgrade.

Amenities include an on-site fitness center, a bar and restaurant, and inviting common areas on the ground floor. Valet parking is available for $47 per night.

Hyatt Centric is pet-friendly, welcoming up to two dogs (under 50 lbs each or 75 lbs combined) for a $100 non-refundable fee.

1.2. Central Eastside: Top Pick for Portland Visitors

The Central Eastside, an industrial-chic district directly across the Willamette River from Downtown, is our top recommendation for visitors to Portland.

As a general guideline, aim to stay east of Grand and MLK Blvd. These major thoroughfares can be noisy and congested. The area east of these streets is more charming and closer to our favorite parts of the neighborhood.

We favor the Central Eastside for its central location relative to Portland’s main attractions. It’s across the river from Downtown, walkable to Southeast Portland (Division and Hawthorne), and a short bus or ride-share trip to NE Portland (Alberta and Mississippi). This encompasses nearly every area you’ll likely want to explore during your Portland visit.

To reiterate, prioritize staying east of 99E (Grand and MLK). Our recommended hotels are located in this desirable section of the Central Eastside.

Food Carts Central Eastside PortlandFood Carts Central Eastside Portland

Pros and Cons of Staying in the Central Eastside

Here’s a look at the pros and cons of choosing the Central Eastside as your base:

Pros of Staying in the Central Eastside
  • Central Location: As the name suggests, the Central Eastside is ideally positioned between key Portland neighborhoods.
  • Excellent Public Transit: The MAX Light Rail and numerous bus lines provide excellent connectivity to the rest of the city. Walking is also a viable option to many areas.
Cons of Staying in the Central Eastside
  • Challenging Parking: Parking can be difficult, especially in the area closest to the river. As you move eastward into more residential areas, parking becomes easier. If you have a car, confirm if your hotel offers parking (a garage is recommended).
  • Distance from Parks: Washington and Forest Park are on the west side of the river, beyond Downtown. This isn’t a major drawback but consider it if you plan to spend significant time in those parks.

Berlu Bakery Central EastsideBerlu Bakery Central Eastside

Best Places to Stay in the Central Eastside

Discover some cool accommodation options on the east side of the river:

The Jupiter NEXT Hotel: Cool Boutique Hotel

We personally recommend the Jupiter NEXT Hotel. We stayed here before moving to Portland and would wholeheartedly recommend it.

Created by Portland locals – the same team behind the iconic Jupiter Hotel and Doug Fir Lounge music venue – the Jupiter NEXT embodies Portland’s unique spirit in hotel form.

Opened in 2018, the Jupiter NEXT offers a more upscale, boutique experience than its sister property across the street.

Location-wise, it’s on Burnside in the Central Eastside. We easily walked to Downtown Portland from the hotel in about 20 minutes. Public transport provides a quicker option, around 15 minutes by bus.

The rooms are stylish and comfortable, reflecting Portland’s creative vibe. The west-facing rooms offer great skyline views.

Amenities and service are highlights. Enjoy complimentary high-quality coffee in the lobby each morning, friendly staff, and inviting indoor and outdoor common spaces. Don’t miss Hey Love, the excellent cocktail bar on the ground floor!

The downsides are price and parking. It’s not a budget option. Street parking is available but restricted on weekdays. Underground garage parking is $25 per night (outdoor lot $15, but the secure garage is recommended).

The Kex Hotel Portland: Affordable Hotel/Hostel Hybrid

The Kex Hotel, part of an Icelandic chain, blends hotel and boutique hostel styles.

Budget travelers can opt for bunk bed rooms with shared bathrooms. Standard hotel-style rooms are also available for those seeking a social atmosphere without dorm-style sleeping. Some private rooms offer a private bathroom down the hall, a cost-saving compromise.

Housed in a historic building, Kex embraces its age with a rustic-chic aesthetic. Rooms are small yet affordable, reflecting the hotel’s value proposition. Common areas are inviting, including a ground-floor bar, a rooftop bar, and a library room.

Unique “Family Rooms” feature a queen bed and two bunk beds, perfect for families.

Kex Hotel is not pet-friendly. On-site parking is unavailable, making it best suited for car-free travelers. Nearby parking lots are available, but their security and convenience vary.

Tiny Digs Hotel: Unique Tiny Home Experience

Tiny Digs is quintessential Portland. This collection of themed tiny homes forms a unique “village hotel” in the Central Eastside, near the vibrant SE 28th Avenue dining and drinking scene.

Each tiny home is uniquely designed around a theme and includes a full kitchen, air conditioning, and a small deck. Standout options include the Bamboo House (with a Koi pond), the Red Barn, and the Beach House.

Tiny Digs is pet-friendly (two pet limit, 50 lbs combined weight, $50 non-refundable fee per pet).

1.3. Southeast Portland: Our Favorite Portland Vibe

SE Division Street PortlandSE Division Street Portland

In our travels, we consistently gravitate towards neighborhoods that are primarily residential yet feature commercial strips with appealing bars, coffee shops, restaurants, and boutiques.

Southeast Portland perfectly embodies this.

We’re admittedly biased as residents of this neighborhood, but we believe Southeast Portland is the best part of the city for many reasons.

We’ve divided the southeast quadrant into the Central Eastside and Southeast Portland because they offer distinct experiences. The Central Eastside is more urban and industrial, while Southeast Portland is more residential, charming, and green.

“Southeast Portland” in this guide refers to the area between Hawthorne and Division Streets, from SE 20th Ave to César E Chávez Boulevard / SE 39th Ave (with notable spots extending further east).

SE Division Street PortlandSE Division Street Portland

Pros and Cons of Staying in Southeast Portland

Here’s a balanced view of Southeast Portland as a base for exploration:

Pros of Staying in Southeast Portland
  • Local Vibe: Southeast Portland has a strong residential character, offering leafy streets and beautiful historic homes, particularly Craftsman style. You’ll encounter primarily locals going about their daily lives, which we appreciate when traveling.
  • Exceptional Food and Drink: The sheer concentration of excellent food and drink options in Southeast Portland is incredible, gluten-free and otherwise. This is a major reason we love living here. See the “highlights” section below for specific recommendations.
  • Easy Parking: Unlike many parts of Portland, parking in Southeast is generally easy. Even near popular areas like Division and Hawthorne, ample free street parking is available on nearby residential streets. If you’re driving to Portland, Southeast is a great option.
Cons of Staying in Southeast Portland
  • Limited Accommodation: Southeast Portland’s residential nature means fewer tourist accommodation options. Remember that whole-house vacation rentals are illegal in Portland, though ADUs (like backyard bungalows) are available.
  • Not Walkable to City Center: While Southeast Portland is walkable within itself, it’s not easily walkable to Downtown or the parks on the west side. Public transport is necessary to reach Downtown, and ride-sharing is often more efficient for reaching other parts of the city due to longer public transit times.
  • Challenging Airport Access: Getting to and from Portland International Airport (PDX) from Southeast Portland is less convenient via public transport. Ride-sharing or taxis are often necessary, or consider renting a car.

Click here to find the perfect place to stay in Southeast Portland

Where to Stay in Southeast Portland

Southeast Portland’s residential nature limits accommodation options.

Two main options exist, both near the vibrant Division Street area:

The Bluebird Guesthouse is located directly on Division Street, surrounded by excellent dining and drinking spots. This renovated house operates as a bed & breakfast with six unique rooms and shared common spaces.

The Evermore Guesthouse, a few blocks south of Division, offers similar amenities and is owned by the same people as Bluebird Guesthouse.

For vacation rentals in Southeast Portland, remember that renting entire houses that are not primary residences is technically illegal. However, ADUs like backyard bungalows or basement suites, where the owner lives on-site, are legal and often provide a better, more authentic experience.

Here are a few ADU options to consider:

[Link to ADU options on Airbnb or similar platform]

1.4. Northwest District: Central, Walkable, and Charming

Northwest District PortlandNorthwest District Portland

Of the four central Portland districts, the Northwest District quickly became our favorite after moving here.

This area goes by various names – Nob Hill, Alphabet District, Slabtown – referring to sub-neighborhoods within. However, locals generally call it “Northwest.”

It shares appealing qualities with the Eastside: greenery, tree-lined streets, commercial stretches with great food, drinks, and shopping, and proximity to green spaces (Washington Park is just uphill!).

However, Northwest also feels distinctly more urban, with challenging parking and a lively atmosphere throughout the day and evening. It strikes a balance between the residential Eastside and the bustling Downtown, making it a top choice, especially for car-free visitors.

The main commercial streets are NW 23rd and NW 21st, lined with fantastic eateries, bars, and shops. Providence Park, home of Portland’s soccer teams, is also located here.

Northwest District PortlandNorthwest District Portland

Pros and Cons of Staying in Northwest District

Here’s a look at the pros and cons of Northwest as your Portland base:

Pros of Staying in Northwest District
  • Charm and Character: Tree-lined streets, Victorian architecture, and local boutiques define the Northwest District’s charm.
  • Access to Green Spaces: Washington Park (International Rose Test Garden, Hoyt Arboretum) and Forest Park are easily accessible from Northwest District, either by walking or a short drive.
  • Excellent Food, Drink, and Shopping: Food lovers will adore Northwest, home to some of Portland’s best culinary and beverage destinations.
Cons of Staying in Northwest District
  • Difficult Parking: Parking is challenging, especially on weekends. Most streets have time limits (2-4 hours) and/or paid parking.
  • Average Hotel Options: Compared to Downtown and Central Eastside, Northwest has fewer hotels. However, the available options are often unique and surprisingly affordable for this upscale neighborhood.

Click here to find the perfect place to stay in Northwest District

International Rose Test Garden PortlandInternational Rose Test Garden Portland

Best Places to Stay in the Northwest District

Northwest District hotels tend to be surprisingly affordable:

Two practical but less exciting options are located at the northern end of NW 23rd: the Silver Cloud Inn and the Holiday Inn Express.

For similar prices and more unique experiences, consider these options:

Inn at Northrup Station: Quirky Hotel with Kitchens

Inn at Northrup Station offers rooms with kitchens (including stovetops). Confirm kitchen availability when booking.

This locally owned and operated hotel has a retro-funky vibe with bright colors. Rooms are spacious (500 sq ft, closer to studio apartments) and some feature full kitchens, patios, or balconies.

Parking is included in the room rate, along with continental breakfast and Portland Streetcar tickets. Not pet-friendly.

Portland International Guesthouse: Budget-Friendly Option

Portland International Guesthouse is an excellent budget choice. It offers affordable rooms with shared bathrooms (private, single-occupancy bathrooms shared between guests), reminiscent of budget European accommodations.

Four rooms share two bathrooms and a half-bath. Most rooms accommodate up to three people. A garden-level apartment with a full kitchen and private bathroom is available for stays of three or more days.

Limited neighborhood parking permits are available for $5/day (reserve in advance). No pets or children under 5. No TVs in rooms.

Northwest Portland Hostel: Best Portland Hostel

Northwest Portland Hostel is another great budget option. This hostel offers dorm rooms and private rooms, with social common areas and a welcoming atmosphere.

Common areas include a full kitchen and a courtyard. The location is excellent, midway between Downtown and NW 23rd, a 10-minute walk to each.

The hostel hosts events to connect travelers, from walking tours to happy hours. Private room options include shared or private bathrooms, queen beds, or family rooms with double beds and bunk beds. Dorm options include mixed, male, and female dorms with 4-8 beds.

1.5. Pearl District: Walkable and Near Downtown

Initially, the Pearl District didn’t impress us much.

While its location is excellent – bordering Downtown and Northwest District (and near Old Town, which we don’t recommend staying in) – it felt somewhat unremarkable.

However, spending more time exploring the Pearl District has changed our perspective. It’s become increasingly appealing.

The Pearl District is slightly more upscale than Downtown. The southern part features converted warehouses and brick buildings now housing shops, breweries, and restaurants. Portlanders who have lived here for decades often cite the Pearl District as the most transformed area of the city.

The northern part of the Pearl District is characterized by modern high-rise buildings, likely luxury condos.

While we wouldn’t necessarily choose to live in the Pearl District due to parking challenges and tourist traffic, it’s definitely a good option for a Portland stay.

Pearl District PortlandPearl District Portland

Pros and Cons of Staying in the Pearl District

Here are the pros and cons of the Pearl District as your base:

Pros of Staying in the Pearl District
  • Proximity to Key Areas: The Pearl District is conveniently located near Downtown, Northwest District, and NE Portland (particularly Mississippi Avenue). It’s walkable to Downtown and Northwest, and a short trip to NE Portland.
Cons of Staying in the Pearl District
  • Mediocre Hotel Selection: Unlike Downtown and Central Eastside, Pearl District hotels are less distinctive and primarily consist of large chain hotels (Marriott, Hilton).
  • Proximity to Old Town: The Pearl District borders Old Town/Chinatown to the east, an area with significant visible homelessness and mental health challenges. While the North Park Blocks roughly define the border, some of these issues extend into the Pearl District’s edges.

Click here to find the perfect place to stay in the Pearl District

Best Places to Stay in the Pearl District

Here are a couple of Pearl District hotel recommendations:

Canopy by Hilton Portland Pearl District: Stylish and Trendy

Canopy by Hilton Portland Pearl District is Hilton’s trendy brand, designed to compete with modern boutique hotels. It features cool common areas, functional rooms, and stylish decor.

Located a few blocks from Downtown Portland’s heart, it’s an excellent base for exploring the city. Rooms are stylish and functional, offering King or Queen bed configurations, with view and corner room options. Rooms are spacious (300+ sq ft).

Amenities include a rooftop fitness center and well-designed common areas. An on-site bar and restaurant are available, though Portland’s dining scene offers more compelling options. Valet parking is $47/day (includes in/out privileges). Pet-friendly (non-refundable $50 fee, 75 lbs weight limit).

Hampton Inn and Suites Portland Pearl District: Affordable Amenities

Initially skeptical of Hampton Inns, the Hampton Inn and Suites Portland Pearl District impressed us with its reviews. This newer Hampton Inn offers surprisingly high quality.

Hampton Inn quality varies by location and renovation status. This Pearl District location is essentially brand new, with spacious and comfortable rooms. Standard King rooms are a generous 350 sq ft. A variety of room sizes and configurations are available, including options with two queen beds or sitting areas.

Amenities stand out: an indoor pool, fitness center, and rooftop deck. Free breakfast is included. Valet parking is $46/day (includes in/out privileges). Pet-friendly (non-refundable $125 fee).

Residence Inn Portland Downtown/Pearl District: Kitchen Suites

Residence Inn Portland Downtown/Pearl District is ideal if you need a kitchen or multi-bedroom suite.

We often seek hotels with kitchens for travel, especially due to dietary needs. This Residence Inn fits the bill. Located at the northern edge of the Pearl District, it’s near Tanner Springs Park, Sisters Coffee, and Cooperativa restaurant, with good public transport access. It’s also close to the Broadway Bridge for easy access to Mississippi Avenue and NE Portland.

Rooms are large, starting at 450 sq ft, with two-bedroom suites perfect for families. Amenities include a fitness center, indoor pool, courtyard with fire pits, and free breakfast. Pet-friendly (non-refundable $100 fee). Valet parking is $49/day, with a self-park garage nearby.

2. Neighborhoods to Avoid in Portland

Now that we’ve covered our top neighborhood recommendations, let’s briefly discuss areas we advise against staying in, based on our experiences and Portland knowledge.

  • Old Town/Chinatown: As mentioned, Portland faces visible homelessness issues, most concentrated in Old Town/Chinatown, north of Downtown and east of the Pearl District. Walking through this area can be distressing. We advise against staying here, especially if you are concerned about encountering individuals experiencing mental health or addiction crises. While you may see homelessness elsewhere in Portland, it’s particularly prevalent and unavoidable in Old Town/Chinatown.
  • North Portland: North Portland, around Portland University, is a cool area but inconvenient for tourists. It requires a car and a 15-20 minute drive to most tourist destinations.
  • Northeast Portland: While we love Northeast Portland (Mississippi Avenue, Alberta Arts District), it’s impractical for visitors due to limited accommodation options (mostly potentially illegal vacation rentals). However, it’s worth visiting during your trip, just plan to stay elsewhere.
  • Lloyd Center/Convention Center: This area is convenient if you’re attending events at the Oregon Convention Center, Moda Center, or nearby venues. Otherwise, we recommend staying elsewhere. It’s not particularly walkable, and lacks attractions compared to other neighborhoods.

We hope this guide helps you find the perfect place to stay in Portland! Enjoy your visit to this incredible city!

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