Nestled in the embrace of the Pacific Northwest, Portland stands as a vibrant and eclectic city, inviting visitors to explore its unique blend of urban sophistication and natural beauty. Known for its avant-garde spirit, this city effortlessly combines lush greenery with a thriving cultural scene, creating an atmosphere that is both laid-back and creatively charged. From the iconic Powell’s City of Books to the diverse culinary delights found in its food carts and farm-to-table restaurants, Portland captures the essence of a city that cherishes individuality and community alike. With a backdrop of majestic mountains and the meandering Willamette River, Portland beckons visitors with its picturesque landscapes, friendly locals, and a palpable sense of innovation that permeates every corner. Here are our favourite 5-star and luxury hotels to stay at in the city.
Ritz Carlton Portland
Opened in the autumn of 2023, this new Ritz Carlton property is a landmark on the downtown horizon. Soaring 35 storeys, it gleams in the sunshine, from its position on the corner of Southwest Washington and 10th Avenue. The architecture is eye-catching and inside, guests will find plenty of bespoke visuals, with murals and works by local artists nodding to regional motifs. The 251-bedroom hotel is Portland’s third tallest construction, taking advantage of its views with huge windows and an infinity pool on the 20th floor. There’s also a 7,000-square-foot fitness centre, Meadowrue cafe on the ground floor, Bellpine ocean-themed restaurant on 20 and a spa.
The Nines, a Luxury Collection Hotel, Portland
Beginning on the eighth floor of the Meier and Frank building, this LEED Silver Certified Hotel sits adjacent to the hip Pearl District. Over 400 works of art are embedded across the property, which sports a colour scheme heavy in turquoise, metallics and creams, alongside patterned wallpapers. Bedrooms come with BeeKind Collection products by Gilchrist & Soames. And guests can dine at Urban Farmer in the open atrium, or on the rooftop at Departure. Sustainability features heavily here, with herb and mushroom gardens onsite, rooftop beehives and water collection systems. In 2023, The Nines was voted #1 Hotel in the Pacific Northwest by Condé Nast Traveler Magazine readers panel.
The Porter Portland, Curio Collection by Hilton
This 297-bedroom hotel is located in the central downtown district and offers excellent food and beverage options. The Terrane Italian Kitchen + Bar showcases fine local seafood, The Portland Exchange Grocer and Goods serves as both a cafe and quick stop shop and Chiosco Pizza Window provides a streetside takeaway. Then there’s the Xport Bar & Lounge on the 16th-floor, rooftop, with firepits and river views accompanied by signature cocktails that make use of the local Rose City vodka and Townshend’s White Rose liqueur. Cartography features in the modern interior design, with rooms containing infographic maps of Portland.
Kimpton Hotel Vintage Portland
Channelling the city’s quirkier side, The Kimpton offers an alternative, edgy backdrop, with all of the brand’s luxe living. Check out the graffiti-inspired cork art; hop on a loaner bike to explore further afield and lose a few hours in the onsite adult-only gaming lounge (it has shuffleboard, a pool table, board games, a Nintendo Wii, a PlayStation and an Xbox); and eat in the lobby’s urban tasting room, or the neighbourhood-style Italian restaurant Il Solito — say no to housekeeping and you’ll get a credit to spend here as a reward for going green.