Portland hotels

Located in a sleek skyscraper, the Ritz-Carlton is one of the best hotels in Portland and an ode to the Pacific Northwest. Tree trunks inspired the pillars and drapes in the grand lobby, while the curved lines of the spa mimic the shape of a delicate rose (Portland is known as the Rose City). The spa’s harmonic sleep lounger lulled me into the deepest state of relaxation during my stay. Meanwhile, floor-to-ceiling glass windows on every floor showcase the city’s beauty. The guestrooms are misty mountain-hued havens with copper accents. In addition to the spa, the 19th-floor wellness sanctuary has a fitness center and a mountain lake-like infinity pool enclosed in glass, with a panoramic view of downtown and the West Hills, further cementing the Ritz-Carlton’s status as one of the best hotels in Portland. Thanks to its monied clientele, the hotel has brought new life to the West End, where luxury boutiques with a Portland twist have chosen to set up shop.

Oozing character inside and out, just like the city it calls home, the historic Hotel Lucia downtown is one of the best hotels in Portland. Located on Broadway Street, downtown’s main thoroughfare, the 1909 building finds itself on the National Register of Historic Places. A museum-quality art and photography collection on display in the colorful lobby, which has gold and blue velvet furnishings, makes this one of the best hotels in Portland for art lovers. Thanks to the long list of ‘Portland-style’ amenities on offer here, there’s always something for guests to do. Travelers can grab a game from the board game library, hop on a complimentary bike and enjoy the nightly craft beer hour. There’s even an onsite arcade with full-sized games. Business travelers love the fast, free Wi-Fi, writing desks in each room and 24-hour gym.

The Nines delivers the excellent service, amenities, and style that come with a five-star stay, making it one of the best hotels in Portland. While the entrance is unassuming, that changes once you take the elevator to the 8th floor. There, you’ll enter a soaring, light-filled atrium with multiple seating areas, a swanky bar and a steakhouse serving grass-fed Oregon beef. The historic building, with its ornate terracotta façade, used to be a department store. The Nines’ interior designers steered clear of safe, earth-toned décor in favor of bright colors and maximalist design. Guestrooms come with Tiffany blue couches and upholstered chairs that pop against the taupe and gold wall coverings. I highly recommend visiting the rooftop restaurant Departures, which sports a space-age modern design and multiple outdoor decks with impressive views. It’s also one of the few places in Portland where you should get dressed up for drinks.