When I planned my recent trip to Portland, Oregon, I was determined to experience the city’s vibrant culture, incredible food scene, and stunning natural beauty without breaking the bank. Portland has a reputation for being a bit pricey, especially when it comes to accommodations, but with some careful research, I found that there are plenty of affordable options that don’t sacrifice comfort or convenience. In this blog post, I’ll share my experiences staying at some of the best budget-friendly hotels in Portland, giving you the inside scoop on where to stay, what to expect, and how to make the most of your visit.
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1. The Society Hotel: A Historic Gem in the Heart of Downtown
Address: 203 NW 3rd Ave, Portland, OR 97209
When I first stumbled upon The Society Hotel while browsing through hotel options on Booking.com, I was immediately drawn to its unique blend of history and modern style. The hotel is housed in a building that dates back to 1881, and it originally served as a boarding house for sailors. Today, it’s been beautifully restored and transformed into a boutique hotel that offers both private rooms and hostel-style accommodations, making it perfect for travelers on a budget.
Why I Loved It:
- Location, Location, Location: The Society Hotel is located right in the heart of downtown Portland, within walking distance of some of the city’s best attractions, including Powell’s City of Books, the Pearl District, and the iconic Voodoo Doughnut. Staying here made it incredibly easy to explore the city on foot, which saved me a lot on transportation costs.
- Charming Atmosphere: One of the things that stood out to me the most about The Society Hotel was its charming, old-world ambiance. The lobby is cozy and inviting, with vintage furnishings and a warm color palette. There’s also a rooftop deck with stunning views of the city, which quickly became one of my favorite spots to unwind after a day of exploring.
- Affordable Luxury: Despite its central location and stylish design, The Society Hotel is surprisingly affordable. I opted for a private room with a shared bathroom, which was a great compromise between comfort and cost. The room was small but well-appointed, with a comfortable bed, high-quality linens, and thoughtful touches like a welcome note and a small potted plant. For travelers on a tighter budget, the hotel also offers dormitory-style bunk beds at an even lower rate.
Tips for Booking:
I booked my stay through Booking.com, which offered competitive rates and flexible cancellation policies. If you’re planning to visit during the off-season or midweek, you can often find even better deals. I also recommend checking the hotel’s website directly for any special promotions or packages.
2. Jupiter Hotel: A Hip, Artistic Haven in East Portland
Address: 800 E Burnside St, Portland, OR 97214
For a completely different vibe, I decided to spend a couple of nights at the Jupiter Hotel, located in the trendy East Burnside neighborhood. This area is known for its artsy, laid-back atmosphere, and the Jupiter Hotel fits right in with its edgy, modern design and vibrant energy. The hotel is split into two sections: the original Jupiter, which has a more budget-friendly, motel-style setup, and the newer Jupiter NEXT, which offers a slightly more upscale experience.
Why I Loved It:
- Artistic Flair: The moment I walked into the Jupiter Hotel, I knew I was in for a unique experience. The hotel is covered in colorful murals and contemporary art installations, giving it a distinctly creative vibe. There’s also a lively music scene at the hotel’s on-site bar, Doug Fir Lounge, which hosts live performances by local and touring bands.
- Comfortable Accommodations: I chose to stay in the original Jupiter Hotel, which offered a great balance of comfort and affordability. My room was spacious and well-designed, with funky, retro-inspired décor and plenty of natural light. The bed was incredibly comfortable, and the room came equipped with all the essentials, including free Wi-Fi, a flat-screen TV, and a mini-fridge.
- Eastside Charm: One of the best things about staying at the Jupiter Hotel was its location in East Portland. This area is a bit more off the beaten path compared to downtown, but it’s packed with cool boutiques, vintage shops, and some of the city’s best restaurants and food carts. I loved exploring the neighborhood and discovering hidden gems like the East Portland Eagle Lodge, where I enjoyed some of the best craft beer I’ve ever had.
Tips for Booking:
I booked my stay at the Jupiter Hotel through Expedia, which offered a great deal that included free parking. If you’re planning to stay at the original Jupiter, I recommend requesting a room away from the Doug Fir Lounge if you’re sensitive to noise, as the music can go late into the night. Alternatively, consider splurging on a room at Jupiter NEXT for a quieter experience and a few extra amenities.
3. McMenamins Kennedy School: A Quirky Stay in a Converted Schoolhouse
Address: 5736 NE 33rd Ave, Portland, OR 97211
Staying at McMenamins Kennedy School was one of the most memorable parts of my trip to Portland. This hotel is unlike any other—it’s housed in a former elementary school that has been transformed into a whimsical, one-of-a-kind hotel complete with its own brewery, restaurant, movie theater, and even a soaking pool. If you’re looking for a truly unique and affordable place to stay in Portland, this is it.
Why I Loved It:
- Unforgettable Setting: From the moment I arrived at Kennedy School, I was enchanted by its quirky, nostalgic atmosphere. The hotel has preserved many of the original features of the school, including the old classrooms, which have been converted into guest rooms. My room was located in a former classroom, and it still had the original chalkboard and coat hooks, which added a fun, retro touch.
- Endless Entertainment: One of the best things about staying at Kennedy School is that there’s so much to do without even leaving the property. I spent one evening watching a movie in the hotel’s cozy theater, which serves drinks and snacks during the show. Afterward, I enjoyed a pint of beer brewed on-site at the Kennedy School Brewery. There’s also a soaking pool surrounded by beautiful murals, which was the perfect way to relax after a day of sightseeing.
- Affordable Rates: Despite all the amenities and unique experiences offered at Kennedy School, the rates are very reasonable. I found the prices to be comparable to other mid-range hotels in the area, but with the added bonus of staying in such a distinctive and entertaining environment.
Tips for Booking:
I booked my stay at Kennedy School through Hotels.com, which offered the added perk of earning rewards points that I could use toward future stays. If you’re traveling with a group, consider booking one of the hotel’s “King Suites,” which are larger and come with additional seating areas. Also, be sure to check the McMenamins website for any special packages or events during your stay—there’s always something happening at Kennedy School!
4. KEX Hotel: A Scandinavian-Inspired Boutique Hostel
Address: 100 NE Martin Luther King Jr Blvd, Portland, OR 97232
For the last leg of my trip, I decided to try something a bit different and booked a stay at KEX Hotel, a stylish boutique hostel with a Scandinavian twist. KEX, which originated in Reykjavik, Iceland, has brought its signature blend of minimalist design and social atmosphere to Portland, creating a unique space that’s perfect for budget-conscious travelers who appreciate good design and a lively communal vibe.
Why I Loved It:
- Beautiful Design: KEX Hotel is a visual treat, with its sleek, Scandinavian-inspired interiors and thoughtfully curated décor. The common areas are filled with cozy nooks, vintage furniture, and eclectic art, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere. My dorm room was clean and comfortable, with custom-built bunks that offered privacy and plenty of storage space.
- Social Atmosphere: One of the things I enjoyed most about staying at KEX was the sense of community. The hostel has a lively bar and restaurant, Dóttir, where I met fellow travelers over delicious Nordic-inspired dishes and craft cocktails. The staff also organizes regular events, like live music and yoga classes, which made it easy to connect with others and make new friends.
- Great Location: KEX Hotel is located in Portland’s Central Eastside, a neighborhood that’s known for its vibrant arts scene and close proximity to downtown. From here, I could easily walk or bike to some of the city’s top attractions, including the Oregon Museum of Science and Industry (OMSI) and the Eastbank Esplanade, which offers stunning views of the Portland skyline.
Tips for Booking:
I booked my stay at KEX Hotel directly through their website, which offered the best rates and allowed me to choose my preferred type of accommodation (they offer both shared dorms and private rooms). If you’re traveling solo and want to save money, the dorm rooms are an excellent option—they’re affordable, comfortable, and designed with privacy in mind. For those who prefer a bit more space, the private rooms are still reasonably priced and offer all the style and comfort of a boutique hotel.
5. The Hoxton: Affordable Chic in the Old Town Chinatown
Address: 15 NW 4th Ave, Portland, OR 97209
On the recommendation of a friend, I spent my last night in Portland at The Hoxton, a chic, design-forward hotel located in the heart of the Old Town Chinatown district. While The Hoxton is part of a larger international chain, each property is uniquely tailored to its location, and the Portland outpost is no exception. With its stylish interiors, thoughtful amenities, and surprisingly affordable rates, The Hoxton was the perfect way to end my trip on a high note.
Why I Loved It:
- Stylish and Cozy Rooms: My room at The Hoxton was a small but beautifully designed space, with mid-century modern furnishings, warm wood accents, and floor-to-ceiling windows that let in plenty of natural light. The bed was incredibly comfortable, and the room came equipped with everything I needed for a relaxing stay, including free Wi-Fi, a smart TV, and a mini-fridge stocked with local snacks.
- Amazing Food and Drink: The Hoxton is home to several excellent dining options, including Lovely Rita, a laid-back restaurant serving farm-to-table fare, and Tope, a rooftop bar with stunning views of the city and a menu of inventive cocktails. I treated myself to dinner at Lovely Rita and was impressed by the quality and creativity of the dishes, all of which were reasonably priced.
- Central Location: The Hoxton’s location in Old Town Chinatown made it easy to explore some of Portland’s most interesting neighborhoods, including the Pearl District and the Waterfront Park. The hotel is also just a short walk from the Portland Saturday Market, where I picked up some unique souvenirs and enjoyed street performances by local artists.
Tips for Booking:
I booked my stay at The Hoxton through their website, which offered a “Good Rate” option that included breakfast and a late check-out. If you’re planning to stay on a weekend, I recommend booking well in advance, as the hotel is popular and rooms can fill up quickly. The Hoxton also offers a range of room sizes, so if you’re looking to save money, consider opting for one of the smaller “Shoebox” rooms, which are still stylish and comfortable despite their compact size.
Finding the Perfect Budget Stay in Portland
Portland is a city that offers something for everyone, and that includes budget-conscious travelers like myself. From historic boutique hotels to quirky converted schoolhouses, there are plenty of affordable accommodation options that allow you to experience the best of the city without overspending. Whether you’re planning a weekend getaway or an extended stay, I hope my experiences help you find the perfect place to stay during your trip to Portland. Remember, the key to a successful budget trip is flexibility—keep an eye out for deals, be open to different types of accommodations, and most importantly, enjoy every moment of your adventure. Happy travels!
