Fodor's Expert Review The Benson Hotel

Portland's venerable grande dame may now be overshadowed by several other upscale properties in town in terms of luxury, but the Benson has hosted countless presidents and celebrities since it opened in 1913, and its guest rooms both capture the hotel's storied legacy while offering plenty of modern comforts, like fully stocked minibars, fluffy organic bathrooms and slippers, and super-plush modern beds. The hand-carved Circassian walnut paneling from Russia and the Italian white-marble staircase are among the noteworthy design touches in the gracious lobby, which is home to the swanky Palm Court lounge. The old-school restaurant, El Gaucho steak house, is a favorite of local power brokers.