I will attend a conference in Portland, Oregon in late May. I've been to Portland before and loved the place, but would appreciate an update from Fodorites about where to stay.

My conference is at the Marriott Downtown Waterfront Hotel. I don't mind staying there, but am open to other ideas as my sister will stay with me (on vacation for her.) As such, I'd like something in walking distance to the Marriott for my sessions, but an interesting area for us re: her travels and dining options.

I've stayed in the Heathman before (twice) and enjoyed it, but the rooms always hit me as a little cramped. I also liked the neighborhood as it was near the art musuem, a walk to good restaurants, etc. I enjoy both old and new hotels, as long as the neighborhood is reasonably safe. Good mass transit in the area is also a plus.

My budget is comfortable (Heathman or Marriott prices would be okay,) but I usually don't like the upcharge for suites unless it is one of those good value options, e.g. Embassy Suites has been a good value in other locations.

Will the roses in the famous garden be in bloom?

Yes, the roses should just be in bloom by then. You'll be in Portland 1-2 weeks before the huge annual Rose Festival begins. But bring an umbrella - it may well be rainy! Then hope for some nice weather.

I'd personally stay at the Marriott just for the convenience (for you), plus the fact that it's still not in a bad location. There are a few new boutique hotels in Portland such as the Hotel Fifty and the Hotel Modera that may be worth checking out. The Hotel Monaco is the most frequently recommended Portland hotel on Fodors though there are other similar hotels such as the Hotel Vintage Plaza and the Lucia next door (both on Broadway). But these would be a considerable distance from the Marriott.

From the Marriott, it's a few blocks to the MAX train or the Portland Streetcar, if you want to get around without a car. But as you know Portland is an easy walking city, anyway. The fact that from the Marriott you can walk right across to the waterfront park would be a nice perk for me, especially in nice weather. And if you are lucky enough to get a room facing east and get a view of the Willamette River and Mt. Hood - that would be a big bonus!

One of the things I like best about the Monaco and a major reason I recommend it is that you can usually get a suite for just a few dollars more than a standard room. It's very centrally located like the Heathman.

The Monaco is a bit of a hike from the Marriott, probably a ten minute walk - though you could take the new green/yellow line trains on 5th/6th Ave about 2/3 of the way. They are free downtown in the new "rail free zone" (buses are no longer free in Portland, "fareless square" is gone; too bad, because there are a few buses that get you close to the Marriott...).

Fodorites, you are always great for advice. Many thanks! I'll keep open to ideas, but it sounds like the Marriott may be a pretty good choice anyway.

I've stayed at that Marriott and enjoyed the view. If you walk across to the Waterfront Park and upriver, you can stop at the porch on the big hotel there (help me, can't remember the name, Riverplace?). They serve good wine, nice appetizers, and also have happy hour prices. I love to watch the boats, the birds, and the other walkers there. You may even see the Hawthorne Bridge get raised.

Also, I don't think you'd be that far from the Veritable Quandary--good food.

You can sometimes get a good deal on a room at this site: http://www.travelportland.com/

The suites at the Monaco are spacious, stylish, and worth the price (if it is in your range).

Embassy Suites in Portland is not as well situated as the Monaco, Heathman, and other options.

HTTY

Once again, thank you for excellent advice. I stil have not booked yet (both hotels still have good availability,) but will make a decision soon.