Tammy

My husband and I are planning an early March getaway with the kids to Portland. We usually visit Seattle since it is so much closer to where we live. however, it looks like there is some neat things in Portland too! We are looking for a hotel in the downtown area (where we wouldn't have to drive very much) that would be good for kids. We would like a pool (indoor) and not small rooms. Any ideas? Also any not to miss sights and things to do with 9 and 10 year old boys?

Andrew

There's a Hilton right downtown and two Doubletree Hotels (one at the south part of downtown, one across the river at Lloyd Center). I think they all have pools. The Hilton has the best location for walking (really in the center of things) but is probably pricier than the Doubletrees. I've heard the Doubletree Lloyd Center is better than the one "downtown" (Lincoln St.). At the Lloyd Center location you can walk one block to the MAX train downtown (free) or to the airport, however.

There are also two Marriotts downtown. One is near the waterfront (Naito Parkway) across the street from Waterfront Park and near Riverplace (little marina area, shops, etc.) but not close to public transit. The Marriott downtown is close to the Hilton. I don't know if either of them have pools.

I'd probably recommend the Doubletree Lloyd Center. Perhaps the Hilton if you want to pay more and be closer to everything, but Lloyd Center/MAX is very quick.

Things to see: OMSI (Oregon Museum of Science and Industry) has some good exhibits the kids may enjoy plus an OMNIMAX theater. Saturday Market on Saturday mornings. The huge Powells Books is a must see if you love books but the kids may be bored unless they love books.

Shopping: NW 23rd Avenue and Hawthorne Blvd (between 30th and 39th) are fun areas to stroll around.

Also: the zoo and Japanese Garden up in Washington Park are worth checking out.

Andrew

LCUY

Just got back from a 5 day trip to Portland. I stayed with family, but have visited the 5th avenue Suites several times...right downtown (5th Ave!) and really spacious rooms.
You're right to go to Portland...it has become such an interesting city. Andrew mentioned some great ideas; especially the OMSI. Mt Tabor park is a great place for kids to do a mini hike and blow off energy. Also, check out the children's room and the guest shop at the library. Get a paper and look for activities in town while you're there...Portland always has tons of free/low cost/interesting events (arts/sports/drama/music, etc)going on.

Andrew

5th Ave Suites and its sister Kimpton Property Hotel Vintage Plaza are both fine hotels in perfect locations downtown, but they don't have pools and they aren't very big - not what Tammy said she wanted. Better for a couple than a family.

Andrew

Kameha

Hi Tammy,
When we went to Portland this summer we got a room thru Hotwire. Turned out to be the Hilton and it was great. At that time, we got a room with 2 double beds for $46/night. It had a nice indoor pool and exercise room. In-room Nintendo and internet. It was very convenient. We walked to a lot of places. The room was a bit small, though. But for my husband, me and our 14 year old it was fine (especially given the price).

Quinty

My husband stays at the Hilton and loves it. Apparently there is a new wing or tower and it's just fantastic. In fact, Pres Bush stayed there the week before he was there last (they closed the whole hotel for him - Pres Bush, that is).
My hubby has also stayed at the 5th Ave Suites but doesn't like it there. It's too "old style" for him. More of a gold leaf and red carpet type of deco.