Planning an August 12/13 weekend in Portland...Looking for help on the best location, hotel recommendations, and fun things... casual food favorites... markets, artsy, festivals and walk around stuff that best represents the feel of the city. Thanks

What's your budget? Have you looked at your dates? Lots of great hotels in Portland- unfortunately, the convenient locations tend to be pricy in August.

Budget is somewhat open if we can find a great location... up to 300/night... can anyone give me a couple of names? There's very little info in the site history on Portland... are there fringe areas of Portland that are better to stay in.

My absolute favorite hotel is the Benson Hotel. It's showing at 309. Marriott Waterfront is just as convenient- 279. I haven't stayed at Hilton, but it shows at 259. Courtyard Marriott is ok- wasn't impressed with the service but the location is great- $303. (All of these are downtown)

Then cheaper options involve staying near the Max line- Portland transit is really good.

If you are looking for a more offbeat experience, the Mcmenamin properties are popular- my favorite location wise Is the Crystal Hotel.

Thanks... Good info

Best in town would be places like The Nines, Hotel Lucia, Hotel Monaco, RiverPlace, Hotel de Luxe, but as mentioned, high season rates have gone through the roof in recent years. Besides McMenamin's properties, you might consider the retro-funky Inn @ Northrup Station, located on the light-rail line in the popular close-in Northwest neighborhood (Nob Hill to some). It abuts the Pearl District; both are known for dining and shopping. Throw a rock from almost anywhere and you might hit a brewpub.

If you're looking for more of the Portlandia vibe, check out east side neighborhoods like Hawthorne, Alberta St., Mississippi Ave... Some of the best food in the city at places like Le Pigeon, Castagna, Pok Pok, Roe, Ava Genes to name a few.

The annual Bridge Pedal is that weekend and it always coincides with the Bite of Oregon, held at Waterfront Park downtown. Might be worth an hour or two of your time, but you'd probably enjoy Saturday Market or even Portland Farmers Market more.

Check out the "Travel Portland" website Lots of info, lodging info. Most of the hotels booked through them offer free parking, a breakfast of some kind, and maybe some coupons for a dinner.

Thanks