Portland, Oregon hotel question
 

Hello,

I will be attending a conference that will be split between the convention center and the Hilton Executive Suites. Out of the convention hotels, I think I have narrowed it down to the Hilton Executive Suites and Hotel Monaco. Does anyone have any advice? My priorities are close to transportation since I'll need to get back and forth to the convention center, and a safe area since I'll be traveling alone and would like to get out and see the sights. I had also been considering the Embassy Suites, but read on tripadvisor that the area is sketchy. Any thoughts to help me decide would be appreciated!

This may help. http://hotelguides.com/oregon/oregon...or-hotels.html
The Red Lion is across the street with no transportation cost.
The TriMet red line light rail runs out to the airport.
There is an Embassy Suites near the airport if you have an early return flight.

Either the Hilton or the Monaco are fantastic as far as location goes. They are both super close to Max and basically right where you would want to be for restaurants, etc. Even though we live here, we stay in downtown for special events and the Monaco is our go-to place and so obviously we really like it. I have been inside the Hilton, but not stayed there.

I personally don't care for the area around the Embassy Suites.

I also would not stay over near the convention center (other side of the river) if I could stay right in downtown. The area around the convention center/lloyd center is not good, IME.

I would second the recommendation of mms. I spent several days at the Monaco with some girlfriends and we loved it. I was never uncomfortable in my surroundings, loved the hotel and its staff, and walked everywhere. Great place! Have fun, Portland is a terrific place to visit!

Thanks for the advice!

I've stayed in the Hilton right downtown, not sure if that is the one you are considering or not. It was really nice, I liked it a lot, and I don't usually stay in that type of big chain business hotel. The one I am referring to is on SW 6th Avenue, right near Pioneer Square.

It was so convenient and in a good area to walk to restaurants and things.

Both Hilton and Monaco are close to the MAX line but on opposite sides. Monaco is more of a boutique hotel while Hilton is a business hotel. Monaco is closer to the Pearl District, but the difference is probably not significant.

Unlike Hilton or Monaco, there is nothing of interest in the immediate area around Embassy Suite unless you are in for the Voodoo Donuts :-)

The Hilton is where the President stays when he comes to town.

The problem with the convention center area is there are very few restaurants, shops, etc. One exception: If you do get sick of buying overpriced items in the convention center, there is a local chain called Burgerville with an outlet right outside the convention center. Great shakes, local ingredients including organic beef.