Mark Spencer: Portland’s Oldest Hotel is Hip

You’ll be seeing green when you stay at the Mark Spencer Hotel in Portland, Oregon. The downtown hotel has recently gone through a major renovation and redesign with plenty of environmentally-friendly touches. I loved the exposed brick and massive wood beams in this 100-year-old property.

The Pearl District arts hotel features 102 eco-friendly rooms with a business and fitness center and underground parking. If you drive an electric car or hybrid, the daily parking fee is 50% off! The independently owned hotel has a very friendly staff with a welcoming vibe. I was in town to visit my daughter and joined her in a Portland Food Tour, but that didn’t stop me from enjoying the fresh baked cookies offered in the library in the afternoon. I did miss the evening wine and cheese reception, so you’ll have to let me know what you think of the local Willamette Valley wines.

My room, a king bed on the 6th floor (of this six story brick building) featured wifi, large LED tv, Italian glass tile and Carrera marble in the bathroom and high-end, luxurious bedding. A continental breakfast is included with the price of your room and includes fresh fruit, yogurt, bread, cereals, coffee and fresh juice. Did I mention that this place is dog-friendly, too? Next time I’m coming back with my puppy!

If you don’t have a dog to walk you can exercise in the small gym, but seriously, Portland is such a walking town that you should step outside and experience it like a local! The hotel is in a great location and steps from Powell’s Bookstore. It’s also in an artsy area. You’ll notice the local art featured on every floor of the hotel.

Room rates range from $179 to $400 depending on the season and what’s going on in Portland. The hotel offers “bid your own price” deals with the best rates offered on the website.  You can also check rates on Booking.com or Hotelopia. If you are on a road trip (as I was) and in need of a hotel outside of Portland, the Lakeshore Inn is located in Lake Oswego.

Review and photos by travel writer Nancy D. Brown. Her stay was hosted by Travel Portland. As always, her thoughts and opinions are her own.