Where to Stay in Portland with Family? In this post, I will help you to find the best areas and neighborhoods to stay in Portland with kids and best family-friendly hotels in Portland for all budgets and preferences.
Portland is the largest city in the state of Oregon, located in the Pacific Northwest region of the United States. It’s known for its unique culture, natural beauty, and progressive ideals.
Portland, Oregon is generally considered to be a family-friendly city. It offers a wide range of activities, attractions, and services that cater to families with children.
Portland has numerous parks, playgrounds, and recreational areas where families can spend quality time outdoors. Forest Park, Washington Park, and Tom McCall Waterfront Park are just a few examples of places where families can enjoy nature and outdoor activities.
The city is home to attractions that appeal to people of all ages. The Oregon Zoo, Oregon Museum of Science and Industry, Portland Children’s Museum, and the World Forestry Center are just a few examples of places where kids can learn and have fun.
Portland is known for its cultural diversity, which means families can experience a wide range of cuisines, traditions, and events from different cultures.
Many neighborhoods in Portland are known for their safety and walkability, making it convenient for families to navigate the city on foot or by public transportation.
Additionally, Portland is one of the most bike-friendly cities in the United States. You can rent bikes and explore the city’s many bike lanes and trails with your family.
But, keep in mind that weather can vary throughout the year, with a lot of rain during the fall and winter months. Summers are generally pleasant and offer more outdoor activities. It’s a good idea to plan your activities ahead of time to make the most of your family vacation in Portland.
Where to Stay in Portland with Family?
The best areas to stay in Portland with family are Downtown Portland, Nob Hill/ Northwest, Pearl District, and Central Eastside. These are safe and popular neighborhoods, offering plenty of family-friendly hotels and activities for children of all ages.
For families, the Nob Hill/Northwest area tends to be a popular choice due to its combination of safety, walkability, parks, and family-friendly amenities. It offers a quieter atmosphere compared to downtown but is still well-connected to the city’s attractions.
However, if you’re looking for a more urban experience with easy access to cultural attractions and amenities, Downtown Portland or the Pearl District could also be suitable.
It’s also worth considering other neighborhoods like the Alberta Arts District or Hawthorne District, which offer a unique blend of local shops, eateries, and a creative atmosphere.
When choosing where to stay in Portland with your family, consider factors such as proximity to attractions, safety, and the availability of family-friendly amenities. Before making your final decision, read reviews and consider the specific needs and preferences of your family.
Overview of best neighborhoods to stay in Portland for family
| Downtown Portland | is the heart of the city, with easy access to many attractions, restaurants, and shopping. It’s a great option if you want to be in the midst of the city’s bustling atmosphere and have a wide range of activities within walking distance. |
| Nob Hill/ Northwest | The charming neighborhood is known for its tree-lined streets, Victorian homes, and boutique shopping. The nearby Forest Park and Washington Park offer opportunities for outdoor activities, making it a good choice for families who enjoy nature. |
| Pearl District | a trendy and upscale neighborhood with a mix of shops, galleries, and restaurants. It’s relatively quieter than downtown and offers a more artsy and upscale atmosphere, which could be enjoyable for families who appreciate that vibe. |
| Central Eastside | is known for its industrial-chic vibe, with converted warehouses, breweries, and unique shops. It’s home to family friendly attractions such as Oregon Museum of Science and Industry and Oregon Rail Heritage Center. |
4 Best areas to Stay in Portland with Family are:
1. Downtown Portland
Downtown Portland is often considered one of the best areas to stay in Portland with a family due to its combination of attractions, amenities, and accessibility.
Downtown Portland is situated in the heart of the city, making it easy to access many of the city’s top attractions, restaurants, and entertainment options.
Downtown is known for its pedestrian-friendly layout, making it easy to explore the area on foot. Families can explore popular sites like Powell’s City of Books, Pioneer Courthouse Square, and the Portland Art Museum, all of which are within walking distance apart.
Downtown is a short ride away from a variety of family-friendly attractions such as the Oregon Museum of Science and Industry, Portland Zoo, and Portland Children’s Museum, offering hands-on educational experiences for kids.
Families can visit Old Town Chinatown with its attractions like the Lan Su Chinese Garden, Voodoo Doughnut, and the Saturday Market. The Portland Saturday Market is the largest continuously operated outdoor market in the United States, offering a variety of crafts, foods, and unique items for sale.
The area is well-connected by public transportation, including light rail (MAX), streetcars, and buses. This makes it convenient to explore the city without the hassle of driving and parking.
Downtown has a diverse culinary scene, offering a wide range of dining options to suit various tastes and budgets. This can be particularly convenient for families with picky eaters or dietary restrictions.
While Downtown Portland is a bustling urban area, it also boasts several parks and green spaces where families can relax and unwind. The Waterfront Park along the Willamette River, with its walking paths and playgrounds, is a popular spot for families.
For families interested in shopping, Downtown Portland has a mix of shops, boutiques, and larger retail stores. Pioneer Place and the Pearl District are known for their shopping options.
Downtown Portland offers a variety of accommodation options, including family-friendly hotels and vacation rentals. This allows families to find lodging that suits their budget.
Best places to stay in Downtown Portland with family:
Luxury ($$$): The Nines, a Luxury Collection Hotel, Portland, 5-star family-friendly hotel, in downtown Portland, great base for families with children of all ages. Children aged 12 years and above are considered adults at this hotel. Its location offers easy access to Portland’s Pioneer Square, Portland Art Museum, and the Japanese Garden.
Mid-range ($$): Heathman Hotel , 4-star hotel, located in Portland’s cultural district, only 2 blocks from Max Light Rail Train, featuring family rooms with safety deposit boxes, 2 TVs, a separate living room and a dining area.
Budget ($): The Paramount Hotel Portland, 3-star children-friendly hotel, one of the best places to stay in Portland for families on a budget. It is a short walk from Director Park, Fox Tower, Providence and Waterfront Parks. A short drive from Washington Park and Oregon Zoo.
BEST HOTELS IN DOWNTOWN2. Nob Hill / Northwest
Nob Hill / Northwest is generally considered one of the best areas to stay in Portland for families. It is situated to the northwest of downtown Portland and is known for its historic architecture, trendy boutiques, cafes, and restaurants.
The area is characterized by its grid of streets and avenues, with the neighborhood extending roughly from NW 16th Avenue to NW 31st Avenue and from West Burnside Street to NW Vaughn Street.
The heart of the neighborhood is 23rd Avenue, lined with trendy boutiques, cafes, restaurants, and local businesses. It’s a popular destination for shopping and dining.
Northwest Portland is known for its walkable streets, with many shops, restaurants, parks, and public transportation options within easy reach. This can be convenient for families who prefer to explore the area on foot.
The area is home to several parks and green spaces, including Forest Park, which is one of the largest urban forests in the United States. Families can enjoy outdoor activities and nature exploration.
Washington Park is also easy to reach, where you can find family-friendly Oregon Zoo, Portland Japanese Garden, International Rose Test Garden, and Children Museum.
It also offers easy access to the Pittock Mansion, a historic house museum that offers guided tours and showcases the history and architecture of the region. It also provides panoramic views of the city and surrounding landscapes.
The neighborhood offers a diverse range of dining options, from casual eateries to upscale restaurants. There are also boutique shops, galleries, and local businesses to explore.
Northwest Portland is generally considered safe, but it’s always a good idea to check recent crime statistics and local news for the most up-to-date information.
The area has good public transportation options, including buses and the Portland Streetcar, which can make it easier to get around without relying solely on a car.
Best places to stay in Portland Nob Hill for family with kids:
Budget ($): Silver Cloud Hotel – Portland, 3-star family-friendly hotel, that has a restaurant serving American cuisine, as well as vegetarian, vegan and gluten-free options. It has air-conditioned rooms, a 24-hour front desk and luggage storage for guests.
Budget ($): Inn at Northrup Station, 3-star children-friendly hotel, situated in the Northwest Portland district, along the Portland Streetcar lines, offering free passes to guests. Children aged 13 years and above are considered adults at this hotel.
Budget ($): Park Lane Suites & Inn, great 3-star hotel, located in a great location within a short walk or Uber ride from restaurants, shops, and attractions. Short distance to family-friendly Washington Park where you can find Oregon Zoo, Children’s museum, and Portland Japanese Garden.
BEST HOTELS IN NOB HILL3. Pearl District
The Pearl District is one of the best neighborhoods to stay in Portland for a family holiday. It’s a trendy and vibrant district and is known for its unique blend of historic buildings, art galleries, boutique shops, and a variety of dining options.
It is situated just north of the downtown area and is a highly walkable neighborhood with easy access to the city’s public transportation system, including the Portland Streetcar.
The Pearl District was once a decaying industrial area with warehouses and rail yards. In the 1990s, it underwent significant urban renewal and redevelopment, transforming into the trendy and upscale neighborhood it is today.
The Pearl District is home to numerous art galleries, studios, and cultural institutions. The neighborhood has a strong artsy vibe, with many public art installations, murals, and sculptures dotting the streets.
On the first Thursday of each month, the Pearl District hosts an art walk where galleries and businesses stay open later, and visitors can explore art exhibitions and socialize.
While the Pearl District itself is urban, it’s surrounded by parks and open spaces. The nearby Jamison Square Park, Tanner Springs Park, and Fields Park offer green spaces, playgrounds, and places for children to play and families to relax.
Generally, the Pearl District has been considered a safe and well-maintained area, which can be reassuring for families traveling with children.
Best places to stay in Portland in Pearl District with kids:
Mid-range ($$): Hampton Inn And Suites By Hilton Portland-Pearl District, 4-star hotel in the Pearl District, within a short walk from major attractions such as Powell’s City of Books, Voodoo Doughnuts, and Lan Su Chinese Garden. It has a 24-hour front desk and a rooftop patio.
Budget ($): Residence Inn by Marriott Portland Downtown/Pearl District , 3-star family-friendly hotel that has an indoor pool and free daily breakfast. Set in central Portland, it is a short stroll from Willamette River, Jamison Square, Union Station, NW 10th and Northrup light rail station.
Budget ($): Harlow Hotel, great 2-star hotel situated conveniently in Portland, close to Union Station and Lan Su Chinese Garden. Children aged 18 years and above are considered adults at this accommodation. It features a fitness center and a 24-hour front desk.
BEST HOTELS IN PEARL DISTRICT4. Central Eastside
Central Eastside Portland is a good area to stay in with your family. It is located just east of downtown Portland and is separated from downtown by the Willamette River. The two areas are relatively close and easily accessible from each other.
These are two of the bridges that connect the Central Eastside with downtown Portland. The distance between Central Eastside and downtown is typically just a few minutes’ drive or a short walk or bike ride across the bridges.
Central Eastside is home to the Oregon Museum of Science and Industry, which is a family-friendly museum with interactive exhibits on science, technology, and natural history. It’s educational and entertaining for both kids and adults.
Families can take a stroll or bike ride along the scenic Eastbank Esplanade, which offers beautiful views of the Willamette River and the Portland skyline.
Central Eastside offers easy access to nearby Hawthorne District and Alberta Arts District, which offers unique shops, cafes, and a vibrant atmosphere that’s enjoyable for families.
Best places to stay in Portland in Central Eastside for family:
- Mid-range ($$): Hotel Grand Stark
- Budget ($): KEX Hotel
- Budget ($): Lolo Pass
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Summary – Where to Stay in Portland with kids?
In conclusion, Downtown Portland, Pearl District, Central Eastside, and Nob Hill/ Northwest are the best places to stay in Portland for families with kids. Each of the neighborhoods has its own unique characteristics and offerings.
Remember that Portland is known for its public transportation system, so even if you’re not staying right in the heart of the city, you can easily access many attractions using Ubers, Lyfts, buses, light rail, and streetcars.