We all know that Portland, Oregon has got it going on. From the food and craft beer scene to the hipster neighborhoods and fantastic outdoor opportunities, PDX is well loved by many. But do you know the historic side of Portland? Mark Spencer Hotel is the oldest operating hotel in Portland, Oregon. It’s also an independently owned hotel which is fitting, as Portlandia marches to the beat of its own drum.
I took a road trip from California to Oregon’s Willamette Valley and ended my trip in Portland. I stayed at The Mark Spencer Hotel because I liked the looks of the hotel. It’s been around since 1907, yet it looks pretty darn good for a 100+ year old property. With 102 guest rooms and suites this hotel offers a lot of value for the price and I like that it is a Green Seal “Silver Level” Certified hotel.
“We are eco-friendly” says General Manager Pam Coser. “From the light bulbs to the napkins and paint; we’ve even used reclaimed wood in our hotel. In our guest rooms we’ve tried to maintain the historical and architectural integrity. You’ll see exposed brick and wood beams in our guest rooms and public spaces.”
You’ll notice that each floor of the six story hotel features a different theme in the artwork. The hotel is located between Portland Center Stage and Artists Rep Theater.
The hotel is next to the Pearl District, 1 1/2 blocks from Powell’s Bookstore and on the street car line. “We’re very pedestrian friendly,” notes Coser and Oregon offers tax free shopping!”
The hotel is also pet-friendly – and your dog doesn’t have to be under 10 pounds. The Mark Spencer charges $25 daily per pet, but that includes a pet gift bag and dog bed to borrow during your stay.
My room, #615, was a recently remodeled standard king on the top floor. It rented from $179 to $339 depending on the season. In addition to flat screen tv’s, Irish linens and fog-free mirrors in the bathrooms, the bathrooms feature lovely Italian glass tiles and Carrera marble.
Need to know: I’ve been to a lot of hotels that offer cookies in the lobby. Usually they are not worth the calories. The fresh baked cookies in the library at the Mark Spencer are worth the splurge. They are available from 3:00-6:00 p.m., in addition to afternoon tea. The hotel also offers complimentary wine hour from 5:00 – 6:00 p.m. featuring Pacific Northwest wines. Additionally, the property offers free wifi and has a small on-site fitness center.
A complimentary continental breakfast of espresso coffees, yogurt, fruit, breads & hard boiled eggs is offered from 6:00 – 10:00 p.m. (until 10:30 a.m. on weekends)
For the high rollers, there are five master suites. Room rates range from $179 – $399, depending on time of year. Check the website for current pricing.
Check in: 4:00 p.m.
Check out: 12:00 p.m
Insider Tip:
Self parking is available on site for $20. daily. If you drive a hybrid vehicle, parking is half price! For additional insider tips follow Nancy D. Brown on Twitter @Nancydbrown and @MarkSpencer Hotel.
If You Go:
Mark Spencer Hotel (503) 224-3293 or (800) 548-3934
409 SW 11th Ave at Stark Street
Portland, Oregon, 97205
Article, photography and video by travel writer Nancy D. Brown. I was a guest of Travel Portland, however all opinions are my own.