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Unique places to stay in Portland

From dinosaur-themed digs to the Roloff Family’s farmhouse, Portland is full of special places to stay that offer guests a break from traditional motels and hotels.

A red double-decker bus parked on a concrete driveway next to a set of patio furniture.

The Royal Scott Double Decker Bus spent time in San Francisco before becoming a food truck in Portland.

Photo via Airbnb

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We all need a staycation or a trip to a different city from time to time. Whether you’re a Portlander feeling a little cooped up or a visitor looking for a special Bridge City experience, picking the perfect home away from home is crucial.

We went looking for unique lodgings around town that showcase that “keep Portland weird” spirit. So choose your ideal digs, pack your bags, and get ready for a memorable getaway.

A person swings on a zipline over a footbridge leading to an elevated house surrounded by forest.

The fun meter is through the roof at Eagles Nest Tree House.

Photo via Airbnb

Cabin fever

Eagles Nest Treehouse | Southwest Hills
Escape into a “Tarzan” fantasy at this Airbnb situated 18 ft off the ground with trees growing through the deck. Guests reach the front door by way of a suspension bridge, then can ride a zip line back down to a secluded picnic area.

My Tiny Wine Wagon | Sherwood
Find peace and privacy at this tiny home in a rural setting. Explore nearby Ponzi Historic Estate and Cooper Mountain Vineyards, or take in the natural beauty of Tualatin River National Wildlife Refuge.

Tomahawk Island Cozy Houseboat | Hayden Island
Get the cabins-in-the-woods vibe, without the woods. Soak in views of the Columbia River and explore the area by kayak during your stay at this quiet floating home.

A narrow, two-story building with a flat roof. Ivy covers the front of the building, turning red during fall. Patio tables line the street in front of the doors.

From eerie ghost stories to tales of patrons being shanghaied via underground tunnels, the White Eagle Saloon & Hotel has a past that’s overflowing with murky lore.

Hideaways with history

McMenamins White Eagle Saloon & Hotel | Eliot neighborhood
Since the turn of the century, this building has been a popular local hangout for both the living and the dead. Guests and employees have reported paranormal experiences, so if you’re into haunted history, this is the place for you. But light sleepers, beware — live music on the first floor every night (and the reported ghosts) may keep you awake.

Benson Hotel | Downtown Portland
Built in 1912, this hotel features original Italian marble floors, crystal chandeliers, and the “largest collection of Circassian walnut within one building.” The 12-story building on Southwest Broadway was originally known as the New Oregon Hotel and has hosted multiple US presidents, including William Howard Taft and Barack Obama.

The Royal Scott Double Decker Bus | Russell neighborhood
Hop aboard this 1953 commuter bus from Manchester, England, that locals will remember as the former home of the Grilled Cheese Grill. It’s now a tiny home on wheels, complete with a kitchenette, artwork, composting toilet, and lounge areas.

Looking out toward a field and barn from a back patio with a bistro table and chairs.

Sip your morning coffee and take in the rural views from the covered patio at the Island + Alpaca Farm Retreat.

Photo via Airbnb

Farm charm

Island + Alpaca Farm Retreat | Sauvie Island
Escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life with a stay at this working farm located on a wildlife refuge. Wake up to views of grazing sheep and pristine mountains, the sound of a crowing rooster, and the smell of clean, open space.

Roloff Farms | Hillsboro
You and up to 15 guests will sleep comfortably at this iconic, 5,300-sqft farmhouse that housed the Roloff Family in the “Little People Big World” series for 15+ years. Play foosball or cornhole in the converted garage, swim in the pool, watch a movie on the 80" TV, and enjoy the fresh air at this working farm.

Wilson Farm Cottage | Damascus
Experience simpler times at this 8-acre working farm with access to trails through an established filbert orchard and 100-ft-tall cedars. You’ll stay in a handcrafted cottage, enjoy a daily farm-fresh breakfast, and see animals like ducks and pigs.

A life-sized animatronic t-rex looms in the gravel driveway of a modern-yet-rustic rental home beneath a vibrant sunset in the woods

“Life, uh, finds a way” at Jurassic Retreat. | Photo by Evolve Vacation Rentals

Here’s the theme

Jurassic Retreat | Washougal, WA
Two words: animatronic dinosaurs. This rural rental pays homage to the “Jurassic Park” movies, from the five massive dinos that greet guests outside to faux books written by the movie’s fictional professors.

Tiny Digs Hotel | Kerns neighborhood
Experience small living in one of 12 custom-built tiny homes, each featuring a unique design — like the railroad-inspired Arthur House or the Victorian shabby chic Cottage House.

A floating home with a pink and pale blue color scheme and a pitched roof with a dock in front.

The Flamingo House’s color scheme will win you over if its location on the water doesn’t.

Photo via Airbnb

Retreats on the water

Flamingo House | Hayden Island
Let your worries float away at this cotton-candy-colored floating home on the Columbia River. Head out the door and rent a kayak or a stand-up paddle board to explore the river.

Willamette River Yacht | Milwaukie
Stay on a 55-ft yacht with three bedrooms, a living room, and an upper deck. Guests can add a private cruise to their stay for an additional fee.

The Lily Pad | Sauvie Island
Listen to local waterfowl, watch passing boats, and spot fish leaping out of the river from the vantage point of this floating home on the Multnomah Channel.

A brick home with brick fence and pillars, a black iron gate, and patio furniture on an English-style porch.

Open the back door at Brick House Beautiful to a beautiful garden, patio, fountain, and barbecue grill.

Photo via Airbnb

Cozy cottages

Brick House Beautiful | Laurelhurst neighborhood
Picture yourself sipping tea and reading a Jane Austen novel in this historic, Tudor-style cottage apartment that’s been featured in Better Homes and Garden Magazine.

Peaceful Garden Cottage | Mount Tabor
This quiet, airy home exudes serenity. Lounge in the hot tub, enjoy heated bathroom floors, wander through the garden, or walk to nearby Mount Tabor Park.

The Green Door PDX | Overlook neighborhood
Designed to mimic a traditional European field cottage, this guesthouse is surrounded by greenery and features vaulted ceilings, an open floor plan, and a luxury bathroom.

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