If you’re headed to Portland and craving a place with soul, check into the Mark Spencer Hotel. This isn’t your cookie-cutter spot. Nestled in the heart of the Pearl District, it’s been around since 1907 and wears the years well—like an old friend who’s got a few stories and isn’t afraid to share them. The place exudes an eclectic charm, a fitting vibe for a city that prides itself on being just left of center.
We were in town to catch a show at the Moda Center, and the Mark Spencer turned out to be the ideal basecamp. It’s steps away from Powell’s City of Books, a cathedral of literature so vast you could lose yourself for hours. Around the corner, some of Portland’s best food spots await, from cozy coffee shops to bustling breweries. It’s a hotel for travelers who want to feel Portland’s pulse up close.
Our corner room was big, comfortable, and refreshingly authentic. None of that minimalist decor nonsense you find in ‘hip’ hotels—this place actually has character. And while the parking garage might test your skills with its tight spaces, it adds a dash of challenge, making every exit and entry a small victory. For a taste of true Portland, forget the chains and stay here. You’ll feel like you’ve earned your spot at the table, just as Portland would want it