The Benson Portland, Curio Collection by Hilton

The Benson is Portland's classic historic hotel, and walking into its lobby still feels like stepping back to the city's timber-boom heyday. It was built in 1912 by Simon Benson, a Norwegian-born lumberman and philanthropist best remembered for the Benson Bubblers, the four-bowl bronze drinking fountains he donated to the city and which still flow on downtown street corners. Benson wanted the finest hotel in the Northwest, and the lobby remains a showpiece: original Italian marble floors, Austrian crystal chandeliers, a grand staircase and what the hotel describes as the largest collection of Circassian walnut paneling in a single building. A multi-million-dollar renovation completed in 2023 refreshed the guest rooms and public spaces with contemporary furnishings, including pieces from B&B Italia, while preserving the historic character, and the hotel joined Hilton's Curio Collection. Rooms range from compact classic doubles to spacious suites, and the presidential and other signature suites have welcomed a long list of famous guests over the past century. The Palm Court Restaurant and Bar, off the lobby, is the hotel's social heart, serving all day and hosting a jazz program — the Benson Jazz Revival — that celebrates local musicians. There is a 1,500-square-foot fitness center with a yoga studio, two grand ballrooms and a dozen meeting rooms. The address, 309 SW Broadway, is in the downtown core, a few blocks from Pioneer Courthouse Square, the waterfront, Old Town and the Pearl District. The trade-offs: some classic rooms are snug, as in many historic hotels, and downtown parking is expensive.

The Benson's appeal lies in its sense of history and place. Look for the details: the carved walnut, the marble, the chandeliers and the original architectural flourishes, which make the lobby a lovely place to linger with a drink even if you are not staying. The Palm Court's live jazz evenings are a highlight, and the bar has long been a gathering spot for Portlanders celebrating anniversaries and holidays. The 2023 renovation brought welcome updates — comfortable beds, modern bathrooms and better technology — without erasing the old-world atmosphere.

As a base, the location is excellent for exploring on foot. Pioneer Courthouse Square, the Portland Art Museum and the downtown shopping district are a short walk south; the Saturday Market and Tom McCall Waterfront Park are a few blocks east; and Powell's City of Books and the Pearl District are a pleasant walk north. MAX and the Portland Streetcar stop nearby for trips to Washington Park and the east side. Remember to drink from a Benson Bubbler on the way — the fountains are part of the hotel's legacy.

The Benson suits history lovers, couples marking an occasion and travelers who prefer the character of a grand old hotel to a modern tower. Business travelers appreciate the meeting facilities and the central location. If space matters, book a larger room category or a suite, and ask about Hilton Honors rates when booking. The lobby is also a lovely place to start an evening downtown, and the concierge can point you to the best nearby restaurants, theaters and music venues.