Where To Stay In Portland Oregon Without A Car? 8 Best Places

Where to Stay in Portland Oregon without a Car? 8 Best Places


Searching for the best places to stay in Portland Oregon without a car? Whether you’re a tourist or a traveler wishing to explore the city of Portland, Oregon, you’ve selected one of the best spots in the country! Portland is the largest city in Oregon, abundant in nature and developed infrastructure. This city has many offerings, including parks, bridges, an excellent public transportation system, culture, art, and much more!

Almost every part of Portland is built around sustainable and eco-friendly models, meaning a tourist or a traveler can easily stay and explore without a car. But when choosing the best place to stay in Portland without a car, it will be more beneficial to be aware of nearby public transit facilities, walkability, and proximity to famous attractions.

8 Best Places to Stay in Portland Oregon without a Car

And to help you with that, we have curated a list of the best places to stay in Portland, Oregon, without a car which will help you plan the perfect trip!

1- Pearl District

The Pearl District is a place situated to the north of downtown Portland. The Pearl District is a very trendy and on-beat neighborhood that has a wide range of recreational activities and attractions which are easily accessible. The Pearl District is renowned for its art galleries, boutiques, malls, and various dining choices. The Pearl District is known for its captivating contemporary architecture and historic buildings.

Travelers can casually stroll around the neighborhood and experience the unique blend of architecture. The district’s advantageous location within walking distance of downtown ensures convenient access to public transportation.

The city is modeled around sustainability; thus, it is very suitable to be experienced by travelers wishing to explore without cars. Travelers can choose from accommodations, including hotels, boutique establishments, and vacation rentals.

  • Most famous attractions: Powel’s City of Books, UPFOR art gallery, Cerulean Wine, Deschutes Brewery, Jamison Square Park, Oven and Shaker
  • Accessible transportation: Gorge Pass (Regional bus service), TriMet, Bikes
  • Famous diners: Kure, Andina, Butterfly Belly Asian Cuisine, Tanner Creek Tavern, Verde Cocina en la Perla, Eleni’s Philoxenia, Oven and Shaker
  • Famous parks: Tanner Springs Park, Jamison Square, The Fields Neighbourhood Park
  • Famous activities: Experience Cafes, Enjoy craft beer, Explore shops, Explore the largest independent bookstore, Stroll around the Fields Park
  • Famous malls: Pioneer Place, Morgan’s Alley, The Galleria, PacWest Center
  • Famous hotels or lodging areas: Hampton Inn & Suites Portland-Pearl District, Canopy by Hilton Portland Pearl District, Residence Inn by Marriott Portland Downtown/Pearl District
  • Perfect for whom: Perfect for travelers seeking a vibrant and modern atmosphere with excellent dining experience, shopping and cultural activities
  • Vibe: Trendy, Sophisticated, Artsy, Cultural, Urban

2- Hawthorne and Belmont

Hawthorne and Belmont are two neighborhoods in Portland, Oregon, famous for their proximity and attractions. These two neighborhoods are known for their charm and bohemian vibe, complementing one another.

As the neighborhoods and streets of Hawthorne Boulevard and Belmont Street are very close, they can be experienced by a short stroll. Travelers can find famous shops, vintage stores, and even many diners within short parameters.

The dining choices range from rustic eateries to international cuisines. Regular street fairs and festivals can be found around the neighborhoods, bringing about a sense of community and expressing local talent. Travellers can easily experience the areas due to the developed public transit system.

With unique shops, diverse dining options, and bohemian vibes, Hawthorne and Belmont provide an authentic and memorable Portland experience. It is one of the best places to stay in Portland Oregon without a car.

  • Most famous attractions: Historic Bagdad Theater and Pub, Cinemagic, Hawthorne Hideaway, House of Vintage, Lowell’s Books for Home and Garden, Muddy River Distillery, Millican Pictorial, Twin Pines Park, Alpha Acid Brewery
  • Accessible transportations: Bikes, MLK Blvd, TriMet
  • Famous diners: Castagna, Coquine, Abbie’s Diner, Mirisata, Lucky Lab Brewpub, Bluto’s, Black Bear Diner Torrance 
  • Famous parks: Mount Tabor Park, Laurelhurst Park, Southeast Hawthorne Boulevard
  • Famous activities: Vintage shopping, Coffee shop hopping, Fine dining, Theatre, Bobtage bookstores
  • Famous malls: South Bay Galleria, Plaza El Segundo, Westfield Culver City, Manhattan Village, The Point
  • Famous hotels or lodging areas: Jupiter Hotel, The Mark Spencer Hotel, The Eastside Lodge, The Hoxton Portland, Hotel Eastlund
  • Perfect for whom: Perfect for travelers who wish to experience a very vibrant shopping and cultural experience
  • Vibe: Vibrant, Chic, Vintage, Culinary Aesthetic

3- Downton Portland

Downtown Portland, Oregon, embraces travelers without cars with open arms, offering an array of attractions and conveniences. The city’s heart is designed for pedestrians, encouraging exploration on foot.

Pioneer Courthouse Square, also known as the “living room of Portland,” lets visitors relax and soak in the energetic atmosphere. Downton Portland is also a haven that sparks joy for book enthusiasts. Travelers can immerse themselves in art at the Portland Art Museum. There is also a diverse array of cafes, restaurants, and local breweries, which travelers and locals love well.

Public transportation, including the MAX light rail and streetcars, easily links downtown to neighboring districts, opening doors to adventures. Travelers can experience the warm embrace of downtown Portland, where culture, culinary delights, and the spirit of urban life await without needing a car.

  • Most famous attractions: Powell’s City of Books, Pioneer Courthouse Square, Portland Art Museum, Lan Su Chinese Garden, Portland Saturday Market, Oregon Historical Society Museum, Voodoo Doughnut
  • Accessible transportation: TriMet MAX Light Rail, TriMet Bus Service, Biketown, Accessible Taxis, Portland Aerial Tram 
  • Famous diners: Original Hotcake House, Mothers Bistro and Bar, The Roxy, Fuller’s Coffee Shop, Huber’s Cafe, J&M Cafe
  • Famous parks: Tom McCall Waterfront Park, Pioneer Courthouse Square, Chapman Square and Lownsdale Square, Lovejoy Fountain Park, Governor Tom McCall Park
  • Famous activities: Visiting Powell’s City of Books, Exploring Portland Art Museum, Shopping at the Saturday Market, International Rose Test Garden
  • Famous malls: Pioneer Place, Lloyd Center, Union Way, Portland Saturday Market
  • Famous hotels or lodging areas: The Nines, The Heathman Hotel, Hotel Monaco, Sentinel
  • Perfect for whom: Perfect for those who seek a warm welcome to an energetic and vibrant environment 
  • Vibe: Artsy, Vibrant, Warm, Energetic

4- Lloyd District

Lloyd District, nestled in Oregon, welcomes travelers without cars, offering many attractions and conveniences. This lively neighborhood embraces the spirit of exploration, with easily accessible destinations on foot or through public transportation.

At the heart of Lloyd District lies the esteemed Oregon Convention Center, a gathering place for diverse events that foster connections and celebrate community. Sports enthusiasts can immerse themselves in the electric atmosphere of the Moda Center, cheering on the Portland Trail Blazers, or indulge in entertainment at the nearby Veterans Memorial Coliseum.

Culinary delights abound in Lloyd District, with a diverse range of restaurants and cozy cafes catering to every palate. The Lloyd Center Mall blends influential brands and unique boutiques for those seeking retail therapy.

With its reliable public transportation options, including MAX light rail and bus lines, exploring the enchanting city of Portland is effortless from Lloyd District. Embark on a car-free journey, and experience the warm embrace of Lloyd District’s vibrant energy, where entertainment, culinary delights, and shopping adventures await.

  • Most famous attractions: Oregon Convention Center, Moda Center, Lloyd Center, Oregon State Hospital Museum of Mental Health, Holliday Park, Oregon Historical Society, Portland Saturday Market, Lloyd Farmers Market, Broadway Bridge
  • Accessible transportation: MAX Light Rail, Portland Streetcar, Bus Services, Biking
  • Famous diners: Pine State Biscuits, The Oregon Public House, The Roxy Diner, Shalom Y’all, Lechon, Gumba, The Red E Café, Q Restaurant & Bar
  • Famous parks: Holladay Park, Oregon Park
  • Famous activities: Sports and Entertainment at Moda Center, Trade shows at Oregon Convention Center, Shopping at Lloyd Center Mall, Eco-friendly Events at Lloyd EcoDistrict, Live Performances at Oregon Children’s Theatre and Aladdin Theatre
  • Famous malls: Lloyd Center, Holladay Center, Broadway Commerce Center, Weidler Plaza, Hassalo on Eighth, Lloyd Retail Center
  • Favorite hotels or lodging areas: Hotel Eastlund, Quality Inn Downtown Convention Center, DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Portland, Courtyard by Marriott Portland Convention Center
  • Perfect for whom: Perfect for those who seek vibrancy, entertainment and an energetic atmosphere 
  • Vibe: Energetic, Entertaining, Vibrant, Fun

5- Sellwood-Moreland

Travelers can embark on a heartfelt journey through the enchanting neighborhood of Sellwood-Moreland, in the heart of Oregon. Sellwood-Moreland in Oregon is perfect for car-free travelers with its charming streets, shops, cafes, and accessible public transportation.

When travelers stroll through its inviting streets, full of unique shops and cafes, they will be captivated by the genuine sense of belonging and the fantastic vibe. Travelers can quickly discover hidden treasures in individual antique stores and boutiques.

The serene Willamette River waterfront is a famous tourist location where many can be seen taking a stroll. Travelers can experience many culinary delights thoughtfully prepared with locally sourced ingredients.

Accessible public transportation, including bus and light rail, ensures that everyone can partake in the magic of Sellwood-Moreland. Travelers can immerse in the warmth, connection, and authentic experiences; this neighborhood lovingly offers to all travelers who seek adventure and a genuine sense of belonging.

  • Most famous attractions: Oaks Amusement Park, Sellwood Riverfront Park, Oaks Bottom Wildlife Refuge, Antique Row, Sellwood-Moreland Neighbourhood, Sellwood-Moreland Historical Museum, Westmoreland City Park, Sellwood Bridge, Springwater Corridor Trail
  • Accessible transportation: TriMet Bus, MAX Light Rail, Biking, Ridesharing, ADA Paratransit Services
  • Famous diners: Fat Albert’s Breakfast Cafe, Toast La Tea, Reverend’s BBQ, Gino’s Restaurant & Bar, Jade Bistro and Patisserie, Westmoreland Union Manor Dining Room, Papa Haydn East, Sherpa Kitchen, Papa’s Pizza Parlor
  • Famous parks: Sellwood Riverfront Park, Sellwood Park, Westmoreland Park, Oaks Bottom Wildlife Refuge, Johnson Creek Park, Crystal Springs Rhododendron Garden
  • Famous activities: Antique Shopping, Biking and Walking on the Springwater Corridor, Kayaking and Canoeing on the Willamette River
  • Famous malls: Sellwood Westmoreland Shopping District, Antique Row, Sellwood-Moreland Farmers Market, Sellwood Collective, Uptown Shopping Center, Oaks Park Gift Shop, Antique Powerland Antique Mall
  • Famous hotels or lodging areas: River’s Edge Hotel & Spa, The Porter Portland Curio Collection by Hilton, Hotel Eastlund, Jupiter NEXT, The Heathman Hotel
  • Perfect for whom: Perfect for those who seek warmth in a down-to-earth locality full of charm and antiquities 
  • Vibe: Antique, Charming, Down-to-Earth, Warm

6- Mississippi District

The dynamic and fashionable Mississippi District is situated in the northern part of Portland, Oregon. This neighborhood’s vibrant and energetic vibe draws visitors from far and wide. Mississippi District has gained its reputation for its lively atmosphere and is a hub for various recreational activities.

The Mississippi District is a haven for food enthusiasts, with many famous restaurants catering to diverse palates. The district also contains many popular bars and cafes within nearby parameters where travelers and locals can unwind.

The neighborhood has a wide array of boutiques, each with its distinct style. The neighborhood’s excellent public transportation system ensures easy accessibility, allowing visitors to explore the area on foot without any hassle.

Whether you’re seeking mouth-watering cuisine, trendy bars, stylish boutiques, or recreational activities, the Mississippi District promises an unforgettable experience that perfectly captures the spirit of Portland, Oregon. It is one of the best places to stay in Portland Oregon without a Car.

  • Most famous attractions: Mississippi Avenue, Historic Mississippi Studios, Mississippi Records, Land Gallery, Pedal Bike Tours. ReBuilding Center, Mississippi Pizza, Mississippi Avenue Food Carts
  • Accessible transportation: TriMet Bus, MAX Light Rail, Ride-Sharing Services, Biking
  • Famous diners: Gravy, Radar Restaurant, Interurban, Miss Delta, The Wayback, Por Que No, Bar Bar, Stormbreaker Brewing, Gracie’s Apizza
  • Famous parks: Overlook Park, Peninsula Park, Arbor Lodge Park, Mississippi Avenue Park, Willamette Park
  • Famous activities: Explore Mississippi Avenue, Sample Local Cuisine, Attend Street Fairs and Festivals, Catch Live Music Performances, Visit Craft Breweries
  • Famous malls: Pioneer Place, Bridgeport Village, Washington Square
  • Famous hotels or lodging areas: The Society Hotel, McMenamins Kennedy School, The Inn at Northrup Station, The Jupiter Hotel, The Palms Motel
  • Perfect for whom: Perfect for those who seek a vibrant and energetic environment and also food enthusiasts
  • Vibe: Energetic, Fashionable, Dynamic

7- Hollywood District

Travelers can step into the welcoming vibe of the vibrant Hollywood District in Oregon, which is a haven for travelers who prefer to explore with ease using public transportation and their own two feet. This lively neighborhood offers many attractions accessible without needing a car.

Travelers can begin their journey by immersing in the rich history and captivating performances at the Hollywood Theatre. The neighborhood’s tempting array of restaurants, cozy cafes, and delightful food carts can certainly please every traveler.

Travelers can discover hidden gems and support local artisans at unique shops and boutiques. An artistic spirit flourishes here as vibrant murals grace the streets and local galleries proudly showcase the community’s talent.

With a thoughtfully designed public transportation system, including accessible MAX light rail and bus lines, traveling within and beyond the Hollywood District is very easy. This charming and walkable neighborhood is where the true beauty of Oregon is stored.

  • Most famous attractions: Hollywood Theatre, Grant Park, Fernhill Park, Hollywood Farmers Market, Hollywood District Business Association, Hollywood Senior Center, Laurelhurst Park, Sandy Boulevard, Hollywood Library, Mt.Tabor Park
  • Accessible transportation: TriMet Buses, MAX Light Trail, Bicycles, RideSharing Services, Car Rentals
  • Famous diners: The Original Hotcake House, The Screen Doric, The Roxy Diner, My Father’s Place, Redwood,  Grilled Cheese Grill, The Paradox Cafe, Pause Kitchen & Bar
  • Famous parks: Grant Park, Laurelhurst Park, Normandale Park, Rose City Park, Irving Park, Peninsula Park, Fernhill Park, Alberta Park
  • Famous activities: Hollywood Theatre, Shopping and Dining on Northeast Sandy Boulevard, Saturday Farmer’s Market, Biking, Live Music, Art Galleries and Studios
  • Famous malls: Lloyd Center, Hollywood District Shopping, Hawthorne District, Bridgeport Village, Clackamas Town Center
  • Famous hotels or lodging areas: Hotel Modera, Courtyard by Marriott Portland Downtown Center, Hotel Eastlund, DoubleTree by Hilton Portland
  • Perfect for whom: Perfect for those who look forward to experiencing a bit of Hollywood magic with artsy creations
  • Vibe: Artsy, Modern, Chic, Captivating

So there you have it, readers!

Portland is one of Oregon’s most vibrant, energetic, and dynamic cities. This city has various neighborhoods full of beauty and character and is perfect for travelers and tourists who wish to travel without their cars!

This list has thoughtfully curated everything you need to know about the places when traveling without a car; from the best attractions to the best diners, we have enlisted everything to help you. We hope our article on “where to stay in Portland Oregon without a car”, lets you plan your next trip!

Al Amin Sagor

Hi, I'm Al Amin Sagor. Join me as I share travel tips, personal insights, and amazing experiences that have shaped my adventures. Let's explore together and make lasting memories.

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