Portland Old Town Chinatown Staycation Guide and Hotels

Editor: Kirandeep Kaur on Jan 28,2026

 

Portland Old Town-Chinatown offers visitors a unique experience, including discovering the Original Portland and access to modern culture as you walk through the neighborhood. As a native Portlander, or even if you aren't going to be travelling anywhere else in the world this month, a visit to the Old Town-Chinatown area allows for an amazing staycation in Portland, OR.

Old Town Portland is truly where history and nightlife collide, offering the best of both worlds. Among other things, Old Town Portland offers some of Portland's most iconic attractions, as well as a variety of immersive and interactive cultural events. In short, you will find everything you need for a fun and unique Portland weekend getaway if you choose to visit Old Town-Chinatown. If you're interested in experiencing authentic Portland, then Old Town-Chinatown should be at the top of your list.

Why Is a Portland Old Town-Chinatown Staycation Perfect for Locals?

With a Portland Old Town-Chinatown staycation, you can vacation without the stress of travelling; you're close to home, yet are in a neighbourhood that's rich with history, architecture, nightlife, and food options.

Old Town-Chinatown is among the oldest districts in Portland; however, its evolution continues today. When staying in this area, you're only steps away from a plethora of entertaining activities to do along the waterfront, historical landmarks to visit, theatre locations to attend, and late-night places to eat.

If you're thinking about a staycation in Portland, Oregon, you won't find a better concentration of things to do than in the Old Town-Chinatown area.

Also, a Portland Old Town-Chinatown staycation is the perfect way to explore at your leisure; there is no need to rush around, follow a strict schedule, or worry about missing out on anything—you can just go out, wander around, and learn about the neighbourhood!

Where Should You Stay During a Portland Old Town–Chinatown Staycation?

Where you choose to stay during your staycation shapes your visit to Portland's Old Town/Chinatown. With its fusion of character, convenience, and a great location, Old Town offers tourists the opportunity to experience all that Portland has to offer, within walking distance of one another.

Why You Should Choose a Hotel in Old Town/Chinatown: 

1) Central Location - Most major attractions are located within walking distance.

2) Nightlife, Restaurants, and Arts.

3) Historic Buildings and Modern Amenities.

4) For those who would like to enjoy a laid-back but immersive experience at home.

Discover More Insights: Portland Nightlife: Rooftop Bars, Music Clubs, and Treats

Best Hotels in the Old Town/Chinatown area:

1) The Society Hotel

 The Society Hotel is a boutique-style hotel with a contemporary design. The rooftop terrace of the Society Hotel has amazing views of the Portland skyline on the west side of downtown.

2) Embassy Suites by Hilton Portland Downtown 

  • Embassy Suites by Hilton Portland Downtown is located in a historic courthouse building.
  • Embassy Suites by Hilton Portland Downtown features spacious hotel suites with the latest in modern conveniences.
  • Embassy Suites by Hilton Portland Downtown is a great place to relax and spend the weekend while enjoying everything that Portland has to offer.

3) The Hoxton, 

The Hoxton, Portland, offers urban style and a social atmosphere. Travelers seeking trendy Portland staycation ideas will enjoy the Hoxton's unique atmosphere. The Hoxton, Portland features on-site dining and a café.

4) Hotel Lucia

Hotel Lucia is an upscale boutique hotel that offers guests a unique lodging experience in the heart of the Old Town/Chinatown area. Hotel Lucia offers easy access to all attractions in the Old Town/Chinatown area and combines luxury with the culture of the Pacific Northwest.

5) The Benson Hotel

The Benson Hotel is a classic Portland landmark. The Benson Hotel features elegant interiors that maintain the character of the historic hotel.

A historic hotel, the Benson Hotel is the perfect place for those who appreciate the charm of historic hotels.

What Are the Top Things to Do in Old Town Portland During a Staycation?

Staycations in Portland's Old Town-Chinatown district have a huge range of activities, offering plenty of choice for everyone. Many of the buildings and streets are iconic and often photographed. The tour also provides a glimpse into the city's original development with architecture that dates back over a century old. You'll find yourself captivated by the historic buildings of Old Town Portland, built around the turn of the 19th century and later in the century.

Other types of experiences are available on the waterfront, which is just a few blocks away from Old Town, for those wanting to take early morning walks, view sunsets or enjoy quiet, contemplative time. Therefore, we think the waterfront and its wonderful activities are often overlooked as among the best aspects of an Old Town-Chinatown staycation in Portland.

Lastly, Old Town Portland's nightlife comes alive throughout the night, with an abundance of entertainment options ranging from live music venues to cocktail lounges. Adult visitors can expect an exciting time in Old Town, with plenty of nightlife options.

Which Portland Old Town Attractions Should You Not Miss?

You cannot have a complete staycation in Old Town-Chinatown without experiencing its distinctive attractions.

Classical Chinese Garden

A tranquil oasis in Old Town, this stunning garden offers a respite from the city's hustle and bustle.

Lan Su Tea House

You will find the most amazing tea experience in Lan Su Tea House, located within the garden, and a great place to slow down and enjoy your Portland weekend getaway.

Historic Theaters and Museums

Old Town has many unique independent theatres, galleries, and museums, all showcasing Portland's creative expression; these venues offer many great ideas for a staycation in Portland.

How Does Old Town-Chinatown Elevate a Portland Weekend Getaway?

A Portland Old Town-Chinatown staycation offers a unique combination of relaxation and adventure. Your day can be filled with fun adventures or relaxing downtime, and you will still feel like you had a great experience.

Old Town connects easily to Downtown Portland, the Pearl District, and the waterfront walking/biking paths. This makes it a great location for an adaptable weekend getaway in Portland. The Old Town-Chinatown neighborhood is an ideal location for any type of trip; whether solo, romantic, or with Friends, the area has something to offer everyone.

If you live in Portland, it may be eye-opening to look at your hometown through a different lens and see it as a destination for a staycation.

Learn More Here: Day Trips from Portland: Mount Hood or Oregon Coast

Where Can You Eat and Drink During a Staycation in Portland, Oregon?

Portland's Old Town-Chinatown district is full of food! The variety of food options is wide, including authentic Asian food and comfort foods available late into the night with drinks made just for you! Eating out is not simply a meal; it is an opportunity to experience what makes Portland such a great place through its many cultures.

For those looking to relax in Portland without having to plan every detail, most of the restaurants in Old Town-Chinatown accept walk-ins, making them a great option!

Here’s Something Helpful: Top Places to Visit in Portland, Oregon, And Best Time To Go

Is Old Town-Chinatown Safe and Comfortable for a Staycation?

When considering a staycation in Portland, Oregon, safety and comfort are important factors. Old Town-Chinatown is an area that is continually improving. Being aware of your surroundings, staying in reputable hotels, and going out at specific times to ensure a comfortable stay will help you enjoy the best of this beautiful area. Many visitors state that during their stay in Old Town-Chinatown, they felt welcomed and had an enjoyable experience due to the many cultural events and increase in walking foot traffic.

How Can You Customize Your Portland Staycation Ideas in Old Town?

The flexibility afforded by staying in Portland's Old Town-Chinatown is excellent.

  • If you prefer relaxation, visit gardens, cafes, and take in the scenery on walking paths.
  • If you prefer culture, you can experience museums, theatre, and take part in historical tours.
  • If you like nightlife, Old Town has a very vibrant and eclectic nightlife.

No matter your interest or mood, Old Town can meet your needs with many unique staycation options.

Why Is Old Town Ideal for a Staycation in Portland, Oregon, Year-Round?

During any season, you can have a staycation in Portland’s Old Town and Chinatown. They are great places for a getaway any time of year. These historic streets are beautiful when it rains, and you can sit inside cozy little cafes and restaurants. In summer, there are lots of festivals, outdoor events, and activities at Waterfront Park. Old Town is a lively location, and it will be the perfect setting for your Portland weekend getaway, no matter what time of year.

Final Thoughts

I completely agree! You can experience everything that Old Town-Chinatown in Portland has to offer by spending the weekend in a neighborhood with such rich history, culture, and cuisine, all within walking distance of one another. You can immerse yourself in this community and find inspiration without having to travel or spend hours preparing for your next trip.

This part of Portland also offers local residents the chance to rediscover the city and enjoy an entire weekend of fun. Whether it is a quick, last-minute Portland trip or an event that was very well thought out, Old Town-Chinatown allows you to reaffirm that some of the best adventures take place in your own backyard.

FAQs

What is unique about a staycation in Portland’s Old Town-Chinatown area?

"Staycation" means you are staying within your city, but you can experience all the history and culture that a tourist would, and have some fun nightlife while you are there.

Is Old Town a good place to have a Portland weekend getaway?

Old Town has lots of things to do, see, and eat, and is very easy to explore. You can do it all in one weekend if you want to.

What are some of the best things to do in Portland's Old Town area?

Some of the best things to see and do in Portland's Old Town area include the Cultural Gardens, Historic Landmarks, walking along the Waterfront, visiting Museums, experiencing Nightlife Venues, and eating at all the great local dining establishments.

What would be some nice Portland staycation ideas for couples to do in the Old Town area?

Couples can do many things when they choose to staycation in Portland's Old Town area. Some options include visiting the Cultural Gardens, staying at a Boutique Hotel, attending a Cultural or Performing Arts event, dining at a romantic restaurant, and enjoying a scenic evening walk along the riverfront.

Can I staycation in Old Town, Portland, Oregon, year-round?

Yes, anyone can staycation in Old Town Portland, Oregon, any time of the year. There are lots of seasonal events year-round, and a number of indoor activities that make any time spent in Old Town a pleasure.


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