FAQ

Here are answers to some frequently asked questions. If you have questions that aren’t answered here, please contact us.

What is Portland Perks, and how do I get it?

The Portland Perks package includes free overnight parking; complimentary continental breakfast for two; and a Portland Perks coupon book filled with discounts on dining, tax-free shopping, attractions, the arts and more. It is only available online.

How do I get the Portland Perks coupon book?

The coupon book is only available by booking a Portland Perks reservation (book online or call 1.877.678.5263, sel. 2). You will receive the coupon book upon checking into your hotel.

What coupons are included in the Portland Perks book?

Use the following links to learn about all the restaurants, retailers, attractions and arts organizations that participate in the coupon book, as well as the discounts offered at each location.

What is the closest hotel to the train station?

There are no hotels adjacent to the train station, but the MAX light rail's Green Line connects Union Station to downtown Portland, where nearly all hotels are located within a short walk of a MAX stop. Three of the hotels closest to Union Station are the Courtyard by Marriott Portland City Center (.5 miles), Embassy Suites Portland Downtown (.6 miles) and the Benson Hotel (.6 miles).

How long are the blocks downtown?

Downtown Portland's blocks are half the length of standard city blocks. In downtown Portland, it generally takes one minute to walk one block. So, if you are five blocks away from Powell's, it will take you about five minutes to get there. The founders of Portland were pretty cagey — they figured that shorter blocks would create more corners, which would, in turn, attract more businesses. Today, their scheme has made Portland one of the most pedestrian-friendly cities in the world.

Are all the trains free in Portland?

All rides on MAX light rail and the Portland Streetcar are free within the Free Rail Zone, which includes downtown, most of the Pearl District and the Lloyd Center/Oregon Convention Center area. To ride outside of the Free Rail Zone, a paid ticket is required.

I heard Portland has really great public transportation. Will I even need a car?

If you are planning on spending your entire time in Portland, then a car is not necessary. The majority of Portland's most popular sights and attractions are easily accessible by MAX, streetcar or bus. If you plan on visiting the Columbia River Gorge, Mount Hood or the coast, a car makes those trips much easier.

How do I get to downtown from the airport?

There is a MAX light rail stop at the airport that provides direct service to downtown Portland. The current cost of a one-way adult ticket is $2.40. The MAX station and ticket machines are located on the airport’s lower level, next to the south baggage claim area (turn right at the base of the escalator).

How late/early does the MAX run?

From downtown to the airport, the MAX starts running at 4:02 a.m. and the last departure to the airport is at 10:30 p.m. From the airport to downtown, the first train departs at 4:58 a.m. and the last train departs at 11:49 p.m. Times vary on weekends and holidays; check the complete schedule.

How long does it take to drive to the coast? How about the gorge?

The drive from Portland to the coast it takes less than an hour and a half. Astoria, Cannon Beach, Tillamook and other coastal towns make for a pleasant day trip from Portland. The Columbia River Gorge is only a short 30-minute drive from Portland.

Is there a hotel near the zoo?

No. However, the MAX does make a stop at the zoo, making any downtown or Lloyd Center/convention center hotel with MAX light rail access an excellent choice.

Where is a good place to get information while I'm in Portland?

The Visitor Information Center in downtown Portland’s Pioneer Square is a goldmine of information. It’s staffed by volunteers who call Portland and Oregon home and are more than happy to offer advice and trip ideas. Get details on location and hours.