The Benson Portland, Curio Collection by Hilton in Portland, OR

We’re local and treated ourselves to a magical night at The Benson, coinciding with their annual Gingerbread House reveal. The event featured cookie decorating and complimentary cocoa and cider in the ballroom, which my kids absolutely loved. After the gingerbread house reveal, Santa made a grand entrance down the staircase to visit with kids and grant holiday wishes. The lobby was breathtaking—truly something special—with a grand Christmas tree, poinsettia-lined staircase, and beautiful piano music. It felt like stepping into a holiday wonderland. We stayed one night in a room on the 9th floor with an urban view, watched a movie with our kids, and fell asleep feeling completely content. The next morning, our kids were still buzzing with excitement about the night before. This event is hosted annually and has been a cherished tradition for 53 years. If you have the chance, it’s a must-see during the holidays! Now for the practical details that travelers often look for: Beds: Comfortable with soft pillows. Mini Fridge: Worked perfectly. Valet Parking: Seamless experience, especially with their app. Rooms & Hallways: Well-appointed and easy to navigate. Bathrooms: Spacious and stocked with thoughtful amenities like Q-tips, soap, and lotion. Noise Level: Surprisingly quiet for being downtown, even facing the city. Palm Court: Excellent for breakfast and evening cocktails. I recommend grabbing a drink and soaking in the beauty of the lobby, with its stunning moldings. What stood out most to me was the tenure of the staff—a testament to the hotel's excellent management. The chef has been there for 30 years, our server has been serving guests since the 1980s, and a gentleman in the elevator kindly answered my kids’ questions, sharing that he’d also worked there for decades. These stories of loyalty and passion added a special layer of warmth to our stay. The location is wonderfully walkable. We easily strolled to Pioneer Square, The Schnitz, and other nearby landmarks, reminded of just how convenient downtown Portland can be.

From many years of much travel in the US and Europe, I have developed a short list of the hotels that I look forward to returning to and are a key part of the enjoyment of a trip. The Benson is one of them. I was first here in 1958 when my mother – a great thrill at age 9 - allowed me to push the elevator buttons! These days I return to the Benson whenever in Portland, and while pressing the elevator buttons are perhaps not quite the thrill of 66 years ago, the warm welcome, the beautiful, dignified and relaxing lobby, the well-appointed and comfortable rooms – are all still there and ready for you to sink into with warm satisfaction. - Don’t forget to check out the sitting area in the mezzanine; it’s a quiet corner for good conversation. Or relax in front of the fireplace in the main lobby. I came to Portland for a concert a short time ago, and all the old welcome was still there. Johnny and Richard in the restaurant and bar, long-time staff (their length of service speaks well for the Benson!), welcomed and served us the way you wish hotel staff everywhere would, and capped the pleasure of staying at the dear old Benson. I’ll be back!

Classic elegance and comfort. I recently stayed at The Benson for three nights. It was my fifth time staying at this beautiful hotel in downtown Portland. The corner king room was everything I wanted and had expected. The bed and bed linens were luxurious and the nine pillows extravagant! Staff member Harold was courteous and prompt in helping me with room service and extras I needed. The valet service people were cheery, prompt, and overall very nice to depend on. I highly recommend The Benson. Easy access to restaurants like Grits ‘n Gravy and their own beautiful bar.

The hotel is beautiful. The staff were professional and friendly. It's totally worth paying more for the breakfast because it's full service and delicious. If you go for breakfast, say hi to Bobby! He will give you all the inside tips on the food and things to see and do in Portland. He was like family.

Valet from Johnny from Miami!!! He made the entire trip. Literally the best customer service I have received. One of those employees where you don’t have to know what their income is to know it’s not enough for the impressive work they do and care they show. And a side note for any customer receiving service in any genre of customer service - when you encounter good customer service, remember that whatever they have going on in their lives, they provide such impeccable work ethic that they are able to put that aside for you, you the person who is both simply stranger and customer.