There will be no shuttle buses polluting the air as Portland’s award-winning light rail system is one of the best in the country. Nicknamed “MAX,” this 38-mile network of rails extends both east and west from downtown Portland. The eastern link also includes a convenient spur to Portland International Airport. All hotels are within a 1-3 block radius of a MAX stop. When you stay in the downtown hotels, you’re just a few blocks from attractions such as the Portland Art Museum, Oregon Historical Society, Portland Farmer’s Market, Saturday Market, Classical Chinese Garden and Waterfront Park. You’re also just moments from Portland’s restaurants, shopping and theaters. With just a quick streetcar ride you’re in the Pearl District - a former industrial shell now housing a continually emerging collection of art galleries, loft apartments, boutiques, restaurants and performance spaces. A little farther west you’ll find the more established polish of Nob Hill, or “Northwest,” with its boutiques, cafes and various theater offerings. Riding the light rail also offers the opportunity to enjoy the view of the Willamette River as you cross the historic Steel Bridge, the only one of its kind in the world, a double-lift span that can raise its lower deck independently of the upper deck.
Portland’s up and coming East Side has a vibrant mixture of industrial, residential and retail. At the east side hotel properties, you’re just a few blocks away from a short light rail ride into downtown. Just steps away from the convention center, you’ll encounter the East Bank Esplanade. This 1.5-mile pedestrian/cycling trail offers a great view of the city skyline and features a 1,200 foot floating walkway as well as easy access to four of the bridges that cross the Willamette River. Only two light rail stops past the convention center you’ll find Lloyd Center – Oregon’s largest shopping mall – for all your tax free shopping.