When the pioneers of the 1800s went in search of a better life, they set off on the Oregon Trail. The journey was arduous, but when they spotted the bounty that is Oregon, we have to imagine they were elated — and not just because six straight months in a covered wagon made them happy to be anywhere that wasn’t rolling for a change.
In the spirit of our pioneering ancestors, we’re bringing a completely new concept — in a historic package — to downtown Portland, OR, with today’s reopening of Hotel Vintage Plaza, rechristened as Hotel Vintage. The building, adjacent to Pioneer Courthouse Square (aka the city’s living room), has been a reflection of modern Portland since 1894 when it housed the popular Imperial Hotel. In its latest incarnation this downtown landmark has a new look and a whole new independent attitude to go with its new name.
Step over the welcome mat (look closely and you might notice it’s an aerial shot of the Willamette Valley) and into the lobby, a gathering place that immediately sets the scene with sleek chairs, a floating staircase, a painting of Bacchus (our version of the god of wine happens to sport a nipple ring), and a wineology chalkboard in all its geeked-out glory. Not to mention the 60-seat lobby Bacchus Bar that will be slinging craft cocktails and sips of wine on the regular.
One floor up, an adult game-room takes the classic arcade and gives it grown-up twist. Stop by for the pool table, shuffleboard, and video game center with PlayStation, Xbox, and the nostalgic favorite, Atari.
In the guest rooms, pop the cork on a modern wine experience. Each room is dedicated to a different Willamette Valley winery, and you’ll see the personalized touches through photos and specially curated bottles of wine. Expect cork-lined walls, graffiti-inspired art, industrial lighting, and a bright red couch. The bed is backed by a beautiful, distressed-oak headboard reminiscent of a well-crafted boat — you’re the captain of your own ship (or at least your sleeping vessel).
Italian-inspired favorite Pazzo is still here, serving up simple, bold flavors in satisfying dishes. When you’re thirsty, Kimpton’s signature wine hour is in full force every day, and you’ll often find a vintner from one of the guest room’s namesakes pouring something special.
That’s worth a toast and even a long journey — as is the rest of the trailblazing Hotel Vintage.
i was searching for portland pics, and scammed through the pics on this page after reading a bit.
thanks for motivating me even more to live in portland – keep your hearts crossed.