BEST WESTERN PONY SOLDIER, Portland

The hotel sits on NE Sandy Boulevard, directly off the I-205 freeway, making it a practical stop for airport travelers or those heading south on US 30. The MAX Light Rail station is one block away, offering a quick and inexpensive route to downtown or the airport. Columbia River Gorge is less than 1 km away, and Willamette Falls is a 40-minute drive. The immediate area includes a Shell gas station, Elmer's restaurant next door, and the Cascade Station outlet shopping area 5-7 minutes by car. The surrounding neighborhood has significant transient foot traffic, which the hotel addresses with key-card door locks and bright exterior lighting. Parking is free on-site for registered guests.

Room types include double rooms (one bed), quadruple rooms (two beds), and suites with a spa tub. All rooms are equipped with a built-in air conditioning unit, ironing facilities, a direct-dial telephone, and an alarm clock. Bed sizes are not specified but are generally described as spacious with comfortable mattresses. Bathrooms have a shower-tub combination, but some tubs show wear and non-slip discoloration; wearing sandals in the shower is advisable. The rooms are clean and updated, though some have reported odors or needed re-vacuuming. Road-facing rooms on the freeway side can be noisy due to traffic and slamming doors; requesting a room on the second floor or courtyard side improves sleep quality. No rooms have balconies.

The breakfast offers an American buffet with hot items such as omelettes, bacon, sausage, potatoes, and make-your-own waffles, plus yogurt, fruit, pastries, and coffee. Selection and quality are generally good for the price, though some items can be dry or cold. Breakfast staff are present to restock. For lunch and dinner, Elmer's restaurant is adjacent, and other dining options like Bill's Steak House and Pho Dalat are 0.5 km away. The hotel has no on-site restaurant, bar, or room service. Vending machines for drinks and snacks are available.

The outdoor swimming pool is heated and open seasonally, typically from one week before Memorial Day through mid-August or early September. The pool area includes sun loungers, beach umbrellas, and towels. The hot tub is available and has been noted as clean and relaxing. The fitness centre is stocked with equipment, and a sauna is also available. These facilities are outdoors and seasonal, so confirm current availability with the hotel directly, especially in early summer or late August. The courtyard setting is well-kept and attractive.

The free airport shuttle runs from 4:00 AM to 10:50 PM every 30 minutes on request. Guests should contact the front desk to schedule a pickup from the airport (Island 2) or for early departures. Wi-Fi is free and described as fast and reliable. Complimentary on-site parking is available for registered guests. A business centre with free fax/photocopying is available, and laundry services are offered for an additional charge. The 24-hour front desk provides express check-in/check-out and safety deposit boxes. Accessibility features include lower sinks, raised toilets, grab rails, and wheelchair-accessible rooms with walk-in showers. Pets (dogs only) are allowed with a fee and deposit.