VIKING MOTEL, Portland

The motel sits on Interstate Avenue in a safe, residential part of North Portland, an area known for its walkability. The MAX light rail station (Rosa Parks) is literally steps from the entrance, providing a direct 15-minute ride to the city center, making car-free city exploration easy. Portland International Airport is 7 km away, easily reachable by car or light rail, and the Portland International Raceway is less than 10 minutes by car. University of Portland is 3 km away, and the Moda Center (Rose Garden Arena) is 5 km from the property. Despite being on a local highway, the motel is surprisingly quiet at night, particularly in the second-floor rooms. There is a supermarket (New Seasons) and a popular cafe (Futura) a one-minute walk away, as well as several restaurants, a bar, and a gas station within a couple of blocks.

Each room includes a private bathroom with a bathtub and shower, free toiletries, and a hairdryer. All units have air conditioning and heating, a flat-screen TV with cable channels, and a tea and coffee maker. Many rooms also feature a mini-fridge, a microwave, and a large desk that doubles as a luggage area. The room configuration offers queen-size beds; some rooms have two double beds with a partial room divider. The carpeted floors are well maintained, and the property is kept spotlessly clean with regular housekeeping. The motel has a classic, retro aesthetic from its 1958 origins and has been renovated, though some furniture remains older. The rooms are described as spacious but basic, and the armchair in some rooms can be positioned to free up desk space. For a quieter stay, choose a second-floor room.

The motel does not have a restaurant, bar, or breakfast option. For morning meals, the nearby Futura Cafe (one block away) serves good coffee and food, and the New Seasons market (also a one-minute walk) offers groceries and ready-to-eat items. There is a well-regarded diner called Nite Hawk Cafe and Lounge within 0.5 km. Several other restaurants, including Thai Ginger, El Burrito Azteca, and Swan Garden, are within a 5-10 minute walk. Each room provides a coffee maker with fresh coffee grounds, a mini-fridge, and a microwave, allowing easy self-catering.

Free Wi-Fi is available throughout the property. Free private parking is offered on site on a first-come, first-served basis with no reservation needed. Daily housekeeping is provided, and the motel has a laundry room with washer and dryer for public use. A vending machine with drinks is located in the lobby. Fax/photocopying services are available for free. Security features include fire extinguishers and smoke alarms. The motel accepts American Express, Visa, Discover, and MasterCard. Key card entry is used, though some cards can malfunction; front desk staff are responsive to issues. There is no shuttle service to or from the airport.