This story was originally from Sip Northwest’s 2014 Best of the Northwest issue—for more in-depth stories and lists of the top producers, beverages, travel and more, click here to subscribe.
Conveniently located in the heart of downtown Portland, Sentinel combines an illustrious history with top-of-the-line contemporary luxuries, and offers glamorous old-school service and comforts without sacrificing any of the modish appeal that has made Portland famous.
Not every visitor to one of America’s hippest cities wants to walk to a shared bathroom down the hall or wait for the concierge to switch albums on the record player. Sentinel’s building has had many incarnations, from starting as a boutique hotel in 1909, transitioning throughout the 20th century and even functioning as a location in Gus Van Sant’s My Own Private Idaho.
Following an extensive renovation, the hotel combined with the next-door Portland Elks Lodge to become Sentinel, which now lavishes guests with impeccable style and quirky touches from the minute that they enter the Renaissance-inspired lobby. Amenities include personal delivery from gourmet ice cream maker Salt & Straw, vintage books that are free for the borrowing, and room décor featuring antlers, slingshots and globes by local boutique Boys’ Fort. Of course, there are more practical offerings as well, such as a high-ceilinged fitness room, a 7,500-square foot ballroom and quiet, comfortable private meeting rooms for business travelers. But one of Sentinel’s most alluring attractions is the Jackknife, the seductive hotel bar with gleaming dark wood floors, a large fireplace and row upon row of shining bottles rising high behind the bartenders’ heads.
Sentinel is within walking distance of many popular attractions, like the famous Powell’s “City of Books” and Pioneer Courthouse Square. One of the city’s biggest food truck pods is around the corner at SW 10th and Alder, which, along with boutique Frances May on 10th and Washington, is one of the best places to go celebrity-spotting in the city. If you miss Mia Wasikowska or Fred Armisen, head to the Multnomah Whiskey Library across the street to drown your sorrows.
Sentinel || 614 S.W. 11th Avenue, Portland || (503) 224-3400|| sentinelhotel.com
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