Hotel Eastlund

Timeless Portland Hospitality

A one-of-a-kind guest experience

Tourism in Portland, Oregon, thrives on a blend of history, modern amenities, and a vibrant local culture. Amidst the dynamic environment, Hotel Eastlund distinguishes itself not just as a place to stay, but as a destination in its own right. To understand what makes the hotel unique Jeff Brown, General Manager, and Kristina Shipley, Director of Sales and Marketing share insights into the hotel’s storied past, its luxurious present, and its promising future.

Community roots

“The hotel was originally built in 1962 as the Cosmopolitan Motor Hotel,” Brown recounts. “Back in the early 60s, it was considered the Ritz Carlton of Portland.” Known for its iconic Top of the Cosmo restaurant, the hotel was a local hotspot where many Portland residents celebrated life’s milestones. “People still come to the lobby today, reminiscing about their high school proms, engagements, and weddings,” Brown adds, highlighting the deep-rooted connection the hotel has with the community.

Over the decades, the property changed hands and flags multiple times, transitioning from a Radisson, to A Holiday Inn and later A Red Lion. In 2013, Alan Battersby, the current owner, purchased the building and embarked on a substantial $30 million renovation, rebranding it as the independent Hotel Eastlund in June 2015.

Despite the challenges of the pandemic, the hotel has thrived, becoming part of the Best Western Premier Collection in 2021. The strategic move allowed the hotel to leverage the marketing and sales opportunities of a major brand while maintaining its cherished independence.

“The Best Western Premier Collection status offers us the best of both worlds,” Brown explains. “We get the additional marketing arm of a major brand but still retain our independence, allowing us to provide a unique and personalized guest experience.”

Unique features and services

One of the standout aspects of the Hotel Eastlund is its impressive array of amenities. “For a hotel with 168 keys, having three food and beverage outlets is quite unusual,” Brown notes. These include the lobby café called Wild Bean Coffee Bar, a rooftop restaurant, Metropolitan Tavern, offering breathtaking views of the city, and the Amphora Wine Merchant, which reopened in June 2022 after pandemic-related closures. The multifaceted wine bar serves as a bottle shop, dining space, and private event venue, enhancing the hotel’s appeal.

“Our honor bars and mini-bars, along with turn-down service, set us apart from many other hotels,” Brown explains. “These are the touches that differentiate us from the Hyatt’s, the Marriott’s, and the Hilton’s around us.” All rooms feature either 1 California King or 2 California Queens beds, ensuring guests experience the utmost comfort during their stay.

The Metropolitan Tavern is a gem, offering not just a dining experience but an attraction that draws both locals and visitors. “The rooftop restaurant provides a panoramic view of Portland that is simply unmatched,” Shipley adds. “It’s a favorite spot for both casual diners and those celebrating special occasions.”

Overcoming challenges with resilience

When discussing challenges, it’s impossible to ignore the impact of COVID-19. However, Brown emphasizes a broader issue: “The biggest challenge has been regaining customer confidence in the Portland market.” National media coverage during the pandemic painted a negative picture of the city, deterring potential visitors. “Our biggest challenge is convincing people to see Portland firsthand and realize the exaggerated nature of those reports,” Brown asserts.

The pandemic posed unprecedented challenges for the hospitality industry worldwide, and Hotel Eastlund was no exception. “We had to close the wine bar for almost two years,” Brown recalls. “It was a significant setback, but we reopened in June 2022 with renewed vigor.” Amphora Wine Merchant, now fully operational, offers a variety of services including a monthly wine club and private events in its unique wine cave.

Prime location and local attractions

Hotel Eastlund’s location is another significant draw. “We’re directly across the street from the Oregon Convention Center and two blocks from the Moda Center,” Brown highlights. These venues are major demand drivers, hosting events like concerts and Blazers games, which attract numerous visitors. The proximity to top-tier restaurants such as Gregory Gourdet’s Kann and the James Beard Award-winning Ox further enriches the guest experience.

“Kann was named the best new restaurant in the entire country last year,” Brown notes with pride. “Having such a renowned dining spot within a mile of our hotel is a tremendous asset.”

Shipley adds, “It’s a very walkable area with plenty of things to do. You can hop on the MAX light rail across the street, head into the downtown area, and walk around the waterfront. It’s an accessible and vibrant neighborhood.”

The hotel’s strategic location also makes it a convenient choice for business travelers. “Being close to the convention center and the Moda Center, we attract a lot of corporate and group bookings,” Shipley explains. “We’ve tailored our services and amenities to cater to these guests, ensuring they have a seamless and productive stay.”

Commitment to sustainability

Sustainability is a core value at Hotel Eastlund. “Back in 2015, with our renovation, we incorporated state-of-the-art sustainability practices,” Brown explains. Including high-efficiency, low-water toilets, LED fixtures throughout the property, and automated HVAC systems that activate when guests check in and deactivate when they check out. Motion-detecting lights and bulk dispensers for toiletries further reduce the hotel’s environmental footprint.

“We also have seven EV charging stations, a significant number for a hotel,” Brown notes. The commitment to sustainability extends to the hotel’s restaurant partners, who use compostable materials and comply with Portland’s strict regulations on straw distribution and waste management.

The hotel’s efforts in sustainability are not just about compliance but also about leading by example. “We aim to set a benchmark for other hotels in the region,” Brown says. “Our sustainable practices are an integral part of our identity and operational philosophy.”

Engaging with local communities

Hotel Eastlund prides itself on its deep engagement with the local community. Brown serves on the Travel Portland Board of Directors and the Go Lloyd transportation board, while Shipley is involved with the Lloyd Community Association and on the Board of the local Oregon Chapter of GBTA.

“We invest in bike infrastructure, safety, and promoting public transportation to reduce the carbon footprint,” Shipley explains. The hotel’s active participation in organizations like the Global Business Travel Association further underscores its commitment to fostering strong local connections.

“Community engagement is at the heart of what we do,” Shipley says. “Whether it’s supporting local businesses or participating in neighborhood initiatives, we believe in giving back and being an integral part of Portland.”

Key partnerships and future projects

Strategic partnerships with organizations like the Oregon Convention Center and prominent companies such as Autodesk and Providence are integral to the hotel’s success. “Our rooftop restaurant, Metropolitan Tavern, provides a breathtaking view of the city and serves as a showcase for Travel Portland’s guests,’ says Brown.”

Looking ahead, the hotel is focused on maintaining its leading edge in technology. “We were the most technologically advanced hotel in the market when we opened, and we continue to prioritize that,” Brown emphasizes. Upcoming projects include a complete Wi-Fi refresh and the addition of luxury sofa sleepers to certain rooms to better accommodate groups and families.

“We’re also resurfacing our valet parking garage, which is a significant investment in our infrastructure,” Brown reveals. “These upgrades ensure that we remain a top choice for both business and leisure travelers.”

The hotel is also expanding its offerings to cater to evolving guest needs. “We’re modifying our room offerings to include more two bedded rooms,” Brown explains. “This is in response to the changing landscape of business travel and the increased demand for group accommodations.”

Legacy of excellence

As Hotel Eastlund approaches its tenth anniversary since reopening, it continues to stand as a shining example of how a historic property can adapt and thrive in a modern world. With a commitment to exceptional service, sustainable practices, and deep community engagement, the Eastlund offers an unparalleled experience for every guest. Whether visiting for business or leisure, guests can expect a blend of rich history, modern luxury, and the vibrant culture of Portland.

Under the passionate leadership of Brown and Shipley, the future of Hotel Eastlund is poised for continued excellence and innovation, ensuring it remains a beloved destination for years to come.

AT A GLANCE

Hotel Eastlund

What: A boutique hotel in Portland, featuring 168 luxurious rooms with modern decor, floor-to-ceiling windows, and California-sized beds.

Where: Portland, Oregon

Website: https://www.hoteleastlund.com/