Jupiter Hotel

The Jupiter Hotel, a Michelin Key Selected property in Portland, Oregon, is lauded for its vibrant, distinctive atmosphere that captures the essence of the city's unique culture. Comprising two distinct buildings, the Jupiter Original and the more contemporary Jupiter NEXT, the hotel offers a blend of retro charm and modern design, making it a popular choice for travelers seeking a lively and authentic Portland experience.

1. Overall Rating & Sentiment

The general consensus for the Jupiter Hotel is overwhelmingly positive, with guests frequently praising its cool, trendy vibe and excellent location. It holds a "Good" rating of 7.9 based on over 586 reviews, with high scores for staff (8.9), location (8.7), cleanliness (8.4), and value for money (8.1). Many describe it as a "pure Portlandia" experience – comfortable, stylish, and perfectly situated for exploring the city's nightlife and attractions.

2. Key Highlights

Guests particularly love the hotel's unique design and lively ambiance. The Jupiter Original, a converted 1960s motor lodge, maintains a retro feel, while Jupiter NEXT is an unapologetically contemporary structure offering modern amenities.

• Live Music & Social Hub: The presence of the iconic Doug Fir Lounge, a renowned music venue, directly on-site is a major draw for many, offering entertainment right at the doorstep. The hotel also hosts various events in its outdoor lounge and garden areas.
• Design & Art: Both properties feature bright, fun, and often minimalist decor with eclectic artwork, murals, and pop art. The lobby often doubles as an art gallery.
• Pet-Friendly: The Jupiter Hotel welcomes pets, with amenities like food and water bowls available, though a fee applies.
• Eco-Friendly Initiatives: Rooms in the Jupiter Original provide eco-friendly bath products and green heating/cooling units.

3. Room Quality

Rooms across both properties offer comfort and a distinct design aesthetic.

• Jupiter Original: Features bright and fun decor with a modern, retro feel. Rooms are described as cozy, clean, and minimally stylish. Some rooms are equipped with chalkboard doors and painted murals. Guests appreciate the down bedding and fluffy towels.
• Jupiter NEXT: Offers larger, more luxurious, and stylish rooms with generous floor plans. Many west-facing rooms boast uninterrupted views of the city. Rooms here feature 60-inch flat-screen TVs and voice-activated smart room technologies. Bathrooms in Jupiter NEXT often integrate into the room design with iced windows separating the shower and toilet, while the sink is in the main area.
• Amenities: Standard amenities include air conditioning, flat-screen TVs, free Wi-Fi, and eco-friendly bath products. Some rooms also include mini-bars and refrigerators. Earplugs are often provided, particularly for rooms near the music venue.

4. Dining Experience

The Jupiter Hotel offers excellent on-site dining and drinking options.

• Hey Love: Located in the Jupiter NEXT lobby, Hey Love is described as an "arty bar" offering "tropical-inspired comfort food," cocktails, and a popular weekend brunch menu. It's known for its lush, plant-filled space that extends into a hidden garden. Hey Love has also been recognized as one of the best bars in the US.
• Doug Fir Lounge: This mid-century, log-cabin-styled venue serves food all day and is a major draw for its live music. Guests can enjoy food and drinks, with an outdoor area available in nice weather.

5. Service & Staff

The service and staff at Jupiter Hotel consistently receive high praise for being "super helpful and nice," "welcoming and helpful," and "friendly and helpful in the most genuine way." Guests have noted personal touches, such as welcome messages written on chalkboard doors. The front desk staff are often highlighted for their efficiency and knowledge.

6. Location & Accessibility

The Jupiter Hotel boasts a "great location" on East Burnside, across the river from downtown Portland, making it central without being in the midst of downtown's busy hustle.

• Neighborhood: Situated in the fast-developing and hip Industrial District of Southeast Portland, it's surrounded by numerous cute shops, coffee bars, restaurants (including popular spots like Le Pigeon, Sizzle Pie, and Burnside Brewery), and breweries, many within walking or biking distance.
• Attractions: It's conveniently close to the Oregon Convention Center (a 2-minute drive or short walk) and the Moda Center (one mile away). Downtown Portland is a 5-minute drive, and attractions like Powell's City of Books are just over a mile away.
• Transport: Public transport is easily accessible, and guests can walk across the Burnside Bridge to the Pearl District and other downtown areas. Portland International Airport is about 6 miles away, and Union Station is 1 mile away.

7. Value & Pricing

The Jupiter Hotel is generally considered affordable and offers good value for money, with prices for a 1-night stay for two adults starting from around $86-$116, though rates can vary.

• Parking: Self-parking is available, with an outdoor lot costing $20 per night and an underground garage for $40 per night (first-come, first-served).
• Pet Fees: A pet fee of USD 45 per accommodation per stay applies, with service animals exempt.

8. Common Complaints

While generally well-received, some recurring criticisms include:

• Noise: Given the lively atmosphere and the presence of the Doug Fir Lounge, noise can be an issue, particularly for rooms in the Jupiter Original or those located near the bar or patio, with noise potentially continuing until 2 AM. However, earplugs are provided in rooms.
• Lack of Elevators: The Jupiter Original is a 2-story building and does not have elevators, which might be a concern for some guests. Jupiter NEXT is a multi-story building but it's important to note the distinction.
• Room Size: While Jupiter NEXT rooms are noted as spacious, some rooms in the Jupiter Original might be perceived as smaller, consistent with its motor lodge origins.

Sources

1. michelin.com
2. anadventurousworld.com
3. wheeltheworld.com
4. booking.com
5. theurbandarling.com
6. ahotellife.com
7. theaureview.com
8. expedia.com
9. hotels.com
10. booking.com
11. jupiterhotel.com
12. boutiquehotelsportland.com
13. reddit.com
14. reddit.com
15. jupiterhotel.com
16. hotelscombined.com