The Heathman Hotel, Portland

We recently stayed at this hotel and unfortunately had several issues that significantly impacted our experience. Valet service was especially disappointing. On our first day, we waited approximately 30 minutes to receive our car and ended up being late to an event as a result. Three different staff members handled our valet request during that time, yet there seemed to be no coordination. We watched other guests arrive after us, receive their vehicles, and leave while we were still waiting. In addition, we asked valet on two separate occasions to charge our vehicle, and despite being assured it would be taken care of, the car was never charged. That was extremely inconvenient, especially when you’re relying on that service while traveling. The heat in our room also did not work well, and the room remained quite cold throughout our stay, making it difficult to fully relax and be comfortable. We were also not informed about ongoing construction until after the deadline to modify or cancel our reservation had passed. Guests should be made aware of construction in advance so they can make an informed decision before booking. Be aware that there is construction happening, and some amenities or services may not function as expected. Another concern was the overall presence and visibility of staff in the lobby. On multiple occasions, staff appeared to be sitting in the lobby area but were not clearly identifiable, making it difficult to distinguish between employees and patrons. It was often unclear who to approach for assistance. The property itself has potential, but clearer communication, better follow-through on guest requests, and improved service coordination would make a significant difference in the overall guest experience.

My husband and I stayed at the Heathman for our anniversary weekend and it was a great experience. Pros: The hotel is nicely appointed and in a really central part of town. We could walk everywhere we wanted to go. Their fitness facilities were also the best I've seen in any hotel I've stayed at. The free Stumptown Coffee and Smith Tea were a nice touch. The beds were comfortable and the shower was great. We would happily stay at the Heathman again the next time we are in Portland. Cons: The primary downside of our stay was that the lobby was under construction. We weren't made aware of this until we arrived and while they kept noise to a minimum and during working hours, we could still hear it on the 8th floor. Luckily we planned to be out of the hotel most of the day so weren't bothered by it. While the lobby is under construction, they have a temporary set up for check-in and it's very messy looking. Not a great first impression when you walk in but the rest of the facilities are much nicer. Also, I'm not sure if it's due to the construction shifting things around temporarily but the pictures of the library area are outdated and should be updated (where those big bookshelves are is now a cocktail bar, which I never saw staffed...) The restaurant was good and we liked our server Connie but it seemed really understaffed both mornings we ate there. Lastly, I was amazed at how many families with young children were staying at the hotel. We weren't there with children but it seems to draw that crowd.

Have stayed previously but was disappointed in this most recent stay in terms of the construction, atmosphere and service. In terms of the construction, we weren't notified until after reserving and only a week prior. The main library was not available along with the master fireplace, which we had previously enjoyed and was greatly missed during our most recent stay as it is the majority of the atmosphere of the hotel. The library/relaxation/reading space was moved to another area which during intermission at the theatre next door became inundated with people as they hosted an intermission cocktail hour which was highly disturbing. Check in was on a fold out table with entering through the restaurant which overall seemed uncomfortable and cluttered. Our rooms were clean, spacious and comfortable which we enjoy with each visit and greatly look forward to. They are always more than accommodating for our pets and even provided bowls for them which we always appreciate. Staff was overall kind but not overtly helpful or pleasant as previous experiences. When asked questions they seemed unknowledgeable and lacked initiative in procuring answers to what they didn't know. The food remained good, however lacked variety and the kitchen closed relatively early. Their meat and cheese tray was fairly unvaried and paltry considering value. Hoping this reduced experience in their restaurant, service and atmosphere is temporary - like their construction- as we've always enjoyed staying here but wouldn't recommend during the construction if this is the case, given our most resent experience.

Enjoyed our stay at the Heathman Hotel. It is beautiful and in a great location. Walkable area. The staff is helpful and friendly. The rooms are large and well appointed. We went while the hotel is being rennovated, and despite this, the hotel ran smoothly and was not noisy or messy. They are doing a good job with the inconvenience. I would recommend this hotel with out hesitation.

CONS: We ordered the Valentine's tea service, and while the website says gluten free options, the gluten free options felt like an afterthought. They brought out a much smaller and disappointing selection. After having had other gluten free tea services, my expectations were much higher, especially for the cost at $120/ea for the Valentine's tea. Additionally we both felt sick afterwards, and spent Valentine's afternoon in our room with gurgle gut. We came during the lobby remodel, which wasn't mentioned during the reservation process, and the initial impression was awkward. This is completely understandable and common during construction and otherwise did not interfere with access or our experience at all. PROS: At the tea, the chef came out and offered replacement items from the restaurant menu at no charge. When we mentioned we were sick, the staff brought ginger ale and water to our room,again at no charge. At check out they comped the entire tea service. They were incredibly accommodating. The building is beautiful and the room was excellent. SUMMARY: We would absolutely visit again. We would love to see the completed lobby remodel. As a celiac though, I would not order the tea service.