I agree with almost everything else the other reviewers have said: The staff is really helpful and quick to give directions and suggestions. The location is great--in a pretty cool neighborhood and within easy walking distance of public transit and everything you want to see (Powell's!). It was pretty clean; the bathrooms were a bit musty, probably due to the age of the building, but nothing felt icky. And I felt totally safe and secure: I was traveling by myself, and all of the other women who passed through my 6-bed female-only dorm room were also solo. I had no problems on my own in the hostel or in the city. I would be totally fine with staying here--by myself or with my traveling buddy--again.

We liked Portland a lot -- clean, friendly, and small enough to explore comfortably. This hostel just on the edge of the northern part of the city center is a complement to the city and provided us a fine place to stay.

We traveled via Amtrak and the hostel was in walking distance from the Amtrak station (about 10 blocks; a 15-20 minute walk). The hostel is comprised of three buildings; we stayed in one of the side buildings in a great room with two bedrooms for our family of four -- easily the nicest hostel accommodations we've ever had. No private bathroom, but that was hardly a problem with several bathrooms in the house.

The only problem I found was that I couldn't get the WiFi working despite numerous attempts. It may have been an odd router configuration, but I'm sure I was just unlucky, as no one else had problems as far as I was aware. We also had trouble receiving a message from local friends -- our friends had to make three attempts before the hostel staff passed on the note to us. But I think these things are incidental and do not reflect the service and staff.

In the summer they have regular music nights outside in the quaint backyard -- what a great atmosphere and setting. To explore the city, it's only a short walk until you get to the free transit zone.

Overall, this is a great hostel and we would certainly stay here again

I have been to quite a few hostels and this one if by far my favorite. Built into an old house, it has an old time feel on the outside but the inside is %100 Portland. It was warm and cozy and the staff where plenty nice and helpful. Now, if you're looking for something upscale, this place may not be for you. We stayed in a private room but still shared that bathroom that was fairly clean except after some hikers checked in after what looked like a very ling walk from Canada or somewhere, and filled the shower with leaves. like most hostels you bring your own soap and such, but towels are provided. Be warned though, this place does not have AC, so if you are visiting in the summer you may want to grab a fan by the front desk. Other than a few minor flaws, this place was the best.

If you're used to the hosteling international chain then you know why you're getting here. This hostel has great bathroom and kitchen facilities, HUGE private rooms (normally big enough for 3 people) and nice dorm style rooms. Unlike some HI's this one is quiet.