Offering visitors a seemingly limitless number of things to do and see, Portland is a top travel destination in the Pacific Northwest. Many travelers opt to stay just outside of Portland proper to take advantage of more affordable lodging options, but these areas have far more to offer than just competitive lodging rates.
Tucked conveniently along the I-5 and I-205 corridors just south of Portland, there is a collection of welcoming hotels offering travelers the best of both worlds: quick access to everything you want to explore, and a cozy home base when it’s time to rest. Let’s reconsider what staying outside the city center can mean when you make Mt. Hood Territory your launchpad.
Just because you choose to stay outside Portland, that doesn’t mean you have to be far from the action — or adventure. The accommodations along I-205 and I-5 are perfectly positioned at the crossroads of discovery, placing you within easy reach of both downtown Portland and the many wonders of Mt. Hood Territory.
This region offers much more than a convenient place to sleep. From the towering peak of Mt. Hood to the renowned vineyards of the Willamette Valley wine region, Mt. Hood Territory is a destination in its own right. You can sip craft brews in Estacada, explore scenic urban parks in Happy Valley, walk the pioneer paths in Oregon City or unwind with a glass of wine in a quiet tasting room just minutes from your hotel.
Staying in Clackamas County means experiencing Oregon’s incredible diversity — mountain adventure, wine country serenity and urban sophistication — all while enjoying the comfort and convenience of thoughtfully located lodging.
Running from Tualatin, Oregon in the south to Salmon Creek, Washington in the north, Interstate 205 — also known as Veterans Memorial Highway — is a bypass route that curves around Portland and Vancouver. There’s much to see along the I-205 corridor and many excellent places to stay. Here are a few of the lodging options to consider for your next visit.
This riverfront hotel offers spectacular views of the Willamette and is perfect for travelers hoping to get a bit of history during their stay. You can visit historic downtown Oregon City — the end of the Oregon Trail — or take a quick drive to one of the many gorgeous hikes nearby.
Perfect for families looking for an extended stay, Residence Inn Clackamas offers accommodations with full kitchens and extra space overall. From spacious studios to two-bedroom suites, this is an ideal home base to return to after all the vacation activities you have planned.
A favorite for conventions and other events, the Monarch Hotel is a convenient stopover with a full-service restaurant and bar on site. The Monarch also offers guests a launch point into nearby Happy Valley, which boasts boutique shopping, urban wineries, lush parks and scenic viewpoints.
Travelers cruising through Oregon along I-5 aren’t just passing through — they’re tapping into a region rich with possibilities. Stretching from the heart of the Willamette Valley through the Portland metro area and beyond, the I-5 corridor offers easy access to some of the best of the Pacific Northwest. The array of vibrant communities, natural beauty, and conveniently located hotels makes any kind of adventure possible.
A hotel with a modern sensibility, the Hilton Garden Inn offers comfort and style at the south end of the Portland metro area. While Wilsonville is a hub for business, it’s also an underrated home base for exploring Oregon’s famous wine country, beautiful hiking trails, and countless other attractions — all without Portland’s infamous traffic.
This Lake Oswego hotel delivers boutique style and quick access to the city’s thriving downtown. The AC Hotel is perfect for couples and solo travelers alike, providing premium accommodations without sacrificing its local touch. Recently remodeled, this hotel offers a more elegant and higher-end experience and is located just minutes from upscale dining and shopping, riverfront walks and artisan coffee shops. Enjoy a European-style breakfast to start your day, and unwind in the evening with an Iron Furnace cocktail — a tribute to a piece of Lake Oswego's heritage — or a selection of local beer and wine in the stylish bar and lounge. The AC Hotel is also pet-friendly and deeply integrated with the local community, even naming its 5,000 square feet of conference space after nearby neighborhoods.
This pet-friendly hotel offers a park-like feel, sitting in a quiet pocket among trees and walking paths. With suites and full kitchens, this Residence Inn is a perfect solution for those planning longer stays in the region. And when you’re ready to explore, you’re already within arm’s reach of both Portland and the wooded foothills of Mt. Hood.
Booking your stay at a Mt. Hood Territory hotel is a budget-friendly decision — it’s also an experience in itself. Here, you’ll be close to charming downtown main streets, lesser-known hiking trails, unforgettable roadside diners and a true taste of Oregon’s beauty and charm.
Use your lodging as a springboard into activities beyond the bustle of Portland, like joining a summer tour from Mt. Hood Outfitters or rafting the Upper Clackamas River. Explore the small towns that are the heart of this Oregon region and feel good knowing your visit supports local businesses and brings new life to the lesser-known corners of the state.
Whatever your reason for visiting Clackamas County, these convenient accommodations along the I-5 and I-205 corridors aren’t just pit stops — they’re part of the story of your trip. When you stay near Portland, you embrace the freedom of the freeway, the convenience of a thoughtfully located stay, and the joy that comes with discovering what lies outside the expected.
Start your Pacific Northwest journey here — book your stay today to make Mt. Hood Territory your home away from home.
