Hoyt Hotel

Hoyt Hotel Portland: Visiting Hours, Tickets & Historical Significance Guide

Date: 04/07/2025

Introduction

Portland, Oregon’s storied past is reflected in its enduring landmarks and the memories of sites that have shaped its urban identity. One such landmark, the Hoyt Hotel, though demolished in 1977, continues to captivate historians, locals, and visitors through its unique history as a railway-era hub transformed into a glamorous entertainment destination. Built in 1912 at the intersection of Northwest Hoyt Street and Sixth Avenue—across from Union Station—the Hoyt Hotel was a cornerstone of Portland’s hospitality and nightlife. This guide offers an in-depth look at the hotel’s historical significance, architectural features, and practical visitor information for exploring its legacy through nearby attractions, museums, and walking tours.

For further reading and research, consult resources from the Oregon Historical Society, Lost Oregon, Oregon Encyclopedia, and CardCow.

A Brief History of the Hoyt Hotel
Architectural Features & Design Elements
Cultural Significance & Social Impact
Visiting the Hoyt Hotel Site Today
Visitor Tips & Practical Information
Themed Experiences & Photo Opportunities
Responsible Tourism & Preservation
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Related Attractions & Resources
Conclusion & Call to Action
Sources

A Brief History of the Hoyt Hotel

Constructed in 1912 to serve Portland’s booming railway travelers, the Hoyt Hotel provided affordable accommodations at the heart of the city’s transport hub. Initially modest, the hotel gained a reputation as a “flea bag hotel” but served an essential role, especially in the 1940s when it housed steel workers during wartime.

The hotel’s golden era began in 1961 when entrepreneur Harvey Dick invested $2 million to transform the property into an entertainment sensation. The revamped Hoyt featured five restaurants and bars, most famously the Barbary Coast Lounge and the Roaring 20’s Room. The hotel became a magnet for celebrities like Johnny Carson and Duke Ellington and was known for its quirky attractions—a harpist in the ladies’ lounge and a novelty urinal in the men’s room. Despite a decade of popularity, changing tastes and neighborhood decline led to the hotel’s closure in 1972 and eventual demolition in 1977 (Lost Oregon; Oregon Encyclopedia).

Architectural Features & Design Elements

Early 20th-Century Construction

The Hoyt Hotel was built with reinforced concrete—a testament to the engineering advancements of the era. Its robust structure made demolition a difficult task, highlighting how sturdily it was constructed (Lost Oregon).

Distinctive Facade & Art Glass

The hotel’s facade boasted tall, ornate windows, some reportedly salvaged from the historic St. Mary Magdeline Church. Inside, custom stained glass and Tiffany lamps contributed to a unique blend of elegance and theatricality (Vintage Portland).

Thematic Interiors

Barbary Coast Lounge: This “Gay Nineties”-themed lounge was adorned with 77 custom-made gas lamps, inviting guests into a Roaring Twenties fantasy.
Hooterville Cannonball Room: A full-size train car, inspired by the TV show “Petticoat Junction,” was installed as a novelty dining space.
Playful Features: The men’s restroom was famous for its urinal equipped with bells and sirens, and other interactive, whimsical elements delighted guests (Lost Oregon).

Artifacts & Decorative Arts

Upon closure, many of the hotel’s decorative pieces were auctioned, with several ending up in private collections or local businesses like Rejuvenation (Lost Oregon).

The Hoyt Hotel was more than just a place to stay; it was a vibrant social hub. Hosting cabaret shows, late-night dining, and celebrity performances, it reflected Portland’s evolving entertainment scene.

Its proximity to Union Station made it a key waypoint for travelers, intertwining its history with that of the city’s transportation network. The hotel’s distinctive style and reputation also helped define the character of Portland’s North End and inspired later preservation efforts for Portland’s historic architecture (Oregon Encyclopedia).

Visiting the Hoyt Hotel Site Today

Important Note: No Physical Building Remains

The Hoyt Hotel was demolished in 1977. The block where it stood is now vacant or used for staging, so there are no visiting hours or tickets for the site itself.

Exploring the Legacy

Union Station: Still in operation and across from the former hotel site, it’s a beautifully maintained piece of Portland’s transportation history.
Old Town & Pearl District: These neighborhoods retain early 20th-century architecture and are rich with historical walking tours.
Oregon Historical Society: Visit for exhibits, photographs, and archives relating to Portland’s entertainment and hospitality past.
Collectibles: Antique stores and online marketplaces occasionally offer Hoyt Hotel memorabilia (CardCow).

Visitor Tips & Practical Information

Location: Use Union Station (800 NW 6th Ave) as your navigation point.
Access: The area is served by MAX light rail (Union Station/NW 6th & Hoyt stop) and multiple bus lines.
Parking: Limited; public transit is recommended.
Accessibility: Union Station and most nearby attractions are wheelchair accessible.

Best Time to Visit: June–August offers the best walking weather and festival activity (Travellers Worldwide).

Nearby Dining & Entertainment: The Pearl District and Old Town offer diverse dining, from food carts to fine dining, often with historic ambiance.

Themed Experiences & Photo Opportunities

Union Station’s “Go By Train” Sign: A classic photo spot.
Walking Tours: Many include stories about the Hoyt Hotel’s heyday.
Pearl District Streetscapes: Ideal for cityscape photography.

Responsible Tourism & Preservation

Respect the Site: Avoid trespassing on the vacant lot.
Support Local History: Donate or volunteer with the Oregon Historical Society.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Can I visit the Hoyt Hotel today?
A: No, the building was demolished in 1977, but you can explore the area and related historic sites.

Q: Are there guided tours about the Hoyt Hotel?
A: Yes, several Portland walking tours include stories about the Hoyt Hotel’s role in the city’s development.

Q: Where can I see artifacts from the Hoyt Hotel?
A: Some artifacts are in private collections and local businesses; historical societies may feature them in exhibits.

Q: Is the site accessible by public transportation?
A: Yes, it’s adjacent to Union Station and served by MAX light rail and bus routes.

Conclusion & Call to Action

The Hoyt Hotel’s legacy is woven into Portland’s cultural and architectural history. Even in absence, its spirit endures through Union Station, the vibrant Pearl District, and the stories preserved by local archives and communities. To fully experience Portland’s historic landscape, consider taking a walking tour, visiting the Oregon Historical Society, and exploring nearby landmarks.

Plan your visit: Download the Audiala app for self-guided walking tours and in-depth historical content on Portland’s lost landmarks. Stay engaged with Portland’s story by following local heritage organizations and joining community events.