KEX Portland — Hotel in Portland

I do not see how they have received good reviews until I realized they just get their patrons drunk. The Lobby was a bar. A block away was a city of tents and homeless people. When I walked in I noticed a sour, moldy smell. When I was being checked in I felt it was all about what I would be charged more. She told me they had no parking and the public parking was closer to where the homeless laid along the street underneath the bridge. I was never explained where things were like the bathroom that I would need during my stay. She did explained the finicky elevator. When I went to the room, I noticed the grungy carpet in the elevator because I had enough light to see. Their bar/lobby/front desk was dark so it cleanliness or not being clean could not be seen. In the room it was dark too. The bunks were not well marked where I could easily find my bunk. I finally did. In all the instructions it said I would have my own draw and would be charged if I used anyone else's draw. The room was so crammed with bunks I could not get my draw open. Another bunk was in the way. I could not get to the ladder to get up to my bunk because other people's belongings was blocking it. I just spoke out loud can you move your stuff so I can get to my bunk. The person the popped out of the bunk was a man. I did not request a mixed bunk room. As a single female traveling solo I did not feel safe being in a mixed room. I did not mark mixed in the first place because I see that men can easily overpower me. It could be unsafe. They probably leave off if the bunk room that doesn't have mixed is all male or female to cover themselves saying, it does not say a male or female bunk room. I went downstairs and asked about the mixed room. She said all the female bunk rooms were full. Just due to her air about things and the whole situation I did not stay, but got a hotel room for probably double the price. She told me that I would not be refunded my money. I could understand that but then she said they would not refund the first two nights I reserved. I am very fortunate I had the choice. Many young women travel on a shoe string budget and don't have that privilege. They would be stuck in that situation. I want them to know what they are...

KEX feels like a second home; shoutout to the staff who seriously hold it down

I've stayed at KEX multiple times for weeks at a time, and I keep coming back because this place really gets it right. It’s not just a stylish building in a great location, it’s the people here who make it special.

Inside, KEX is clean, cozy, and well-designed: the kind of place where you can be social or introverted and feel good either way. The sauna and gym are kind of hidden gems; every time I’ve gone, I’ve had the space to myself. The coffee in the lobby is really good, though if it runs out in the morning rush, just give the staff a heads up and they’ll have a fresh brew going in 10–15 minutes.

But here’s the real heart of the place: the staff. Mykie is the glue. I’ve seen them handle all kinds of tough interactions: not just grumpy guests, but also challenging situations with the houseless population that sometimes finds their way inside. That’s a hard line to walk, but they do it with compassion and empathy every time. On top of that, they helped me through an embarrassing moment recently without even a hint of judgment, which meant more to me than I can explain. Mykie holds this place together in a way that makes everything feel safe and supported; they truly care, and it shows.

Luz is another absolute gem. I’ve watched them deal with straight up rude customers without ever losing their cool. It’s clear some of the tension stems from low staffing (not anything Luz did), but they still show up and make sure guests are taken care of; I’ve come to rely on them for a lot.

June is also a friendly face you will see at the front; consistently warm and quick to help every time I’ve needed something; always responsive, always approachable.

Ollie and Eero, who usually work nights, are also amazing. They’re kind, calm, and go out of their way to make sure everyone feels safe and comfortable. Honestly, the night crew deserves backup; there are times the late night security stuff can get a little intense, and having more staff or a dedicated guard would go a long way.

If you’re thinking about staying here, do it. KEX has style, comfort, and location, but more importantly, it has heart. That’s what keeps me...

Everything you could ask for from a hostel style accommodation. Friendly staff, great room with everything I needed personally (water pitchers and glasses, all towels, clean full bedding, locker under your bunk (bring own lock or maybe they have downstairs? Didn’t ask, didn’t check) , good view, etc) I ended up having a 4 bunk room to myself last night so I guess I’m going off of that but even if there were others I really don’t think it would’ve been uncomfortable. You of course have privacy curtains for your bunk too. I suppose these stays are somewhat of lottery tickets depending on who ends up sharing with you but KEX Portland provides everything on their end to make you comfortable. There is even a sauna you can rent out by the hour (for free I think, just have to reserve). Full restaurant and bar/comfy lounge downstairs, really can’t beat it for the price. The room was everything I needed. Really the only thing I can think of to say bad is just the condition of Portland itself which is in no way, shape or form a reflection or this great property. Even the immediate surroundings were totally fine. The walk to and from union station did not inspire me much. I also walked to the Rose Quarter to and from at night and I thought it was ok..Just a little more aware. Again, not on the hotel at all and it was a great experience to stay there. If I ever go back to that city, I will stay here again in...