Best Western Plus Columbia River Inn

We stayed six to a room and had plenty of space, with three large beds and a section that felt like a master suite. The modern bathroom and other amenities gave the hotel a fresh feel, but it still had a small-town, homey atmosphere. We loved being close to The Bridge of the Gods and having a view of the Columbia river from our room. Holly was lovely when she helped book our stay, Alex welcomed us and checked us in, and John was around whenever we needed anything. He played guitar by the fire while we waited to go to dinner, and shared stories from his life, including helping create famous bronze statues. The included breakfast at Bridgeside Restaurant was a pleasant surprise. It’s next door, with a good selection, tasty food, and generous portions. Everything, including the ice cream and burger stand, was within walking distance. We really enjoyed our visit and would come back.

We had a clean, comfortable room, and the décor made it feel warm and thoughtfully put together. The river views and location were great. Sound traveled from the room next door, where teenagers were staying, but John at the front desk handled the problem quickly and kindly. He was attentive and one of the best hotel staff members I’ve encountered. Breakfast comes as vouchers for a nearby restaurant. The food was good and the view was lovely, though service took a while during our visit. The Gorge can get very windy in winter, which is just part of the area, and I imagine the views are stunning in summer. I’d gladly stay here again.

The Columbia River setting gives this older hotel plenty of charm, and the staff made our stay enjoyable. We had pleasant weather overall, though the winds reached 30 mph during our first two days. The hotel overlooks the river, but there’s no direct access to the water from the property. There’s no restaurant or lounge on site. The hotel has an arrangement with the place next door, which has particularly nice Columbia River views at sunset. The restaurant itself was disappointing for us: the staff didn’t seem friendly, and the food wasn’t very good. As a Best Western Diamond Select member, I usually get breakfast included, but after eating there the first day, we decided to go elsewhere and pay ourselves. I’m giving the hotel and its staff five stars because they earned it, and I’ll review the restaurant separately. The area offers plenty of fishing spots, especially for salmon, along both the Washington and Oregon riverbanks, plus guided trips. A guided trip requires either a Washington or Oregon fishing license. From the bank, you need a license for the state where you’re standing. Licenses are reasonably priced, including for out-of-state visitors. Check the fishing rules for both states, particularly the Columbia River salmon regulations. They’re strict. Chinook (King) Salmon require barbless hooks, and you have to record your catch as soon as you remove the hook and put the fish away. Depending on the year, the limit may be just one or two Chinook, and violations can bring steep penalties.

The manager called well before check-in to let me know our room was ready, and John greeted us enthusiastically when we arrived. He also knew a lot about the area. I travel for work and have stayed in many hotels, but I haven’t had a welcome like this one at Best Western Plus Cascade Locks. Our balcony faced the Columbia River, and the view was stunning. There’s a railroad track nearby, so keep that in mind. Earplugs were in the room. My husband slept through the trains without them, and I was fine using them. Waking up to the river and the Gorge made that trade-off worthwhile. We expected a dull continental breakfast, but instead got a cooked-to-order meal at the restaurant next door, included with the room.