Unicorn Inn by OYO Portland

I was in a desperate spot after making a reservation around 9 p.m. without having my money yet. John at the front desk held the room for me until I finally had the money at 2 a.m. I got to sleep, charge my phone, and stay safe before the 11 a.m. checkout. I’m really thankful to John. He was very nice.

The pet policies are very reasonable, and the pet room was clean and inexpensive. Glen at the front desk was so friendly and helpful that staying there is worth it for him alone. I’ll definitely visit again.

For a bit more money, you can get a nicer motel in a better neighborhood. I took a chance on this place because of the positive reviews, but it was a big mistake. The halls and rooms reeked of cigarette and marijuana smoke, and everything felt run down and decrepit. The floors in the hallways were spongy and creaky enough that I was afraid I might fall through. The area also felt really bad, with many homeless people around all day and night. The rooms were cavernous, fairly clean, and surprisingly quiet. There’s no elevator or ice machine. It seems like every OYO property is in similar shape. Unlike its namesake, there’s nothing fantastical about this rundown, dumpy motel.

The staff responded when we needed to move to a more comfortable room after our friend got sick and we had to stay longer than planned. Other guests were kind, too. The Unicorn Inn takes safety seriously, with cameras covering every public part of the property. The surrounding area is affected by homelessness, but it’s also the center of some truly terrific, authentic Vietnamese, Korean, and Chinese food, including Kenny's Noodles. My 18 year old and I traveled with our cat from Massachusetts to Portland, Oregon, this summer, staying in at least ten motels that all cost under $100 a night. Every one had problems, and none felt like home. That’s the nature of motels in that price range. Managers can’t control everything people do in their rooms, like fight, smoke, or bring bugs in their luggage. What matters is how the staff respond. I’d highly recommend this place if you want to feel safe and welcome.