Best Hotels near Willamette University

The Grand Hotel in Salem is within walking distance of attractions such as the Capital Plaza, Riverfront Carousel, Riverfront Park and Elsinore Theatre. (Recent guests warn that the hotel’s downtown Salem location can mean street noise, especially on the lower floors.) Its 193 rooms all have both free Wi-Fi access and wired internet, coffee makers, minifridges, microwaves and flat-screen TVs. The 40 suites, which are bigger than the standard guestrooms, have distinct living rooms and bedrooms and wet bars. The 10 grand suites, which are larger than both the standard guest rooms and the other suites, also have separate bedrooms and living rooms; some even have fireplaces and Jacuzzis. Additional amenities include a 24-hour business center, a fitness center and indoor swimming pool (both on the second floor), a complimentary breakfast buffet and free underground parking. Bentley’s Grill, the hotel’s full-service restaurant for lunch and dinner, focuses on regional cuisine such as seafood, while the Lounge, its bar, offers a wide range of whiskeys, vodkas, wines and other adult beverages. The Grand Hotel connects with the Salem Convention Center, which has 30,000 square feet of meeting space. 

DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Salem, Oregon is situated in the Willamette Valley, a short drive from several wineries as well as the Millcreek Corporate Center, the Woodburn Outlet Malls and the State Fairgrounds. Its 80 rooms offer minifridges, microwaves, flat-screen TVs, Wi-Fi access and sofa beds. Amenities include a business center, a fitness room, an indoor swimming pool and a whirlpool spa. The hotel’s Press NW Bistro & Bar serves salads and sandwiches for lunch and dinner as well as some of the beers and wines made nearby. There’s also an on-site convenience store. The property’s proximity to the Interstate 5 expressway could be seen as either a plus (convenience) or a minus (noise). Some recent guests also found the adjacent strip club off-putting. Because this is a DoubleTree by Hilton, the hotel participates in the Hilton Honors rewards program. 

Featuring cozy rooms with full kitchens and workspaces, Residence Inn Salem provides guests with a home away from home. Situated off of Interstate 5 and within 4 miles of downtown Salem, Oregon, the Marriott hotel is appreciated among business travelers and tourists alike. Start your day off with a complimentary hot breakfast before a round of tennis on the sport courts or a dip in the indoor pool. Or if it’s time to get some work done, take advantage of the free Wi-Fi access and the property’s business center. In addition to full kitchens, rooms feature dining tables, living areas and flat-screen TVs. Marriott Rewards members can also earn and redeem points at the property. Pet-friendly accommodations are available. Recent guests applaud the roomy accommodations and convenient location but lament that the property could use an update.