Grandpa's Bunkhouse is a stand-alone cabin in our backyard kitchen garden, and it really was our grandfather's. Expect pride of ownership from 3 generations, appointments that speak to family and Pacific Northwest history, and a homestay that is simply a cut above.
AMENITIES -Kitchen w/ copper farm sink & compact range and refrigerator--We repurposed Grandpa's old-growth fir workbench for the counter -Coffee maker with wear-ever filter -Queen bed with linens from LL Bean -Bathroom with 5-star tumbled stone shower, rain head, skylight -Vaulted 14 foot yellow cedar ceiling -French doors open out onto 4-season organic garden -Mitsubishi mini-split for heating and ac -Washer/Dryer -Wireless internet -Smart TV screen for your devices -Sustainable no-chem gardens front, back, curbside -Private covered porch with seating
Our grandparents bought the main house for their retirement, and it's been in the family since 1950. We have enjoyed hosting travelers since 2005 first in our daylight basement studio, Auntie's Hideaway (#724637), and since 2014 in our backyard cabin Grandpa's Bunkhouse (#594594).
We accept most dogs* & cats in both studios. We do not host the following breeds: pit bull, Rottweiler, German shepherd. Also we do not host exotic pets.
Our pet guest fee is by the week. If you have more than one pet or will be staying move than a week please let VRBP know when booking so they can calculate.
We are fragrance free here and ask guests to use no air deodorizers or scented laundry products.
LOCATION OFF MAJOR BOULEVARD: -Easy access to downtown (20 min), airport (10 min) and the Columbia River Gorge. We are 2 blocks off Sandy Blvd, one of Portland's major thoroughfares which makes getting around quite speedy. -15 minutes from 3 of Portland's Eastside neighborhood districts: the Beaumont, Mississippi Avenue, and Alberta Arts
FELINE ALERT: We have a cat who roams the premises, so we cannot host travelers with allergies.
PARKING: Ample free street parking in front of our home.
BIKE PARKING: Secure (uncovered) tethering for bikes in the backyard.
INTERNATIONAL CREDIT CARDS: There is an additional charge for using international cards. Please inquire.
MORE INFORMATION ON OUR HOME AND NEIGHBORHOOD
We Johnson's are of the mind that life is art, and we've had this property since 1950. So whether you choose our more affordable lower level basement suite with galley and stunning shower (Auntie's Hideaway) or our lovely stand-alone backyard studio with vaulted ceilings (Grandpa's Bunkhouse), expect to walk into charm and history--as well as quality. We are of relatively humble means here, but what we do, we try to do right.
*The Grounds: This home is reminiscent of a Tuscan garden. Between the back beds and the front curbside gardens, your host Jean Johnson, grows much of the family's own organic produce year round.
A flower garden and fountain make for an inviting scene.
*The Neighborhood: We are 10 minutes from the airport and 20 to downtown. Also 3 of Portland's hip neighborhoods--The Beaumont, Alberta Arts, and Mississippi Avenue--are 15 minutes away. We're also on the east side of the city, where it's easy to hop on the freeway to the Columbia River Gorge, which is listed as a National Scenic Area.
We are in walking distance is Noodle Flat, where many of Portland's Asian restaurants line Sandy Boulevard--and Otto's Wood-Fired Pizza packs 'em in nightly. A major grocery is 3 blocks away, as is the historic Fairley's Pharmacy where you can sit at the lunch counter from the 1920s and order malteds made on the old fashion green machines. Annie's Doughnuts is just around the corner, and their fresh French crullers with maple icing are well worth the stroll. And for those interested in meditation, Dharma Rain Zen Center is 10 minutes by car, as is the Grotto.
Espresso and croissants worthy of Portland's food culture are also 10 minutes by car over at Grand Central Bakery as is Black Bird, an excellent unpretentious wine bar.
Our neighborhood is safe to jog in and walk at night. Families with young children grace our block.
Happy trails...We hope to see you soon.
Our prices include all fees. No hidden fees.
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Pets allowed: dogs and cats less than 23 kg per pet (limit 2 pets total)
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Smoking
Smoking is not permitted
Check-out instructions
The host requires you to complete the following before checking out:
Remove personal items and remove leftover food and drinks
Please do up your own dishes. Then just leave the key on the table. Finally, if you enjoyed your stay in Grandpa’s, please leave a few words of review.
Happy trails.
The Johnson House, Est 2005
Failure to complete these may result in a negative review from the host.
Tobacco smoking and vaping is not acceptable here, both inside the studio and outside in the yard or in front of our home.
Important information
You need to know
Property Registration Number 14-240877-000-00-HO
Property # 594594vb
This property is managed by a private host (a party not acting within their trade, business or profession). EU consumer law, including the right of withdrawal, will not apply to your booking. The cancellation policy set by the private host will cover your booking.
Extra-person charges may apply and vary depending on property policy
Government-issued photo identification and a credit card, debit card or cash deposit may be required at check-in for incidental charges
Special requests are subject to availability upon check-in and may incur additional charges; special requests cannot be guaranteed
On-site parties or group events are strictly prohibited
Host has indicated that there is a carbon monoxide detector on the property
Host has indicated that there is a smoke detector on the property
Safety features at this property include a fire extinguisher
About the area
Portland
Located in Northeast Portland, a neighbourhood in Portland, this apartment is in the mountains and by the sea. The Grotto and Burnside Bridge are local landmarks, and some of the area's activities can be experienced at Portland Aerial Tram and Edgefield Winery. Check out an event or a game at Moda Center, and consider making time for Oregon Zoo, a top attraction not to be missed. Relax and indulge in the area's winery tours, or seek out an adventure with ecotours, hiking and cycling nearby.
Yes, this property allows cats and dogs (limit 2 total) with a maximum weight of up to 23 kg per pet. Some restrictions may apply, so please contact the property for more details.
How much does it cost to stay at Artful, Rustic Backyard Cabin-Sustainable Ethic, Downtown 20 Min, 5-Star Shower?
As of 12 May 2026, prices found for a 1-night stay for 2 adults at Artful, Rustic Backyard Cabin-Sustainable Ethic, Downtown 20 Min, 5-Star Shower on 12 Jul 2026 start from £70, including taxes and fees. This price is based on the lowest nightly price found in the last 24 hours for stays in the next 30 days. Prices are subject to change. Choose your dates for more accurate prices.
How much is parking at Artful, Rustic Backyard Cabin-Sustainable Ethic, Downtown 20 Min, 5-Star Shower?
On-site parking is available at the property.
What time is check-in at Artful, Rustic Backyard Cabin-Sustainable Ethic, Downtown 20 Min, 5-Star Shower?
Check-in begins at 3:00 PM.
What time is check-out at Artful, Rustic Backyard Cabin-Sustainable Ethic, Downtown 20 Min, 5-Star Shower?
Checkout is at 11:00 AM.
Where is Artful, Rustic Backyard Cabin-Sustainable Ethic, Downtown 20 Min, 5-Star Shower located?
Located in Northeast Portland, this apartment building is 0.6 mi (1 km) from The Grotto and within 3 miles (5 km) of Providence Portland Medical Center and Alberta Street. Mt Tabor Park and Laurelhurst Park are also within 3 miles (5 km). Parkrose-Sumner Transit Center is 24 minutes by foot and NE 82nd Avenue Station is 26 minutes.
Reviews
9.8
Exceptional
Reviews are presented in chronological order, subject to a moderation process, and verified unless otherwise labelled.
Our stay at Grandpa's Cabin was very welcoming and super cozy. It was quiet at night and the bed was comfy. The kitchen was just right and the copper sink was a thing of beauty! The shower was fabulous. Our communication with our host was excellent. Our dog was especially excited about the cool tile floor. Hope to revisit.
Marcia C.
Stayed 5 nights in Apr 2026
Response from VrboOwner on 15 Apr 2026
Ditto here, Marcia!
You folks were great down-to-earth guests, and our welcome will always be out for you in the future.
Best, Jean & Family
Jean was wonderful and so knowledgeable about the area. We thoroughly enjoyed chatting with her, and the cabin was perfect for our stay! Great location, close to everything we wanted to do, super quiet, and very safe.
Dorci N.
Stayed 4 nights in Oct 2025
Response from VrboOwner on 23 Oct 2025
Great to host you folks, Dorci, and so pleased you liked Grandpa's Bunkhouse. Cheers!
Jean is a very friendly host, and Grandpa’s Cabin was clean and comfortable.
Susan F.
Stayed 7 nights in Aug 2025
Response from VrboOwner on 17 Aug 2025
Our family was glad to host you Susan and glad you found Grandpa's up to snuff. Indeed, we think we have a pretty nice Portland vibe around here. Wishing you happy trails.
Grandpas is in the perfect spot. So much life and so much to do in the area. The neighborhood was beautiful as was the property. Jean is the sweetest person and made the whole experience such a joy.
sarah r.
Stayed 12 nights in Oct 2025
Response from VrboOwner on 17 Oct 2025
Ahh Sarah. So lovely to host you folks. Glad Grandpa's was a hit for you. Happy trails, Jean & Family
Verified
10/10 Excellent
Loraine
15 Sept 2024
Liked: Cleanliness, amenities, property conditions & facilities, communication
Beautiful quiet place, amazing history and very welcoming and sweet host, would definitely recommend and also would stay here again.
We very much enjoyed our stay at Grandpa’s cabin. It’s very quiet and private yet close to restaurants and shops. We found it to be tastefully decorated and had all the amenities we needed. Our hostess Jean went out of her way to accommodate us and make sure we had everything that we needed. Grandpa’s Cabin will definitely be at the top of our list for future visits to Portland.
Gregorio
Stayed 7 nights in Sep 2025
Response from VrboOwner on 4 Oct 2025
Thanks for your nice thoughts, Greg. The truth is: it takes two to tango and you folks were great guests. Come on back any time. Our welcome mat will be out for you.
Exactly as described but you have to experience it to fully appreciate this amazing place. This was the ideal home base for our Portland visit and Jean is a delightful host.
Julie N.
Stayed 3 nights in Jul 2025
Response from VrboOwner on 24 Jul 2025
Pleased you enjoyed our little scene here, Julie. We think it’s pretty special too…nice yet kinda home-spuny. Best, Jean
I stayed here because it was a unique property, close to family I was visiting and pet friendly (I was traveling with my little dog ). I really only slept there but it was a very peaceful, cozy spot. Jean, the host, is lovely and accommodating. I would definitely stay here again and hopefully spend more time enjoying the property!
C B.
Stayed 4 nights in Jul 2025
Response from VrboOwner on 19 Jul 2025
We are so pleased you enjoyed your time with us, and we enjoyed hosting you and your furry pal as well. Come back anytime; our welcome mat will be out for you.
Really enjoyed my overnight stay and had everything I needed. I really appreciate the ability to travel with my pup. The cabin was very clean, the garden is beautiful and Jean was a delightful host. Will definitely return when visiting friends again.
Joanne N.
Stayed 1 night in Jun 2025
Response from VrboOwner on 6 Jun 2025
Thanks for your great feedback, Joanne. We enjoyed hosting you and your furry pal. Our welcome mat is always out when you come this way again.
I felt very safe in the little cabin. I loved Jean’s garden. She as a nice host.
Janet S.
Stayed 7 nights in Jun 2025
Response from VrboOwner on 23 Jun 2025
Thanks for your kind words Janet. We're glad you felt cozy and that you loved the garden. Should you come our way again, we'd be delighted. Best, Jean & Family
Our host Jean was wonderful. My husband and I experienced such a relaxing visit here. EVERYTHING you could possibly need when going on vacation, Jean provides in this cozy space. Her garden and outside patio added a “spiritual touch.” I also must mention the AWESOME shower! When we visit Portland again, we’ll definitely stay here!!!
Tracy M.
Stayed 4 nights in Jul 2025
Response from VrboOwner on 27 Jul 2025
Glad you folks enjoy our scene here, Tracy. We enjoyed you too, and our welcome mat will always be out should you come our way again. Cheers, Jean & Family
We had a wonderful stay at "Grandpa's shed." Such a wonderful garden cottage full of interesting artifacts from Jean's family. We thoroughly enjoyed the patio/porch area in the evenings, overlooking the garden. Fantastic bathroom, and comfy bed. I would absolutely stay here again!
Paige P.
Stayed 3 nights in Jul 2024
Response from VrboOwner on 9 Aug 2024
We enjoyed hosting you, too, Paige. Our welcome mat is always out should you come our way again. Jean
Our 2nd stay here during our trip to Portland. It's comfortable, clean and convenient to airport. The surrounding garden provides a private and meditative experience.
Nice space to feel a cozy atmosphere with enough amenities to be comfortable! Jean is very friendly and helped make the stay comfortable. It was fun to learn the history behind the place as well. Just what I needed!
Heather H.
Stayed 3 nights in Oct 2024
Response from VrboOwner on 7 Oct 2024
It was great hosting you Heather. Happy trails
About the host
Hosted by Jean Johnson
Host Background: Jean a retired educator & historian, four season organic gardener, and student of ballet & Argentine tango. A native Portlander, she has very much enjoyed hosting travelers over the past 20 years and helping orient them to the city she knows and loves.
Johnson House Management: Jean Johnson is the host for this family business and lives on site. The Johnson brothers are silent partners and oversee policies and finances.
Why they chose this property
Our home is 2 blocks from Portland's major Sandy Boulevard. Here guests get the best of both worlds: A affordable place to come home to that is has plenty of free street parking and close proximity (15-20 minutes) to four of Portland's newest trendy neighborhoods and downtown. We, ourselves, are what we like to say: on the edge of trendy.
As a result, our family friendly hood is a place where we feel safe walking at night, has plenty of elbow room, and folks are down-to-earth Portlanders.
What makes this property unique
Jean's grandparents from Norway bought this bungalow new in 1950 for their retirement, and it's been in the family since. Expect an artful pride of ownership from three generations.
Indeed, this homestay is all about artful presentation--from the curbside gardens to the tumbled stone showers to family furnishings and appointments, and we like sharing our world with our guests.
Languages:
English
Premier Host
They consistently provide great experiences for their guests