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Historic Vista Cottage- Portland Heights -Featured in the Oregonian

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Interior
Property grounds
Private kitchen
Historic Vista Cottage
Living area

Reviews

10 out of 10
Exceptional

Highlights

  • Top-rated comfy beds
    Guests liked the comfy beds here.
  • Private garden
    A rare find — relax in the peaceful, private garden space.
  • Walkable and wonderful
    Guests love the walkable location for its easy access on foot.
  • Discover nearby landmarks
    Walk to Portland State University
1 bedroom1 bathroomSleeps 3

Popular amenities

  • Onsite parking available
  • Dog-friendly
  • Kitchen
  • Washing machine
  • Air-conditioning
  • Barbecue grill

Explore the area

View in a map
Portland, OR
  • Place, Portland State University
    ‪14 min walk‬
  • Place, Providence Park
    ‪20 min walk‬
  • Place, Oregon Health and Science University
    ‪3 min drive‬
  • Airport, Portland, OR (PDX-Portland Intl.)
    ‪23 min drive‬

Rooms & beds

1 bedroom (sleeps 3)

1 bathroom

Bathroom 1

Spaces

Deck or patio
Kitchen
Garden
Dining area

About this property

Historic Vista Cottage- Portland Heights -Featured in the Oregonian

Quaint 1926 Portland Cottage-recently added to the National Register of Historic Places. comments: 'adorable', 'idyllic', 'magical', 'peaceful and relaxing'. Newly restored and renovated: hardwood floors, original wood burning fireplace, period molding and fixtures, a brand new fully equipped kitchen and a NW Native Garden designed by Habitat Restoration NW outside your bedroom window! Centrally located in SW Hills, on bus line, steps from Vista Spring Cafe, The Heights Antiques, Ainsworth Elementary School (you will hear the laughter of children on school days), and miles of hiking trails. Within walking distance of Portland's NW 23rd St (featuring some of the cities trendiest restaurants, brew pubs and boutique shops), Washington Park (with its Zoo and Rose Garden), Providence park (home of the Portland Timbers and Thorns soccer teams) and Forest Park (the largest natural urban forest reserve in the U.S, with 5000 acres of hiking trails) An easy commute to OHSU and Beaverton.
Vista Cottage is the perfect home base for a business executive looking for a hotel alternative, a couple on holiday, or anyone looking to immerse themselves in Portland life and culture.

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House Rules

Check in after 4:00 PM
Minimum age to rent: 25
Check out before 11:00 AM
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Children

Children allowed: ages 0–17
Children welcome but space is not 'childproofed'
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Events

No events allowed
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Pets

Pets allowed: dogs (limit 1 total)
Please contact owner in advance of booking
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Smoking

Smoking is not permitted

Important information

You need to know

Property # 439210vb
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 not indicated whether there is a carbon monoxide detector on the property; consider bringing a portable detector with you on the trip
Host has not indicated whether there is a smoke detector on the property
This property has outdoor spaces, such as balconies, patios and terraces, which may not be suitable for children; if you have any concerns, we recommend contacting the property prior to your arrival to confirm that they can accommodate you in a suitable room

About the area

Portland

Southwest Portland, a neighbourhood in Portland, is home to this cottage. The area's natural beauty can be seen at Portland Japanese Garden and Tom McCall Waterfront Park, while Oregon Zoo and Arlene Schnitzer Concert Hall are popular area attractions. Consider McMenamins Crystal Ballroom for a night out, and don't miss Oregon Museum of Science and Industry, a top local attraction.
View more Cottages in PortlandOpens in a new window
Map
Portland, OR

What's nearby

  • Portland State University - 14 min walk - 1.2 km
  • Washington Park - 18 min walk - 1.6 km
  • Providence Park - 20 min walk - 1.7 km
  • Oregon Health and Science University - 3 min drive - 1.7 km
  • Portland Art Museum - 3 min drive - 1.8 km

Getting around

  • Beaverton Hall-Nimbus Station - 15 min drive
  • Goose Hollow-SW Jefferson Street Station - 17 min walk
  • Portland International Airport (PDX) - 20 min drive

Restaurants

  • ‪Enchanted Sun Breakfast Burritos - ‬4 min drive
  • ‪Chipotle Mexican Grill - ‬4 min drive
  • ‪Goose Hollow Inn - ‬20 min walk
  • ‪Leaky Roof - ‬4 min drive
  • ‪The Cheerful Tortoise - ‬4 min drive

Frequently asked questions

Is Historic Vista Cottage- Portland Heights -Featured in the Oregonian pet-friendly?

Yes, this property allows dogs (limit 1 total).

How much is parking at Historic Vista Cottage- Portland Heights -Featured in the Oregonian?

On-site parking is available at the property.

What time is check-in at Historic Vista Cottage- Portland Heights -Featured in the Oregonian?

Check-in begins at 4:00 PM.

What time is check-out at Historic Vista Cottage- Portland Heights -Featured in the Oregonian?

Checkout is at 11:00 AM.

Where is Historic Vista Cottage- Portland Heights -Featured in the Oregonian located?

Located in Southwest Portland, this cottage is within 1 mi (2 km) of Portland State University and Oregon Health and Science University. Oregon Zoo and Moda Center are also within 3 miles (5 km). Goose Hollow-SW Jefferson Street Station is 17 minutes by foot and SW 11th & Clay Stop is 19 minutes.

Reviews

10

Exceptional

Reviews are presented in chronological order, subject to a moderation process, and verified unless otherwise labelled.
Learn moreOpens in a new window
Rating 10 - Excellent. 138 out of 146 reviews
Rating 8 - Good. 8 out of 146 reviews
Rating 6 - Okay. 0 out of 146 reviews
Rating 4 - Poor. 0 out of 146 reviews
Rating 2 - Terrible. 0 out of 146 reviews

10/10

Cleanliness

10/10

Check-in

10/10

Communication

10/10

Location

10/10

Listing accuracy

Reviews

Verified

10/10 Excellent

Barry K.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Loved my long stay at this charming historic cottage. Perfect size, All the amenities you might need. Comfortable bed, great shower, cozy HVAC. Enjoyed the Vista Cafe two doors on the street. Highly recommended.
Stayed 31 nights in Jan 2026
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Carolina C.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Cozy Cottage

Fun!
Stayed 32 nights in Apr 2025
Verified

8/10 Good

Betsy W.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

The best!

We stayed at the cottage for 6 weeks while I was undergoing a procedure at OHSU.It was such a pleasant, healing and lovely space. I am grateful to have been in this beautiful place and neighborhood. Lara was the best at being helpful and generous with all questions and ponderings.
Morning coffee on the back area.
Beautiful neighborhood findings.
Poem displayed in neighborhood yard✨
Stayed 38 nights in Jun 2025
Verified

10/10 Excellent

paul s.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Absolutely Fantastic !

Charming cottage in a wonderful neighborhood.Easy to get everywhere in the Portland area.Well kept and great communication with Lara.We stayed here a month while we were house hunting.We will definitely be staying here again.
Stayed 31 nights in May 2023
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Kameron S.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Extended Stay

I stayed in the cottage for a little over a month. The cottage is in a wonderful location, in a safe neighborhood close to downtown. Though the house is "historic" it has all you could want. The host was also wonderful and very responsive. If you're looking for a great place to stay while in Portland, this is it.
Stayed 48 nights in Sep 2023
Verified

10/10 Excellent

shawn r.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

*****5 star stay all the way *****

Lara was an amazing host! From check in to check out, the whole process was flawless. The cottage has everything you'd need and is comfortable, clean, relaxing and the perfect spot to get around town. 5 Stars all the way! Thanks Lara for a great stay.
Stayed 22 nights in Dec 2022
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Leslie B.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Historic Vista Cottage

Historic Vista Cottage was the perfect place to stay after selling our Portland home. Everything in the cottage was as described in the Cottage description, and Lara was responsive with any questions that came up during our stay. It’s a great walking neighborhood with easy access to grocery store and NW Portland shopping and Restaurants. We highly recommmend!
Stayed 31 nights in Jun 2024
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Charity M.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Portland Perfection

I don’t think I could have found a better place to stay in Portland. Lara’s place felt like home away from home and the weeks just flew by. I didn’t want to leave! A convenient, walkable and beautiful location. I’ve never wanted to walk so much in my life and even got my 12 year old son to put in some miles with me. The home was comfortable, clean, well stocked and full of charm. I really put the Nespresso to good use! :) Lara’s communication and hospitality was superb. I hope to be back again the next time I’m in Portland.
Stayed 31 nights in Jul 2023
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Claire R.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Wonderful host and wonderful cottage

Lara was an accommodating and responsive host. Very nice person, lovely to interact with. The cottage is charming, tastefully decorated, and fully equipped with everything you would need. I stayed at her cottage for a full month while relocating to Portland for work and it was the perfect landing pad while I got my bearings in a new city. Perfect for a solo traveler or couple. In a quiet, residential neighborhood. A nice pizzeria is on the corner for lunch and dinner options. 10/10 would recommend!
Stayed 32 nights in May 2022
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Kayla K.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Great historic place

Beautiful neighborhood for walking. Cute place that is well appointed for cooking.
Stayed 62 nights in Mar 2022
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Richard K.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Lara's Lovely cottage

Lara was an excellent host! The cottage is in a wonderful location close to shops and the neighborhood is beautiful. We would highly recommend a stay here for anyone interested in exploring Portland.
Stayed 31 nights in May 2021
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Pat M.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Want To Go Back!

We had a wonderful stay at the Vista Cottage over the holidays. Great neighborhood — did a lot of walking and took advantage of the Vista Spring Cafe being so close. Cottage was clean and comfortable. Lara’s communications were great from before check in and while we were there. Highly recommend!
Stayed 34 nights in Nov 2020
Verified

10/10 Excellent

collin s.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Great place to stay!

It was a lovely place and a beautiful stay!
Stayed 33 nights in Oct 2019
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Joseph F.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Perfect for two

Great cottage perfect for two, minutes from downtown Portland. We enjoyed the neighborhood feeling with the school next door and the amazing houses just a short walk away.
Stayed 4 nights in Oct 2019
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Wilfried W.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Absolutely Perfect

We thoroughly enjoyed our stay in this lovely, charming cottage, which is located in a beautiful neighborhood about 25 minutes walking distance from the city. The property had everything we needed and more, including high-quality linens and towels, Trader Joe’s bath products, candles, and even fresh flowers. And it was sparkling clean. Check in and out were simple and the host was very accommodating throughout. We highly recommend this beautiful property for short or long stays in Portland!
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Lissa M.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Great Location

Everything was great from the fresh flowers to the kitchen amenities. Love the flower stand. Thank you Laura!
Stayed 7 nights in Sep 2019
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Gregory J.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Great neighboorhood close to downtown

This cottage is in a great neighborhood in the hills close to downtown. It is very well maintained and suited us perfectly for a week long stay. Lara is very accommodating. Highly recommend this property.
Stayed 7 nights in Sep 2019
Verified

10/10 Excellent

N J.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Simple elegance in the perfect location

First, and foremost, Lara was a dream to communicate with: from my initial inquiry, through my errors in travel dates, to staying in the property itself, Lara responded promptly, clearly, and courteously. The cottage is beautifully appointed: simple elegant decoration and yet everything you might need is available in the space. My husband enjoyed the Nespresso, speedy internet, and yummy smelling candle. My favorites were the cozy blankets, tea kettle, and Trader Joe's bathroom products. The location allowed us to walk most everywhere, and we were able to park our rental car easily on either of the streets where the cottage is located. And we were 'regulars' at the Vista Spring Cafe that is literally 50 feet away as we had our best meals there in this beautiful space. Given the location, cleanliness, decoration and condition of the property the rate Lara charges is very fair. And we are so grateful to her for sharing her space with us which allowed us to have such an amazing trip to Portland! Thanks, Lara.
Stayed 5 nights in Sep 2019
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Jeri S.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Seminar Respite

Could have stayed downtown at the hotel that hosted my seminar but chose this charming cottage in a wonderful neighborhood just a short bus trip away. Much more of the Portland experience we were looking for. Bus does not run all day but the stop is right outside the door!
Verified

10/10 Excellent

John Michael G.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

A truly special place to stay in Portland

This is a charming and special property, it really has all of the features to make it feel like home. Architecturally rich and historic, the house has a comfortable bed and quiet bedroom, a superbly-appointed kitchen, spacious living room with fireplace and desk and couch/chairs, clean bathroom, nice patio for a glass of wine at the end of the day, good internet bandwidth and a broad range of television options, ample on-street parking, wonderful cafe about 100 feet away, and so much more. Communication with the owner was outstanding and she is committed to ensuring your stay is exceptional. The house is in a beautiful hilltop neighborhood and on a bus line. There is a school and playground across the street. Shopping, bars, and restaurants are within a mile directly down the road. You can easily walk downtown or to the farmer's market, though the hill climb back up can be a workout! We loved this place and look forward to staying here again when we return to Portland.
Stayed 4 nights in Aug 2019
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Maureen H.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

location location location

Loved the stay in this charming historic cottage in one of the best neighborhoods in Portland. East access to many areas of Portland!
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Mary K.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Fabulous Vista Cottage

Just stayed 10 days in the Vista Cottage and had a wonderful stay. Great location can walk to Washington park, down Vista to the Pearl plus close to downtown. The Cottage is well equipped with everything you need plus a very cute back patio area to enjoy some great Oregon wine. Lara is terrific and very responsive. The location can’t be beat and you get a chance to stay in one of the most beautiful neighborhoods in Portland. The little Cottage is also a unique historical building but well maintained and furnished. Plus walking to the Vista Springs cafe is super convenient. You feel like a real Portland insider by staying there not just a visitor to Portland. The house is just as represented. The bedding and furniture are lovely, kitchen fully equipped with great pans and everything works very well. Didn’t want to leave and can’t wait to come back.
Stayed 11 nights in Jul 2019
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Ric M.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Great neighborhood find

House was exactly as advertised. Quiet, upscale neighborhood with great walk ability and house and garden viewing. . We came to town without a vehicle and anticipated riding bus 51 back up the hill from downtown each day. Unfortunately bus 51 only runs the commuter circuit, so we used Lyft which was very accessible. Take a walk from the house to and through the Marquan Nature Center and a Lyft back to the house for a fun morning walk.
Stayed 3 nights in Jul 2019
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Amy P.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Adorable

My two daughters and I enjoyed our stay at this adorable cottage. It was very comfortable and we had everything we needed. Lara was very accommodating and let us stay a little bit longer as our car broke down while we were there. I would definitely stay here again.!
Stayed 3 nights in Jun 2019
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Glenn E.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Really great location. Nice to be above the city yet so close to so much

We really enjoyed our stay . Highly recommend the cottage for that first class feel

About the host

Hosted by Lara Garrett

Host profile image
The Vista Cottages caught my attention 15 yrs ago...

Why they chose this property

Fred Leeson for the Oregonian:
Nothing tells us what Iver Bohnsen was thinking when he set about developing an 8500 sq foot lot in upscale Portland Heights in 1926. The German born grocer had opened Portland Heights Grocery (now Vista Spring Cafe). He knew that the current houses in the neighborhood were...(large)... and that his customers and neighbors opposed apartment buildings and commercial buildings in their hilly, affluent neighborhood. But he also knew that Portland's population was booming...From the outset, the small one bedroom houses were popular rentals for singles, young couples and widows. Now the five tiny units bear the distinction that many of the far larger neighbors do not: as a recent addition to the National Register of Historic Places. Robert Mawson, vice president of Heritage Consulting, helped compile history to support the registry nomination. 'We have been doing this for 25 years, and to our knowledge there isn't any other complex like this in the city', he says.

What makes this property unique

The cottages were born...five of the tiniest homes almost anywhere in town...'pocket houses' of the 20's

Languages:

English
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