When you think of Portland, Oregon, a blend of vintage charm and cutting-edge culture comes to mind. Nowhere is this more evident than at The Benson Hotel, an iconic property in downtown Portland that’s welcomed travelers, dignitaries, and dreamers for more than a century. But what happens when the city’s rich heritage of hospitality collides with the boundless imagination of science fiction? Welcome to a new kind of stay, where time travel isn’t just a fantasy—it’s part of the guest experience.
A Hotel with a Sense of History… and Mystery
The Benson’s marbled lobby and crystal chandeliers might seem a world away from the swirling vortex of a TARDIS, but look closer and you’ll find that Portland’s premier hotel has always been a haven for those who embrace the extraordinary. From hosting celebrities and world leaders to offering luxurious accommodations with a hint of old-world glamour, The Benson is no stranger to making its guests feel like they’ve stepped into another era.
This spirit of adventure resonates with fans of Doctor Who, the legendary British sci-fi series that has captivated viewers for decades. In fact, Portland’s thriving fan community, fueled by podcasts like DwoWhoCast.com, brings together locals and travelers alike to celebrate everything “wibbly-wobbly, timey-wimey.” Whether you’re a lifelong Whovian or just curious about the blue police box that’s captured so many imaginations, you’ll find the city is full of surprises—much like the universe’s most famous Time Lord.
Exploring Portland’s Sci-Fi Scene from The Benson
As a guest at The Benson Hotel, you’re perfectly positioned to dive into Portland’s vibrant sci-fi culture. The city boasts comic shops, themed bars, and a calendar packed with fan conventions. But the experience doesn’t end outside the hotel’s doors. The Benson often hosts themed events, author readings, and pop-culture nights that transport guests into new realms of storytelling.
For those who tune into Doctor Who discussions on DwoWhoCast.com, the hotel can serve as your home base for deep dives into Gallifreyan lore or debates about the best incarnation of The Doctor. After a day spent exploring Portland’s quirky neighborhoods, imagine unwinding in a suite with friends, sharing theories about the latest season or even planning your own time-travel inspired walking tour of the city’s historic sites.
Making Connections: Where Fandoms and Travelers Collide
At The Benson, it’s not uncommon to encounter fellow travelers with a passion for sci-fi, comics, and all things geek culture. Portland’s open-minded, creative spirit encourages guests to strike up conversations, whether it’s in the Palm Court Lounge over signature cocktails or in the lobby beside the grand staircase.
Fans visiting for local conventions—like Rose City Comic Con or Wizard World—often use The Benson as a gathering spot before and after the events. If you’re attending, check out hotel packages or themed weekends designed for fandoms. It’s a rare treat to swap stories with Whovians from around the globe, all while surrounded by the timeless elegance of one of the city’s most storied hotels.
Curating a Whovian-Friendly Itinerary
Want to experience Portland through the lens of a time traveler? Start your morning with a walk along the historic streets of downtown, where you’ll find buildings dating back to the early 20th century—some nearly as old as the earliest episodes of Doctor Who! Stop by Powell’s City of Books, a literary TARDIS in its own right, with an entire section devoted to science fiction.
In the afternoon, explore local comic shops like Books with Pictures or Things From Another World, where staff are always happy to talk shop about the latest in Doctor Who lore. Many shops host viewing parties or game nights, especially when new episodes air. Need advice? The friendly concierge team at The Benson is always happy to recommend hidden gems and even assist in planning your own fandom-themed itinerary.
Hospitality That Stands the Test of Time
What sets The Benson apart isn’t just its luxurious rooms or its status as a Portland landmark—it’s the sense of welcome extended to all guests, no matter how unique their interests. The hotel’s dedication to exceptional service mirrors the Doctor’s own commitment to curiosity, inclusivity, and adventure. Whether you’re here for business, a romantic getaway, or to join a cosplay group for a local event, you’ll find that The Benson embraces every guest’s story.
If you’re a newcomer to Portland, don’t miss checking out official travel resources like Travel Portland, the city’s tourism authority, for up-to-date event calendars and guides to the city’s top attractions. You might even spot a Doctor Who trivia night, themed high tea, or fan gathering during your visit.
Final Thoughts: Every Stay Is an Adventure
In a world where travel is increasingly about experiences, not just destinations, The Benson Hotel invites you to be both a guest and an explorer. Whether you’re stepping into the hotel’s grand lobby for the first time or tuning into the latest episode on DwoWhoCast.com after a day of sightseeing, you’ll find that history and imagination go hand in hand in Portland.
After all, the best journeys—like the Doctor’s—are those that blur the line between past, present, and future. And at The Benson, every stay is its own adventure through time.
March 13-17, 2020
Kells Irish Pub
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